Part of our Taxi transfers from Edinburgh Airport to popular destinations guide
Quick answer
St Andrews is around 50 miles from Edinburgh Airport. The fastest way is by car, about 1 hour 15 minutes door to door. By public transport you take the tram or Airlink bus into Edinburgh, a train to Leuchars, then the 99 bus to St Andrews, which usually takes 2 to 2½ hours with luggage.
Your options at a glance
| Option | Changes | Typical time | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private transfer | None | About 1 hr 15 min | Students with luggage, families, late arrivals |
| Tram or Airlink + train to Leuchars + bus 99 | 2–3 | 2–2½ hours | Solo travellers with light bags |
| 747 bus + Stagecoach X24/X59 | 1 | Up to 2 hours | Travellers avoiding the city centre |
| Taxi from the rank | None | About 1 hr 15 min | Unplanned arrivals |
By tram or bus, then train to Leuchars
St Andrews has no railway station of its own. The nearest is Leuchars, a few miles outside the town, on the line from Edinburgh to Dundee and Aberdeen.
- From the airport, take the tram to Haymarket (about 35 minutes) or the Airlink 100 bus to Waverley Bridge (about 30 minutes, runs 24 hours).
- Catch a train towards Dundee or Aberdeen that stops at Leuchars.
- From Leuchars, the 99 bus runs about every 15 minutes to St Andrews bus station. Taxis sometimes wait at Leuchars, but not reliably early in the morning or late at night.
This is the cheapest route, but it means three vehicles and two changes. With two big suitcases at the start of term, that is hard work.
By bus via Halbeath
The 747 bus runs from the airport to Halbeath Park and Ride in Fife. From there, Stagecoach X24 or X59 services go to St Andrews. The University of St Andrews says the whole trip usually takes no more than two hours.
By private transfer
A pre-booked car takes you from arrivals straight to your hall or flat. With RTransfer, your driver tracks your flight, waits in arrivals with a name board and helps with your bags. Waiting is free for 60 minutes after you land.
You pay one fixed price per car, not per person, so a group of friends can split it. Parents can book and pay from home and get WhatsApp updates too. See our St Andrews student transfer.
What does a taxi cost?
The university's own travel page puts a taxi from Edinburgh Airport to St Andrews at about £80. Journeys that end outside the City of Edinburgh are not on the meter: the fare must be agreed with the driver before you set off. Pre-booking gets you a fixed price before you fly.
Tips for arriving at the start of term
- Check your hall's arrival time. Some halls don't have 24-hour reception. The university asks students arriving after 11pm to tell Student Services in advance.
- Last trains. If a late flight means you miss the last train to Leuchars, a private transfer saves a night in an Edinburgh hotel.
- Book the trip home at the same time. With us, booking a return together saves 10%.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take from Edinburgh Airport to St Andrews?
About 1 hour 15 minutes by car. By public transport it is usually 2 to 2½ hours, with two or three changes.
Is there a direct train from Edinburgh Airport to St Andrews?
No. St Andrews has no station. You take the tram or bus into Edinburgh, a train to Leuchars, then the 99 bus to St Andrews.
How much is a taxi from Edinburgh Airport to St Andrews?
The University of St Andrews estimates about £80. Fares outside Edinburgh are agreed before the journey, so ask for a fixed price when you book.
Can several students share one transfer?
Yes. Private transfers are priced per car, so friends travelling together can split the cost.
Sources
Facts, fares and timetables checked 25 October 2026. They change, so check with the operator before you travel.