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Why we love Edinburgh

From palaces to cobbled alleyways, handsome Georgian spots to Edinburgh’s castle set on its own dormant volcano, this city is a real show-stopper.

The world’s first UNESCO City of Literature is home to 10 major international festivals, including the world’s biggest – the vibrant and artsy Edinburgh Fringe Festival and Edinburgh International Festival.

Take in 360 degree views and even the odd yoga class from Arthur’s Seat. For sports lovers, there’s Murrayfield Stadium for top-notch international events. Whether it’s beautiful shopping arcades, boutique outlets or botanical gardens, Scotland’s capital has something for everyone.

VisitScotland/Kenny Lam

Dean Village, Edinburgh

Discover different districts

From Leith to Grassmarket and everywhere in between, including the UNESCO heritage listed New Town and Old Town, explore the different neighbourhoods of Edinburgh  to discover their unique charms.

Subterranean scare

Discover the 17th-century streets and houses found beneath the Royal Mile at Real Mary King’s Close during a character-led ghost tour which ventures deep into the city’s vaults.

VisitBritain/Jupiter Artland

Jupiter Artland

Take a walk on the wild side of art and explore landscaped lands adorned by weird and wonderful sculptures at Jupiter Artland .

VisitBritain/Trike Tours Scotland

On your bike!

Take to the open roads on the back of a gleaming 1600cc powered trike with Trike Tours Scotland . Decked in leathers, opt for a helmet with an integrated headset for information and highlights as you zoom through the capital’s sights in style.

Things to do in Edinburgh

Choosing an option from the dropdown will automatically update the map listing results to filter by your selection.

Edinburgh Castle

Discover this dramatic fortress, perched on top of an extinct volcano at the top of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.

VisitBritain/Steven Oates

The Palace of Holyroodhouse and the Royal Mile

Welcome to the previous home of Mary, Queen of Scots, offering guided tours, royal exhibitions and opulent afternoon teas.

VisitScotland

Edinburgh Festival Fringe

Witness an explosion of creative energy as Edinburgh hosts stand-up comedy, music, dance and more – for three action-packed weeks in August.

VisitBritain/Pinzutu/Kit Oates/Peter Anderson

Arthur’s Seat

Climb to Arthur’s Seat and be rewarded with spectacular 360-degree views of Edinburgh and the Lothians.

VisitBritain/Pinzutu/Jemima Jones

Discover this award-winning contemporary sculpture garden, set in over 100 acres of meadows and woodlands.

Trike Tours Scotland

This is no ordinary chauffeur-driven tour: on the back of a gleaming 1600cc powered trike, you’ll explore the city in style.

Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

See the world from a whole new perspective at this surreal museum: it’s full of hilarious, interactive and mind-twisting tricks.

VisitBritain/Oscura & World of Illusions

Colinton Tunnel

Local artists have transformed this old railway tunnel into a vibrant art-filled space: an incredible setting for walks and cycling.

thomas_travweb

The Scotch Whisky Experience

Discover the art behind Scotland’s favourite drink on this guided tour, tasting and food pairing.

VisitBritain/Simon Winnall

St Giles’ Cathedral

Discover this Medieval church on a free tour, catch a concert, or climb the clock tower for impressive city-wide views.

The Real Mary King’s Close

Hidden beneath the Royal Mile, this secret warren of houses and shops dates back over 400 years.

marykingsclose

Pride Edinburgh

Filling the streets with rainbow parades, dancing and live music, this is Scotland’s longest-running Pride fiesta.

Edinburgh’s oldest gay venue brings the party with late night dancing, creative cocktails and drag queens.

The place to be for a traditional Scottish meal, and real ale pint.

VisitScotland/The Regent Bar

A must visit for drag open mic nights, late karaoke nights and late-night dancing.

planetbarandkitchen

On 31 December, Scotland’s capital welcomes the new year with a bang - expect Ceilidh dances, live music and fireworks.

Keith Valentine

Edinburgh International Festival

Every August, Edinburgh hosts dance, music, comedy, theatre and opera stars from all over the globe.

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

The mighty Edinburgh Castle is the backdrop for this extraordinary display of military pomp and pageantry.

Adventure Yoga

Held on beaches, in woodlands, or even at Arthur’s Seat, these yoga sessions reveal Edinburgh’s wild side.

Grassmarket

For extra-special souvenirs, high-quality fashions and unique artworks, check out this neighbourhood’s indie boutiques.

VisitBritain/Aurélie Four

This glittering, state-of-the-art space is dedicated to wellbeing – with a hammam, salt room, bio sauna and more.

onespaedinburgh

Holyrood Park

Climbing up Arthur’s Seat is an Edinburgh must-do – but look out for Medieval ruins and wildlife-filled lochs too.

The shops on Edinburgh’s famous thoroughfare offer authentic Scotch tweed, kilts, whiskies and local delicacies.

Cold Town House, Edinburgh

Lying in the shadow of the historic city castle, tuck into delicious comfort food including pizzas, hot buffalo wings and truffle fries.

VisitBritain/Storyman

The Royal Yacht Britannia

Discover the five decks of Queen Elizabeth II’s former floating palace, from the State Apartments to the Crew’s Quarters, with tea and scones on the Royal Deck.

Shutterstock / Rico Baumann135

Edinburgh, Scotland

Escape Hunt

Test your problem-solving skills in these themed escape rooms, which are full of puzzles and riddles to crack.

Alice Reading

Ninja Warrior Edinburgh

Welcome to the ultimate obstacle course, where you’ll need to climb, balance, swing and jump to the finish line.

Alamy Stock Photo

Murrayfield Stadium

Discover the home of the Scottish Rugby Union, Scotland’s biggest stadium with a capacity of over 67,000.

Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art

Explore modern and surrealist works of Matisse, Picasso, Barbara Hepworth and Joan Miró, in this gallery wrapped in sculpture parks.

VisitBritain/Simon Jarratt

Dynamic Earth

This hands-on museum explores the greatest story on Earth: the formation of our very own planet…

Edinburgh Food Safari

Tuck into traditional Scottish fare on this foodie walking tour – such as smoked salmon, haggis and whisky.

Food Safari

Edinburgh Food Festival

Showcasing Scotland’s top restaurants, food trucks and producers, this annual festival is sheer gourmet heaven.

VisitBritain/Pinzutu/Andrew Hood

Secret Gin Tour

Prefer your history with ice and lemon? You’ll sip locally-distilled gin on this guided tour of Edinburgh’s Old Town.

Scott Monument

Dedicated to Sir Walter Scott, this towering monument is the world’s biggest literary memorial, and a museum.

Craigmillar Castle

Discover the tales of witchcraft, love stories and royal murder plots at this imposing Medieval fortress.

Pink Triangle

Looking for LGBTQIA+ nightlife? There’s everything from drag cabaret to craft ale in this rollicking neighbourhood.

Getty Images

Scottish International Storytelling Festival

Full of tales, songs and poems, this 12-day celebration unites performers from all over the world.

Granton Castle Walled Garden

Though Granton Castle lies in ruins, its garden lives on - hosting mindful events such as leaf printing and art workshops.

Portobello Beach

Whether for summer sunbathing or a bracing winter’s walk, this long sandy beach is beautiful year-round.

Shutterstock

Archerfield House

Fletcher’s Cottage, the spa at this luxury hotel, is a sanctuary of rest and relaxation.

Royal Botanic Garden

This historic green space is a peaceful setting for walks, picnics and festivals – and is wheelchair-accessible too.

Princes Street

For fashion and beauty from top high street brands, look no further – and the castle views are impressive too.

Rose Street

This pedestrianised area is home to jewellers, bakeries, tweed merchants and a fantastic choice of pubs.

George Street

Fashionable bars, high-end boutiques, luxury hotels and international brands: you’ll find it all on this historic road.

Shutterstock / Carlos G. Lopez

A Wee Pedal

This family-run company offers bike tours to all the top sights – as well as secret spots you won’t want to miss.

Claire Clifton Coles

Edinburgh Bike Tours

Maybe you’ll pedal all the way from New Town to the coast, or take a history-filled tour of the city centre?

Edinburgh Guided Tour

With a maximum of ten people in each group, these walking tours offer an intimate insight into Edinburgh’s history.

Forage and Chatter

Using hyper-local ingredients, including some that are foraged, this cosy restaurant has a no-waste philosophy.

Seeds for the Soul

From hearty breakfasts to long lunches and decadent dinners – this vegan restaurant is all about plant power.

Iain Gallacher

Featured things to do

VisitScotland/Paul Tomkins

Chocolate tour

There’s always a tour to put a smile on people’s faces: chocolate. Learn about its history, make your own and dabble in some tastings - expect everything from vegan and gluten-free to haggis-flavoured chocs.

VisitBritain/Pinzutu/Kit Oates/Pedro Munoz Silva

Edinburgh Fringe Festival

The Edinburgh Festival Fringe and the Edinburgh International Festival celebrate their 75th birthdays this year, filling the city with live music, theatrics, and stand-up comedy.

Real Mary King’s Close

Get a chill this autumn on an immersive ghostly tour through Edinburgh’s underground world - from the dungeons to the Real Mary King’s Close and the Vaults.

Celebrate three days of festivities for Hogmanay - expect torchlight processions, live music concerts, street parties and fireworks.

Places to stay in Edinburgh

Home to centuries-old buildings and Edinburgh Castle, as well as The Royal Mile lined with pubs and eateries - perfect for first-time visitors.

Rammed full of restaurants and a shoppers’ paradise - this elegant part of the city features Georgian townhouses and open squares, alongside chic cocktail lounges and places to eat.

Leith 

Trendy Leith is great for all tastes and budgets. Find everything from delicious street food to vintage shops and cafes in this buzzing port district.

Explore nearby

Pushing the boundaries of art and culture and a heart that beats through its people.

VisitBritain/Tommy Ga-Ken Wan

Borders and Lowlands

The gateway into Scotland, the Borders and Lowlands pack the punch,

Newcastle upon Tyne

Linked by no fewer than seven bridges, it's one vibrant place to visit.

Rich Kenworthy

Newcastle, England

Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park

Explore pristine woods, climb mountains and paddle the waters of Scotland's wild landscape.

Getting to Edinburgh

Edinburgh is the capital city of Scotland and is located in central-eastern Scotland. Edinburgh is well linked to the rest of the UK by road, rail and the air, it is 402 miles (649 km) from London. The quickest option to get to Edinburgh from London is to fly, which takes 1 hour 10 minutes, although regular train services link London with Edinburgh, with the quickest taking 4 hours 20 minutes. Edinburgh Airport serves international routes to Europe, the Americas and the UAE.

Getting around

With a 24-hour bus service running from the airport to the city centre plus buses, trains and the tram, getting around Edinburgh is a breeze. More than 1,000 black cabs operate here too. Lothian Airport Day tickets give you unlimited one-day travel on Lothian trams and buses, plus travel to and from the airport. There are also Hop on Hop-off Bus Tours .

Buses run 24 hours a day in Edinburgh, with regular services round the clock. Lothian buses is one of the main operators.

Edinburgh Tram covers 15 stops between Edinburgh Airport and York Place, making it a useful travel option for the start and end of your trip.

Licensed black cabs,  Central Taxis  and City Cabs , take up to five people per car, a good option if you’re a family or group of friends. Taxis can be hailed on the street.

Want to know more?

Check out Visit Scotland for top insider tips and travelling inspiration.

Best Time to Visit

Edinburgh Airport Guide

Public Transportation

48-Hour Itinerary

Day Trips From Edinburgh

Top Things to Do

Best Museums

Visiting Edinburgh Castle

Guide to Arthur's Seat

Best Restaurants

Nightlife Guide

Your Trip to Edinburgh: The Complete Guide

Known sometimes as "The Athens of the North" or "Auld Reekie," the Scottish capital is one of the country's most popular destinations, and is a great place to spend a long weekend or to include in a larger Scotland itinerary . Edinburgh is relatively compact and walkable, but there's a lot to see and do in this historic and culturally vibrant capital, including exploring Edinburgh Castle, visiting one of the city's top museums, going on a nearby hike, or hitting up the annual Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

Whether you are looking to explore Edinburgh's food and bar scene or to travel back in time through its history, here are a few things to keep in mind while planning your trip.

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit: Based purely on the weather, June through August is the best time of year to travel to Edinburgh. Scotland can be notoriously gloomy and wet during the winter, but summer brings moderate temperatures and some sun, making it ideal for outdoor sightseeing. Do keep in mind that summer is also peak tourist season; if you want to avoid the crowds, consider planning your trip for either May or September. No matter what time of year you visit, be sure to pack layers of clothing.
• Language: English is the primary language spoken in Scotland and the rest of the U.K. However, because Edinburgh is a fairly large, international city, you may hear other languages spoken around town. Gaelic is also spoken in some parts of Scotland.
• Currency: The currency in the U.K. is the pound sterling , which is also known as GBP or just "the pound." Cents are known as pence.
• Getting Around : While Edinburgh is a highly walkable city, especially in the city center, there are good public transportation options, including the Lothian Buses and Edinburgh Trams. Taxis and Ubers are also available. Car rentals are another option, though we don't recommend driving or parking in the city center of Edinburgh.
• Travel Tip : Make your visit to Edinburgh part of a larger exploration of Scotland, taking advantage of the trains if you prefer not to drive through the winding roads. Glasgow is less than an hour away from Edinburgh, while Dundee and St. Andrews are a quick journey north. But you don't have to pick just the bigger destinations to better understand Scottish culture. Nearby, look for day trips to the Scottish Borders, North Berwick and Stirling, when planning an itinerary.

Things to Do

Edinburgh has a lot of history, culture, and art available to explore, as well as expansive shopping areas. Touring Edinburgh Castle , one of the oldest fortified palaces in Europe, is a must-do for all visitors, as is hiking Arthur's Seat , the highest point in Edinburgh. Another popular attraction is Palace of Holyroodhouse; the Scottish residence of Queen Elizabeth II, it welcomes visitors whenever the British Royal Family is not in town. Here are some of the top things to do during your trip to Edinburgh:

• Tour The National Art Gallery of Scotland ; consisting of three galleries, this vast art museum showcases works from both Scotland and around the world.
• Dine at The Kitchin , a renowned Michelin-starred restaurant that highlights local ingredients.
• Attend the annual Edinburgh Festival Fringe , the world's largest arts festival , to see performances ranging from plays and comedy shows to live music.

For more, explore our full-length articles on the top things to do in Edinburgh and the best museums in Edinburgh . And, be sure to check out our guide to spending 48 hours in the Scottish capital .

Iain Masterton/Getty Images 

What to Eat and Drink

Edinburgh is an international city that boasts cuisine from all over the world, but of course you'll want to experience Scottish fare while visiting. Haggis, a meaty pudding cooked in a sheep's stomach, is Scotland's most famous dish and broadly available around Edinburgh, especially at pubs. Other local dishes include Stornoway black pudding, Cullen skink, Cranachan, and smoked salmon. And if you're wanting to imbibe on Scottish whisky, you can sample it at any number of places, including The Abbey Bar and The Balmoral Whisky Bar .

Because the city is so diverse, travelers will find not just pubs, but also fancy Michelin-starred restaurants, quirky burger joints, and outdoor food stalls. While many restaurants and pubs can be found in the city center, be sure to venture into Leith to try pizza at La Favorita or Scottish-French fusion at Restaurant Martin Wishart .

For more, check out the best restaurants in Edinburgh and our guide to Edinburgh nightlife .

Where to Stay

While each of Edinburgh's 12 neighborhoods is distinctly charming, you might find some more convenient than others depending on your itinerary, Most travelers opt to stay in the city center, which includes the Royal Mile and New Town. Many of the popular hotels, including both chain and boutique options, are located in these two areas alongside the popular attractions and shopping streets. If you prefer to stay somewhere close to the water, look for a hotel or apartment rental in Leith, a cool neighborhood with lots of independent cafés, stores, and bookshops. For something a little off-center, head to Portobello, a seaside resort neighborhood only 20 minutes from central Princes Street. Some iconic Edinburgh hotels include The Balmoral , The Witchery by the Castle , The Royal Scots Club , and Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh .

Read our roundup of the best hotels in Edinburgh to learn more and find the right accommodation for you.

Getting There

Most international travelers arrive in Edinburgh by flying into Edinburgh Airport , a fairly busy airport with one main terminal. The airport services several cities in the U.S., mostly on the East Coast, as well as Europe and the Middle East. It also has numerous flights that connect from London's Heathrow Airport.

Alternatively, you can take a train from London or one of the U.K.'s other large cities; trains operate regularly and arrive at Edinburgh Waverley station. If you're driving, be sure to include a GPS in your rental car to help navigate the unfamiliar roads.

Culture and Customs

Tipping isn't as frequent in Scotland as it is in America, but it's still customary to tip in restaurants or taxis, especially when you receive good service. The typical amount is 10 percent, but you can use your best judgment. In a pub, leave a pound or two when ordering drinks at the bar. And while it may be slightly jarring to some visitors, the legal drinking age in Scotland is 18.

 Joe Daniel Price/Getty Images

Money Saving Tips

• The best way to save a few bucks is to walk. Edinburgh is a very walkable city and it's central area is compact enough that you shouldn't need a rental car or to take many taxis. Plan out your itinerary to take advantage of walking everywhere you can.
• Many of the museums offer free entry, including The National Museum of Scotland, The Museum of Childhood, and The Museum on the Mound. Historic cathedrals like St. Giles' Cathedral are also free to enter.
• Tour the Scottish Parliament for a glimpse inside Scotland's political landscape. It's open to the public six days a week and tours are free.
• To save money on meals, pay a visit to one of Edinburgh's food markets. The Pitt Market, which takes place every Saturday in Leith, is one of the most popular. Travelers arriving at Waverley Station will also find more than 40 food stalls at Waverley Market @ Platform 2.
• Two discount attraction passes are available for tourists in Edinburgh: Royal Edinburgh Ticket and Edinburgh City Pass .

Visit Scotland. "Frequently Asked Questions About Scotland."

VisitScotland. "Frequently Asked Questions About Scotland."

This Is Edinburgh. "Edinburgh Fringe Festival."

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• 1 Districts
• 2.1 History
• 2.2 Orientation
• 2.3 Literary tradition
• 2.4 When to go
• 2.5 Visitor information
• 3.1 By plane
• 3.2 By train
• 3.3 By road
• 3.5 By boat
• 4.1 On foot
• 4.3 By tram
• 4.4 By train
• 4.6 By taxi
• 4.7.1 Cycle hire
• 6.1 Performing arts
• 6.2 Outdoors
• 6.3 Festival season
• 6.4 Christmas and Hogmanay
• 6.5 Other events
• 7.1 Universities
• 7.2 Colleges
• 7.3 Private language schools
• 13 Stay safe
• 14.1 Hospitals and clinics
• 14.2 Pharmacy
• 15.1 Consulates

Edinburgh ( Gaelic : Dùn Èideann ) is the capital of Scotland , located in the Central Belt of the country. With a population of 526,470 in the urban area in 2021, and 901,455 in the metropolitans, Edinburgh fizzes with a cosmopolitan yet uniquely Scottish atmosphere. Old volcanoes ensure a dramatic natural setting, with the imposing castle atop one. The city combines medieval relics, Georgian grandeur and a powerful layer of modern life with contemporary avant-garde. Medieval palaces, Gothic churches and fascinating historical buildings rub shoulders with the best of modern architecture, such as the Scottish Parliament and the National Museum of Scotland. Variously dubbed "Auld Reekie" or "Athens of the North", but usually just plain "Embruh", it hosts great restaurants, shops, pubs, wild and mild clubs, and an unrivalled programme of events and festivals throughout the year.

The Old and New Towns of Edinburgh were listed as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO in 1995. In 2004, Edinburgh became the first member of the UNESCO Creative Cities initiative when it was designated a "City of Literature".

Districts [ edit ]

• South Queensferry is nowadays governed as a city district, but retains its own identity as a town and is separately described.

Understand [ edit ]

History [ edit ]

This was an exciting place to be 300-350 million years ago, as volcanoes raged and flared across the region. The biggest was what we now call Arthur's Seat, with smaller cones at Castle Rock, Calton Hill, and elsewhere. Then they fizzled out and started to be buried by other rock layers. Much later came the Ice Ages, the last some 20,000 years ago. Vast glaciers from the west scoured away the surface, but where they hit Castle Rock they had to divide and flow around. They left the Rock intact with a scooped-out hollow to its north, west and south, and a tail of stone debris dumped in its lee to the east. This created an obvious defensible spot for early settlement. By the 12th century Edinburgh was the chief city of Scotland; the Old Town grew up with the Castle at its head, the Royal Mile stretching down the debris tail, and Holyrood Palace at its foot.

And up and up it grew: space was limited, so buildings became taller, ten or more storeys high even in medieval times. But no lifts or pumped water of course, and sanitation was taken care of by opening a window, shouting "Gardyloo!" and letting gravity do the rest. Every medieval city stank, but Edinburgh became known as "Auld Reekie" from the distinctive stench of sewage mingled with smoke from coal, mined and burned here from early times.

Edinburgh lost much of its importance after 1707, when Scotland united with England and political power ebbed away to London. But in the mid-18th century it revived, when it broke out of the confines of the Old Town, by creating a graceful New Town to the north. The intervening midden, the "Nor Loch", was drained, bridged, and an earth mound pushed across. There was similar expansion on the south side. Victorian times saw an industrial boom fuelled by the coal deposits nearby to the east, and by shale oil produced to the west. Canals and then railways brought in materials and a labour force.

Glasgow grew bigger, but Edinburgh remained the cultural capital of Scotland, and the Edinburgh International Festival was launched in 1947. A year later the first Military Tattoo was performed at the castle and soon became an official part of the Festival. In 1993, the first Edinburgh Hogmanay Street Party was held as an organised event.

And from 1998 Edinburgh is in a stronger sense a capital city again, as the Scotland Act (and subsequent legislation) established a devolved Scottish Parliament and civil Government. These, based in Edinburgh, are responsible for governing Scotland excluding reserved matters such as defence and foreign affairs which remain with the Westminster Parliament in London. Between 1999 and 2004 the Scottish Parliament Building (designed by Enric Miralles, the Spanish Catalan architect) was constructed. The debate about full independence for Scotland continues.

Orientation [ edit ]

Edinburgh has two principal spines, both running east-west. The spine of the Old Town is the Royal Mile, which starts with the Castle perched atop its volcanic crag, and the Esplanade commanding the best overall view of the city. From here the Royal Mile slopes down east, variously called Lawnmarket, High Street and Canongate, to end at Holyrood Palace. George IV Bridge spans south from Old Town to the University quarter, Meadows and Southside, while the Mound and North Bridge span north to New Town.

The newer spine is Princes Street (one "s", no apostrophe, named for the princely sons of George III). Princes Street Gardens fill the depression between the Street and the Old Town heights, with the railway tracks at their base and the Mound crossing midway. The grid pattern of the New Town starts with Princes Street and stretches north, with George Street and Queen Street its main boulevards. Close to the east end of Princes Street are the main railway station Waverley, and the main bus station St Andrew Square. The street ends in Waterloo Place, historic terminus of the A1 to London, A7 to Carlisle, A8 to Glasgow, and A9 to John O'Groats - no modern motorist should ever heed these directions. The small hill just east of Princes Street with an ersatz Acropolis is Calton Hill, while the looming crags further SE are Arthur's Seat. The Firth of Forth glitters to the north, merging into the open North Sea.

Literary tradition [ edit ]

Edinburgh is noted as a long-lived literary capital of the English-speaking world.

The great Scottish historical novelist Sir Walter Scott was born in the city and has his great monument on Princes Street. Robert Louis Stevenson and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle were also natives of Edinburgh. Edinburgh has also variously been the home and inspiration for such well-known modern writers as Muriel Spark (author of The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie ), Irvine Welsh (author of the 1993 novel Trainspotting , set in the gritty district of Leith), Ian Rankin (a crime writer best known for the Inspector Rebus series, set in Edinburgh), Alexander McCall Smith ( The No. 1 Lady Detective's Agency and several novels set in the Scottish capital) and J.K. Rowling of Harry Potter fame.

When to go [ edit ]

Edinburgh is a year-round destination. It gets mobbed around Hogmanay (Dec 31 / Jan 1), the Six Nations rugby internationals in Feb / March, and the Festival in August - book accommodation well in advance for these.

Old and New Towns are on exposed ridges so they're often breezy, and you can expect rain and a wrecked umbrella any day. The city is most comfortable from May to September - never stifling hot, the main summer irritation (if you have flimsy curtains) is sunrise at 4:30AM and dusk at 11PM. Nights draw in rapidly during the Festival. Winters are snell : rarely sub-zero or snowy, but the wind-chill makes them feel so. The sun then is only up between 8:30AM and 4PM, and if there's a bank of drizzle off the sea, the short day will pass in a grey gloom. Fortunately there's plenty to see and do indoors.

Visitor information [ edit ]

• Forever Edinburgh is the city's official guide, listing attractions and forthcoming events.
• City of Edinburgh Council describes public services.
• iCentre is the national tourist office, open daily. It's at 249 High Street on the Royal Mile near St Giles.
• Edinburgh Evening News , published daily, covers forthcoming events.

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ].

Airport hotels: four are within walking distance and another handful within a ten minute shuttle ride, see Edinburgh/West#Sleep .

Onward transport: Buses to the city, and to Glasgow, Fife, and West Lothian, leave from stops just outside Arrivals. The tram station and shuttles to off-site car parks are at the east end of the Terminal, beyond the multi-storey car park. There's no railway station, the nearest (Haymarket and Waverley) are in city centre.

Airlink 100 is the direct bus to city centre. This runs from airport stop A via Haymarket and Princes Street to Waverley Bridge, just outside the main railway station and close to the bus station. It's a distinctive bright blue double-decker, which runs daily 24 hours every 10 min, and takes 20-30 min. Adult fares as of Dec 2023 are £5.50 single, £8 open return (children £2.75 / £4 respectively). Pay the driver in cash (change given within reason, the only city bus route that does so) or by contactless debit or credit card. The buses have free Wi-Fi, sockets for charging electrical equipment, CCTV allowing top-deck passengers to monitor their luggage, and "next-stop" info screens.

Skylink 300 to Tollcross and Southside was axed in 2022.

Skylink 400 is for the south fringes of town. This runs from airport stop C via Gogarburn, South Gyle, Wester Hailes, Oxgangs, Kaimes, Royal Infirmary, and Niddrie to Fort Kinnaird / Newcraighall near Musselburgh - it doesn't pass anywhere near the city centre. It runs daily every 30 min from 5:30AM to 9:30PM.

At night Airlink 100 still runs to the city centre very tn minutes, and the 200 and 400 make a single run out to the airport at 3AM, arriving by 4AM.

Bright Bus Airport Express is a new service introduced in 2024, run by McGills using orange buses. Runs between 3AM and midnight. Single £4, return £6.50 payable by cash or card. It is in competition with the Lothian buses on this route, and it would be worth checking whether it is still running before depending on it.

Trams run from the airport to the city centre, taking 40 min via Edinburgh Park, Murrayfield, Haymarket, and along Princes St to Waverley railway station and York Place. As of Dec 2023, adult fares are £7.50 single, £9.50 open return, child £3.80 / £5. If you're making other city journeys the same day, consider buying a day ticket for £12 (child £6) valid for all tram and daytime bus services. Buy tickets from machines at any tram stop within 30 minutes of starting travel (cards accepted, no change given) and validate your ticket before boarding. Trams run daily every 8-15 min, to the city centre 6:20AM-10:45PM and out to the airport 5:30AM-11:30PM.

Or walk! If you only have light baggage, it's a fine day and you want to save money, you can walk the mile-and-a-half footpath between the airport and Ingliston Park & Ride. This brings you within the City Zone tariff, so the single tram fare to the city centre drops to £2 adult, £1 child, and a day ticket for all trams and buses is £5 / £2.50. Coming out from the city, do not be tempted just to buy a City Zone ticket and stay aboard to the airport, since ticket inspectors always patrol this section.

Out of town: Buses run from airport stop C to Glasgow Buchanan Station. This is the Citylink Air which takes 1 hour and costs £16 single. It runs daily from 6AM to 11:30PM every 30 min. Bus 902 takes 80 min to Glasgow via Livingston, and this run hourly through the night.

Buses run from airport stop G across the old Forth Road Bridge to Inverkeithing and Halbeath in Fife . This is the Stagecoach Jet 747 bus which takes 45 min to Halbeath. It runs daily for 24 hours, every 20 minutes in the daytime. Change at Inverkeithing for trains to Perth , Dundee , Aberdeen and Inverness .

First Bus 600 runs from airport stop E every 30 min into West Lothian, via Ratho, Newbridge, Kirkliston, Winchburgh, Broxburn, Uphall, Livingston and Whitburn.

Local buses pass by on the A8, a mile south of the airport. These run from Edinburgh out to Ratho, Kirkliston, South Queensferry , Linlithgow , and Falkirk .

Other airports you might consider:

• Glasgow ( GLA  IATA ) has a few destinations not linked to Edinburgh, such as Dubai, Reykjavik and several Hebridean islands.
• Manchester ( MAN  IATA ) has much better connections to North America and the Gulf.

By train [ edit ]

Waverley Station is a major hub for the Scottish rail network, with trains operated by ScotRail .

From Glasgow there are five routes:

• best is from Glasgow Queen Street via Falkirk High, 50 min, every 15-30 min;
• trains from Queen Street via Cumbernauld and Falkirk Grahamstoun, 70 min, every 30 min;
• slow trains from Helensburgh or Milngavie via Queen Street (low level), Airdrie and Livingston North, 75 min, every 30 min;
• long-distance trains from Glasgow Central taking an hour via Motherwell to Edinburgh and continuing down into England, plus slow trains from Ayr making more stops;
• slow trains from Glasgow Central via Livingston South, 80 min, hourly.

From the north: trains run hourly from Aberdeen and Dundee , every two hours from Inverness via Aviemore and Perth, and every 30 min from Stirling .

From London : LNER daytime trains from London King's Cross run hourly up the east coast, the fastest taking 4 hr 20 min, variously stopping at Peterborough, Grantham, Newark, Doncaster, York, Darlington, Durham and Newcastle-upon-Tyne. Many continue north from Edinburgh to Glasgow Central, Dundee, Aberdeen or Inverness. Lumo runs three times daily from King's Cross via Newcastle and Morpeth. Trains operated by Avanti (see below) leave London Euston every couple of hours and travel via the Midlands and Preston; this is a slower journey that takes 5 hr 35 min. There's also an overnight train from Euston to Edinburgh, described below.

From the Midlands and South West England , the fastest is to take the hourly Avanti West Coast train from Birmingham New Street towards Glasgow and change at Preston, journey time just over four hours. A little slower but avoiding a change is the Crosscountry train, which trundles all the way up from Penzance via Plymouth, Exeter St David's, Bristol Temple Meads, Birmingham New Street, Derby, Sheffield, Wakefield Westgate, Leeds, York, Darlington, Durham, Newcastle upon Tyne and Berwick-upon-Tweed, and continuing from Edinburgh to Glasgow Central.

From Manchester : Transpennine Express runs every couple of hours from Manchester Airport via Piccadilly and Carlisle, taking four hours, with many other connections by changing at Piccadilly, Preston or Lancaster.

From the Borders trains run every 30 min from Tweedbank via Galashiels. There's no through-line, but Galashiels has connecting buses from Jedburgh, Melrose, Carlisle, Hawick and Selkirk.

Overnight: The Caledonian Lowland Sleeper runs Su-F from London Euston, departing around 11:30PM to arrive by 7:30AM. However, you can stay aboard until 8AM. The southbound train leaves around 11:30PM to reach Euston at 7AM. Again you can stay aboard until 8AM. No trains on Saturday night, and you can't travel on the Highland Sleeper, which only makes a service stop in Edinburgh for its three portions to be split or re-combined. Compartments have two berths and are sold like hotel rooms: you pay extra for single occupancy, and you won't be sharing with a stranger. Tickets can be booked at any UK mainline railway station or online: in 2023 a double bunk is around £250. You can also just use the sitting saloon, single £50. If you have an existing ticket for a daytime train you need to buy a sleeper supplement. Pricing is dynamic - weekends and the Festival will cost more if indeed there are berths available. Booking is open 12 months ahead, and you need to print out your e-ticket to present when boarding.

Both Waverley and Haymarket stations have ticket barriers so you will need to purchase a ticket in order to enter or leave the platform area. If you get on a train at an unmanned station, buy from the train conductor or a ticket inspector near the barrier gates. These gates retain spent single journey tickets so be sure to get a receipt if you need one. If you have a non-standard ticket that does not fit the gate, show it to staff who'll let you through.

Suburban stations within the city are mostly unstaffed. These are:

• West towards Linlithgow, Falkirk and Glasgow Queens Street: Edinburgh Park (EDP) which also has trams.
• Northwest towards the Forth Bridge, Fife and Highlands: South Gyle (SGL) and Edinburgh Gateway (EGY), which has a tram interchange (outside, Gateway is signed as "Park" which is confusing).
• Southwest to Shotts and Glasgow Central: Slateford (SLA), Kingsknowe (KGE) and Wester Hailes (WTA).
• East from Waverley towards Newcastle and to the Borders: Brunstane (BSU) and Newcraighall (NEW), the latter with park and ride.

You'd only use them if your accommodation happened to be nearby, or as a park and ride, as they're not close to the tourist sights.

By road [ edit ]

Main routes are the M8 from Glasgow and the west, M9 (from Stirling and the north-west, A90/M90 from Perth , Dundee and northern Scotland, A1 from Newcastle upon Tyne and north-east England, and A702/M74 (from Carlisle and north-western England.

From London the fastest route to Edinburgh is the M1, which flows into the A1(M) and the A1 - a journey of 400 mils / 700 km and 8-9 hr driving time. More scenic routes, which are shorter mileage and take only a little longer, include:

• From A1(M) north of Scotch Corner, follow A68 through West Auckland, Corrbridge and Jedburgh.
• From A1(M) north of Newcastle, follow A696 past the airport to join A68 near Otterburn.
• From A1(M) at Morpeth, follow A697 through Wooler and Coldstream.

Edinburgh is not a car-friendly city, with many central streets closed-off or dead-ended to private vehicles, including Princes Street. This can only get worse, as sensitive areas (eg Festival venues) are being hardened against vehicle-based terrorism. And if you think the driving's a hassle, just wait till you try parking. There's little of it, it's pricey and time-limited, and the parking wardens are zealous. Monday to Saturday, you'd need to be 3-4 miles out to find free street parking. There are several multi-storey car parks in the city centre: particularly central are Castle Terrace for the west end, and St James Quarter and Greenside at the east end. If visiting for the day, use the park and ride facilities , leaving your car on the city's edge. There are seven of these: working clockwise (east > south > west) these are Wallyford and Newcraighall serving the A1, Sheriffhall and Straiton for the southeast, Hermiston and Ingliston for the west, and Ferrytoll just north of the new Forth Road Bridge for Fife and the North.

From 1 June 2024, the Old and New Town will be a Low Emission Zone , with camera-enforced penalties for entering in a non-compliant vehicle. Cars built after 2015 are generally compliant, but check online .

By bus [ edit ]

Long-distance buses run to Edinburgh from England, Belfast and the rest of Scotland. Buses from major towns in Scotland are mainly operated by Citylink , while buses from England are mainly run by National Express with others including Megabus . For instance National Express from London Victoria takes nine hours, with one daytime and one overnight run.

Ember Electric Bus glides quietly from Dundee every hour or two, with two late night runs, taking 90 min.

Edinburgh Airport , described above, has morphed into a secondary bus station. Buses linking airport and city are much improved, so to reach the outer parts of Edinburgh from (say) Glasgow, it may be easier to change at the airport rather than the traditional change at St Andrew Square. However fares are higher by this route.

By boat [ edit ]

North Sea ferries no longer sail to Rosyth, so sailing from the continent means travelling via Newcastle , Hull , Harwich or the Channel ports.

Ferries from Northern Ireland dock at Cairnryan, near Stranraer on the west coast. You can buy a through ticket between Belfast and Edinburgh (and other destinations in Scotland and the island of Ireland) either by bus ( Citylink ), or by train ( ScotRail ). Either way it's a 7- to 9-hour journey costing around £30.

Cruise ships often visit Edinburgh but are nowadays too large to dock, so they anchor out in the Firth of Forth and bring in their passengers by tender.

Get around [ edit ]

On foot [ edit ].

Walking should always be your first choice within central Edinburgh. The centre is compact - most sights and attractions are on or near the Royal Mile in Old Town or Princes St in New Town. But factor in the hills, barriers such as the railway tracks and deep glen of Water of Leith, and bridges that span lower streets without a connection.

The suburbs stretch out for several miles. Attractions that are too far to walk (especially with children) include the Zoo, the Botanic Gardens, Leith and the Royal Yacht Britannia, Craigmillar Castle and the Pentland Hills. For these, first choice is the bus.

Lothian Buses are distinctive burgundy and cream-coloured. There are 37 daytime city routes, three airport routes, and 17 night buses. Another 18 routes link nearby towns such as South Queensferry. Their online network map shows real-time positions of buses, and central stops have displays of approaching buses - not all buses serve every stop. In 2024, some displays at bus stops only show the timetabled buses, with the live times only shown online or in the "Transport for Edinburgh" app.

Buy tickets on boarding the bus either with exact fare in coins (no change is given) but better still with a contactless credit or debit card. This not only avoids keeping the right change, but if you make three or more journeys on the same day and same card, your fare is automatically capped at the day-ticket price.

A single ticket is a flat fare regardless of distance and with no transfers - if you change to another bus, you need another ticket. In 2023 these cost £2 adult, £1 for under-18s. A day-ticket can also be bought on boarding the bus, for £5 adult, £2.50 child, or £10.50 for a family of 2 adults and 3 children. These cover the city but exclude sightseeing buses, night buses and the airport - though you can ride the airport bus within the city, say to the zoo. At night a single ticket is £3, and a "Late ticket" pass from 6PM to 4:30 AM is £4.50.

Ridacards for regular travellers are available from Travel Hubs at Shandwick Place in the west end, Waverley, and Musselburgh - bus drivers can't sell these. The minimum period is one week, for £22 adult, £19 student, £15 5-15. You can also buy bundles of single M-tickets to display on your phone, but with no saving over the standard price.

McGills buses mostly serve west of the city, for instance to Falkirk.

Hop-on-Hop-off are the city sightseeing buses. Fares start from £16, with more expensive tickets covering entry to attractions.

By tram [ edit ]

A tram line links city centre with the airport west and Leith east. It passes through New Town along Princes Street and Shandwick Place to Haymarket, then takes an off-road track through the western suburbs. Thus it links the airport, rugby stadiums, both mainline railway stations, the bus station and Princes Street.

in 2023 a single journey (excluding the airport) costs £2. Day tickets cost £5 and can also be used (or purchased) on Lothian Buses. A single to or from the airport costs £7.50, with a return ticket costing £9.50, so it's more expensive and slower than the Airlink bus. You must buy a ticket before boarding the tram. The machines at tram stops accept credit cards and coins (5p to £2 coins, no change is given). Holders of the Scottish National Entitlement Card (free travel for locals over 60) can only travel free on the tram only if their card was issued by Edinburgh Council. The PLUSBUS rail ticket add-on allows you to travel on the tram but not to the airport.

When the tram line opened in 2014, it was to widespread scorn, as it was way over-budget and long-delayed, with protracted disruption of city streets. Gradually it has won people over, but it's limited to the single east-west route. The east section to Leith and Newhaven was cut when the budget ballooned, but was eventually completed in June 2023.

You're most unlikely to use the train to get around within the city. It's more relevant for "Getting in" - see that section above - or for trips out to the likes of North Berwick, Dunbar, and Tweedbank - see "Go Next".

By car [ edit ]

Central Edinburgh is a nightmare to drive in, particularly the Old Town with its tangle of medieval streets with their associated one way systems. The New Town fares slightly better, but the scourge "Blue Meanies" mercilessly swoop on vehicles which may have only been illegally parked for a matter of minutes. It is best to take a bus and/or walk. park and ride facilities provide access to the city centre.

As many other cities in the UK, Edinburgh has a 20 mph (32 km/h) speed limit on many of the roads in the city centre.

Edinburgh operates a Controlled Parking Zone in the city centre. On-street parking is mostly for residents with a parking permit. However, some Pay and Display on-street parking bays are available for anyone. To find these bays, the Edinburgh Council provides an interactive and detailed map for on-street parking bays . It lists charges for different parking areas as well as days and times when the charges are required. Typically parking tickets are free of charge after 6:30PM and before 8:30AM, and for the entire day on Sundays.

Parking fines are £40 and vehicles parked in an obstructive manner are liable to be towed away with a £150 release fee to be paid for its retrieval. Even the suburbs (especially Morningside, The Grange, The Meadows) have little parking available. Leith seems to fare a bit better for parking, but there's no guarantee.

Drivers should beware of trams and cyclists.

By taxi [ edit ]

Co Traditional Black Cabs carrying up to 5 passengers can be hailed on the street, but minicabs must be pre-booked. Black Cabs display an orange light above the windscreen when they are available to hire. It's usually quite easy to find a cab around the city centre, and on the main radial routes. Taxi ranks around the centre include:

• Outside the main entrances of Haymarket and Waverley train stations.
• Opposite the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel and Sheraton hotels in the west end, and Intercontinental George Hotel east end of George Street.
• St Patrick's Square off South Bridge
• Leith Bridge, close to The Shore and Commercial Quay in Leith.

The main firms are Central Taxis (+44 131 229 2468), City Cabs (+44 131 228 1211) and Capital Cars (+44 131 777 7777).

By bicycle [ edit ]

The Edinburgh Innertube map gives a good overview of off-street cycle paths in and around the city centre. Many paths are along canals or rivers, through parks and on former railway lines.

Edinburgh is well connected to the National Cycle Network (NCN) and there are many routes around Edinburgh with a variety of places accessible within a days cycling - Glasgow , Stirling , Falkirk , Musselburgh , and Dunbar - all of which have train stations for the return journey. The number 1 route which goes south from Edinburgh to Melrose in the borders and then east to Berwick-upon-Tweed (and then back on the train) can be done in one weekend with a variety of accommodation available for an overnight stay in the historic border town of Melrose.

Cycle hire [ edit ]

Edinburgh's app-based bicycle hire scheme closed in September 2021. You can rent bikes from the following places:

• BikeTrax , 11-13 Lochrin Place, Tollcross , ☏ +44 131 228-6633 . Between £17 and £25 for one day, weekly offers available .  
• Leith Cycle Co , 276 Leith Walk , ☏ +44 131 467-7775 . Bike and E-bike sale and hire. From £15 for half day; £100 for 2 weeks . ( updated Dec 2020 )
• Pedal Forth , 17 East Cromwell St, Leith , ☏ +44 131 554-9990 . M-Sa 9AM-5PM; Su closed . £15 per 24 hours; weekly offers available .  
• Cycle Scotland , 29 Blackfriars Street, EH1 1NB , ☏ +44 131 556-5560 . From £20 per day . ( updated Dec 2015 )

See [ edit ]

• Edinburgh Castle sits on the crag at the top of Old Town. In summer it often sells out, best book online.
• Royal Mile is the long street descending from castle to palace. The best of it is High Street, the broad upper traffic-free section, with medieval "closes" (alleys) descending steeply on either side.
• Holyrood Palace is sumptuously furnished and still a royal residence.
• Scottish Parliament meets in a modern building near the palace, and you can look in on debates.
• Arthur's Seat is the extinct volcano looming over the city: you have to go round to its far side for the simple ascent.
• National Museum of Scotland is in Chambers St half a mile south of High St, an amazing free collection that will absorb a whole afternoon.
• Princes Street is architecturally dull, but has a great view of the castle and Old Town.
• National Gallery of Scotland and the Scottish National Portrait Gallery are side-by-side midway along Princes St.
• Modern One & Two are modern art galleries a mile beyond Haymarket.
• Calton Hill is the miniature Arthur's Seat at the east end of Princes St, much more accessible for city views.

• The Botanic Gardens are in Canonmills. Their glasshouses are closed until 2025.
• Royal Yacht Britannia is permanently moored in Leith .
• Craigmillar Castle is an extensive medieval ruin in the south .

If you are staying in Scotland a while, consider buying membership of one of the heritage organisations such as Historic Scotland, see Scotland Page for details. National Trust members get free entry to National Trust for Scotland properties and vice versa, but in general there's no reciprocity between these organisations, and you have to see several sites to make a saving on the regular admission price.

Doors Open Day throws open historic or important buildings across the country, free of charge though you may need to book. Many are not otherwise open, so it's a rare opportunity to visit them. It's usually on the last weekend in September.

Scotland's Gardens similarly opens up private gardens once a year, with all proceeds going to charity. There are about 25 participating gardens across the city, dates staggered so there's one open most weekends in summer.

Do [ edit ]

Performing arts [ edit ].

Edinburgh has an excellent concert and theatre life. The Usher Hall (Lothian Road, Old Town ) has weekly orchestral concerts all year round with the Royal Scottish National Orchestra . The Queen's Hall (South Clerk Street, South ) is home to the Scottish Chamber Orchestra . The Lyceum (Lothian Road, Old Town ) offers theatre performances. The Festival Theatre (Nicolson Street, Old Town ) frequently hosts opera and ballet . Europe's largest theatre, the 3000-seat Edinburgh Playhouse (top of Leith Walk, New Town ) hosts major West End shows. For a cheaper option, the excellent Bedlam Theatre ( Old Town ) regularly puts on good student theatre and is the home to Scotland's oldest improvised comedy troupe, The Improverts.

Experience traditional Folk Music at one of the pubs in the Old Town or Leith which host regular sessions.

• Research your ancestors. The National Register lists all births, marriages and deaths in Scotland from 1841. It's in General Register House at the east end of Princes St opposite Waverley Station, but always start your search online. You'll need to pay for extended access to look back beyond 1841, for instance in parish records mostly held at West Register House in Charlotte Square.

Outdoors [ edit ]

• Walk along the Water of Leith , a small river that meanders through Edinburgh, providing a peaceful haven from the busy city. Check out the Leith or Stockbridge and Canonmills sections of the route.
• Climbing Arthur's Seat , the extinct volcano, is a popular activity as well and rewards you with great views over the city ( Old Town ).
• If you have more time, then you should go hiking in the Pentland Hills for a (half) day trip ( South ).
• Steam railway excursions run from Edinburgh in summer: one operator is Tornado Railtours .

Festival season [ edit ]

Edinburgh in the summer becomes "festival city" when a huge number of major national and international arts festivals are hosted by the city. Most of these occur virtually simultaneously in August (or end of July). These cater for a wide variety of interests and include:

• Edinburgh International Festival . In August . The original that spawned all the rest. Founded in 1947 and still seen as more "high-brow" than any of its offspring. Surprisingly, tickets are often priced more reasonably than for many Fringe shows. Some events have preview performances at a much lower price. ( updated May 2021 )
• Edinburgh Military Tattoo . In August . One of the iconic images of Edinburgh for millions worldwide is the yearly Tattoo, kilted pipers skirling below the battlements of Edinburgh Castle. Although tickets sell out well in advance, persevering individuals are likely to find one or two tickets still for sale due to cancellations. Just be prepared to ask, ask, and ask again! There are usually fireworks at the end of the shows which can also be seen from e.g. the Grassmarket area. ( updated May 2021 )
• Edinburgh Festival Fringe ( The Fringe ). In August . As the name might suggest, this festival developed on the fringe of the main International Festival and offers more alternative performances, with an emphasis on comedy and avant-garde; it is now the largest arts festival in the world. Many shows offer cheaper preview tickets on the first two days of the festival or a 2-for-1 ticket special on two selected dates. There are a few sub-festivals that are part of the Fringe such as the Assembly Festival , Summerhall Festival and CtheFestival . Part of the Fringe are also many free events (with donation if you liked the show) across the city grouped mostly under the PBH's Free Fringe or Free Festival . ( updated May 2021 )
• Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival . 10 days in July . Festival of about 150 concerts in 11 venues. ( updated Feb 2019 )
• Edinburgh International Book Festival . In August . Takes place in a temporary village of marquees at Charlotte Square Gardens (West End of George Street, New Town ).  
• Edinburgh Art Festival . In August . Some permanent outdoor commissions which can be seen all year, and temporary exhibitions and events during the festival. ( updated May 2021 )
• Edinburgh Mela . End of August . Multicultural festival held in Leith .  
• Edinburgh International Television Festival . End of August . Predominantly a "closed shop" for industry professionals only.  

One important thing to decide when planning a trip to Edinburgh is whether you wish to go at festival time, which runs from early August through to mid-September. Hotel rooms in and around the city are noticeably much more expensive then, and you will need to book well ( at least six months!) in advance.

Christmas and Hogmanay [ edit ]

Edinburgh in the winter festive season is also huge with various concerts and other activities taking place starting a couple of weeks before Christmas and running up to a week into January. Princes Street Gardens play host to a Big Wheel , outdoor ice rink and various festive markets . As in most of the rest of Scotland, Hogmanay , the New Year celebrations, are the main focus of the festive season rather than Christmas. One night before on December 30, a torchlight procession [dead link] takes place with Calton Hill as final destination where fireworks will be on display. On the night itself whole sections of central Edinburgh are roped off and accessible only by ticket for the Hogmanay street party , which takes place across several stages and is easily the largest in Scotland. Hogmanay and Edinburgh fit together like hand and glove. On day one of the new year, you can watch or if you are brave enough take part in the Loony Dook in South Queensferry (people taking a dip in the ice-cold River Forth).

Other events [ edit ]

• Edinburgh International Science Festival . Takes place annually in March or April. Emphasis on "hands-on" science.  
• Beltane Fire Festival , Calton Hill, New Town . Fire Festival marking the beginning of summer (evening of April 30). The festival has its origins in the pre-Christian Celtic festival of the same name, which was held to herald the coming of spring and to celebrate the fertility of the countryside. Drums, dancing, semi-nudity, pagan ritual, home-brew and lots of fire and fireworks. Crowds of around 12,000 enjoy the ceremony and spectacle every year. For the full traditional experience stay awake until dawn and head across to Arthurs Seat to wash your face in the dew.  
• Hidden Door . Annual non-profit art, music, theatre, etc. event taking place in unused spaces in the city that change from year to year. End of May/beginning of June. ( updated May 2016 )
• Degree Show , Edinburgh College of Art, Old Town . Around the end of May the Edinburgh College of Art opens its doors and exhibits the works on art, design and architecture of their students. A similar event, the Masters Degree Show, takes place in August as part of the Edinburgh Art Festival. See the ECA event calendar for details. Free . ( updated May 2016 )
• Imaginate Festival . Every May/June, an international festival of children's theatre.  
• Meadows Festival . A free festival in the Meadows ( South ) on a weekend in early June with lots of food stalls, second-hand merchandise and live music.  
• The Royal Highland Show is a Highland Games & Gathering, Agricultural Show and much else, held at Ingliston ( west ), towards the airport) over a weekend in mid- to late June.
• Edinburgh International Film Festival . Now moved to June from its former slot in August, so that it no longer clashes with all the others! Centred around the Filmhouse Cinema on Lothian Road, though other cinemas take part too. In 2022 it is back in August, but it is not clear if this is a permanent change. ( updated Aug 2022 )
• Samhuinn Fire Festival , Royal Mile, Old Town . Fire Festival marking the beginning of winter (evening of October 31). Procession and enacted fight between the King of Summer and Prince of Winter with great accompanying percussion. Free, donations are collected .  
• Guy Fawkes Night ( Bonfire Night ). Evening of November 5. With ticketed fireworks (£6.50) in the Meadowbank Sports Centre ( East ). Can be seen (for free) from several locations in the city.  
• St Andrew's Day . Celebrate St Andrew's Day, Scotland's national day on November 30. There are many free events on the nearest weekend in Edinburgh. Historic Scotland opens many of its sites for free (free tickets are required and can be booked online ).  

Cinema [ edit ]

Go to the cinema. Edinburgh has a number of cinemas covering mainstream, foreign language and arthouse films. Most interesting are the Filmhouse and Cameo ( Old Town ) and the Dominion ( South ).

Sport [ edit ]

• Rugby Union: the top matches are the internationals, played at Murrayfield Stadium west of the centre. Highlight of these are the 6 Nations [dead link] games played Jan-March each year between Scotland, Wales, Ireland, France, Italy and England. They only play each other once each year, so in even-numbered years England and France visit Murrayfield, while in odd-numbered years Wales, Ireland and Italy are the visitors. City and stadium are packed when these games are in town, so be sure to book accommodation and match tickets well in advance.
• Football: Edinburgh has four professional soccer teams. Hibernian ("Hibs") play at Easter Road Stadium in Leith in the Scottish Premiership, the game's top tier. Heart of Midlothian ("Hearts") play at Tynecastle Park near Murrayfield west of the centre, likewise in the Premiership. Edinburgh City play at Meadowbank, 2 miles east of city centre, in Scottish League One the third tier. Newcomers in 2023 are The Spartans, playing in League Two at Ainslie Park in Pilton north side of the city.
• American Football: Edinburgh Wolves play at Meadowbank Stadium two miles east of the centre .
• Swim in the Royal Commonwealth Pool, used for the Commonwealth Games in 1970, 1986 and for the diving in the 2014 Glasgow games.
• Horse racing is at Musselburgh five miles east of the city. There's flat-racing in summer and jumps in winter.

Learn [ edit ]

Edinburgh is host to a number of higher and further education organisations including four Universities. Some offer summer schools of a week or more on topics such as creative writing or printmaking.

Universities [ edit ]

• The University of Edinburgh . A prestigious university over 400 years old (established in 1582) with about 33,000 students. Short (language) courses are offered for everyone.  
• Edinburgh Napier University . Established in 1964, the university has about 18,000 students.  
• Heriot-Watt University . Established in 1821 with about 8,000 students (in Edinburgh). Gained university status in 1966.  
• Queen Margaret University ( The campus is to the east of Edinburgh close to Musselburgh ). Dates back to 1875 and was granted university status in 2007. Has about 7,000 students.  

Colleges [ edit ]

• Edinburgh College of Art . ECA is part of the University of Edinburgh and offers education in the areas of art, design, (landscape) architecture and history of art and music.  
• Edinburgh College . Offers courses for UK and international students throughout the year and also runs an English Language summer school accredited by the British Council.  

Private language schools [ edit ]

Edinburgh is a popular destination for language students, looking to learn English, or build on their existing English language skills. Most schools offer a "homestay" option where accommodation is with a local family, which can be a great introduction to Scottish life. Language schools in the city include:

• Inlingua Language Centre , 40 Shandwick Place, Edinburgh, EH2 4RT , ☏ +44 131 220-5119 , [email protected] . Courses include General English, Business English, Exam Preparation and many more. For adult students only. A varied social programme is offered.  
• Alba English School , 86 - 92 Causewayside, Edinburgh , ☏ +44 131 668-4336 , [email protected] . Low cost, flexible and high quality English classes for international students in Edinburgh.  
• Global School Of English , 45 Frederick St , ☏ +44 131 226 2333 . Large, well-established school, with premises on Frederick Street in the city centre. Offers courses for adult and junior students. from £70 per week .  
• Edinburgh School of English , 271 Canongate , ☏ +44 131 557-9200 , fax : +44 131 557-9192 , [email protected] . Great location on the Royal Mile. Caters to adult and junior students  
• MacKenzie School of English , 6 John's Pl, Leith , ☏ +44 131 555-5315 , fax : +44 131 555-5155 , [email protected] . In a beautifully refurbished Victorian building on the edge of Leith Links. Generally catering to secondary school-aged students.  
• TLI English Language School , 48 Palmerston Pl , ☏ +44 131 226-6975 , fax : +44 131 226-6975 , [email protected] . English language school in the central West End area of the city offering a range of English language courses to adults, TEFL courses and stunning views of Edinburgh Castle.  

Buy [ edit ]

• Princes Street in New Town is the main shopping street, lined by chain and department stores.
• George Street, parallel to Princes Street, has more upmarket stores.
• The Royal Mile near the castle is mostly an overpriced tourist trap.
• Cockburn Street and Victoria Street in Old Town have small independent stores.
• Grassmarket at the foot of Victoria Street has more, plus castle views.
• Multrees Walk has upmarket labels. It's next to the bus station in New Town.
• Other malls include St James Mall east of Princes Street, and Ocean Terminal in Leith.

Eat [ edit ]

Edinburgh has a great selection in all price ranges, cosmopolitan cuisines, and caters for diets such as vegan, halal and GF. Good areas for value food are Elm Row at the top of Leith Walk, Rose and Thistle streets flanking George St, along South Bridge including the "Little Cairo" around the Central Mosque, Forrest Rd by Greyfriars Bobby, Tolcross and Lothian Rd, and west end from Queensferry St to Haymarket station. Overpriced areas to be cautious are the Royal Mile from castle to Tron Kirk, Princes St and the Grassmarket.

The Scots are well known for having a penchant for fried food which has resulted in such gastronomic delights as deep fried pizza, deep fried hamburgers, deep fried Black Pudding (a type of blood sausage), deep fried haggis and deep fried Mars bars, which are not just a myth. If you're up to it, be sure to drop by a chippy (fish and chip shop) and experience these Scottish delights. Edinburgh chippys are unique in the UK for offering salt'n'sauce as standard in place of the salt'n'vinegar usually provided elsewhere in the country. The sauce is a kind of runny, vinegary version of HP or Daddys style brown sauce. Most chippys will provide vinegar on request if you prefer, but you really should try salt'n'sauce at least once!

Edinburgh Rock is a soft confectionery, made from sugar and cream of tartar with various flavourings and colours, including peppermint and ginger. It can often be seen in tourist shops in tartan boxes.

Drink [ edit ]

For a non-alcoholic beverage give Scotland's second national drink a try Irn-Bru . It's a great cure for hangover.

As for Scotland's first drink, you will find The Scotch Whisky Experience at the top of the Royal Mile, which offers an interactive "tour" of the history and practice of whisky distilling. For a less touristic experience simply enjoy your whisky in one of the many pubs. The closest single malt whisky distillery to Edinburgh is the Glenkinchie Distillery out in the country towards Haddington . The North British Distillery in Edinburgh (near Murrayfield) produces grain whisky which is all used in blending and the distillery is not open for visits.

There are a few gin distilleries opened in and around Edinburgh producing Pickering's Gin , Edinburgh Gin or NB Gin (from North Berwick ).

The two major local beer breweries are the Caledonian Brewery and Stewart Brewing .

There are lots of (traditional) pubs all around the city and many of them offer - next to all the standard choices - a changing selection of guest ales. The bartenders can usually give you detailed taste information about each guest ale and are often willing to let you try a small sample. Most pubs also have a great selection of whiskies . As with eating, the Grassmarket and upper Royal Mile are overpriced.

Clubs are around Cowgate and Lothian Road.

Sleep [ edit ]

Edinburgh has been established as a tourist destination for centuries, and so there is a huge choice of accommodation available for travellers. If you're planning a visit during festival time (Aug), around Christmas and New Year, or on the weekend of a Scotland home game in the 6-nations Rugby [dead link] (Mar/Apr, 2 or 3 matches per year), then you will find that all types of accommodation get booked up well in advance, and a premium may be applied to the room-rate. It's not impossible to get somewhere to stay at short notice at these times, but you won't be able to be fussy and it will probably be expensive. The average cost of hotel accommodation in Edinburgh is higher than anywhere else in Scotland.

All short-term accommodation in Scotland must be registered , otherwise it's illegal and probably a flea-pit or fire-trap. This applies throughout Scotland but is especially pertinent to Edinburgh, where demand far exceeds supply and encourages exploitive providers. The law (which does not apply to England) was introduced in 2022 but there is considerable wriggle room until July 2024, so for the time being proprietors can reasonably say that their registration is still being processed. Be increasingly sceptical as the deadline approaches. It's unwelcome extra bureaucracy for B&Bs, campsites and so on but in the long-term should better protect travellers and honest providers.

For those on a budget, there are cheap youth hostels available with prices from £20 upward. The private, independent hostels centre around the Cowgate area, the lower Royal Mile and its side streets. The hostels of the HI affiliated Scottish Youth Hostel Association can be booked on-line and are an especially good deal during summer, when the SYHA rents student accommodation as summer hostels: Single rooms in the city centre for a very modest price.

There are guest houses and small hotels dotted around almost every part of the city, however there are high concentrations in two areas, namely around Newington Road and Minto Street on the South side, and on Pilrig Street and Newhaven Road in Leith . Both areas are within a brisk 15–20 minute walk of the city centre and both have excellent round-the-clock bus services. If arriving in town without having booked accommodation, it may be worth heading for one or the other of these areas and looking out for the "Vacancies" signs, though probably not during the festival or around Hogmanay.

Some of the guest houses and even hotels can be booked for as little as the hostels at certain times of year, while more upmarket accommodation ranges from boutique B&Bs, with just a few rooms, lovingly run by a family, to world-renowned large 5-star hotels.

Another good alternative for accommodation is self-catering holiday apartments. Edinburgh has a wide offer of short term holiday apartments steps away from its main tourist attractions. It is a great opportunity to experience the city as a local. Apartments can be booked on-line. For summer months, especially August, it is highly recommended to book well in advance as most tourists tend to make their bookings in February for this period.

Due to the excellent and frequent rail links between the two cities, savvy travellers can cut the costs by basing themselves in Glasgow , where deals in mainstream chain hotels are easier to come by – and you get the advantage of being able to "do" both cities. Bear in mind of course when your last train leaves - though hourly coaches run through the night if you do stay out too long!

Connect [ edit ]

As of Nov 2023, the entire city and its approach roads have 5G from all UK carriers. Wifi is widely available in public places.

Because Edinburgh has multiple expat communities, you may find SIM cards for their countries' carriers in local shops.

Public libraries have internet stations, accessible if you hold a city library card. You can register free online , which gives you temporary membership for 3 months. Convert this to full membership by presenting ID in person, and they'll post out a card. There are over 30 libraries across the city.

Stay safe [ edit ]

In general Edinburgh is a safe destination. Take care of valuables, especially in crowded places where pickpockets operate.

Swerve clear of drunks, especially after football matches and at pub closing times, and don't get drunk yourself.

Like every other city, there are rundown areas where you have simply no reason to go. Examples are Niddrie and Craigmillar in the southeast, Saughton, Sighthill and Wester Hailes in the west, and Muirhouse and Pilton in the north.

In an emergency call 999. The non-emergency police contact number is 101.

Stay healthy [ edit ]

In emergency , dial 999 (preferably from a landline, a free call from any phone including payphones), 112 also works.

For advice on non-emergency medical problems, you can ring the free 24-hour NHS 24 service on 111 or for textphone users 18001 111.

Hospitals and clinics [ edit ]

• 55.922 -3.1359 1 Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh ( R.I.E. ), 51 Little France Crescent, Old Dalkeith Road ( On the southern fringe of the city, it can take up to 30 min from the city centre in a bus or taxi ), ☏ +44 131 536-1000 . 24 hour opening . The R.I.E. hosts the main Accident and Emergency (A&E) facility for the city.  
• 55.96231 -3.23511 2 Minor Injuries Clinic , Crewe Road South ( at Western General Hospital ), ☏ +44 131 537-1330 . Daily from 08:00-21:00 . No appointment is necessary. Last patient admission 30 min before closing time.  

Pharmacy [ edit ]

During normal shopping hours (M-F 9AM-5:30PM, Sa 9AM-12:30PM), you won't have any problem locating a pharmacy as they are dotted all around the city. Any row of local shops will usually include one. Common brands include Boots (city centre branches in the New Town at 11 Princes St, 101-103 Princes St and 48 Shandwick Pl; in the Old Town at 40-44 North Bridge), Alliance and Numark .

Outside of these hours you will face more of a challenge. There are no 24 h pharmacies in the city.

Some of the major supermarkets include a pharmacy counter, but the pharmacy does not necessarily follow the same opening hours as the supermarket. The pharmacy counter within the Tesco supermarket at 7 Broughton Road in Canonmills is quite close to the city centre and opens M-Sa 8AM-8PM and Su 10AM-5PM.

To find a pharmacy that is open on a Sunday or has late opening times call NHS inform on 0800 22 44 88 (between 8AM-10PM daily) or check online with NHS Inform .

Cope [ edit ]

• Money: Scottish, English, and Northern Irish banknotes are all acceptable. The Bank of Scotland and the Royal Bank of Scotland issue their own banknotes, so that is what their ATMs dispense. ATMs of English banks (Barclays, Natwest and HSBC) dispense English notes. This is only an issue if you return home with a wad of Scottish notes: English retailers are obliged to accept them, but exchange desks may be sniffy or give poor rates.
• Babysitting: Super Mums Childcare , 22a Great King St EH3 6QH , ☏ +44 131 225 1744 . Bookings 24 hr service . Round-the-clock baby-sitting is available short- or long-term at an hourly rate (3 hour minimum) plus sitters' travel expenses. Multilingual sitters are also available. ( updated Dec 2023 )
• Laundrettes and dry cleaners: over a dozen around the city, ask your accommodation which is best.

Consulates [ edit ]

Always check your country's embassy website first - help for things like stolen passports and emergency travel documents might be organised from the London embassy or even your home country rather than a local consulate.

Go next [ edit ]

Edinburgh is so well-connected that anywhere in Scotland is a reasonable destination to go next. Here are some highlights within a day trip.

Going west:

• South Queensferry is an old harbour with the iconic Forth Bridge for rail, and two modern road bridges crossing to Fife.
• Linlithgow has a ruined Palace, abode of Mary, Queen of Scots.
• Falkirk has the ingenious Falkirk Wheel to lift boats between two canals.
• Stirling is a miniature Edinburgh with its castle perched on a crag and ancient streets.
• Glasgow is a lively city, Scotland's largest, deserving a longer stay.

Going east:

• Gullane has an excellent beach, backed by sand-hills and a great golf course. The Museum of Flight is a few miles inland.
• North Berwick is a fishing village near the sea-bird reserve of Bass Rock and the 14th century Tantallon Castle.
• Dunbar is a charming harbour town, birthplace of conservationist John Muir.

Going north:

• Dunfermline is the ancient royal capital of Scotland, and birthplace of industrialist Andrew Carnegie.
• Culross is a gem of a 17th-18th century village to the east of the bridges.
• Anstruther is the largest of the little fishing villages of the East Neuk of Fife.
• St Andrews is a venerable university town and home of the Royal and Ancient, the ruling body of Golf.
• Dundee , once a grubby industrial city, is now rejuvenated, with a great setting by the River Tay.

Going south:

• Jedburgh , Melrose and Kelso in the Borders have ruined medieval abbeys.
• Abbotsford House, grand mansion of Sir Walter Scott, is near Melrose.

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We have a Scotland-wide network of iCentres (Information Centres). In these, we provide face-to-face information provision and inspiration to visitors.

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We have 25 iCentres across the country offering tourist information and local recommendations from knowledgeable Scotland experts.

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Information and customer experience doesn’t just sit at the door of an iCentre. Many of the iCentres offer free Wi-Fi enabling visitors to browse our website.

Browse our iCentre visitor information on visitscotland.com.

Changing the way we provide visitor information

As part of our strategy to grow the visitor economy, we’re making changes to the way we provide visitor information. With the majority of people planning their holidays online, we’ll focus on influencing visitors at the planning stage before they leave home.

As a result, our network of iCentres will close over the next two years. This will be done via a phased closure programme until the end of March 2026. 

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27 things you should know before visiting Edinburgh: Why does it smell? Can I use English money? And more

Jan 3, 2022 • 8 min read

Here’s what you need to know before you dive into Edinburgh © matthi / Shutterstock

With its grand castle and famous festival, Edinburgh is a tourist magnet. But Scotland ’s capital isn’t just a collection of big-ticket sights. Set on a series of extinct volcanoes and blessed with chasm-like medieval alleys and grand civic squares, Edinburgh is a stunner with substance.

There’s history around every sandstone-hewn corner, of course, but you’ll also find vibrant life in its parks, pubs and suburbs. Edinburgh isn’t just worth visiting, it’s worth throwing yourself into. Here’s what you need to know before you dive in: when to go, what to pack, the slang, the smells and the banknotes.

Planning your trip to Edinburgh

Arriving in edinburgh.

Edinburgh's airport is 8 miles (13km) away. Buses (cheaper), trams (quicker when the roads are busy) and taxis (good for door-to-door drop-offs) connect the terminal with the city center. If you’re arriving from outside Britain and you’re not a UK citizen, you’ll need to fill out a passenger locator form .

Train passengers roll into Edinburgh Waverley – travelers coming from England will get gorgeous coastal views on the way up. Buses arrive at St Andrew’s Square in the New Town, just north of the center.

Come in summer for a chance of sunshine

Summer, when the days are long and bright and the winds are generally docile, will suit most visitors best. But if you don’t mind a spot of dreich (dismal) weather, come in the colder months, when you can mix warm pubs and museums with bracing strolls along atmospheric streets.

Dodge the Festival (unless you’re here for the Festival)

The world’s biggest arts festival takes over the city every August. If you’re going, book your accommodation months in advance and be ready to book the biggest shows early too. If you’re not, avoid August. Things also get pretty busy around Hogmanay (the run-up to New Year), but the madness is shorter-lived.

Booking in advance can be worth it

The earlier you book your accommodation the better, especially during the Festival. The biggest shows, including the Tattoo , should be booked well in advance too. The Edinburgh City Pass is worth a look if you’re also going to hit attractions such as the Castle and Leith’s Royal Yacht Britannia – it includes access to the fun city bus tours too.

Beyond that, booking online a day or so before you go is a good idea for the castle – you can save money and waiting time. 

Pack waterproof gear

You’ll need a jacket whenever you’re visiting. Edinburgh rarely gets that cold, but it can change from bright sunshine to rain-lashed darkness in a heartbeat. You’re likely to do a fair bit of walking, so a pair of comfy shoes is important. There’s no need to pack anything particularly formal.

Why are there two towns?

Central Edinburgh is a city divided. But it’s not any ill feeling that keeps the city apart – instead a valley containing the elegant Princes Street Gardens and Waverly Station separates the Old and New Towns. The Old Town is the medieval quarter, where packed tenements rise high and cobbled streets and wynds (alleys) stretch down from the famous Royal Mile. The New Town (around 250 years old, everything being relative) has airy boulevards and clipped squares along an orderly grid.

Further out are districts including the West End (fairly smart), Leith (the rough-cut setting of Trainspotting , now steadily gentrifying) and the Southside (low-key and studenty).

How long do you need in Edinburgh?

Take a day for a whistle-stop tour of the Royal Mile and a ramble around the Castle, or take two to get a sense of what the Old and New Towns have to offer. Four days or more will give you a proper feel for the city, heading north to the former port of Leith and west to the Gallery of Modern Art , as well as ticking off all the big sights in the center.

Spending time in Edinburgh

What kind of currency do you need .

Scotland has its own banknotes, but English notes are accepted everywhere in Scotland. (You’ll find a few shops in England that don’t repay the favor.) Card and contactless payments are now more common than cash, and they're the easiest way to pay on public transport too – if you use cash on a bus, you’ll need exact change, or a pass is a good alternative.

The Pink Triangle is where to find LGBTQ+ Edinburgh

Edinburgh’s gay scene is centered on the “Pink Triangle”, just northeast of Princes Street. CC Blooms is the mainstay, with (fairly expensive) food in the day and cabaret and DJs at night. Down the road in Abbeyhill, the Regent is a laid-back alternative. Same-sex marriage was legalized in Scotland in 2014. 

Sniffing out Old Reekie

“Old Reekie” is one of Edinburgh’s most enduring nicknames. It dates from the 17th century, when the Old Town’s narrow, tall streets, combined with the Nor Loch (a stagnant pool where Princes Street Gardens now sits) created a notorious odor that mixed smoke and effluent. These days, Edinburgh smells much like any other city, although the West End sometimes has a slight boozy fug from the brewery.

How to travel around Edinburgh

It's hilly, but walking is the best way to get around Edinburgh  – you’ll pass unexpected views and get a feel for the city’s rhythms. If you’re heading right across town, a cab (try Central Taxis) or ride-sharing app (Uber is the big one) isn’t a bad bet. There’s no subway, but trams connect the city center and West End with the airport, and buses are also helpful for heading to Leith or the Southside.

Etiquette in Edinburgh

Don't offend the locals.

If you meet someone in a social setting, an informal “hi” or a handshake are the usual greetings. You’re unlikely to inadvertently cause offense, though subjects like politics and religion are generally avoided in small talk. Scottish independence and Brexit can inspire passionate responses too.

Remember that Edinburgh is in Scotland, which is a part of Britain, but you’re definitely not in England – while lots of English people happily make Edinburgh their home, the England football team is traditionally booed with enthusiasm.

Buy your round in the pub

Rules here are the same as elsewhere in Britain and Ireland – one person usually orders for your group at the bar, paying for the “round” of drinks and bringing them back to the table. Everyone else then takes turns to get the round. Smarter bars may have table service, and almost everywhere will be able to offer a tray if you’ve lots of drinks to carry.

Most places take cash, although card or phone payments are more common. Pubs stay open later than south of the border – usually until midnight or 1am.

When should you tip, and how much? 

Tipping is only really required for table service in a restaurant (10% to 15%), although locals often round up taxi fares. If a hotel porter helps with your luggage, a tip of a pound or two per bag is standard.

Mind your tongue!

As a cosmopolitan city, Edinburgh is used to a range of accents. But you may not recognize every word you hear – take, for example, haar (a sea fog), Jambos (supporters of local club Hearts), Hibbies (hy-bees, supporters of city rivals Hibernian), Weegies (Glaswegians) and salt ‘n sauce (a vinegary and delicious condiment for chips). And you should ken (know) that Cockburn Street is pronounced “Coe-burn” and Edinburgh itself is “Edin-bru”, or even “Embra”.

Health and safety in Edinburgh

It’s a safe city – but watch your step.

Edinburgh is relatively safe. Pub-packed areas like the Cowgate (Old Town), Rose Street (New Town) and Lothian Road (West End) get lively on Friday and Saturday nights, but serious trouble is rare. Calton Hill offers good views during the day but is best avoided at night. Take usual precautions for a city, and use recognized ride-sharing apps or black cabs if in doubt at night.

Street scams are also uncommon, but watch your step as you explore: The sloping cobbles of the Old Town are slippery when wet. And when crossing roads, remember that traffic drives on the left.

Can you drink the water?

Oh yes. Edinburgh tap water is safe to drink ,and you can request it for free with your meal in a restaurant. The region’s water is soft (low in dissolved minerals), giving it a fresher taste than water from much of the UK.

Attractions are mostly accessible

Most modern hotels and attractions are accessible for travelers with disabilities, but many older buildings – including guesthouses and some pubs and restaurants – lack ramps and lifts. The New Town, with its wide streets, is more straightforward for wheelchair users than the steep, sometimes cobbled streets of the Old Town. Tourism body VisitScotland has a useful guide to accessible accommodation.

You might also like:  Budget Edinburgh: the best things to do for free in Scotland's capital 17 best things to do in Edinburgh Edinburgh for first-timers  

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Edinburgh Castle Defender of the Nation

Edinburgh Castle is one of the most exciting historic sites in Western Europe. Set in the heart of Scotland's dynamic capital city, it is sure to capture your imagination. The scenery will take your breath away.

Plan your visit

Tickets often sell out in advance. Book your tickets online in advance for the best price and to guarantee entry.

Open from 9.30am daily.

The castle is in Edinburgh City Centre, reachable by bus, tram and train.

We are open

Tickets often sell out in advance. Book your tickets online in advance for best price and to guarantee entry.

Afternoon Tea Experience

Indulge yourself or treat a loved one to an afternoon tea experience, which also includes admission to the castle

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Shop our online (and instore) sale for great savings on a selection of items (only while stocks last).

Things to see and do at the castle

There are many ways to experience Edinburgh Castle. Go straight to an exciting part, follow an itinerary, or allow an audio guide to show you around.

Tours, guides and itineraries

The background of the castle.

Discover some highlights of a visit to Edinburgh Castle, from the Royal Palace and Honours of Scotland to Mons Meg and the Scottish National War Memorial.

The Characters

Hire a venue at the castle

Edinburgh Castle is a fitting backdrop to unforgettable corporate events and private dining experiences, the setting of exquisite weddings and civil ceremonies or the finest hospitality before the world-famous Military Tattoo.

Planning a trip to Edinburgh? In Introducingedinburgh.com you’ll find all the necessary and up to date information on the best places to visit in the city, where to stay or the top neighbourhoods to go out for dinner and a night out , among a lot more interesting facts and figures. 

Edinburgh Travel Guide

• General Information
• Top Attractions
• Getting to Edinburgh
• Getting around Edinburgh
• Where to Eat
• Where to Stay
• 2-Day Edinburgh Itinerary

Why visit Edinburgh?

Scotland’s capital is one of the most unique and memorable cities in Europe . Edinburgh has a rare charm with narrow and cobbled passageways , called closes in Scots . The town is also known for its dark corners where terrifying events have taken place , its majestic buildings and gardens , countless fascinating museums , which are free to visit,  and, especially, the city's  kind and open locals . All the above-mentioned make this city a favorite among those who have seen it.

Edinburgh is fondly known as “Auld Reekie,”  which means “Old Smokey” in Scots. This is because of all the smoke and chimneys the city had in the past, creating smog over the city. The weather in Edinburgh is normally rainy and windy , but far from being an inconvenience, the bitter weather gives the town an extra charm, creating a mysterious and somber atmosphere.

The capital has a unique radiance when the rays of sun stream through the clouds, and when the night falls, the ghosts that refuse to leave Edinburgh  come out to haunt the streets and buildings while guides accompany curious tourists to see crypts, alleyways, and graveyards to discover the mysteries that besiege the heart of the city.

As well as countless ghost stories, Edinburgh also offers its visitors and locals a wide variety of attractions, including museums , most of which are free. Tourists can also visit a whisky distillery and learn how Scotland’s national drink is made in   the   Scotch Whisky Experience ,  discover how the Scottish people lived during the Middle Ages in the People’s Story Museum , or explore the evolution of medicine in the Surgeon’s Hall Museums .

The country’s hearty dishes combined with the traditional Scottish breakfast will probably mean you’ll go home a few pounds heavier but happy and full of extremely fond memories of the city.

With our guide, you’ll discover why Edinburgh is the second most visited city in the UK after London . Every year, over two million tourists visit Scotland’s capital city.

Need accommodation?

If you still don’t have a hotel, hostel, or apartment booked, we recommend checking out the link below, where you’ll find all types of accommodation with the best rates guaranteed. If you book in advance, you’ll be able to get up to 75% discount and pay once you get to your destination.

• Hotels in Edinburgh – Book online for the best rates guaranteed.

top activities

Edinburgh: Loch Ness, Highlands & Glencoe Day Trip Travel from Edinburgh to Loch Ness on this tour of some of the  Scottish Highlands ' most stunning attractions - an unforgettable day trip at the best price!

Edinburgh Castle Guided Tour Edinburgh Castle is the most visited monument in Scotland ; an unmissable sight in the Scottish capital. Don't miss this Edinburgh Castle Guided Tour!

Edinburgh Underground Ghost Tour Embark on a haunting journey into Edinburgh's eerie depths . Uncover the secrets within the haunted underground vaults and Greyfriars Kirkyard by night !

Edinburgh Free Tour Discover Edinburgh's Old Town with this free walking tour of one of Scotland's most beloved cities. This tour is perfect for any first-visitors to Edinburgh!

Dinner and Traditional Scottish Show Looking for fun things to do in Edinburgh ? Spend a unique evening with this Scottish folk dinner and concert , complete with lively music and local dishes.

Forth Boat Tour Make the most of your time in Edinburgh admiring one of the most emblematic feats of civil engineering on this boat tour of three Forth bridges .

Holyrood Palace Tickets Coronations, weddings, betrayal, assassination... discover the secrets of Holyrood Palace: the official residence of the queen of England and Scotland .

Edinburgh Outlander Tour Imposing castles, palaces and mythical mansions ... Discover a new side of Scotland by exploring the filming locations of the legendary TV series  Outlander .

Day Trip: Stirling, Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park Get a slice of Highland life on this day trip to western Scotland, witht scenic lochs, the old capital of Stirling, and the Trossachs: land of William Wallace.

Holy Island & Alnwick Castle Day Trip Discover the Medieval Kingdom of Northumbria: explore the ruined castles, quaint villages and wild coastline of North-East England on this tour from Edinburgh.

West Highland Lochs, Mountains & Castles Day Trip This day trip lets you enjoy a taste of all things Scottish , as we take you on a fascinating journey through the Highlands. Lochs, castles and mountains await.

Royal Edinburgh Ticket Book this Royal Edinburgh Ticket and enjoy the best of the Scottish capital city for 48 hours. Visit the Castle, the Royal Yacht and the Palace .

Get lost in the lively Scottish nightlife with this route across five of the capital's best pubs . Pints of beer, live music... let's get this party started!

Ghost Tour of Edinburgh The Scottish capital is famously haunted and there have been countless sightings of phantoms. Are you brave enough to take our ghost tour of Edinburgh ?

Edinburgh Food Tour On this Edinburgh Food Tour, you'll explore the Scottish capital through its gastronomy. You'll try traditional dishes such as haggis, neeps and tatties!

Rosslyn Chapel and the Borders Day Trip On this trip, you'll explore the mysterious Rosslyn Chapel and the border town of Melrose & its Abbey , plus a tour of a malt whisky distillery .

Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond & The Kelpies Explore the Scottish Highlands on this day trip from Edinburgh to Stirling, Loch Lomond and the Kelpies! You'll discover history and nature!

Scottish Highlands Tour Explore the Scottish Highlands on this excursion from Edinburgh and discover natural landscapes, a whisky distillery and historical monuments!

Loch Ness & the Scottish Highlands: 2 Day Tour Delve deep into the delights of Scotland. Discover spectacular mountains, rivers and lochs as you immerse yourself in the legendary history of the Highlands.

St. Andrews & Fife's Fishing Villages Day Trip Make the most of your stay in Edinburgh with this St. Andrews & Fife's Fishing Villages Day Trip. Explore the famous golfing town and quaint coastal towns.

3-Day Tour of Skye and the Highlands See the very north of Scotland , where the winds whip the wild edge of the United Kingdom. We'll see highlands highlights such as Loch Ness, Ben Nevis  and more.

Blackness Castle & Forth Bridges Cruise Enjoy a cruise to the three famous Forth bridges and the historic Blackness Castle on this  boat tour on the Firth of Forth .

Whisky Distillery Tour Discover the secrets of Scotch whisky on this  tour of the Dewar's and Glenturret distilleries from Edinburgh ​. The ideal excursion for any whisky lover!

Edinburgh Private Tour Discover the architecture, history & everyday life of Edinburgh accompanied by a private tour guide . The best way to explore Scotland's capital city!

Edinburgh Shore Excursion If you're arriving in the Scottish capital by cruise, don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the city's history with this Edinburgh Shore Excursion.

Edinburgh Hard Rock Cafe Enjoy a delicious lunch or dinner at Edinburgh's Hard Rock Cafe, a restaurant full of rock and roll. Choose your menu and enjoy a fun dining experience!

Full Day Edinburgh Walking Tour + Entry Tickets On this  tour of Edinburgh , you'll visit the most important places in the city , such as the Castle and the Scotland National Gallery . 

Edinburgh Hop On Hop Off Bus Explore top Edinburgh attractions with our flexible hop-on hop-off bus tour without getting tired . Enjoy audio commentary in multiple languages!

Harry Potter Train Tour Want to travel on the Hogwarts Express ? Travel through Scotland's breathtaking scenery on board the Jacobite with this  Harry Potter Train Tour .

Edinburgh Christmas Tour We'll admire Christmas markets and dreamy lights  on this Christmas Tour in Edinburgh . Explore the Scottish capital at this magical time of year!

Outlander Tour While in the Scottish capital , take a page from Jamie Fraser 's book and embark on our Outlander tour through Edinburgh to see iconic sites from the hit series !

This guide has been made by exploring each street, taking photos of every nook and cranny, and paying attention to each and every little detail to help you prepare your trip in the best way possible .

All the information in this guide was updated in March 2023 . If you see any errors or anything we should change, we would be delighted to hear from you .

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20 Practical tips for the first-time visitor to Edinburgh

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: February 4, 2024

Are you planning to visit Edinburgh for the first time? After numerous trips to the Scottish capital over the past 50 years we have learned how to make the most of our time in Edinburgh. This article shares 20 practical and essential Edinburgh tips to help you plan (and experience) the best trip possible.

Edinburgh is a must-visit on any UK itinerary. The Scottish capital attracts millions of visitors every year from all over the globe. If you’re planning a visit of your own, then checking out this list of 20 Edinburgh tips is essential! 

In fact, this list of tips for visiting Edinburgh is also very useful for those who haven’t been in a while. It’s based on our own recent experience in the city, when we picked up a load of Edinburgh tips from locals and other visitors. 

This list of Edinburgh travel tips will give you a great idea of what to expect when you arrive. Please pay particular attention to points number one, three, four, five and eight before you travel, or you might miss out! 

Here are 20 of our top Edinburgh insider tips.

1. Book Edinburgh accommodation, attractions & travel in advance

2. experience genuine scottish hospitality, 3. pack clothing for the edinburgh climate, 4. consider when to visit very carefully, 5. plot your itinerary in advance, 6. soak up the stunning city skyline, 7. discover the free attractions in edinburgh, 8. explore edinburgh transport options, 9. consider accessible edinburgh, 10. conquer arthur’s seat, 11. sample authentic scottish foods, 12. sup a wee dram or two, 13. booking accommodation with parking, 14. try a traditional afternoon tea, 15. take a guided tour, 16. don’t rub greyfriar’s bobby’s nose, 17. get ready for scottish currency, 18. consider a day trip from the city, 19. schedule some free time, 20. never, ever call scots people english, uk travel planning podcast episode #58, which edinburgh tips will you be taking, edinburgh tips – things to know before you visit.

First things first. Edinburgh isn’t a last-minute kind of city unless you really don’t mind where you stay or what you do. So above all, things to know before visiting Edinburgh is to secure your accommodation, attraction tickets and any travel or tours you really want to do in advance. 

For example, is Edinburgh castle worth visiting? It’s a resounding yes to that – not least for the views – but the queues can be legendary. Skip those by booking your ticket or tour ahead of time.

Tip – Planning to visit Edinburgh for the Fringe Festival or Hogmanay? These are popular times of year and prices reflect this so book as far ahead as possible.

Like any city, what really makes Edinburgh special (apart from its rich history) is the people. Experiencing a genuine Scottish welcome and the warmth of the local people really can make or break your trip.

Second on our list of travel tips for Edinburgh concerns where to lay your head. We recommend staying at a guest house like the Elder York, which is owned and run by Scots. The hosts are incredibly helpful, and the location and value for money are unbeatable.

Packing for the UK is unlike many other destinations. This is because the UK has a maritime climate, and this means the weather can be very changeable. Scotland lies to the north of England and is thus colder, for a start. 

You’ll also need comfortable, robust footwear for all that sightseeing. Layering your clothing is also a great idea, as it’s easy to adjust your outfit according to the conditions. 

It also rains a fair amount in the UK. For more guidance on what to pack for your trip to the British Isles, check out this article . (Though if you do come unprepared, shopping in Edinburgh’s Princes Street area isn’t really a hardship. But it can be expensive!)

Unless you’re actually visiting Edinburgh in Scotland to attend the main or fringe festival, avoid that time of year! The streets are choked with pedestrians and traffic and every cafe, bar and restaurant is packed out. Accommodation is also very difficult to come by.

So when’s best? In the UK the school summer holidays take place during July and August, so this is a time to avoid if you can. August is also when the festivals happen. Edinburgh in winter can be cold, however.

If you have a choice, late spring or early autumn are good times to go to Edinburgh. The weather should be fairly mild and the city less crowded. The months of May, June, September and October are good bets, though you may still experience the odd very chilly day in early May or late October.

It’s not only accommodation you should book in advance for Edinburgh. Deciding what to do and when before you go is best, as certain attractions may be closed on particular days of the week. Restaurant bookings for popular places also fill up quickly.

The Palace of Holyroodhouse , for example, is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, except during the peak months of July and August.

Edinburgh has a distinctive skyline quite unlike any other, so do try to see the city from above if you can. One of the lesser-known Edinburgh castle tips is that during visits to the fortress the views are thrown in for free!

Another top spot for panoramic views is Arthur’s seat, and you can climb up here for free. Any elevated location is a good bet, so you could pick where you stay and eat accordingly.

Are the best things in life really free? Perhaps not in many cases, but what to know about Scotland, England and the rest of the UK is that many of the top sights and experiences will cost you nothing. Including a wander around Holyrood Park. 

The list of other free Edinburgh attractions in and around the city includes the Scottish National Gallery, the People’s Story Museum, the Royal Botanic Gardens, Grassmarket and the Royal Mile, Dean Village, the Museum of Childhood, St Giles Cathedral, the Pentland Hills, the Writers’ Museum and Leith. Phew!

Walking around Edinburgh is the best way to get to know the city on a more intimate level. Ideally where you stay should thus be within walking distance of the key attractions. That said, there may be times when you get tired or want a break due to inclement weather.

Other popular options for exploring Edinburgh include hop-on, hop-off bus routes , public buses and trams. All-inclusive tickets can save you time as well as cash here, such as this Royal attractions and jump-on, jump-off bus pass .

If you have mobility problems, then it really is essential to plan as many aspects of your Edinburgh trip as possible in advance. Edinburgh has steep hills and narrow, cobbled streets, so you may need assistance to explore some areas. Check out a range of wheelchair-accessible tours of Edinburgh here .

As touched on above when discussing viewpoints, there’s no finer in all of Edinburgh than Arthur’s Seat. If you’re able and equipped for the climb, it’s so worthwhile. The return trek should take a couple of hours or so.

This former volcano can be reached via Holyrood Palace within the park of the same name. The park starts pretty much where the Royal Mile ends. If you’re so inclined, you can even book a private tour .

We highly recommend visiting Makar’s Gourmet Mash Bar while you’re in Edinburgh. The model is so successful that they’ve also opened a Covent Garden branch in London! The Scottish one, meanwhile, has been a Tripadvisor Traveller’s Choice award winner for four consecutive years. 

Top foods to try include Scotch egg (a boiled egg covered in sausage meat and coated in breadcrumbs), Haggis with neeps (turnip) and tatties (potato – mashed of course). You could also take an insider’s foodie tour of Edinburgh.

The same goes for Scottish drinks , and whisky, of course, is number one. There are also lots of other spirits, beers and soft drinks to sample, including Edinburgh Gin . 

There are some great tours to take if you’d like to delve deeper. We recommend the Scotch Whisky Experience tasting and tour, or the tour of the Holyrood Gin Distillery .

If you’ll be driving into Edinburgh, accommodation with parking is a must. There are some good options with parking around the Old Town, New Town and west end – if you know where to look.

Book this as early as you can. You can find a selection of good Edinburgh hotels with car parks here .

Afternoon tea is a British institution and no one does scones better than the Scots. Expect fluffy fruit or plain scones which you can heap with as much clotted cream and jam as you like, plus dainty sandwiches and pretty cakes.

Afternoon tea also makes for some great photo opportunities! We loved the Georgian Tea Room at The Dome . Other popular options include The Balmoral hotel and The Witchery.

A guided tour is the fast-track way to see the city from a local’s perspective. As they know all the shortcuts and hacks, this can also save you time. 

We took both a vaults tour and an Old Town history tour , and thoroughly enjoyed them both. Definitely highly recommended.

Edinburgh is reputedly one of the most haunted cities in the world – if you fancy taking a ghost tour this is our selection of the best ghost tours in Edinburgh .

For a private guided tour of Edinburgh we recommend Edinburgh Black Cab Tours – listen to one of their fabulous guides Charlotte chat about the history of Greyfriars Kirkyard in episode #88 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast. Choose from a private 2/4 or 8 hour tour of Edinburgh.

Greyfriars Bobby is located on George IV Bridge on the Royal Mile. Many visitors have taken to rubbing the nose of the Skye Terrier statue, in the mistaken belief that it’s a) the thing to do and b) will bring them luck.

Don’t do it.

The Scots don’t reckon it’s good luck at all and what’s more is that the statue has suffered much as a result. Even costly restoration work cannot quite restore the iconic dog to his former glory.

While Scotland uses the same currency as the rest of the UK – pounds sterling – the banknotes look different. In fact according to the Bank of England , English notes are not in fact even legal tender in Scotland.

The coins are, and look much the same. But a shopkeeper, restauranteur or hotelier can in fact ask you to pay in Scottish cash rather than English if they want to. Contrary to popular belief, what they accept is at their discretion.

Get around the problem by paying with a card, or withdraw some Scottish notes once you arrive if you prefer cash.

If you’re not planning a big tour of Scotland, then do get out of the city for at least one day if you can. There are lots of day trips you can take, and you can find 21 of the top day tours from Edinburgh in this guide . 

The most popular destinations include the Scottish Highlands, Glencoe, Loch Ness and many more. You can even take a trip on the ‘ Hogwarts Express’ steam train via the Glenfinnan viaduct, aka The Jacobite.

There’s a lot to do in Edinburgh – but you might not remember the city all that well if you rush around in a blur of activity, just to tick off a list.

Focus on what you want to do most – and leave time for some relaxing experiences like a wander down Princes Street (the famous street in Edinburgh) or from there towards Leith via the New Town. Or perhaps take a stroll around Holyrood Park. Afternoon tea or dinner with a view is also a great way to unwind after a hectic day.

Explore the ancient pubs of the Grassmarket or head to boho Stockbridge to find a lovely little cafe for lunch. Laid-back exploring like this is just as important as seeing the big sights Edinburgh is famous for. Plus you get to sample local food and drinks while meeting Scots along the way!

There’s a long and often violent history between England and Scotland. Though they are all part of a United Kingdom, many Scots are – perhaps understandably – wary of the English.

To some Scots – like the 45% or so who voted to become an independent nation in the 2014 referendum – being called English may be seen as an insult. It’s also factually inaccurate…

The Scottish are very proud of their rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes and beguiling cities. So please at least show them the decency of calling them by their proper name. Scottish… even British…just not English!

This post isn’t intended as a list of instructions. Rather we mean it to be used as a guide, so you can hone in on what’s important to you. Whatever you do and no matter what the weather is like, Edinburgh really is one of the most enchanting cities on earth, let alone in the UK!

For more guidance on visiting Edinburgh, see our posts on getting there from London , top places to stay , the best things to do and the ultimate Edinburgh guide with a map .

• Where to stay in Edinburgh
• Best day trips from Edinburgh
• Things to do in Edinburgh
• How to get to Edinburgh from London