Edinburgh - Tourist Information

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Tourist Information

Edinburgh

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Overview

Tourist Information The guide was updated: 2025-07-07

Edinburgh Airport (EDI)

Edinburgh Airport (EDI)

Edinburgh Airport (EDI) is located 11 kilometres west of the city, and connections to the city centre usually take between 25-30 minutes regardless of whether you go by bus, taxi or private car. The Airlink 100, and Service 17 and 18 bus lines provide fantastic connections across the city of Edinburgh. Tickets can be bought in advance online, at the bus stop, or from the driver. You'll find the airport tram stop is right outside the main terminal, next to the plaza and Edinburgh sign. Services are scheduled to run between the airport and Newhaven. An end-to-end journey between the airport and Newhaven takes about an hour, while journeys between the airport and the city centre take 30 minutes. Taxis are located on the first floor of the multi-storey car park opposite the main terminal building.

Best Time to Visit

Best Time to Visit

Late spring and summer's longer days and warmer temperatures make these periods the best time to visit Edinburgh. It's important to note that Edinburgh's weather can be unpredictable, with rain showers occurring throughout the year. Therefore, it's advisable to pack layers and be prepared for changing weather conditions regardless of the season you choose to visit.

Passport & Visa

Passport & Visa

For travel to the UK, citizens of the EU, EEA, and Switzerland (except Irish citizens) need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). However, those planning to work or study in the UK for more than six months will need to obtain the appropriate visa. Additionally, residents of nine other countries — including Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, and the United States — can also visit the UK for up to six months without a visa, but they will still need an ETA. To ensure a smooth journey, it is advisable to consult the UK government website for any specific visa requirements or regulations.

Public Transport

Public Transport

There are various bus companies operating in Edinburgh. The largest are First Bus and Lothian Buses, you can use both to get around town or explore the surrounding coast and countryside. For both companies, you can purchase tickets on the bus, in shops, online, or in the mobile app. However, Edinburgh is a small and fairly compact city, and most destinations in the city are within walking distance.

Taxi

Taxi

Unoccupied taxis are indicated with a light on the top. You can also book a taxi by contacting the following companies: City Cabs +44 131 228 1211 Central Taxis +44 131 229 2468

Post

Post

Stamps are available from post offices and newsagents, and you'll find several post offices in the city centre, with the most central being the Tollcross Post Office, located on Home Street.

Pharmacy

Pharmacy

There are several major pharmacy chains in Edinburgh that provide a wide range of pharmaceutical products and services. These include Boots, LloydsPharmacy, Superdrug Pharmacy, and Well Pharmacy.

Telephone

Telephone

Country code: +44 Area code: 131

Electricity

Electricity

The United Kingdom uses the Type G electric plug, which is one with three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern. And it operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz.

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