Tourist travel guide
How to get to Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle sits at the top of the Royal Mile in the very centre of the city. It's easy to reach on foot from anywhere in the Old Town, and well connected by train, tram and bus. This guide walks you through every option.
By train
Edinburgh Waverley is the closest station and just a 10-minute walk from the castle. From the station, follow signs up to Princes Street, cross onto The Mound, and continue up the hill via the Royal Mile. It's uphill but scenic. Haymarket station is about a 20-minute walk to the west.
By tram
The Edinburgh Trams run from the airport to the city centre. Get off at Princes Street or St Andrew Square, then walk up the Mound. Journey time from the airport is around 35 minutes, plus an 8-minute walk. Buy tickets on the platform or via the Transport for Edinburgh app.
By bus
Lothian Buses cover the whole city with a flat fare (contactless capped daily). Handy stops for the castle include The Mound, George IV Bridge and the West End. The Airlink 100 runs 24/7 between Edinburgh Airport and Waverley Bridge — a 5-minute walk from the castle esplanade.
By car and parking
Driving into central Edinburgh is possible but the Old Town is busy and has few spaces. There is no visitor parking at the castle itself. The nearest paid car parks are Castle Terrace (5-minute walk) and Q-Park Greenside. Blue Badge parking is available with prior arrangement — contact the castle before your visit.
By taxi and rideshare
Taxis can drop you at the top of the Royal Mile or at the Esplanade when it's clear of events. Uber and Bolt both operate in Edinburgh. Expect around £6 – £10 from Waverley or the New Town.
On foot
The most enjoyable way to arrive. Walk up the Royal Mile from Holyroodhouse, or climb the steps beside the National Gallery from Princes Street Gardens for one of the best views of the castle on the way up.
Address for sat nav and taxis
Edinburgh Castle, Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NG, ScotlandCoordinates: 55.9486° N, 3.1999° W
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