How to get to Royal Mile
How to get to Royal Mile starts with choosing the right end of the Old Town for your plans. Edinburgh Waverley station is central, while Edinburgh Airport (EDI) connects to the city by tram and airport bus. Neither airport service stops on the Royal Mile itself, so allow time for the final walk and for the slope up from the station.
The route matters when you have luggage or a timed entry. The upper stretch around Lawnmarket is useful for the top of the Old Town; Canongate leads towards Holyroodhouse. Choose a destination address before setting off rather than treating the entire street as a single stop. Our Old Town accommodation guide explains the different areas, and Old Town sights can help you plan your onward walk.
From Waverley station on foot
Waverley has step-free access to all platforms by lifts and ramps, and train assistance is available. The station also has luggage storage; the station lists weekday hours of 07:00 to 23:00. Check the service and your route from the station for your own travel date, especially if you need an accessible route or have a large case.
The National Trust for Scotland gives 5 to 10 minutes from Waverley to Gladstone's Land, with a steep climb. The palace gives about 15 minutes from the station to Holyroodhouse. These are separate walking estimates, not guarantees: your exact destination, pace and luggage will affect the journey. See Holyrood Palace for planning a palace visit.
Our pick: sightseeing by bus
Once in Edinburgh, the city sightseeing bus offers a flexible 24- or 48-hour pass.
Hand-picked tours, booked through Viator. Prices are indicative starting prices in British pounds (as of October 2026). Tap a tour for live availability and the current price in your currency.
See Edinburgh by city bus
After arriving in the city, a hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus offers a way to explore Edinburgh; choose the ticket option that fits your plans.
Airport tram and Airlink 100
The tram runs from the airport via Haymarket, Princes Street and St Andrew Square towards Leith and Newhaven. It does not stop directly on the Royal Mile. Trams run every 7 minutes during the day and every 10 minutes early and late. A weekday timetable example takes 32 minutes from the airport to Princes Street, without waiting time. The adult airport single is £7.90; an online advance adult single is listed at £7.50. The adult open return is £9.50. Airport fares differ from city fares, so check your ticket covers the airport.
Buy or activate a ticket before boarding, or tap in at the platform and tap out with the same card or device. The airport single fare is charged if you do not tap out. Airlink 100 runs between the airport and city centre around the clock. Its network map gives an approximate journey of 30 minutes, subject to traffic. The adult single is £6 and the open return £8.50. Compare the stop nearest your destination as well as the fare, then check the current timetable before travel.
The sightseeing bus shown here is an activity for exploring the city after arrival, not the airport connection. Its ticket options include access to the city tour; check the chosen option for the routes and period covered.
Taxi and transfer from Edinburgh Airport (EDI)
A taxi or booked transfer can be useful when your party has luggage or prefers to travel directly to its destination. Give the full address when arranging the ride and check the quoted fare, vehicle capacity, luggage allowance and any waiting terms before booking. Travel time depends on the route and traffic; leave a margin if you have a reserved visit or train.
Car hire at Edinburgh Airport (EDI) and parking
A hire car can be useful for a wider itinerary beyond the centre. Compare the rental terms and the full cost for your dates before choosing a vehicle. For an Old Town stay, ask your accommodation about access and parking first, and consider whether the train, tram or bus meets your arrival needs.
Edinburgh's low emission zone operates around the clock. Check the vehicle and exact route before entering; non-compliant vehicles may incur penalties. Boundary roads themselves are outside the zone. For city car parks, consult the operator for current opening times and charges. Road restrictions around Holyrood Park can also affect access, so check the route rather than assuming a car park is reachable.
Compare car rental at Edinburgh Airport (EDI) on Economybookings.
Royal Mile arrival questions
Does the airport tram stop on the Royal Mile?
No. It serves city centre stops including Princes Street and St Andrew Square; continue towards your chosen address on foot or by another suitable service.
Can I walk from Waverley?
Yes. The walk to Gladstone's Land is estimated at 5 to 10 minutes with a steep climb; the palace gives about 15 minutes to Holyroodhouse. Check your particular route and allow for luggage.
Is the sightseeing bus an airport transfer?
It is a city sightseeing option for after arrival. Use the airport tram, Airlink or another transfer for the airport journey.
What should drivers check?
Check low emission zone eligibility, the route and parking arrangements before driving into the centre. Local road restrictions can change access.