City Information
Essential Information about the city
Edinburgh Airport (EDI)
Edinburgh Airport (EDI) is located 11 kilometres west of the city, and connections to the city centre usually take between 25-30 minutes regardless of whether you go by bus, taxi or private car. The Airlink 100, and Service 17 and 18 bus lines provide fantastic connections across the city of Edinburgh. Tickets can be bought in advance online, at the bus stop, or from the driver. You'll find the airport tram stop is right outside the main terminal, next to the plaza and Edinburgh sign. Services are scheduled to run between the airport and Newhaven. An end-to-end journey between the airport and Newhaven takes about an hour, while journeys between the airport and the city centre take 30 minutes. Taxis are located on the first floor of the multi-storey car park opposite the main terminal building.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to explore Edinburgh is in late spring or summer, when the air is pleasantly warm and you can take full advantage of the long evenings. It's important to note that Edinburgh's weather can be unpredictable, with rain showers occurring throughout the year. Therefore, it's advisable to pack layers and be prepared for changing weather conditions regardless of the season.
Passport & Visa
For travel to the UK, citizens of the EU, EEA, and Switzerland (except Irish citizens) need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). However, those planning to work or study in the UK for more than six months will need to obtain the appropriate visa. Additionally, residents of nine other countries — including Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, and the United States — can also visit the UK for up to six months without a visa, but they will still need an ETA. To ensure a smooth journey, it is advisable to consult the UK government website for any specific visa requirements or regulations.
Public Transport
Navigating Edinburgh is refreshingly straightforward. The city centre is compact and easily explored on foot. For longer journeys, Lothian Buses provide extensive coverage within the city, while First Bus serves the wider outskirts. Tickets can be bought via their mobile apps, on board, or in local shops. For visitors, a Lothian Buses day ticket is often the best value. If staying outside the centre, check which company serves your area first. Edinburgh’s single modern tram line is primarily useful for airport transfers (connecting York Place to the airport), with limited utility for central sightseeing.
Taxi
Taxis in Edinburgh mirror the classic London-style black cabs. These distinctive vehicles can carry up to five passengers. An illuminated yellow sign on the roof indicates when a cab is available for hire. While you can hail one on the street, it is often advisable to pre-book, especially during peak hours or for travel to the airport. Reliable local companies include Central Taxis (+44 131 229 2468), City Cabs (+44 131 228 1211) and E&I Taxis (+44 131 554 6775).
Post
Stamps are available from post offices and newsagents, and you'll find several post offices in the city centre, with the most central being the Tollcross Post Office, located on Home Street.
Pharmacy
There are several major pharmacy chains in Edinburgh that provide a wide range of pharmaceutical products and services. These include Boots, LloydsPharmacy, Superdrug Pharmacy, and Well Pharmacy.
Telephone
Country code: +44 Area code: (0)131
Electricity
The United Kingdom uses the Type G electric plug, which is one with three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern. And it operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz.
Live where you want
Browse by property type
Match who you are
Browse by profile type
Students
Explore a variety of student accommodations across different neighbourhoods.
Digital nomads
Change the way you discover the world, enjoy unique places with vibrant communities.
Professionals
Work with reliable wifi and great amenities, stay productive, and do your best work.
Groups
Whether large or small, can be challenging but we can make it easier for you.
Families
Whether a large familie or a small one can be challenging but we can make it easier for you.