edinburgh Travel tips

Although Edinburgh occupies a large area relative to its population - less than half a million people - most places worth visiting lie within the compact city centre, which is easily explored on foot, bus, taxi or bike. When you get to Edinburgh, you'll find that it's very easy to travel around. Human-power is a popular option: you'll find that most places are within easy walking distance of each other, and there are good cycle lanes and bike racks for cyclists. For longer journeys, good bus services run throughout the city. Driving around congested Edinburgh is increasingly more hassle than it is worth. And visitors who do bring a car should be aware that parking is particularly problematic. Metered parking (in force Monday to Saturday 0830-1830) is restricted in the city and a resident’s parking permit is required in many areas. In central locations, such as George Street, parking can cost up to 55p for 15 minutes. Failure to comply with parking regulations can result in a costly fine and the offending vehicle being towed away. The easiest option is for drivers to use one of the NCP car parks, such as at the St James Centre or Castle Terrace.
Most of the city's public transport services terminate on or near Princes Street, the main thoroughfare, which divides the Old Town from the New Town and is thus a good starting point from which to begin your explorations.

Travelling around the Scottish capital is best done by a combination of bus, cycle and foot.

Edinburgh city centre is well served by a frequent and somewhat reliable bus service. This may be due to the fact that there are a number of different operators running buses along popular city centre routes, however Travelline Scotland offer impartial bus travel advice.

With more than 50 routes to choose from as long as you are in Edinburgh’s urban area you’ll be nearby a bus stop. Most services run every 10 to 15 minutes so you shouldn’t have to wait too long.

The most common bus you’ll see on the streets are the purple/maroon “corporate buses” operated by Lothian Regional Transport (LRT) which are cheap and easy to use, just pay the driver for your ticket as you get on (so make sure you have plenty of change). However you may also see First Edinburgh and First Lowland buses around the city centre.

Ticket prices are generally cheap but if you are thinking but if you are thinking of doing a lot of bus travel it may be worth considering a ‘saver ticket’. These vary in price according to the amount of time you need them for and when you plan to travel but can be a real bargain.

If you are venturing outside the city then your first port of call should be the St Andrew’s Street Station in the New Town. Located between George Street and the St James Centre this is the main bus station in Edinburgh.