Getting to Edinburgh Castle | All You Need To Know

Where is Edinburgh Castle located?

Address: Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NG, United Kingdom

Edinburgh Castle is strategically located on Castle Rock, a volcanic rock formation that towers over the heart of Edinburgh, Scotland. This vantage point provides commanding views of the city and its surroundings, making it a historically significant and visually stunning landmark.

Nearest landmark: St. Giles' Cathedral (0.2 miles)

Getting to Edinburgh Castle by public transportation

Best for: Saving time
Travel time: 1 hour (from Glasgow)
Nearest station: Waverley Station

From Waverley Station, it's a manageable walk to Edinburgh Castle. The route is picturesque and takes you through the historic Old Town, up towards Castlehill. The walk typically takes around 15-20 minutes but may vary depending on individual walking pace.
If you prefer not to walk, you can easily find taxis or use ride-sharing services near Waverley Station for a quick and convenient ride to the castle.

Best for: Budget travel
Travel time: 30 minutes (from Edinburgh Airport)
Nearest stop: Princess Street

If arriving at Edinburgh Airport, the Airlink 100 bus service offers a direct link to the city center, including a stop near Princess Street. From there, it's a manageable walk to the castle.
Night buses N22 and N41 also pass close to the castle, providing transport after regular hours. Additionally, you can take buses 2, 23, 27, 35, or 41 during regular hours.
Many tour buses, both hop-on-hop-off and guided tours, include Edinburgh Castle as a major stop on their routes.

Best for: Saving time
Travel time: 45 minutes (from Edinburgh Airport)
Nearest station: Princess Street

The easiest way to Edinburgh Castle from the Edinburgh Airport is by tram. There is a direct tram from the airport and it takes about 30 minutes to the nearest tram stop, Princess Street.
From there, the castle is 10 minutes away on foot.

Getting to Edinburgh Castle by car

Best for: Convenience
Travel time: 35 minutes (from Edinburgh Airport)
Distance: Approximately 9.9 miles

Depending on your starting location, use major roads like the M8, A720, or A1 to head towards Edinburgh. Follow signs towards the city center and Castle Terrace NCP parking facility. Note that the city center may have restricted traffic zones, so follow signs and be aware of any regulations.

Parking:

Edinburgh Castle does not offer public parking facilities. Limited parking spaces for visitors with Blue Badges are available on the Castle Esplanade, allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. The closest option is the Castle Terrace NCP car park. Consider using alternative parking facilities in the city center if Castle Terrace NCP is full. Parking availability may vary depending on the time of day and season, so plan accordingly. Keep in mind that parking fees are subject to change, so it's advisable to check the current rates before your visit.

Cycling to Edinburgh Castle

Best for: Eco-friendly travel
Travel time: 6 minutes (from Edinburgh city center)
Distance: 0.7 miles

Bike racks are available close by, in Victoria Street, Waverley Station and Chambers Street.
Begin your journey from the city center, taking advantage of the well-marked cycling lanes and paths available.
Cycle along The Mound, a historic street connecting the New Town and Old Town of Edinburgh. It provides a picturesque route towards the castle.
Use George IV Bridge, a main road with a designated cycling lane, to ascend towards the Royal Mile
Once on the Royal Mile, continue cycling uphill towards Castlehill and Edinburgh Castle.

Book Edinburgh Castle tickets

Edinburgh Castle Guided Walking Tour with Fast-Track Entry

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1 hr. 30 min. - 2 hr. 15 min.

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Edinburgh: Royal Attractions Tickets + 48-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

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Harry Potter Walking Tour with Edinburgh Castle Entry

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Palace of Holyroodhouse Entrance Tickets

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Secrets of the Royal Mile Tour and Entrance to Edinburgh Castle

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2 hr. 15 min.

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Frequently Asked Questions about getting to Edinburgh Castle

Where is Edinburgh Castle located?

Edinburgh Castle is located on Castle Rock in the heart of Edinburgh, Scotland, UK.

What are the different ways to reach Edinburgh Castle?

The different ways to reach Edinburgh Castle include taking a train, taking a bus, driving, or cycling.

How do I get to Edinburgh Castle by train?

To get to Edinburgh Castle by train, you'll want to arrive at Waverley Station, the main railway station in Edinburgh. From there, it's a manageable walk to the castle, approximately 15-20 minutes, through the historic Old Town.

How do I get to Edinburgh Castle by bus?

Take a public bus with routes like 2, 23, 27, 35, or 41, or use the Airlink 100 bus service from the airport; you can also consider a guided tour bus that includes the castle as a stop. The nearest bus stop is Princess Street, which is a 10-minute walk away.

Is parking available?

No, there is no public parking available at Edinburgh Castle, but there are several parking options available nearby. The closest parking space is Castle Terrace NCP car park.

What is the best route if I want to sightsee on my way?

The best way to sightsee en route to Edinburgh Castle is by walking or cycling through the historic Royal Mile from Waverley Station, allowing you to explore the city's rich heritage along the way.

How do I get to Edinburgh Castle by car?

To get to Edinburgh Castle by car follow signs and directions from the city centre and head towards Castle Terrace NCP, the nearest car park.

Can I walk to the castle?

Yes, you can walk to Edinburgh Castle, especially if you're in the city center, it's a manageable stroll to the castle grounds.