

Cheap Car Hire Edinburgh Airport Scotland UK






Welcome to Edinburgh Airport!
Located just 13 kilometres (8 miles) from the heart of Scotland’s handsome historic capital, Edinburgh Airport (EDI) serves as the main gateway to the city and its surrounding storied attractions. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, Edinburgh is one of the most visited cities in the UK. With its distinctive Edinburgh tartan, evoking the black-and-white- historic stone buildings of Edinburgh, the city is home to many kilt-makers and tartan weavers along the famous Royal Mile. From the iconic Edinburgh Castle to the charming streets of the Old Town and the spectacular scenery of the Scottish Highlands, Edinburgh is the perfect starting point for your Scottish adventure. Upon arrival at Edinburgh Airport, collecting a hire car is simple and convenient, giving you the freedom to explore not just the capital, but the beautiful landscapes and historical sites across the whole of Scotland. Whether you're headed to the Highlands for some outdoor adventure or to explore the coastline, renting a car is the best way to experience Scotland’s rich culture and natural beauty. In Edinburgh, if you're primarily planning to explore the city, a compact or midsize car is a great choice. These vehicles are perfect for navigating the city’s narrow streets and finding parking near popular sites like the Royal Mile and Princes Street. If you’re heading out to explore the Scottish countryside, consider renting an SUV or a larger vehicle, ideal for longer drives and more rugged terrain. Edinburgh Airport (EDI) serves London (Heathrow, Gatwick, and London City), Belfast, Manchester, Glasgow, Newcastle, Bristol, and Cardiff as well as routes across Europe, the United Arab Emirates, Canada, the Caribbean and the USA airports of New York (JFK), New York (Newark), Chicago, Orlando and Boston. An alternative airport option for those flying into Scotland is Glasgow Airport (GLA), located around 75 kilometres (47 miles) west of Edinburgh, which also offers a wide range of car hire services. Other regional airports, such as Aberdeen Airport (ABZ), Inverness Airport (INV), and Dundee Airport (DND), are also well connected to Scotland’s road network.
With a hire car, Scotland’s vast open countryside can be explored with ease on a thrilling journey through the breathtaking landscapes that surround Edinburgh, where nature’s splendour unfolds at every turn. With a hire car, you’ll have the freedom to explore lush greenery, rolling hills, and wildlife havens that feel like they belong to another world. Begin your adventure with a drive up to Arthur’s Seat, the majestic extinct volcano offering panoramic views of the city and beyond. As you ascend through the wildflower-dotted paths, watch for kestrels soaring overhead and rabbits darting through the heather. Head east to the Pentland Hills Regional Park, a serene escape filled with gentle trails, mirror-like reservoirs, and grazing sheep. Here, you might spot red foxes or even a herd of roe deer emerging from the woodlands. The crisp air and dramatic hilltops make every moment unforgettable. For a coastal twist, take the scenic route to North Berwick, where cliffs teem with seabirds like puffins and guillemots. The shoreline offers a symphony of crashing waves and calls of wildlife, set against the dramatic backdrop of Bass Rock. Every mile reveals a new spectacle—be it a sparkling loch, ancient oak groves, or the sight of golden eagles circling the highlands. In Edinburgh’s embrace, nature is both the journey and the reward.
Driving in Edinburgh
Driving in Edinburgh offers the perfect opportunity to explore the city’s ancient streets and nearby regions. The city itself is a mix of modern roads and cobbled lanes that wind through historic districts. Edinburgh is well-served by a network of main roads that lead to many scenic spots, including the A90 heading towards the north, the M8 to the buzzing city of Glasgow, and the A1 south to the border with England - fantastic for embarking on an enchanting road trip! There’s a genuine thrill in weaving through the captivating landscapes around Edinburgh, where Scotland’s beauty and history come alive. With a hire car, you can journey at your own pace, uncovering treasures at every turn. Begin at the heart of the capital with Edinburgh Castle (1.5 km / 1 mile), perched atop Castle Rock. The air hums with the distant bagpipe tunes as you take in the scent of aged stone and the crisp breeze from the nearby hills. From this iconic fortress, drive northwest to the city of Stirling where Stirling Castle dominates the skyline. Imagine the clash of swords at the Battle of Stirling Bridge while gazing over lush, green pastures (45 km / 28 miles).
Next, head into the Scottish Highlands to experience the majesty of the village of Glencoe (145 km / 90 miles) where a scenic valley is backdropped by towering peaks rising above a glen shrouded in mist. The earthy aroma of heather mingles with the cool air, and the sight of deer grazing adds to the magic. Further north, head to the scenic small town of Drumnadrochit, the gateway to Loch Ness (275 km / 171 miles) were Nessie awaits in dark, mysterious waters shimmering under the Highland sky!

Turn east to the charming town of Pitlochry (105 km / 65 miles), where the scent of pine forests fills the air, and tumbling rivers provide a soothing soundtrack. Nearby, Blair Castle offers a glimpse into Scotland’s regal past. Continue to ‘The Home of Golf’ St Andrews (80 km / 50 miles), where windswept beaches and world-famous golf courses historic streets evoke a timeless charm. For a true coastal escape, venture to spellbinding The Isle of Skye (330 km / 205 miles), where rugged cliffs, emerald moors, and sparkling fairy pools paint a picture of otherworldly beauty. As you return south, stop in the breathtaking Borders Region (50-70 km / 31-43 miles), a land of tranquil villages and rolling hills perfect for a serene detour.
Closer to Edinburgh, the former industrial city of Falkirk (35 km / 22 miles) offers modern wonders like the Falkirk Wheel and the towering Kelpies. Finally, conclude in the vibrant port city of Aberdeen (200 km / 124 miles), a city of silver granite and salty sea air, where whisky distilleries provide a warming end to your journey.
Every mile in Scotland reveals new wonders—soak in the sights, breathe in the fresh air, and let the magic of the land guide your adventure.
Tips and FAQs
To secure the best rates and ensure availability, it’s always a good idea to book your hire car in advance. If you’re traveling during peak season or major events like the Edinburgh Festival, securing your car early will help you avoid disappointment.
Edinburgh Airport (EDI)
Number of terminals: 1 terminal
Location of car rental desks: Outside the baggage claim area.
Distance to fuel station: Approximately 2 km / 1.25 miles
Nearest city: Edinburgh
Major roads: A8, M8, A

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