How to get here
Getting to Edinburgh and the University is easy, no matter where you are coming from or how you choose to travel.
On this page you'll find general information about how to get to the city of Edinburgh, and details of how to navigate the city and find University buildings.
Getting to Edinburgh
Edinburgh International Airport receives daily flights from more than 20 UK and 40 European airports, as well as daily transatlantic flights. Flights from international destinations are also scheduled throughout the week.
The airport is about 12km from the city centre. The 30-minute journey can be easily made using the frequent airport bus or tram services, or by taxi.
Edinburgh has excellent rail links throughout the UK.
The East Coast mainline, which links Edinburgh and London King’s Cross, is the UK's fastest intercity railway: you can travel between the cities in around 4 hours.
Or, if you prefer to travel overnight, a sleeper service runs between London Euston and Edinburgh Waverley 6 nights a week.
There are great links to other cities too. The journey to Glasgow only takes 45 minutes, while York, Newcastle, Inverness or Aberdeen can be reached in about 2 hours.
All trains arrive at Waverley Station in the centre of the city, although some trains also stop at Haymarket, which is a smaller station in the West End.
If you are travelling on a budget, buses are often your best bet. Edinburgh is well placed on the Scottish motorway network so getting here is easy with regular bus services from all major UK cities.
Buses and coaches arrive at St Andrews Square bus station in Edinburgh's city centre.
Travel times by road are less than you might think. From the south: Birmingham is about 5 hours away; Manchester and York, 3 hours; Newcastle, 2 hours. From the north: Inverness is about 3 hours away; Aberdeen, 2 hours.
Route information for drivers can be found on the RAC or AA websites.
Can there anywhere be a more beautiful and beguiling city to arrive at by train? To emerge from the bustling, subterranean bowels of Waverley Station and find yourself in the very heart of such a glorious city is a happy experience indeed.
Travelling to the University
Find more information on travelling to and around our campuses on the Transport and Parking website.
Lothian Buses: how to get to the University of Edinburgh campuses
If you’re travelling to Edinburgh by bus or train, you can follow our walking directions from the stations to George Square, which is close to many University buildings in the central area campus.
Finding University buildings and offices
As an urban University, you'll have no trouble finding us once you arrive in the city centre.
Parking
If you are visiting the University by car, please be aware that parking is limited at some of our campuses.
Parking on campus
Getting around the city
Edinburgh is a compact city and is easy to get around on foot, by bike or by public transport.
Related links