Part of our Taxi transfers from Edinburgh Airport to popular destinations guide
Quick answer
From Edinburgh Airport, Pitlochry is about 1½ hours by car, Aviemore and Fort William about 2¾ to 3 hours, Inverness about 3¼ hours and Portree on Skye about 5 hours. A private transfer takes you and your luggage straight to your hotel or lodge with no changes, at one fixed price agreed before you travel.
Approximate drive times from Edinburgh Airport
| Destination | Approx. drive | Route |
|---|---|---|
| Pitlochry | About 1½ hours | M90 and A9 |
| Aviemore | About 2¾ hours | A9 |
| Glencoe | About 2½ – 3 hours | Via Stirling and Crianlarich |
| Fort William | About 3 hours | Via Glencoe |
| Inverness | About 3¼ hours | A9 |
| Portree, Isle of Skye | About 5 hours | Via Fort William or Inverness |
Typical times in good conditions without stops. Allow more in winter and on single-track roads.
Why a private transfer to the Highlands?
- No changes: trains and coaches to the Highlands usually mean getting into Edinburgh first, then a long onward journey.
- No driving after a long flight on unfamiliar roads, on the left, in changeable weather.
- Room for luggage, walking kit, golf bags or skis.
- Stops on the way: ask for a stop at the Kelpies, Stirling or Pitlochry when you book (extra stops are agreed in advance).
Planning tips
- Winter: days are short and the A9 and mountain passes can be affected by snow. Check our guide to skiing in Scotland if you are heading to the slopes.
- Summer: Highland hotels fill up early; book your transfer when you book your accommodation.
- Skye: it is a long day. Many travellers break the journey in Fort William or Inverness.
We quote one fixed price for the car. See long-distance transfers or browse all popular destinations from Edinburgh Airport.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the drive from Edinburgh Airport to Inverness?
About 3 hours 15 minutes via the A9 in good conditions.
Can I get a taxi from Edinburgh Airport to Fort William?
Yes. A private transfer takes about 3 hours via Glencoe, with one fixed price agreed before you travel.
How far is Skye from Edinburgh Airport?
Portree on the Isle of Skye is about 5 hours by car. Many travellers break the journey in Fort William or Inverness.
Sources
Facts, fares and timetables checked 26 October 2026. They change, so check with the operator before you travel.