Explore Edinburgh and Beyond with Your Own Hire Car
Edinburgh, Scotland's historic capital, captivates visitors with its dramatic castle perched on volcanic rock, elegant Georgian New Town, and atmospheric medieval Old Town. While the city centre is wonderfully walkable, having your own hire car opens up incredible opportunities to explore the Scottish Borders, East Lothian's stunning coastline, and the Highlands beyond. From the royal splendour of Holyrood Palace to the literary charm of the Writers' Museum, Edinburgh offers world-class culture. Your hire car becomes essential for visiting the Forth Bridges, exploring quaint fishing villages like North Berwick, or taking the scenic route through the Pentland Hills.
Essential Edinburgh Experiences
Edinburgh Castle
Scotland's most iconic landmark dominates the city skyline. Home to the Scottish Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny, and offering panoramic views across to Fife.
Royal Mile & Old Town
The historic heart of Edinburgh stretching from the Castle to Holyrood Palace. Narrow closes, hidden courtyards, and centuries of stories in every stone.
Arthur's Seat
An ancient volcano in Holyrood Park offering a genuine hill walk in the heart of the city. Drive to Dunsapie Loch for an easier ascent.
Royal Botanic Garden
70 acres of stunning gardens in Inverleith. The glasshouses are spectacular, and there's free entry to the grounds.
Leith & The Shore
Edinburgh's vibrant port district with excellent restaurants, the Royal Yacht Britannia, and a distinctly different character from the Old Town.
Navigating Edinburgh by Car
Main Roads
- • M8 - West to Glasgow (1 hour)
- • M9 - North to Stirling and Forth Road Bridge
- • A1 - South to England via the Borders
- • A90 - North over Forth Road Bridge to Fife and Perth
- • City Bypass (A720) - Circles south Edinburgh, essential for avoiding city centre
- • A702 - South through Pentland Hills to Biggar
Driving Tips
- • Avoid driving in the Old Town - streets are narrow, cobbled, and often pedestrianised
- • Use the City Bypass (A720) to move between different areas without going through centre
- • Leith Walk has frequent bus lanes and traffic - use side streets where possible
- • The Queensferry Crossing (M90) is toll-free and offers stunning views
- • Festival season (August) makes city centre driving extremely challenging
Parking
City centre parking is limited and expensive. Best options include Castle Terrace, St James Quarter, and Greenside Row car parks. Park-and-ride facilities at Ingliston (for airport), Hermiston, and Sheriffhall offer free parking with bus connections. Street parking in residential areas requires permits - check signage carefully.
Why Hire a Car in Edinburgh
- Explore East Lothian's beaches and golf courses - North Berwick is 30 minutes away
- Visit the Scottish Borders - Melrose Abbey, Abbotsford House, and rolling countryside
- Day trip to St Andrews, home of golf, in just over an hour
- Reach the Highlands - Pitlochry in 90 minutes, Inverness in 3 hours
- Convenient for business travellers visiting Edinburgh Park or the BioQuarter
- Perfect for airport arrivals wanting to explore beyond the city
Nearby Destinations
Local Tip
For the best photograph of the Forth Bridges, drive to South Queensferry and park near the Hawes Inn - the view at sunset with all three bridges is spectacular.
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