Car Rental Edinburgh Airport

Scotland’s enchanting capital is a feast for the eyes, with beautiful architecture peppered throughout the city, all of it set against a backdrop of serene greenery. But while Edinburgh is picture-perfect, the scenic countryside surrounding it also needs to be seen to be believed.

As with all major UK cities, Edinburgh has a modern and efficient road network, so you’ll find driving around the city and beyond a relatively straightforward and enjoyable experience.

Your journey from the airport into the heart of the city is a simple one. Head 13km along the A90 to get to the centre of the action in less than half an hour.

The A720, otherwise known as the Edinburgh City Bypass is the main dual carriageway you’ll need for navigating your way in and around the outskirts of the city.

Make sure you keep to the local speed limits – look out for the signs as these can vary. In the city itself it ranges from 30mph (48 km/h) to 20mph (32km/h), rising to 60mph (96 km/h) in the more rural areas outside. If you’re heading further afield and find yourself cruising down a motorway, the speed limit is 112 km/h.

If you’re keen to strike out on a day trip, Loch Lomond is only two hours away. Head west on the A8 through Livingstone or the A9 through Stirling and you’ll soon be experiencing the tranquil beauty that runs through The Trossachs National Park and its idyllic surroundings.

Scotland is one of the most picturesque countries on Earth – trips out into the depths of the country are highly recommended. The highlands, mountains, glens and lochs all add to the haunting beauty of Scotland’s famed landscapes, and are well worth exploring if you have the time.

A historic centre with a thriving arts scene, the city of Edinburgh is a maze of winding cobbled streets, character-filled boutiques and quirky cafes. Exploring all the nooks and crannies is sure to keep you occupied for days.

A mix of the auld and the new

Awash with medieval architecture, the Old Town in the very heart of Edinburgh represents a real step back in time. The star attraction is the awe-inspiring Edinburgh Castle. Trek up a gentle incline to see this eerily beautiful castle in all its splendour.

Perched upon Castle Rock, an extinct volcano, it looms proudly over the city, making it the perfect vantage point to take in the atmospheric surroundings and look out across the Firth of Forth.

Passing through the Old Town, you’ll witness the seamless transition from medieval to Georgian architecture as you wander towards the New Town. It’s easy to see why UNESCO designated the entire area a World Heritage Site in 1995.

Take some shore Leith

A 10-minute drive north from the city centre will take you to the bustling port district of Leith. Check out the impressively hip new waterfront development which features bars, hotels, restaurants, galleries and Edinburgh’s biggest shopping area. Shop ‘til you drop, grab a bite to eat and then take a stroll along Scotland’s idyllic Water of Leith walkway.

Those with nautical leanings can check out Queen Elizabeth II's old boat, the Royal Yacht Britannia. The British Royal Family’s personal yacht for over 40 years, this famous vessel clocked up more than a million miles at sea in its time.

It’s now regularly voted Scotland's best visitor attraction and you can wander through the various quarters, admiring the fusion of homely touches and regal flourishes aboard this floating royal abode.

Take a hike on the wild side

If you’ve picked up your hire car from Edinburgh Airport, you might want to discover a little more of Scotland before you settle into its capital for your stay. In less than two hours, you can drive north to one of Scotland’s most vibrant and impressive towns, Pitlochry.

Once a favourite holiday destination of Queen Victoria, Pitlochry makes for an excellent spot to stop and gaze at the amazing views Highland Perthshire is renowned for.

Immerse yourself in all things nature on one of the Pitlochry hill walks. Take in arresting, sky-piercing mountains like Ben Vrackie and explore the enchanting Faskally Wood.

Finally, hike up to the Queen’s View vantage point and feast your eyes on stunning Loch Tummel. This breathtaking view of greenery, rolling hills and the glistening loch is the perfect snapshot of Scotland’s beguiling beauty.

Whether you’re exploring the entire region or just staying in the city, car hire from Edinburgh Airport makes it that much easier to enjoy the best of the Scottish capital and the many charming spots within easy driving distance.