Edinburgh

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Airports

Edinburgh is serviced by a major international airport, offering domestic and international flights.

Sections

1. General Overview of Edinburgh Airport

  • Location: Edinburgh Airport is located approximately 8 miles (12 km) west of Edinburgh city center.
  • Code: EDI
  • Facilities: The airport is a single-terminal facility, making it easy to navigate. It serves domestic and international flights, connecting Edinburgh to major cities in Europe, North America, and beyond.

2. Transportation Options to and from Edinburgh Airport

a. Tram

  • Route: The Edinburgh Trams connect the airport to the city center (York Place) and other key stops, including Haymarket and Princes Street.
  • Frequency: Every 7-10 minutes during peak hours.
  • Travel Time: Approximately 30 minutes to the city center.
  • Cost:
    • Adult single ticket: ยฃ7.50
    • Adult return ticket: ยฃ12.00
    • Child single ticket: ยฃ4.00
    • Child return ticket: ยฃ6.00
  • Where to Buy Tickets: Tickets can be purchased at tram stops (ticket machines) or via the Transport for Edinburgh app. Ensure you buy your ticket before boarding.

b. Bus

  • Airlink 100: A dedicated airport express bus service operated by Lothian Buses.
    • Route: Runs between the airport and Waverley Bridge (near Edinburgh Waverley Station in the city center).
    • Frequency: Every 10 minutes during the day.
    • Travel Time: Around 30 minutes.
    • Cost:
      • Adult single: ยฃ5.50
      • Adult return: ยฃ9.00
      • Child single: ยฃ3.00
      • Child return: ยฃ4.50
    • Tickets: Can be purchased online, at the airport, or directly from the driver (contactless payment accepted).
  • Other Bus Services:
    • Skylink 200, 300, and 400 connect the airport to other parts of Edinburgh and surrounding areas.

c. Taxi

  • Availability: Taxis are readily available outside the terminal at the designated taxi rank.
  • Cost: A trip to the city center typically costs ยฃ25-ยฃ35, depending on traffic and time of day.
  • Travel Time: Around 20-30 minutes.
  • Tips: Black cabs are metered, and tipping (around 10%) is customary but not mandatory.

d. Ridesharing Services

  • Uber and other ridesharing services operate in Edinburgh. Pickup points are usually located in the designated area of the airport car park.

e. Car Hire

  • Providers: Major car rental companies like Hertz, Avis, Enterprise, and Europcar operate at the airport.
  • Location: The car rental center is a short walk from the terminal, accessible via a covered walkway.
  • Cost: Prices vary depending on the provider, car type, and rental duration. Expect to pay around ยฃ30-ยฃ50 per day for a standard car.

f. Train

  • While there is no direct train service to the airport, you can take a tram or bus to Edinburgh Gateway, Haymarket, or Waverley train stations for onward rail connections.

3. Parking at Edinburgh Airport

  • Short-Stay Parking:
    • Ideal for drop-offs or short visits.
    • Cost: ยฃ5 for up to 15 minutes, ยฃ12 for up to 1 hour, and ยฃ18 for up to 2 hours.
  • Long-Stay Parking:
    • Suitable for travelers leaving their car for several days.
    • Cost: Starts at ยฃ25 per day, with discounts for pre-booking online.
  • Valet Parking:
    • Premium service where your car is parked for you.
    • Cost: Starts at ยฃ50 per day.
  • Tips:
    • Pre-book parking online to save money.
    • Drop-off and pick-up zones are available, but charges apply (ยฃ4 for up to 10 minutes).

4. Facilities at Edinburgh Airport

  • Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal.
  • Lounges:
    • Aspire Lounge and No1 Lounge offer comfortable seating, complimentary food and drinks, and workspaces. Prices start at ยฃ25 per person.
  • Shops and Restaurants:
    • Duty-free shopping includes brands like World Duty Free, WHSmith, and luxury retailers.
    • Dining options range from quick bites (Starbucks, Pret A Manger) to sit-down meals (Wetherspoon, The Gathering).
  • Currency Exchange: Travelex counters and ATMs are available for currency exchange and cash withdrawals.
  • Other Services:
    • Baby-changing facilities
    • Prayer room
    • Luggage storage (cost: ยฃ7.50 per item for up to 3 hours)
    • Assistance for passengers with reduced mobility (pre-booking recommended).

5. Procedures for Arrivals and Departures

Arrivals

  1. Immigration:
    • For international flights, passengers must go through UK Border Control.
    • EU/EEA/Swiss nationals can use eGates (if eligible). Other travelers must queue for manual checks.
    • Have your passport and any required visas/documents ready.
  2. Baggage Claim:
    • Follow signs to the baggage reclaim area. Baggage trolleys are available for free.
  3. Customs:
    • Use the green channel if you have nothing to declare, or the red channel if you need to declare goods.
  4. Transportation:
    • Exit the terminal and follow signs for buses, trams, taxis, or car hire.

Departures

  1. Check-In:
    • Arrive at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights.
    • Check-in desks are located on the ground floor of the terminal.
    • Self-service kiosks are available for some airlines.
  2. Security:
    • Prepare liquids (max 100ml per container) in a clear, resealable bag.
    • Remove laptops, tablets, and large electronics from your bag.
    • Follow instructions from security staff.
  3. Boarding:
    • After security, proceed to the departure lounge. Check the screens for your gate number and boarding time.

6. Local Considerations and Tips

  • Weather: Edinburgh can be windy and rainy, so pack accordingly. The airport is well-equipped to handle weather-related delays, but check your flight status in advance.
  • Currency: The local currency is the British Pound (ยฃ). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted.
  • Language: English is the primary language spoken, but you may hear Scots or Gaelic in some contexts.
  • Peak Times: The airport can get busy during the Edinburgh Festival (August) and Christmas/New Year holidays. Allow extra time for check-in and security during these periods.
  • Accessibility: The airport is fully accessible, with elevators, ramps, and assistance available for passengers with reduced mobility. Contact your airline or the airport in advance to arrange special assistance.

By following this guide, you should have a smooth and stress-free experience at Edinburgh Airport. If you have any further questions or need additional details, feel free to ask!