Cheap Car Rentals at Edinburgh Airport

Tips When Renting a Car at Edinburgh Airport (EDI)

• Have a valid and non-expired credit card ready in the driver’s name.
• You can typically rent a car with a valid foreign driver’s license in English. Otherwise, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.
• Drive on the left and follow British traffic laws.
• Check for young driver fees for those under 25.
• Choose the right car for your needs, whether you’re driving solely in the city or exploring the mountains and beyond.
• Inspect the car and take photos at pickup and drop-off.

Why Rent a Car at Edinburgh Airport (EDI)

Renting a car at Edinburgh Airport (EDI) is the most convenient way to start your journey in Edinburgh or further afield across Scotland. While you could use rideshare options or public transit within the city, you can be limited by routes, schedules, and long wait times. With a rental car, you’re literally in the driver’s seat.

EDI features plenty of reputable rental providers that can help you get started quickly and seamlessly. Whether you're simply driving around inner-city Edinburgh or planning a drive to Loch Lomond, Stirling, St Andrews and other underrated gems, a rental car lets you travel wherever and whenever you like without relying on transit systems.

Driving from Edinburgh Airport (EDI) – Getting Started

EDI sits to the west of the city with good links onto the A8 and M8. Driving into the Old Town/Royal Mile typically takes around 25-35 minutes in normal conditions.

Common routes include:

• Royal Mile/Old Town – 25-35 minutes via A8 and city roads
• Stirling & Stirling Castle – 45-60 minutes via M9
• Loch Ness / Inverness – roughly 3.5-4+ hours one way
• Loch Lomond / the Trossachs – around 1-1.5 hours depending on route

The airport is well connected to the central belt and onward routes into the Highlands, but factor in rush-hour delays around Edinburgh, and remember driving is on the left; a satnav or app helps for real-time updates.

Explore Edinburgh and Scotland from Edinburgh Airport

Scotland is famous for its green landscapes and national parks, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure, peaceful retreats, and international city stays. EDI sits conveniently within a travel triangle that includes Stirling and St Andrews, making driving between these top spots simple.

In Edinburgh:

• Edinburgh Castle & Royal Mile – the medieval heart of the city, bustling with a wide range of shops, restaurants and fascinating history.
• Arthur’s Seat — a short hike with panoramic skyline views over the city of Edinburgh and the surrounding coastline
• National Museum of Scotland & Princes Street Gardens.

Recommended Day Trips and Scenic Routes:

• Stirling Castle and the Kelpies – quick half-day trips are easy to do, especially if setting off in the morning and if you’d like to return in the evening for Edinburgh’s night life.
• Loch Lomond / Trossachs – stunning scenery and hiking opportunities for all abilities.
• Longer Highland drives for dramatic scenery – allow overnight stops for comfort, as these drives require significantly more time.