Global Suppliers at Edinburgh
Authorized partnerships with global brands stationed at EDI Car Rental Centre.
All-Inclusive EDI Protection
Drive out of Edinburgh with absolute confidence. Every booking automatically includes Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), Third-Party Liability, and Theft Protection.
We ensure total transparency: the rate you book covers your essential insurance needs and includes 24/7 UK-wide breakdown assistance as standard.
Car Rental Centre Access
All rental providers at Edinburgh Airport are grouped together in a dedicated Car Rental Centre. Follow signs for the Car Rental Centre, which is a short walk via a covered walkway directly from the domestic arrivals hall.
For terminal maps and live flight information, we recommend checking the official Edinburgh Airport website.
What Our Edinburgh Customers Say
Verified reviews from travelers who rented directly from Edinburgh Airport.
"Fantastic service at Edinburgh Airport. The Car Rental Centre was just a short walk from arrivals via the covered walkway, and we were on the M9 to Stirling in minutes."
"Very smooth pick-up process. Used the car to drive the NC500 with the family. An SUV was perfect. Will use again!"
"Best prices I found for an EDI rental. The car was ready and waiting with no hard sell at the desk."
"Returning at 5 AM was a breeze with the drop box, and the early walk to the terminal took 5 minutes."
"Absolutely no hidden fees. The price I saw online was exactly what I paid at the Edinburgh desk."
"The car broke down which was surprising as it was brand new, but I guess nothing is perfect! However, I was very happy with the support. The car change over was very quick and professional. Thank you Sarah for the great customer service."
"Very straightforward access onto the A8 straight out of the village. The premium vehicle selection is top-notch."
"Modern fleet and efficient customer support. Got me out of the airport traffic in record time heading to Fife."
Essential Driving Guide out of Edinburgh
Landing at EDI? Familiarise yourself with these vital rules of the road before exiting the Car Rental Centre in your rental.
Navigating the A8, M8 & M9
Leaving the Edinburgh Car Rental Centre places you right by the A8 (connecting directly to Edinburgh City Centre). From here, it's very easy to join the M8 motorway (west towards Glasgow) or the M9 (north towards Stirling and the Highlands).
Manual vs. Automatic
Manual transmission (stick shift) is standard in Scotland. If you are jet-lagged or planning to navigate the winding roads of the Highlands, we strongly recommend filtering for an automatic vehicle when you book.
Roundabout Etiquette & Trams
You will encounter roundabouts exiting the airport. Traffic flows clockwise. You must always give way (yield) to traffic approaching from your right. If driving into the city centre, be highly vigilant of the Edinburgh Trams and strictly follow the traffic lights.
Speed Limits & City Driving
Edinburgh City Centre enforces strict 20mph speed limits across almost all residential and shopping streets. The A90 approach to the city is heavily monitored by average speed cameras. Distances and speeds are measured in Miles Per Hour (mph).
Edinburgh Low Emission Zone (LEZ)
Edinburgh city centre now operates a strict Low Emission Zone (LEZ). Fortunately, most of our EDI fleet comprises modern, Euro 6 compliant vehicles that meet the LEZ standards, meaning you will not face daily emission penalty charges.
Returning the Car (Fuel)
If you have a 'Full-to-Full' fuel policy, there is a BP petrol station conveniently located on Jubilee Road, right on the approach to the airport, perfect for filling up before turning into the Car Rental Centre.
Rural Highland Driving
If heading north, prepare for "Single Track Roads" with passing places. You must pull over to let oncoming traffic pass, and also allow faster vehicles behind you to overtake. Never park or wait in a designated passing place.
Current UK Fuel Costs
UK fuel is sold by the litre. Due to recent geopolitical events affecting global supply chains, prices are currently averaging around £1.45 upto £1.60 per litre. We advise choosing a 'Full-to-Full' fuel policy to control your own refuelling costs.
*As this is a volatile and ever-changing item, these prices were last updated on: .
Popular Drives from Edinburgh Airport
Because EDI is perfectly positioned in the Central Belt, it serves as the ultimate gateway. Here are the top scenic drives and historic spots our customers visit after picking up their rental.
Edinburgh City Centre
Distance: 8 miles (25 mins via A8)
Head directly east into the historic capital to explore Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile.
Child-Friendly? Yes! Kids will love Dynamic Earth and the National Museum of Scotland.
Pro Tip: Parking in central Edinburgh is extremely limited and expensive. Use the Ingliston Park & Ride near the airport and take the tram into the centre.
Glasgow City Centre
Distance: 39 miles (45 mins via M8)
Drive west across the Central Belt to Scotland's largest city, famous for its architecture and culture.
Child-Friendly? Excellent for the Riverside Museum and Glasgow Science Centre.
Pro Tip: Be aware of the Glasgow Low Emission Zone (LEZ). Fortunately, our modern rental fleet meets the strict emission requirements.
Stirling Castle
Distance: 30 miles (40 mins via M9)
A fantastic, short drive northwest to one of Scotland's largest and most historically important castles.
Child-Friendly? Highly recommended! The interactive exhibits and costumed guides bring history to life.
Pro Tip: The castle is perched on a volcanic crag; use the official esplanade car park for the easiest access.
Loch Lomond & The Trossachs
Distance: 55 miles (1 hr 15 mins via M9/A811)
Drive west into the spectacular scenery of Scotland's first National Park.
Child-Friendly? Great for exploring the Loch Lomond Sea Life Aquarium or taking a family boat cruise.
Pro Tip: The roads around the lochs can be winding and narrow. An SUV offers great visibility and comfort for this route.
St Andrews
Distance: 45 miles (1 hr 10 mins via A90/A92)
Head north across the iconic Queensferry Crossing to the historic "Home of Golf" in Fife.
Child-Friendly? Perfect for exploring the castle ruins, the cathedral, and West Sands beach.
Pro Tip: The drive across the bridge offers incredible views; ensure your rental has the required toll tags if you plan to use older private bridges elsewhere.
The Kelpies & Falkirk Wheel
Distance: 20 miles (30 mins via M9)
A short hop to see the monumental 30-metre-high horse-head sculptures and the rotating boat lift.
Child-Friendly? Excellent parklands, splash zones, and incredible engineering marvels for kids to see.
Pro Tip: Both attractions are very close together and share easy parking, making them a perfect combined half-day trip.
Perth & Dundee
Distance: 40 miles (50 mins via M90)
Drive north into the heart of Scotland to explore Scone Palace or the V&A Dundee.
Child-Friendly? Yes! The RRS Discovery ship in Dundee is a fantastic maritime adventure.
Pro Tip: The M90 is a fast, straightforward route, but beware of average speed cameras on the approach to Dundee.
North Coast 500 (Inverness)
Distance: 150 miles (2 hrs 45 mins via A9)
Drive straight up the scenic A9 to Inverness, the official starting point of Scotland's ultimate 500-mile road trip.
Child-Friendly? A longer journey, but spotting Highland cows and ruined castles keeps it exciting.
Pro Tip: The A9 is heavily monitored by average speed cameras. The weather can change rapidly; ensure your rental is equipped for the conditions.