18 March 2013

Travelog: Just Arrived In Edinburgh Airport

Edinburgh Airport is situated about 10 km from the city centre. Basically although it stated as international airport, the airport is quite small compared to other UK international airport. But I like it because of the size, it easier to navigate yourself around the terminal - you don't have to walk far, less energy used :)

When you arrived, there are several options that you can opt to your next destination. The cheapest is taking the public bus; Lothian Buses Service 35 (from Stance 21) at £1.50 for adult and 70 pence for children 5-15 years old (as 24 March 2013) single way. This service will not go through Princes Street but will go through Grassmarket, Scottish National Museum (Chamber Street), Parliament, Hollyrood Palace and will end its service at Ocean Terminal - a shopping complex adjacent with now-decommissioned Royal Yacht Britannia. The whole journey from Airport to Ocean Terminal will take approximately 11/2 hours depending on the traffic. The operational hour is from 5 am until midnight. If you're not sure, make sure that you ask the driver about your destination before putting in your money into the cash box as the driver cannot refund your money. Lothian Bus use the exact fare system for cash fares.
Stance 21

Welcome aboard...

Inside...

The second option, you can take the blue coloured express bus called Airlink Service 100 (in front of domestic arrival area - Stance 19) that will bring you direct to city centre; ends at Waverley Train Station / Princes Street. It cost £3.50 single adult and £2 for single children. You can buy open return ticket for £6 for adult and £3 for children. The journey takes around 20-30 minutes to city centre. After midnight, this Airlink service will be replaced by N22 (Night 22) - pink coloured bus. The Airlink bus is equipped with free wifi so you can update your status to people back home.  

Both services (35 and Airlink) have wide area and luggage racks fitted with CCTV for safety reasons. So, you don't have to worry to leave your bag downstairs if you want to sit at upper deck enjoying the view along the journey. The buses are buggy and wheelchair friendly.   
Lothian Bus 35 Route (Google Map)
The next one is taxi. Taxi stance is situated near the domestic arrival area. As usual, the rate is the most expensive and you have to pay airport surcharge. If arrive late at night or early in the morning, and not sure about taking the public bus, it is better to take the taxi. I once took the taxi back home at 9.30 pm. 5.5 miles journey cost me £15.50. 

If you're renting a car, there are several companies with a lot of choice situated about 5-10 minute walk from the terminal. You will pass the taxi stance and just follow the direction to the rental information kiosk. I suggest that you book your car before arriving to Edinburgh to secure the car that suit your need and budget. Don't worry, Edinburgh Airport is equipped with clear signboard and the staff is happy to help any inquires.  

There will be a tram services from the airport to city centre in the near future.

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