The Isle of Skye has no commercial airport. The island is connected to mainland Scotland by the Skye Bridge, so visitors typically drive or take a bus. Choosing the right airport depends on your priorities: convenience, flight availability, or the scenic route.
Airport Options
Inverness Airport (INV)
ClosestThe closest airport to Skye. Flights from London, Bristol, Manchester, Dublin, and other UK/European destinations. Smaller airport with fewer flight options.
Glasgow Airport (GLA)
Best ChoiceMost practical choice for international visitors. Excellent flight connections and the drive to Skye passes through stunning Highland scenery via Glencoe.
Edinburgh Airport (EDI)
Scotland's busiest airport with the widest choice of flights. Slightly longer drive than Glasgow, but allows time to explore Edinburgh before heading north.
Getting to Skye
By Car (Recommended)
Rent a car at the airport and drive to Skye. The route from Glasgow via Glencoe and Fort William is one of Scotland's most scenic drives. You'll need a car to explore Skye anyway, so this is the most practical option.
The Skye Bridge is toll-free since 2004
By Bus
CityLink buses run from Glasgow and Inverness to Portree (Skye's main town). The journey from Glasgow takes approximately 6 hours with a change at Fort William.
Limited service - check schedules carefully
By Train + Bus
Train to Kyle of Lochalsh (nearest station to Skye), then bus or taxi across the bridge. The train journey from Inverness is particularly scenic.
Kyle of Lochalsh to Portree: 30 miles
Recommended Routes
Glasgow to Skye (Classic Route)
A82 north through Loch Lomond, Glencoe, Fort William, then west to Kyle of Lochalsh.
Highlights: Loch Lomond, Glencoe valley, Fort William (Ben Nevis), Eilean Donan Castle
Edinburgh to Skye
Either A9 north then west via Inverness, or M8/A82 via Glasgow and Glencoe.
Tip: Split the journey with an overnight stop in Edinburgh, then head north the next day
Inverness to Skye
A82 south to Invermoriston, then A887/A87 west via Loch Ness to Kyle of Lochalsh.
Highlights: Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle, Eilean Donan Castle
Can You Day Trip to Skye from Edinburgh?
While possible with a very long day (10+ hours of driving), a day trip from Edinburgh to Skye is not recommended. The island deserves at least 2-3 days to explore properly. If you have limited time, consider:
- •2-night stay: Drive up one day, full day on Skye, drive back
- •3-4 nights: Ideal for exploring Skye's highlights
- •Alternative: An organised multi-day tour from Edinburgh