Getting Around

Buses

An excellent bus service transports residents and visitors across the city throughout the day and night including a regular 24 hour service to Edinburgh Airport operated by Airlink100.  Visitors can plan their journey within Edinburgh with Lothian Buses or with First Group for those coming from further afield.

Trams

WiFi friendly trams run 14 kms from York Place in the city centre to Edinburgh Airport in a journey time of approximately 35 minutes. Wheel chair accessible, ramps and lifts are provided at the stops along the route.

For ticket prices and to plan your journey visit www.edinburghtrams.com.

Taxis

There are over 1000 black cabs which can be hailed in the street or picked up from one of the taxi ranks within the city centre.  The majority of taxis can carry up to 5 passengers and are accessible for wheelchairs although it is worth noting that for medical reasons, some taxi drivers are exempt from carrying wheelchair users.  Such drivers will have a wheelchair exemption certificate clearly displayed within the taxi.

City Cabs

One of Edinburgh's major taxi companies, they can be hailed in the street or pre booked on Tel: 0131 228 1211. Visit their website for a list of services.

Central Taxis

A key provider of taxis in the city, they can be hailed in the street or pre booked on.

Tel: 0131 229 2468. Visit their website for a list of services

Private Hire Taxis

There are many private hire car companies operating within Edinburgh.  These cannot be hailed in the street but must be booked in advance.  Private hire cars must be approved by The City of Edinburgh Council and display a PHC plate on the dashboard.

What to remember when hiring a car

Our friends at Trading Standards Scotland offer the following advice when hiring a car: 

Find out the total cost before you book. Don’t forget to check whether there are any additional charges associated with your chosen method of payment as you may be charged more for using a debit card.

If you are picking up a car straight from a flight, always double check the rental companies policy on late pickups in case your flight is delayed.

Make sure you have adequate forms of identification with you as you may be refused hire if you do not bring the correct documentation. You may be asked for your driving license, passport, international driver permit, two forms of proof of address, credit card statement, proof of return travel, and your booking voucher;

Did you get the car you ordered? If it's not available, you should receive a replacement for no extra charge.

Always take your time to check the car over. Take photographs or use your phone to film a walk around. Don't forget the tyres and record any scratches or chips! It’s also a good idea to take photos of the vehicle when you return it.

Remember, if you feel that you have been misled in anyway, you can change your mind and go with another company.

When returning your vehicle, get in touch with Trading Standards Scotland if you felt pressurised into paying for or signing off on damage you don't agree you were responsible for.

You can also contact the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA) to find out if the company you hired from is a member of their trade association.

Most people have a great experience when hiring a car in Edinburgh, but if there is something you're not happy with when you return your vehicle, contact the Advice Direct Scotland on 0808 164 6000 or consumeradvice.scot.