Trains to Edinburgh Airport

Jetting off on holiday is one of the best parts of the year, and while we can’t help you squeeze your suitcase below the luggage allowance, we can ensure your journey to Scotland’s biggest and busiest airport is smooth sailing. Getting to Edinburgh Airport with plenty of time to grab a coffee and browse duty-free is a breeze when you choose CrossCountry.

How to get to Edinburgh Airport by train

Edinburgh is easily accessible with CrossCountry from across Scotland, including from Glasgow Central, Aberdeen, and Dundee. If you’re travelling from outside Scotland, you’ll find regular CrossCountry services from multiple points across England, including Manchester Piccadilly, Birmingham New Street, and even as far as Southampton Central.

While there is no train station at Edinburgh Airport, there are robust and reliable transport connections via bus and tram from the city of Edinburgh. For anyone arriving from the south, Edinburgh Waverley is the most convenient station, whereas travellers from the north or west can utilise Haymarket, which has its own bus and tram stops.

Located outside the train station on Waverley Bridge, you'll find a bus stop that provides direct access to the airport in approximately half an hour. Alternatively, walk five minutes to St Andrew Square, where trams depart to the airport roughly every ten minutes.

When travelling to the airport, don’t forget to check train times, so you know which CrossCountry service will get you there on time. We also recommend purchasing Advance train tickets for added peace of mind on the first leg of your adventure.

For more information about getting there, visit the Edinburgh Airport website.

Cheap Train Tickets to Edinburgh Airport

Getting to Edinburgh is most rewarding when you know you’ve saved money on your tickets, here are some of our tips on how to get cheaper tickets on your journey to the airport:

Travel outside of peak times: Off-Peak Tickets are perfect if you’re starting your journey on a weekend or at a quieter time of day. Waking up early for a flight might be tough, but at least you can save money on the train journey!

Book in advance: Advance Tickets can be purchased up to 12 weeks before your journey, ideal for holiday planning. You’ll save money on your ticket and, if you book with CrossCountry direct, remain flexible with our free amendments

Use a Railcard: There are a range of Railcards, including the 16-25 Railcard and the Senior Railcard, that can help you save. All you need to do is apply the relevant railcard when you buy a ticket, and you’ll get up to 1/3 of the price of the ticket. 

Facilities in Edinburgh Airport

Edinburgh Airport is a comfortable and accessible transport hub. Visitors can enjoy complimentary WiFi across all devices, with some time restrictions, as well as plenty of space for seating and multiple toilets throughout the premises. Passengers will find prayer rooms located in the international arrivals area on the ground floor. For those seeking a quiet space to unwind, there is a selection of lounges with complimentary food and drink, as well as unlimited WiFi for business travellers or social media scrollers.

There is also a special assistance service which can be booked in advance, ideally at least 48 hours before your flight. The airport offers a variety of accessible equipment to aid your journey to your flight, including wheelchairs, aisle chairs for use onboard the aircraft, wheelchair accessible minibuses and Ambulifts. For additional information, check out their Special Assistance guidance.

Edinburgh Airport Shops & Restaurants

There are plenty of shops to explore, perfect for grabbing any last-minute essentials or treating yourself to something a little luxurious. Start with a visit to a convenience store, where you can browse an exciting selection of magazines, novels, puzzle books, sweets, and travel accessories. Don't forget to stock up on beauty and health essentials just in case you've forgotten your sun cream!

There is also a range of high-street clothing stores in Edinburgh Airport, making it the perfect place for a pair of flip-flops or a sun hat. If you've visited Scotland for your holidays, this is your last chance to grab a souvenir for a loved one before you board your flight - how about a tin shortbread or a cosy tartan scarf?

Nothing beats a pre-flight meal and when you get peckish, you're covered with a multitude of delicious restaurants and cafes. Whether you’re just looking for a grab-and-go sandwich or a sit-down meal in Hudson St Grill Bar & Kitchen, there’s plenty of great food to tuck into.

Edinburgh Airport Travel Connections

There are also several bus routes that connect to various destinations throughout Scotland, including Glasgow, Fife, Dundee, Stirling, and Aberdeen. All bus stops are conveniently located just outside the terminal.

Alternatively, regular tram services travel to the city centre and beyond to Newhaven. Trams depart every seven minutes between 7 am and 7 pm, and every ten minutes during the early morning and late evening. Since the tram service is not available 24 hours a day, we recommend checking the schedule when planning your journey.

If you’re driving, the airport is just five minutes from the M9. There are designated areas for drop-offs and pickups on the ground floor of the multistorey car park. If you’re planning on leaving your car while you're away there are mid-stay and long-stay car parks available too. Blue badge holders have free access to any car park in the airport for one hour.

Discover More Airport Connections