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Getting to Edinburgh 

By Air

Edinburgh Airport (EDI)

Edinburgh Airport is Scotland’s main international airport, serving the city and the surrounding Lothian region. It is located about 9 kilometers (5.6 miles) west of the city center, making it a convenient gateway for travelers visiting Edinburgh and beyond.

The airport is modern and well-equipped, handling millions of passengers every year. Passenger numbers peak during major events such as the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and Hogmanay celebrations. In recent years, Edinburgh Airport has been upgraded with improved terminals, enhanced facilities, and better transport connections to the city center, offering a smoother travel experience. It also serves as a key hub for visitors exploring Scotland, including the Highlands, castles, and coastal destinations.

Flights from Edinburgh Airport connect to a wide range of European cities including London, Paris, Amsterdam, Frankfurt, and Rome. The airport also operates seasonal and charter flights to popular holiday destinations and offers direct flights to North America, including cities such as New York and Boston.

Edinburgh Airport offers a variety of services and amenities to ensure a comfortable experience for travelers. These include restaurants, shops, lounges, and free Wi-Fi. For more information on services and facilities, please visit the airport's official website.

Edinburgh Airport
Terminal Road, Ingliston
Newbridge, EH28 8PX, Scotland
Website: www.edinburghairport.com

By Train

Edinburgh is easily accessible by train, making it an excellent destination for travelers who prefer rail transport. Edinburgh Waverley, the city’s main station, is located right in the heart of the city, within walking distance of landmarks such as the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle. Frequent services connect Edinburgh to major UK cities, including Glasgow, which is just under an hour away, Aberdeen in around two and a half hours, and Inverness in roughly three and a half to four hours. For visitors coming from London, direct trains from London King’s Cross take approximately four and a half to five hours, providing a comfortable and scenic route through the countryside.

Edinburgh is well-connected to cities across the UK via ScotRail and other national rail operators. The main station, Edinburgh Waverley, is located in the city center, within walking distance of major attractions like the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle. Key domestic connections include:

  • Glasgow: 50 minutes to 1 hour
  • London: 4.5–5 hours (via London King’s Cross)
  • Manchester airport: 3.5 hour
  • Newcastle: 1.5 hours
  • Aberdeen: 2.5–3 hours
  • Inverness: 3.5–4 hours

International travelers from Europe can reach Edinburgh by combining the Eurostar service to London with a connecting train to Waverley Station. Departures from cities such as Paris, Brussels, or Amsterdam allow for a seamless journey, typically taking eight to ten hours in total. Booking in advance is recommended to secure the best fares and ensure a smooth journey into Scotland’s vibrant capital.

Edinburgh can be reached from continental Europe via the Eurostar service to London, followed by a direct UK train:

  • Eurostar to London St Pancras International (from Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam, etc.)
  • Tansfer to London King’s Cross for a direct train to Edinburgh Waverley
  • Total travel time: approximately 8–10 hours from Paris or Brussels
  • Book tickets via Eurostar and National Rail for a smooth journey

Tips

  • Advance booking is recommended for both Eurostar and UK trains to secure the best fares.
  • Edinburgh Waverley is centrally located; no additional transport is needed to reach city attractions.

By Boat & Ferry

While Edinburgh itself does not have a major passenger ferry terminal, it is easily accessible via nearby Scottish ports, making it possible to combine sea travel with a short journey inland.

Travelers from Europe can take ferries to ports such as Newcastle, Hull, or Aberdeen, and then continue to Edinburgh by train, coach, or car. From Newcastle, the train journey to Edinburgh Waverley takes around two hours, while from Hull it takes about three and a half hours. Aberdeen is slightly further northeast, with a rail journey to Edinburgh of roughly two and a half hours.

For cruise passengers, Port of Leith, located just 4 kilometers from Edinburgh city center, welcomes many cruise ships. From here, visitors can easily reach the city center by taxi, bus, or bike. Combining ferry travel with onward land transport offers a scenic and leisurely way to arrive in Scotland, while also giving travelers the chance to explore coastal towns along the way.

Nearby Ferry Ports

  • Rosyth Port: Located just across the Firth of Forth from Edinburgh, Rosyth is about 14 km (9 miles) from the city center. It handles freight and some passenger services. From Rosyth, you can reach Edinburgh by train (15–20 minutes) or taxi.
  • Leith & Port of Leith: Historically Edinburgh’s port, now primarily used for cruise ships. Leith is about 4 km from the city center, accessible by bus, taxi, or bike.
  • Other Scottish Ports: Major ferry routes from England, Northern Ireland, and continental Europe arrive at Newcastle, Hull, or Aberdeen, from where you can take train or coach to Edinburgh.

Tips

  • Combine ferry travel with train or coach services for a smooth connection to Edinburgh.
  • Check schedules in advance, as passenger ferry services near Edinburgh are limited compared to other coastal towns.

By Bus

Edinburgh is well connected by bus, offering convenient and affordable travel options both within the UK and from other European destinations. For domestic travelers, numerous services run daily to and from cities such as Glasgow, Newcastle, Manchester, and London. Major operators like Lothian Buses, National Express, and Megabus provide frequent departures, with journeys from Glasgow taking around 1.5 hours and from London approximately 9 hours. Coaches arrive at Edinburgh Bus Station, located in the city center near Waverley Station, making it easy to continue exploring the city on foot or by local transport.

International visitors can also reach Edinburgh by bus from Europe, combining long-distance coach services with the Channel Tunnel or ferry crossings. Companies such as FlixBus operate routes from cities including Paris, Amsterdam, and Brussels, with travel typically involving an overnight journey. Once in Scotland, buses offer a scenic and economical way to reach Edinburgh while enjoying views of the countryside along the route.

By Car

Edinburgh is easily accessible by car, making it a convenient option for travelers who prefer flexibility and the opportunity to explore the surrounding region. From within Scotland, major roads such as the M8 from Glasgow, the A1 from the east coast, and the M90 from Fife provide direct and well-maintained routes into the city. Driving from nearby cities like Glasgow takes just under an hour, while journeys from Aberdeen or Inverness take approximately three to four hours, offering scenic views of the Scottish countryside along the way.

For visitors coming from Europe, Edinburgh can be reached via ferry or the Channel Tunnel, followed by driving on the UK motorway network. Popular routes include the M1 and A1 if arriving from southern England, with onward connections to Scotland. The city is well-signposted, and GPS navigation makes it easy to reach central destinations, including Edinburgh city center and the Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC).

Low emision zone

Edinburgh’s Low Emission Zone (LEZ) restricts the most polluting vehicles from entering the city center to improve air quality and protect public health. The LEZ was introduced in May 2022 with a two-year grace period and has been enforced with fines since 1 June 2024 for vehicles that don’t meet the required emission standards. Driving a non-compliant vehicle within the zone can result in penalty charges, monitored by automatic number plate recognition cameras. The zone operates 24/7, 365 days a year, and exemptions apply for certain vehicles such as motorcycles, mopeds, and emergency services. The LEZ is part of Edinburgh’s broader strategy to reduce pollution, encourage cleaner transport, and support climate and health goals. 

Parking

Visitors should note that parking in the city center can be limited and often expensive. Many hotels, car parks, and Assembly Rooms Edinburgh offer pay-and-display or pre-booked parking options, making it easier to plan your visit in advance. Driving offers the freedom to explore both the city and nearby attractions, such as the Highlands, castles, and coastal towns, at your own pace.

The nearest car parks to Assembly Rooms Edinburgh are:

St James Centre Car Park
Saint James' Pl
Edinburgh EH1 3SR

There are two handy entrances and exits:
Via St James Place: EH1 3BP
Via Leith Street: EH1 3AS

Facilities
1,600 parking bays over 3 levels
70 disabled parking spaces
45 electric car charging points
Maximum Vehicle Height: 2.1m”

Rates
For a limited time only, you can also enjoy our set £5 overnight tariff for any bookings between 5.30pm – 8.30am*

This car park operates on a cashless basis.

1 hour – £4.20
2 hours – £7.30
3 hours – £10.50
4 hours – £15.20
5 hours – £18.40
6 hours – £21.70
7 hours – £24.90
8-24 hours – £28.20

*This rate only applies for entry after 5.30pm and exit before 8.30am the following day. If your stay extends beyond these times, price will be calculated at the normal rate. Terms & Conditions Apply, download our app for details.

EV Charging
PodPoint provides 45 EV charging points at St James Quarter.

PodPoint’s handy app allows you to check for charger availability ahead of your visit and pay for charging. These costs are separate to parking and are charged at £0.75 per kWh during the day (8:30am until 17:30pm) and £0.45 per kWh in the evening (from 17:30pm until 8.30am).

Please bring your charging cable for your EV vehicle, to use this facility.

Q-Park OMNI
Greenside Row
Edinburgh EH1 3AN

Q-Park OMNI is located underneath the OMNI Centre and Edinburgh Playhouse and is a short walk away from Princes Street, Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile.

Facilities
1000 parking spaces
9 disabled spaces
20 electric charging points
Maximum Vehicle Height: 2m

Rates
Entry from 00:00 to 06:59: £ 2.60 
Entry from 07:00 to 17:59: £ 3.90 
Entry from 18:00 to 23:59: £ 3.20 

Maximum rate for any 24 hour period: £ 29.00 

Charging & Fuel

In addition to traditional fuel pumps, most petrol stations now offer pay-at-pump options and contactless payments, along with electric vehicle charging points at select locations. This allows drivers of hybrid or fully electric cars to plan long-distance journeys with confidence.

Edinburgh has a well-distributed network of petrol stations. Major fuel brands such as BP, Shell, Esso, Texaco, and Morrisons operate throughout the city and along key approach routes, ensuring that drivers can easily refuel whether entering from the M8, A1, or M90. Many stations are located near motorway junctions, service areas, and major shopping centers, making them convenient stops for both refueling and refreshments.

Almost all stations are open 24/7, 365 days a year. 

Traffic information and parking

For the latest updates on traffic conditions, roadworks, and incidents in Edinburgh, consider the following resources:

Good to know when driving in the UK

  • Drive on the Left-hand side of the road and overtake on the right.
  • Seat belts are mandatory for all occupants of the vehicle.
  • Children under 12 cannot sit in the front seat.
  • Children under 12 years old or shorter than 135 cm must use a suitable child seat.
  • Don’t drink and drive, The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.08% in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, and 0.05% in Scotland.
  • The use of a mobile phone while driving is prohibited unless you have a hands free device.
  • Roundabouts are common; give way to traffic from the right unless otherwise indicated.
  • Keep vehicle documents, insurance, and MOT certificates handy, as checks may occur.
  • Edinburgh currently does not have a congestion charge or tolls on city roads.
  • Some bridges and motorways in the UK may require toll payment, so check in advance if you plan to drive elsewhere.

Speed limits

  • urban areas: 48 km/h (30 mph)
  • Outside the city: 97 km/h (60 mph)
  • Highways & Motorways: 113 km/h (70 mph) 

Checklist for Driving in Scotland and the UK

  • Driver's license (required)
  • Passport (required)
  • Insurance certificate (required)
  • Proof of registration (required)
  • Reflective jacket & warning triangle (strongly advised)
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) (required if your license is in a non-Roman alphabet)

Emergencies

 

 

 

Getting to and from the Airport

Tram

The Edinburgh Tram network offers a direct link from the airport to the city center. Trams depart every 7 minutes between 7:00 AM and 7:00 PM, and every 10 minutes during early morning and late evening hours. The journey takes approximately 35 minutes, with the first tram leaving the airport at 6:26 AM and the last at 10:48 PM. Tickets can be purchased at tram stops or via the Edinburgh Trams app.
Tram Ticket Website: https://edinburghticket.com

Airlink 100 Express Bus

The Airlink 100 Express Bus provides a fast and frequent service between the airport and the city center. Buses depart every 10 minutes during the day and every 15–20 minutes at night. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes. Tickets can be purchased on board or via the Bus & Tram app. The service operates 24/7, with departures from the airport starting at 4:12 AM and from Waverley Bridge at 3:40 AM.

Taxi

Taxis are readily available at the airport. The journey to the city center takes approximately 20–30 minutes, depending on traffic. Fares range from £25 to £35, with potential surcharges for night services. Taxis can be hailed at the designated taxi ranks outside the terminal.

Car Hire

Several car hire companies operate at the airport, offering a range of vehicles to suit different needs. The journey to the city center takes approximately 20–25 minutes. Parking in the city center can be limited and expensive, so it's advisable to plan accordingly.

Buses to the congress venue

Assembly Rooms Edinburgh is located in the city centre of Edinbrugh. Arriving at the Edinbrugh Bus Station you can take the bus: 101A – Whitesands to the “Edinburgh Princes Street 3” stop. From there it is only a short 6 minute walk to the venue. These buses run frequently throughout the day, providing a convenient and cost-effective option for navigating the city.

You can buy tickets directly from the bus driver when boarding, paying with cash (exact change is recommended) or a contactless card on most services. For added convenience, the Lothian Buses app allows travelers to purchase single, day, or weekly tickets in advance, which can then be displayed on a smartphone for scanning when boarding.

Tickets are also available at selected ticket machines and retail outlets across the city, including newsagents, convenience stores, and train stations, making it easy to plan ahead. For those traveling frequently, contactless cards and Ridacard smartcards offer a convenient pay-as-you-go or unlimited travel option. For visitors to the EICC, a day ticket or app purchase is often the easiest and most cost-effective way to navigate the city, whether traveling to the conference center or exploring Edinburgh’s attraction

 

 

 

Getting Around Edinburgh

Whether you're strolling through the historic streets, hopping on a tram, or cycling along scenic routes, Edinburgh offers a variety of transportation options to suit your needs. Its compact size and efficient public transport network make it easy to explore and enjoy all that this vibrant city has to offer.

Walking

Edinburgh is a compact and walkable city, making it ideal for exploring on foot. From the Royal Mile to the historic Old Town, many attractions are within easy walking distance. Stroll through the cobbled streets, discover hidden closes, and enjoy the city's unique architecture. Walking allows you to experience Edinburgh's charm up close.

Cycling

Cycling is becoming increasingly popular in Edinburgh, thanks to dedicated cycle lanes and bike hire schemes like Just Eat Cycles. The city offers several scenic routes, including paths along the Water of Leith and through Holyrood Park. Cycling provides an eco-friendly and enjoyable way to explore Edinburgh's landscapes.

Trams

The Edinburgh Tram network offers a modern and efficient way to travel across the city. The line runs from Edinburgh Airport to Newhaven, passing through key areas like Haymarket and St Andrew Square. Trams operate every 7–10 minutes, making it a convenient option for both locals and visitors. Contactless payment is available, allowing for a seamless travel experience.

Buses

Lothian Buses operates an extensive network covering Edinburgh and its surrounding areas. With services running 24 hours a day, buses are a reliable mode of transport for getting around the city. Day tickets and Ridacards offer unlimited travel, providing flexibility for tourists and residents alike.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Edinburgh's black cabs are readily available throughout the city. They are spacious, comfortable, and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. Ride-sharing services like Uber also operate in Edinburgh, offering another convenient option for getting around.

Edinburgh offers several reputable taxi services:

  • Central Taxis: Edinburgh's largest and most reliable black cab company. Contact: +44 131 229 2468 or +44 131 221 2230. Available 24/7.
  • City Cabs: Offers fast, efficient, and reliable taxi services. Contact: +44 131 228 1211. Available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
  • Capital Cars: Provides a range of services including airport transfers and city tours. Contact: +44 131 777 7777. Offers 20% off taxi meter fares.
  • Kay’s Cabs: A trusted local provider of licensed private hire taxis. Contact: +44 131 629 2129. Available 24/7.

Car

While driving in Edinburgh is possible, it's not always the most convenient option. The city center can be congested, and parking is limited and often expensive. Public transport, walking, or cycling are generally more practical choices for getting around.

Congress