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Getting Around Edinburgh

Getting Around Edinburgh

Edinburgh Scotland, UK Travel Guide

Public Transportation

Lothian Buses and Edinburgh Trams form the backbone of the city's public transport, offering extensive protection and services that run often. The extensive bus network reaches almost every neighborhood and attraction.

The single tram line connects Edinburgh Airport to Newhaven, traversing the city center and providing a quick and comfortable travel option along its route.

Information

  • Route Maps: Available on Lothian Buses website/app, and Edinburgh Trams website. Key hubs include Princes Street, St Andrew Square.
  • Ticketing: Contactless payment (tap on, no tap off) is easiest. TapTapCap system caps daily (£5.00) and weekly (£22.00) fares.
  • Fares: Single ticket £2.00 (exact cash on bus), Day Ticket £5.00 (unlimited bus/tram). Adult Travelcard for longer stays.
  • Hours: Buses run ~4:30 AM-midnight (night buses exist). Trams run ~5:30 AM-11:30 PM. High frequency.

Accessibility

All Lothian Buses and Edinburgh Trams are low-floor and wheelchair-accessible. Ramps at all tram stops facilitate boarding.

Lothian Buses App

Download the app for real-time bus tracking, journey planning, and mobile ticket purchasing. This aids efficient navigation.

Traffic Awareness

Bus schedules can vary due to traffic. Allow extra time during peak hours. Signal to the driver at bus stops.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Licensed Taxis
  • Identification: Typically "black cabs" (can be other colors) with a yellow "Taxi" light on the roof.
  • Hailing: Hail on the street (light on) or at designated ranks (Waverley Station, Princes Street, airport).
  • Fares & Payment: Metered fares; £8-£15 for short city center rides. Accept cash and card.
Ride-Sharing & Safety
  • Apps: Uber and Bolt operate in Edinburgh. Book and pay directly through the app.
  • Safety: Licensed taxis are regulated and vetted. For ride-sharing, verify car/driver details match the app.
  • Airport/Station: Dedicated taxi ranks at EDI, Waverley, and surrounding Bus Station.

Rental Options

Car Rental

Major companies (Hertz, Avis, Enterprise) at airport/city. Requires valid license (IDP if non-English), credit card, minimum age 21-25.

Motorcycle/Scooter

Limited general tourist availability. Specialized companies for touring often needing specific licenses/experience.

Bicycle Rentals

Independent shops offer daily/weekly hire. EBike sharing schemes operate via app.

Parking Tips

City center parking is limited and expensive. Utilize Park and Ride facilities on outskirts, then use public transport.

Walking & Cycling

Edinburgh's compact and historic nature makes walking an ideal way to explore. The Old Town, New Town, Calton Hill, Arthur's Seat, Dean Village, and Water of Leith Walkway are all excellent for pedestrians.

Walking Tours

  • Guided Tours: Numerous free (tip-based) and paid tours available. Themes: history, ghost stories, Harry Potter, specific neighborhoods.
  • They furnish valuable context and local insights.
  • Self-Guided Tours: Many apps and guidebooks present self-guided routes, allowing exploration at your own pace.
  • No-Go Areas: No specific "no-go" areas. Exercise general awareness, especially at night or in poorly lit Old Town closes.

Cycling in the City

  • Infrastructure: Growing network of cycle paths and exclusive lanes (Water of Leith, converted railway lines).
  • Safety: Cycling on busy main roads needs caution. Helmets are suggested. Remain aware of traffic and road conditions.
  • Rentals: Various independent shops offer daily or weekly bicycle rentals, including electric bikes.
  • Bike Share: Some eBike sharing schemes operate for short-term rental via an app.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

  • Old Town: Royal Mile, its closes, Grassmarket for historic exploration.
  • New Town: Princes Street, George A street for elegant architecture and shopping.
  • Hills: Calton Hill, Arthur's Seat for panoramic views and nature walks.
  • Water of Leith: Picturesque walkway along the river.
  • Dean Village: Charming, historic village within the city, ideal for a stroll.
  • Holyrood Park: Expansive wild spaces for walking and relaxation.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses

Hop-on hop-off services (City Sightseeing, Majestic Tour) cover major attractions. Tickets valid for 24-48 hours. They furnish an excellent city overview.

Water Transport

No regular boat taxi services. Occasional canal boat trips on the Union Canal offer a leisurely perspective.

Accessibility Services

Lothian Buses and Trams are fully accessible. Shopmobility Edinburgh has manual and powered wheelchairs/scooters for hire.

Walking Tour Styles

Choose a tour that suits your interest and pace to discover Edinburgh's varied stories.

Guided Tour Highlights

  • Ghost Tours: Explore Edinburgh's darker history and haunted closes.
  • Harry Potter Tours: Discover the inspirations behind J.K. Rowling's magical world.
  • Heritage Tours: Deep dives into the Old Town's rich past and famous figures.
  • No-cost Walking Tours: Tip-based tours offering a general overview of the city's key sites.

Self-Guided Exploration

  • Navigation Apps: Utilize Google Maps or dedicated city exploration apps.
  • Guidebooks: Many guidebooks feature suggested walking itineraries.
  • Audio Guides: Download audio guides for historical sites and neighborhoods.
  • Flexibility: Explore at your own pace, pausing as you wish to soak in the atmosphere.

Cycling Infrastructure & Safety

Dedicated Cycle Paths

Edinburgh has an expanding network of dedicated cycle paths.

Notably by the Water of Leith and converted railway lines.

On-Road Cycling

Some main roads include marked cycle lanes.

Prudence is needed when cycling on busy main roads due to traffic.

Safety Measures

Helmets are suggested for all cyclists.

Always remain aware of traffic and road conditions.

Specialized Transport Perks

Tour Bus Benefits
  • Hop-on Hop-off: Great for an initial city overview and identifying attractions.
  • Commentary: Most tours offer recorded commentary in multiple languages.
  • Convenience: Stops at all major landmarks, saving walking time between distant sites.
Accessibility Services
  • Shopmobility Edinburgh: Offers manual and powered wheelchairs or scooters for hire.
  • Attraction Access: Many major attractions feature accessibility information and facilities (ramps, lifts, available toilets).
  • Pre-check: Contact specific venues in advance for detailed accessibility information.

Cycling Safety Reminders

  • Traffic Awareness: Remain vigilant for vehicle traffic, especially on busier roads.
  • Lights & Reflectors: Ensure your bicycle has working lights and reflectors, especially if cycling at dusk or night.
  • Signaling: Use clear hand signals for turns and stops.
  • Road Conditions: Cobblestones and uneven surfaces in the Old Town need extra care.
  • Pedestrian Right-of-Way: Yield to pedestrians on shared paths.
  • Parked Cars: Be aware of opening car doors when cycling near parked vehicles.
  • Bike Security: Always lock your bike securely when left unattended.
  • Local Laws: Familiarize yourself with local cycling regulations.

Additional Transport Resources

Discover these affiliate resources for more alternatives and deals on trip arrangements.

Car Rental Deals

  • DiscoverCars.com: Compare prices from various rental companies for the best deals.
  • Access exclusive discounts and a wide selection of vehicles.
  • Perfect for day trips outside Edinburgh or exploring Scotland's scenic routes.
  • Book Your Car with DiscoverCars.com

Flight Search & Deals

  • Skyscanner: A comprehensive flight finding engine to find the most affordable airfares.
  • Dollar Flight Club: Receive alerts for significantly reduced flight prices to various destinations.
  • Optimize your travel budget by finding the best flight deals in advance.
  • Find Flights with Skyscanner | Join Dollar Flight Club

E-SIM for Global Connectivity

Airalo E-SIMs

Instant connectivity in Edinburgh and beyond with Airalo's digital SIM cards.

  • No physical SIM required.
  • Activate plans remotely.
  • Global coverage options.
Benefits for Travelers

Avoid roaming charges and expensive local SIM purchases upon arrival.

  • Cost-effective data plans.
  • Stay connected for navigation, communication.
  • Easy top-ups via the app.
How to Use Airalo

Download the Airalo app, choose a plan for the UK, and activate.

Travel Insurance Essentials

World Nomads Coverage
  • Adventurous Travelers: Tailored insurance for those pursuing active and adventure travel.
  • Emergency Medical: Coverage for unexpected medical expenses and evacuations.
  • Trip Protection: Includes trip cancellation, interruption, and misplaced baggage.
SafetyWing for Nomads
  • Digital Nomads: Insurance designed specifically for remote workers and digital nomads.
  • Flexible Plans: Monthly subscription model, pay-as-you-go.
  • Worldwide Coverage: Health and travel coverage while abroad.

Helpful Tip

For a comprehensive overview of the city at the start of your trip, consider a hop-on-hop-off bus tour. This aids in city orientation and attraction identification for later exploration.

Edinburgh Waverley Station, a central hub for train travel, is conveniently located for access to accommodation and city sites.

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