visit edinburgh in december

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Top 10 Reasons To Visit Edinburgh in December

Edinburgh is a beautiful place unlike any other city in the world. Its charm really comes into focus in the Winter months when the gothic architecture and dramatic landscape slip into something both cozy and foreboding. 

Edinburgh in December means short days, but nights that are lit up with Christmas lights and cheered with mulled wine. Visiting early in December means fewer crowds as you enjoy the city. Visiting at the end of December brings world-famous Hogmanay celebrations. In short, December is a perfect time to explore Edinburgh. 

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What To Expect From Edinburgh in December

Shorter days increase the gothic atmosphere.

It gets dark early. Edinburgh is located in the north of the United Kingdom and gets only a little over  7 hours of sunlight in December . You should expect the sun to be set by 4pm. 

Luckily, after dark looks great on Edinburgh. This town is full to bursting with gothic architecture, ghost stories, and cozy book nooks. There is no need to end your day at sunset here. 

Winter Weather Is the Norm

The overall daily average temperature in Edinburgh in December is  between 6-8°C  (42-46°F). Rain is also fairly common this time of year, with snow being a possibility. 

Be sure to pack sensible shoes that won’t slide on slick cobblestones and plenty of warm layers. 

Seasonal Festivities Bring Back the Light

While it may be cold and dark outside, Edinburgh lights up like a winter wonderland in December. Edinburgh is a great spot for Christmas shopping, Christmas activities, and endless ways to celebrate the holiday season all the way up through Hogmanay. 

How To Get to Edinburgh City Centre From Edinburgh Airport

While a major UK flight hub, the Edinburgh airport has only one terminal and is not difficult to get around. You can reach Edinburgh from the airport easily by taxi, bus or tram. 

Travel time is similar for all options (25-35 minutes), so look at where your accommodation is located to pick your best option. I prefer the tram if my destination is near the train station. A taxi works well for groups up to 5 splitting the fare. It’s also handy for keeping dry if you arrive during a rain shower.

Edinburgh via Taxi or Private Car Service

Taxis pick up in the East Terminus just across from the main terminal. You can also pre-book a taxi or car service. These will typically either arrange to have the driver meet you in terminal or pick you up from the ground floor of the car park. 

Taxi pricing is metered but should run between £25-£35 for up to 5 passengers. Private transfer service is usually £45+, but I wouldn’t bother splashing out a lot more for this service. 

Edinburgh via Tram

Trams from the airport are easy and fast. The airport tram stop is right outside the main terminal and you can buy tickets from the vending machines at any tram stop. 

Adult tickets for a trip into the city and back to the airport on your departure run £9. A family of 2 adults and up to 3 children can book the same return for one price of £22.50. Check the  Edinburgh Trams website  for more details and fare updates. 

Edinburgh via Bus

The Airlink 100 bus is your cheapest option, running just £7.50 per adult or £18 for a family for return tickets between the airport and Edinburgh City Centre. 

How To Get to Edinburgh City Centre From Edinburgh Waverley Train Station

If you’re already in the UK, then arriving in Edinburgh by train is a great way to go. When you factor in travel to/from airports and security time, trains from London can be about the same time investment and much less stressful. The train ride from London also  features a nice run along Scottish coastline  during the journey. 

Arriving in Edinburgh by train also means that you’re already in Edinburgh City Centre when you arrive. You can walk to most accommodation spots from here, or pick up a convenient taxi just outside the station if you’re headed further out. 

Getting Around Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a very walkable city and the winding alleys are most friendly to foot traffic. However, Edinburgh has very steep hills, so walking can become a challenge if you don’t arrive in shape to manage it. 

Lothian Buses  run the bus service in Edinburgh. Buses are most convenient outside of rush hour times when central roads become gridlocked. Apple and Google Maps are reliable here for estimating journey times by bus versus on foot. 

Trams are more efficient than buses, but the current line doesn’t reach a lot of places. 

Taxis are also a good option if your legs are tired or you’re venturing further out. Black cabs can be hailed on the street if their light is on, or you can  download an app  for one of the major cab companies to make booking and paying a breeze. 

Where To Stay in Edinburgh

Here are 5 of the best places to stay to be near the seasonal action in Edinburgh in December:

Luxury and Harry Potter Vibes

The Balmoral famously hosted J.K. Rowling while she finished the final Harry Potter book. This is a true 5-star hotel and puts up lovely holiday displays.

Close To Edinburgh Waverley

It doesn’t get much closer than The Scotsman Hotel . This lovely hotel was built in 1905 and was one of the first buildings I saw when I stepped out of the train station.

Great For Families

Don’t overlook apartment rentals if you need a bit of space to preserve family peace. We stayed in this lovely apartment located right on the Royal Mile during our last December visit and found the location perfect for our daily wanderings.

Atmosphere Galore

Located a stone’s throw from Edinburgh Castle on the Royal Mile, The Witchery by the Castle will feed all of your dark princess fantasies. Rooms here are unique and lavish. If you can’t stomach the prices to stay here, consider splashing out for a meal at the on-site restaurant instead.

Good Location for Less

YOTEL Edinburgh is in a great location very close to the Edinburgh Christmas Markets main area. Standard hotel rooms and family room options.

10 Reasons To Visit Edinburgh in December

Now you know how to get to Edinburgh, and how to get around once you’re here. But what can you look forward to when visiting Edinburgh in December?

1. Edinburgh Christmas Markets

Edinburgh’s Christmas Markets and Festivals are a delight! Expect beautiful lights, festive food and drinks, and plenty of craft stands to find that perfect Edinburgh souvenir. Make sure to pick up some mulled wine to warm you up while you stroll. 

The Christmas Market in East Princes Street Gardens is the easiest to spot thanks to its location just down the hill from the Royal Mile. You can also find fun for kids at Santa Land, including the all-important visit with Santa at Santa’s Grotto. 

Outdoor ice skating is frequently part of the festivities. Look for a rink in St Andrew Square. 

You’ll find lights and festive decorations all over the city brightening up the night. George Street in particular goes all out, and don’t miss booking in for dinner or cocktails at  The Dome  if you want to add a touch of fancy to your festivities. 

2. Edinburgh Castle

You can’t miss seeing Edinburgh Castle as it dominates the city skyline. This view is one of the reasons Edinburgh is such a unique and beautiful place to visit. 

While it’s lovely just to see Edinburgh Castle, it is absolutely worth visiting inside to learn about the centuries of history preserved here. Highlights include Edinburgh’s oldest building (St. Margaret’s Chapel), military garrisons showing what soldier life was like here, and royal icons including the Stone of Destiny .  

Visiting in December means lower crowd levels than you’d find in the popular summer months. When I visited in December 2021, I found myself the only person in the same room of the old hospital wing. I did scoot along in search of others when I remembered the many ghost stories here!

Skip the line and visit with a guide on this tour .

At such a high point in the city, it’s unsurprising that you can find excellent views from here out over Edinburgh. Even in December, it’s possible to see quite far.

3. Royal Mile

The Royal Mile is beautiful in any season and an area where you are likely to spend a lot of time. The Royal Mile extends from Edinburgh Castle down to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Along its length are numerous attractions, including several museums and shops. 

One of the perks of visiting Edinburgh in December is that you’ll have a reason to wear that beautiful new wool scarf you found in a Royal Mile shop. 

4. Palace of Holyroodhouse

At the far end of the Royal Mile from Edinburgh Castle, you’ll find the  Palace of Holyroodhouse . This remains the Queen’s official residence in Edinburgh but is also open for tours. Closures can sometimes happen at short notice due to it being a working royal palace, but this is less likely in December when the Queen is more often down south. 

Aside from its current royal connections, the Palace of Holyroodhouse has connections to many historic royals including Mary, Queen of Scots, and Bonnie Prince Charlie. You can visit Mary, Queen of Scots’ chambers during your visit in the oldest section of the palace.

Note that the Palace of Holyroodhouse is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. 

5. Walking Tours

Edinburgh deserves to be explored on foot, and one of the best ways to do this is to book in on a walking tour. 

Whether you want to learn more about the city’s history, hear ghostly tales, jam out in a silent disco, or visit Harry Potter inspiration points, a walking tour has you covered. Edinburgh is jam-packed with things to see and it’s easy to miss things wandering on your own. A good guide can make sure you find the best bits and may surprise you with secrets hiding in plain sight.

A few great tours to try in December:

Harry Potter Magical Guided Walking Tour

Real Mary King’s Close Guided Tour

Dark Secrets of the Old Town Ghost Walking Tour

Silent Disco Adventure Tour

Walking tours go forward in all sorts of weather, which you should expect in December. Don’t let rain or cold keep you in. Put on your coat and hat and grab an umbrella. It’s time to explore!

When you need a December warm up after exploring, a little whisky goes a long way. The Scotch Whisky Experience on the Royal Mile gives a great introduction to this famous elixir, and plenty of opportunities to have a taste. Tours include tastings and at least one tour is suitable for children. 

7. National Museum of Scotland

When the weather looks dreadful or you just want to be wowed in a fantastic museum, don’t miss a visit to the  National Museum of Scotland . Like many of the museums in Edinburgh, this one is free to enter and can please everyone. Interactive exhibits are great for kids, and there is a wealth of exhibits covering science, history, art and more!

8. Theatre and Pantomime

December is a great month for taking in a show in Edinburgh. Pantomime is a tradition for many Scottish families and can be great fun. Expect a lot of silliness and audience participation.

If more traditional theatre is more your thing, you can find plenty of festive-themed musicals and ballet at Edinburgh theatres. 

9. Bookshops

Edinburgh has plenty of cozy bookshops perfect for finding your next good read.  Topping & Company  is a favorite with their large windows and library ladders adding to the aesthetic. This is also a cozy place to stop in for a coffee or tea on a rainy afternoon. On my last December visit an employee was even passing out mince pies to visitors.

If secondhand books are more your thing, then  Armchair Books  should be your destination. This shop is exactly what you want your secondhand book shop to be, stuffed to the brim with books that even the store website describes as “very nearly alphabetised chaos”. 

10. Hogmanay

You’ll find plenty of crowds at the end of December in Edinburgh as the city gets ready for one of the world’s biggest New Year’s celebrations. Hogmanay, Scottish for last day of the year, is actually a 3-day festival involving street parties, concerts and a torchlight procession. Covid caused this event to be canceled in 2020 and 2021, so expect things to be big once it comes back. 

If you stick around to January 1 st  in Edinburgh, you can watch or participate in the Loony Dook. This event sees the brave and the crazy taking a chilly dunk in the Firth of Forth. Many people dress up in costume for the occasion. 

Should You Visit Edinburgh in December?

If you visit before Christmas, then you can benefit from fewer crowds compared to summer. After Christmas you’ll find big crowds but big fun as Edinburgh’s Hogmanay celebrations kick in.  

Don’t let fear of dreary weather keep you away from Edinburgh in December. This city shines in winter and was truly meant to be seen in this dark and gothic season. Edinburgh is also packed with festive spirit in December and should definitely be on your list for a winter visit! 

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Adventures of Alice

Edinburgh in Winter: 15 Best Things to Do

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Edinburgh in winter is just a wonderful vibe. There’s something about the moody streets of the city, shiny with rain, and the gorgeous architecture that makes a winter trip so magical. I personally visited the city in December last year and had an absolutely fantastic time in the city. Plus, we got super lucky with the weather because it didn’t rain once!

I didn’t find that the time of year and winter weather had much of an effect on my time in the city. It was still super cosy, I really enjoyed exploring the history, and the Christmas markets were super fun in the evenings. But while we did get lucky with the weather, there’s a much higher chance of rain and even snow in Edinburgh in winter, so you’ll definitely need to come prepared.

15 Things to Do in Edinburgh in Winter

So, if you’re planning on exploring the Scottish capital during winter, here are a few top tips from my own experience, plus the absolute best things to do.

1. Visit Edinburgh Christmas Market

Edinburgh’s Christmas markets are spectacular. They literally transform the city’s historic centre into a wintery wonderland. There are several markets scattered across the city, but the main one is located in East Princes Street Gardens, in the shadow of the mighty Scott Monument. You’ll also be able to see good views of the city skyline from here. 

You’ll find a spectacular Christmas Tree, and wooden cabins selling all kinds of handmade goods from knitwear to furniture, to delicate hand-crafted Christmas decorations. You’ll also find a delicious selection of foods, from traditional German bratwurst, to curious takes on Scottish classics (haggis nachos, anyone?). There’s (of course) plenty of mulled wine and beer to go around, and rides as well. We went on the Ferris wheel and had great views of Edinburgh from above.

As well as the main market, you can also find Christmas markets at:

• West Princes Street Gardens – this is more of a family-friendly market with children’s rides and attractions, 
• George Street – this is where you’ll find Edinburgh’s ice rink, 
• St Andrew’s Square – come here for a magical Santa Claus experience and to meet the big man himself!

In 2023, the markets are running from the 18th of November, until the 6th of January and are all closed on Christmas Day. You can find out more on their official website,  here .

2. Admire the Views from Arthur’s Seat

Despite it being much colder in Edinburgh in winter, that doesn’t mean you can’t go hiking. A trip to Arthur’s seat is one of the best things to do in the city and winter doesn’t change this. The views from the top are spectacular, and the hike isn’t too challenging either. 

The location of Authur’s Seat is in Holyrood Park, at the end of the Royal Mile. It was once an active volcano but is not simply a grassy mound that offers stunning views over the city. The highest point is called Authur’s seat. 

There are several routes up to the summit. You’ll start and end at Holyrood Palace. Salisbury Crags offers the easiest route, whereas the climb to Authur’s seat itself is slightly more strenuous. However, overall, the hike shouldn’t take you longer than 2 hours to get up and down. I would definitely recommend wearing a pair of sturdy, comfortable walking shoes however, and bringing a bottle of water as, even in winter, you can get quite warm on this climb!

3. Explore Edinburgh Castle

If you love history, you can’t go wrong with a trip to Edinburgh Castle. Another attraction in Edinburgh that’s on the site of an extinct volcano, this castle is a great way to explore the city’s history. 

With a history dating back over a thousand years, this historic stronghold has witnessed countless battles, royal intrigues, and historic events. The castle’s stunning silhouette dominates the city’s skyline, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside . 

Inside the castle, you can see the Crown Jewels of Scotland, wander through an ancient jail cell, and see where the servants of the castle used to sleep. There’s even a section near the exit where you can look up your ancestry based on your surname.

We found the castle incredibly interesting and easily one of the best things to do in Edinburgh in winter. And don’t forget to check out their exciting light display that illuminates the castle at night – it’s truly beautiful.

4. Wander Around Dean Village

In my opinion, this is the most picturesque part of the city. It’s also something of a hidden gem . We found there to be nowhere near as many tourists here as in the other places in the city. 

Dean Village, located just a short walk from the historic centre, is a stunning little area that oozes historical charm. It’s a former milling hamlet and seems almost like a tiny English village in the middle of a big city. 

You’ll find colourful 19th-century buildings, water wheels, pretty stone bridges, and a trickling river running through the middle. It’s a great place to go for a wander down the cobbled lanes and escape the bustling city centre.

5. Walk the Royal Mile

The Royal Mile is a complete contrast to the peaceful vibes you’ll find in Dean Village. Located in the very heart of the old town, this historic street spans around a mile (hence the name), from Edinburgh’s Castle, down to the Palace of Holyrood.

Lined with centuries-old buildings, the Royal Mile is a collection of cobbled streets, hidden closes, and gorgeous architecture. You’ll probably find it quite busy, even if you’re visiting Edinburgh in winter, but this only adds to the atmosphere. 

Along the Royal Mile, you can explore a treasure trove of shops, restaurants, and traditional Scottish pubs. The street is also home to numerous landmarks, including St. Giles’ Cathedral and the Museum of Edinburgh. You may well run into some kilt-clad locals playing bagpipes too!

6. See the Fireworks on New Year’s Eve

Like London, Edinburgh is one of the best places in the UK to welcome the New Year . In fact, I’d go so far as to say that it’s one of the best places in Europe. 

Known as the Hogmanay Street Party, this event is a world-renowned celebration that ushers in the New Year with an explosion of colour, light, and music. Each year, thousands of people from across the globe gather in the heart of the city to witness this spectacular fireworks display. 

The event typically kicks off with a captivating concert and a traditional Scottish Ceilidh dance. Then, as the clock strikes midnight, the night sky over Edinburgh Castle becomes ablaze with a breathtaking fireworks display that illuminates the entire city. This is typically synced to a soundtrack and is a wonderful thing to witness.

7. Admire the Scott Monument

You can’t visit Edinburgh’s main Christmas Market without passing by this structure. Nonetheless, as an important symbol of the city, I thought it deserved its own place. 

The iconic landmark stands as a tribute to the acclaimed Scottish author Sir Walter Scott. This Victorian Gothic masterpiece rises to a towering height of 200 feet above the historic city, making it the largest monument to a writer in the world. 

Its spires are covered with sculptures of characters from Scott’s novels, and you’ll also find a statue of Sir Walter Scott himself. If you fancy even more panoramic views over Edinburgh, you can also climb a narrow spiral staircase to reach the top.

8. Climb Calton Hill

I hope you haven’t grown tired of views because we’ve reached one of the best ones. If you visit Edinburgh in winter, you have got to climb Calton Hill. The hill is the perfect combination of scenery and history.

The entire area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it contains the National Monument of Scotland, although, unfortunately, this was never finished. You’ll find several other sculptures here including the Nelson Monument, designed to resemble an upturned telescope and dedicated to Admiral Lord Nelson’s victory at Trafalgar, and the Dugald Stewart Monument, honouring the Scottish philosopher.

Carlton Hill is quite easy to reach from the city centre and only takes about 10 minutes – much less time than Authur’s Seat. So, it’s a great option if you fancy an easier walk for some great views.

9. Visit Edinburgh’s Museums

The Scottish Capital has a great collection of museums and many of these are great things to do in Edinburgh in winter – particularly if it starts raining!

A few of the best museums in Edinburgh include:

• The National Museum of Scotland houses an impressive collection spanning art, science, and natural history. 
• The Museum of Edinburgh  offers a more intimate exploration of the city’s history from medieval roots to modern times.
• The Scottish National Gallery  is the perfect place for art enthusiasts as you’ll be able to explore a collection of world-class paintings, sculptures, and other works of art.
• The Museum of Childhood  provides a nostalgic journey through the past.
• The Surgeons’ Hall Museum delves into the history of medicine and surgery, showcasing the evolution of healthcare. 
• The Writers’ Museum is a must-visit for literature enthusiasts, celebrating Scotland’s literary greats. 

If you find yourself with a rainy day or simply fancy delving into its rich past, these museums are one of the best things to do.

10. See St Giles Cathedral

Located on the Royal Mile, St Giles Cathedral is another must-see during Edinburgh in winter. With its distinctive crown spire and striking Gothic architecture, the cathedral is a distinctive landmark in the city. 

St. Giles has a rich history dating back to the 12th century. The interior is equally impressive, adorned with beautiful stained glass windows and intricate stonework.

11. Explore George Street

If Christmas shopping is your reason for visiting Edinburgh in winter, then you won’t be disappointed when you come to George Street. Lined with neoclassical and Georgian-style buildings, this iconic street is known for its fancy shopping, dining, and nightlife scene. 

You’ll find a selection of high-end boutiques, luxury brands, and designer shops – perfect for a bit of retail therapy. Then, you’ll also find a bunch of trendy bars, chic cafes, and great restaurants, perfect for when your feet get tired from all the shopping!

13. See the Royal Botanic Gardens

This world-renowned centre for the study of conservation of plants is a wonderful place to visit. But, it takes on a whole new league of spectacular in winter. From mid- November to the end of December, the gardens put on ‘ Christmas at the Botanics ’, an after-dark floral-themed light display. 

This is a great way to embrace the Christmas spirit. Plus it’s truly beautiful seeing all the lights and colours in the garden come to life. In 2023, tickets start from £19 and it’s open from 4 pm until 8 pm. 

14. Discover Edinburgh’s Harry Potter Filming Locations

If you’re a huge Harry Potter nerd (like me!), there’s no better place to dive into the magical world than in Edinburgh. There are so many Harry Potter locations around the city, and Scotland in general, that you can spend plenty of time searching for them and finding the places that inspired J.K. Rowling.

A few of my favourite Harry Potter filming locations to discover in winter include:

• The Elephant House Café
• Tom Riddle’s Grave (located in Greyfriars Kirkyard)
• Victoria Street (said to be one of the inspirations for Diagon Alley)
• The Balmoral House

You can also book a Harry Potter walking tour to learn more about the influence of the city on the magical novels.

To book a Harry Potter walking tour of Edinburgh, click here.

15. Visit the Edinburgh Winter Festival

The Edinburgh Winter Festival pretty much encompassed everything that the Scottish capital does to welcome in the Christmas season. 

It includes the 4 main Christmas markets on Princes Street Gardens, George Street, and St Andrew’s Square and the Hogmanay Celebrations on New Year’s Eve. But you’ll also be able to see the Castle of Lights, a dazzling light display across the castle walls, a Night After Disco Party on the 30th of December, and the Concert in the Gardens, which is also at the Hogmanay Party. 

This spectacular festival lasts the entirety of December and a little bit of November and January too. This year (2023), there’s also a torchlight procession on the 29th of December to mark the 30th Anniversary of the festival. So, you won’t want to miss this one!

Where to stay in Edinburgh in Winter

Edinburgh is a fairly large city, so, naturally, there are plenty of accommodation options to suit a range of budgets and desires. Here are some of the best places to stay if you’re visiting for the winter season :

• £££ – Virgin Hotels Edinburgh – A fantastic 5* hotel with stunning views over the city, this is the perfect place to stay if you want a little luxury. With elegantly designed rooms, cool artwork, and roll-top bathtubs, you’ll find the ultimate comfort here.
• ££ – Moxy Edinburgh Fountainbridge – This chic 4* hotel has everything you need for a comfortable stay. You’ll find cosy, modern rooms, a rooftop bar with views of the castle, and a fitness centre.
• £ – Cityroomz Edinburgh – Simply designed and affordable, this hotel is just a few metres from Princes Street. The rooms have comfortable beds and free WIFI, and some even offer self-catering facilities like a mini kitchenette and table and chairs.

Getting Around Edinburgh in Winter

We found without a doubt the easiest way to get around Edinburgh was to use public transport. The bus systems are very reliable and you can pay via debit card or contactless via Apple Pay which makes it easy to use them. Plus, the buses run pretty much the whole city and outskirts, so if you’re staying slightly outside the centre, this is a good way to get around. A single ticket is £2 and a day ticket is £5.

If you’re driving to the city, be sure to check whether your accommodation has parking. Parking can be pretty pricey – and pretty busy in the winter months.

You can also take the train from London and other destinations in the UK , but bear in mind that this will be quite a long journey. However, the good news is that the main train station (the Waverley Train Station) is less than a 10-minute walk from the centre of the city. So, you won’t have a very long journey at all to get from the train station to the Christmas markets.

If you’re arriving at Edinburgh airport, you’ll have several options to reach the city centre. A taxi will take you about 35 minutes but will be the most expensive mode of transport. You can also book a tram, which links directly to the train service.

The trams run every 7 minutes between 7am and 7pm. They’ll drop you off at either Edinburgh Gateway, Edinburgh Park, Haymarket or Edinburgh Waverley, and from there, you can easily reach the city centre.

Alternatively, there’s a bus stop directly outside the terminal which has a direct connection to the city centre. Buses from the airport leave as often as every 10 minutes. Although, be sure to check their website for specific times, especially if your flight lands quite late.

Once you’re in the city centre itself, you can pretty much walk everywhere. The city is very easy to navigate and you can reach most things on foot.

Top Tips for Visiting Edinburgh in Winter

Edinburgh in winter is a magical experience with a festive atmosphere and Christmas lights adding to the city’s beauty. But there are a  few things you’ll need to know.

Here are a few of my top tips based on my visit last year:

• Prepare for limited daylight . One of the main things I forgot to account for during my trip was the limited daylight in winter. It starts getting dark as early as 4pm in winter which is a stark contrast to the long summer days, so bear this in mind when you’re planning activities. 
• Dress appropriately. Edinburgh in winter can be chilly and wet, so you’ll need to wrap up warm with layers and invest in a sturdy waterproof coat and comfortable shoes that won’t soak through if the heavens open!
• Embrace the seasonal treats . Warm up with traditional Scottish dishes like haggis, neeps, and tatties, and indulge in some delicious hot chocolate or mulled wine from the Christmas markets.
• Be mindful of opening hours . Some of the city’s attractions might have reduced opening hours or be closed on certain days throughout the winter period. So remember to double-check schedules before heading out.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Edinburgh in Winter

Overall, I think winter is a great time to explore Edinburgh. The rain adds to the city’s moody atmosphere, and the festive season and Christmas lights make everything sparkly and pretty. That, paired with the fact that the city holds some of the best Christmas celebrations in the UK, makes the winter months a great time to visit this historic Scottish city.

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Edinburgh in Winter: Things to Do + Reasons to Visit

Why would you want to visit Edinburgh in winter? Scotland has a reputation for rainy, cold, and gloomy weather, and Edinburgh is no different!

And I won’t deny that sometimes the weather can be exactly like that. But there can also be crisp, sunny, winter days, or something not-so-bad in between.

Regardless, there are plenty of things to do in Edinburgh in winter and some real positives to visiting at this time of year too!

I moved to Edinburgh in the month of December, so all my first impressions of the city were in winter, and it definitely didn’t disappoint.

Why visit Edinburgh in winter?

As Scotland’s capital city, Edinburgh is definitely not short on visitors. They come to see the Castle, the historic Old Town the locations that inspired Harry Potter , and use it as an entry point and for exploring the rest of Scotland.

So why visit Edinburgh in winter rather than summer?

For starters, the summer is the busiest time in the city, especially in August. Five of Edinburgh’s eleven festivals run during August , and it’s well known as the most popular time to visit the city.

While the Edinburgh festivals are definitely worth experiencing at least once, they also totally transform the city. The population at least doubles during this time and accommodation expenses are through the roof.

There are pop-up bars and eateries everywhere, and while all of these and the events going on make for an exciting trip, they give you a totally different perspective of what Edinburgh is like.

Coming to Edinburgh at a different time of year doesn’t mean you have to miss out on all the excitement! There are other festivals on, and always lots of events, as well as things that you can’t do at other times of the year.

Edinburgh in spring is one of my favourite places to be. The beautiful blossom trees are in full bloom, daylight is stretching its wings again, and the weather is generally more settled, and it’s before the full-on summer crowds descend on the city.

Likewise, autumn is a lovely time to visit as the colours of the city change and things quieten down after the summer, although the weather can be a little more unpredictable at this time of year.

So if all the other seasons make great times to visit Edinburgh, why bother to come in the winter?

Because you get to see a whole new side of the city once again and do lots of things you cannot do any other time of year, Including having fun at another of Edinburgh’s biggest celebrations… but I’ll share more specifics below!

What to expect in Edinburgh in the winter months

Edinburgh in december.

“How cold is Edinburgh in December?”

“Does it snow in Edinburgh in December?”

“Is it a good idea to visit Edinburgh in December?”

These are all questions I get asked by people wanting to plan their travels to Scotland in winter, and specifically to Edinburgh in December. Of course, there are no clear-cut answers.

Firstly, the average temperature in Edinburgh in December is a high of 7C (45F) and a low of 1C (34F). This is actually pretty bearable compared to many European destinations in winter, and it rarely falls below -4C(24F).

While you’ll need a good coat, warm boots, and accessories like a hat and scarf, you don’t need any particularly special clothes. (Check out more in my guide to what to wear in Scotland ).

Given those temperatures, it’s actually not that common for it to snow in December, and more likely in January and February when it can be slightly colder. While a white Christmas isn’t impossible, don’t get your hopes up!

Speaking of Christmas though, this is why visiting Edinburgh in December is a good idea. Edinburgh’s Christmas markets are in full swing, complete with lots of fun rides, food and drink stalls, and plenty of gift items to buy.

While the days may be short there are pretty lights and mulled wine stands (or whisky!) to make you want to stay out and about!

December in Edinburgh also means Hogmanay, which is the Scots word for New Year’s Eve and encompasses the celebrations that take place at that time.

In Edinburgh, there’s a torchlight procession you can take part in that winds its way through the city, the huge street party on New Year’s Eve itself, culminating in an epic fireworks display from Edinburgh Castle itself.

Edinburgh in January

You can continue the Hogmanay celebrations with the Loony Dook on New Year’s Day, where brave souls take a dip in the freezing Firth of Forth, often in fancy dress. However, if this isn’t exactly your cup of tea, there are still several reasons to visit Edinburgh in January.

The city will be quiet, as many people tend to stay in after the business of Christmas and New Year. Accommodation prices drop but all the major attractions are still open, as well as the shops which often have sales at this time of year.

If you’re visiting Edinburgh at the end of the month then keep an eye out for a Burn’s Supper to attend on Burn’s Night. These are in celebration of the life and poetry of Robert Burns, whose birthday was the 25th of January.

A Burns Supper involves a traditional meal of Haggis, Neeps, and Tatties, alongside ceremonial elements like the piping in of the Haggis and reading the “Address to a Haggis” poem by Burns himself. Some places across Edinburgh will have a public Burns Supper where you can buy tickets, and it usually involves a Ceilidh too (dancing to Gaelic music).

Edinburgh in February

Don’t hesitate to plan a visit to Edinburgh in February either!

While the social calendar can be a little quieter in February (apart from Burn’s Night) things seem to bounce back in February. The days are lengthening and the weather has usually warmed ever so slightly.

While the next big Edinburgh Festival isn’t until spring (the Edinburgh Science Festival ) there are often smaller events happening around town including theatre shows and comedy nights.

It’s also Valentine’s Day in February, and while Scotland doesn’t necessarily buy into the commercialism of the day, it can be a good excuse to book a nice dinner or accommodation or check out one of the many romantic things to do in Edinburgh .

Things to Do in Edinburgh in Winter

While I’ve touched on many of the winter in Edinburgh activities and things to do in the monthly breakdown above, here’s a list of everything you can expect.

Enjoy the Christmas Markets

Edinburgh’s Christmas Markets actually open around mid-November and close after the first few days in January.

East Princes Street Gardens are taken over by a plethora of stalls selling crafts, art, and edible delights. They’re open from 10am to 10pm, and I love popping in whenever I’m in town to warm up with a mulled wine or hot toddy and grabbing a chimney cake!

Many of Edinburgh’s beer gardens are closed through the winter, but this is just as good!

View the Christmas Lights

For the past couple of years, George Street has been transformed into a fabulous light show. There’s usually a “switching on of the lights” event, and then you can enjoy them in the lead-up to Christmas. There’s also a Christmas tree on the Mound that’s gifted by Norway.

Climb Arthur’s Seat

If the weather co-operates then going up Arthur’s Seat in the winter can be a great experience. I used to live nearby and if it was a clear day or early enough for the wind not to have got up then I would go for a walk up there.

Sometimes I had it all to myself! Which would never happen in the busier times of the year.

Wrap up warm, put on some sturdy footwear, and then venture up, just be prepared for some possible snow at the top if it’s there’s been a cold snap!

Go shopping

As I mentioned, winter in Edinburgh is a great time for shopping!

Firstly you have the market stalls before Christmas selling unique items, and then many shops run sales throughout January so you can snap up some bargains there too.

Wander around the museums

Edinburgh has no shortage of museums, and they make for a great winter activity and you can stay warm and dry inside!

While there’s the usual National Museum of Scotland and the Scottish National Gallery, check out others like the Museum of Childhood, the Writer’s Museum, and the Surgeon’s Hall Museums as well.

Visit Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle is only closed on the 25th and 26th of December, so first-time visitors shouldn’t be worried about missing out on this major attraction.

While many people say the Castle is better from the outside, I do think you should visit at least once to appreciate it fully.

My first visit was in December and while it wasn’t at all how I pictured a castle (think traditional large building rather than a fortress) it was something I’m happy to have done and would recommend.

Inside you’ll find the Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny (and learn the unique story behind it), Edinburgh’s oldest building (St Margarets Chapel), the Royal Palace, the Great Hall, the Scottish National War Memorial, the Prisons of War, and much more.

Walk down the Royal Mile

If you visit Edinburgh in August then the Royal Mile is packed with street performers, flyer distributors, and a ton of tourists. While it’s an exciting experience it’s also very crowded which makes it hard to really appreciate the actual street itself.

Visit the Royal Mile in winter and it’s a different story. You can take your time wandering along, appreciating the architecture and venturing down some of the many closes that lead to hidden courtyards, restaurants/bars, or even gardens.

Savour an Afternoon Tea

Another fabulous winter activity is Afternoon Tea. SO many restaurants and cafes around the city offer an Afternoon Tea that usually consists of a tiered stand filled with sandwiches, scones, and cakes, as well as all sorts of different teas.

You can enjoy it in more informal settings like Eteaket or Mimi’s Bakehouse in Leith, or try something a little fancier at The Balmoral or The Signet Library. One of my favourite ways to spend a leisurely afternoon!

Visit a Distillery

Edinburgh is home to several gin distilleries, and what better way to spend a chilly day than visiting one or two of them!

Scottish gins are some of the best in the world, and you can grab a cocktail and tour the Edinburgh Gin Distillery within the Heads & Tails Bar in the West End of Edinburgh, or visit Pickerings Gin Distillery at Summerhall. 

Don’t forget the Scotch Whisky Experience too! Not technically a distillery of course, but they run classes about whisky as well as tours and tastings. There’s also the Johnnie Walker Experience on Princes Street.

Celebrate Hogmanay

As mentioned Hogmanay makes winter a really fun time to visit Edinburgh. You don’t have to attend the Street Party however, there are other ways to enjoy it too.

Check out all sorts of Hogmanay events across the city including other Ceilidhs or activities, or find somewhere else to view the fireworks like Calton Hill or even from the Salisbury Crags/Arthur’s Seat. Just remember to bring a torch (flashlight)!

Like many places in Europe, off-season travel to Edinburgh has its perks. The streets are quieter and travel and accommodation are often more affordable (outside of the busy period directly around Christmas and Hogmanay) so it makes for a cheaper visit overall.

Don’t be put off visiting Edinburgh in winter because it might be a little chilly. There are so many things to love about the city at this time of year, and it would be a shame to miss out because of the weather! 

Planning your Edinburgh trip? Check out these posts:

• 50+ Fun Things to Do in Edinburgh
• Edinburgh Itinerary: 2 Days in Scotland’s Capital
• Harry Potter in Edinburgh: Top Locations + Self-Guided Tour Map
• 9 Lesser Known Hidden Gems in Edinburgh
• 25+ Romantic Things to Do in Edinburgh for Couples
• Why Edinburgh’s Festivals Have to Be On Your Bucket List
• Haunted Edinburgh: Spooky + Spine-Chilling Attractions
• Scotland Roadtrip: Edinburgh to Glencoe by Car

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Sonja - Migrating Miss

Sonja is from New Zealand but now lives in Scotland with her husband and two little boys, after having lived in 5 other countries along the way including the USA, Australia, Canada, and Spain. Travelling has always been her passion and she has now made it her full-time job and worked in the industry for the last 8 years. She shares her living abroad experiences and best tips to make your travel experiences the best they can be!

One thought on “ Edinburgh in Winter: Things to Do + Reasons to Visit ”

Beautiful blog, I really loved reading it, please keep on writing blogs like this in future as well.

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• The Unofficial Edinburgh Guide

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34 Festive Things to Do in Edinburgh in Winter

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Bustling Edinburgh’s Christmas Market in Princes Street Gardens, George Street lights illuminate the midnight blue sky and The Dome’s towering tree of varying colours. Keep reading to find out the ultimate list of festive things to do in Edinburgh in winter for locals and tourists alike. Why don’t you stay a little longer and experience the world’s biggest New Year’s Eve party too? Edinburgh has three days of events celebrating Hogmanay.

Why trust us? I’m Gemma, a local. I love Edinburgh at Christmas. The smells, the skating, the shopping and the celebration!

You may also like our guides to the  best places to see decor and lights ,  festive menus and Christmas dinner , and  Christmas hotels in Edinburgh .

Edinburgh in Winter Activities and Events

1. edinburgh christmas market.

Start at the top of the world-famous (East) Princes Street Gardens and prepare for sensory overload – sounds, smells, and tastes from around Europe.

You can enter the market by The Royal Scottish Academy or the North Bridge.

Warm up with mulled wine, deluxe hot chocolate, and even hot toddies as you wander through the vendors.

Street food ranges from Scottish venison burgers to spiral potato fries on a stick.

Probably one of the most identifiable landmarks in the market is the Big Wheel.

Soar 60 metres in the air above the shops, trams, and Christmas huts.

For rides, you need to purchase tickets at the ticket huts before you wait in line.

Running from 17 November to 6 January, the market opens from 10 am to 10 pm every day.

If you can, avoid the weekends as the line goes as far back as Waverley Train Station and then some.

If you want to be close to the Christmas mayhem but not in it, head to the National Galleries cafe for the floor-to-ceiling views of the market.

2. Cocktails at Twenty Twenty

A wee hidden gem across from the Waverley Train Station, Twenty Twenty’s windows span the city!

Watch the Star Flyer while you sip on a Strawberries and Steam or classic cocktail.

3. The Dome Cocktails (George Street)

When The Dome winds its lights around its Graeco-Roman façade pillars, you know the festive period has started in Edinburgh. It is a tradition for many locals to grab a cocktail underneath the bar-to-ceiling tree.

The Dome also puts on a magical afternoon tea with seasonal sandwiches, warm scones, Christmas pies, and a selection of sweet treats.

Everyone talks about the Christmas scent that fills this institution! Good luck finding out what is in that magical potion. 

In previous years, George Street, where The Dome is located, has been partly closed off for festivities and light shows, and while parking is free in the evening, it is near impossible to find a space.

The Dome is featured in our guide to the best Christmas dinners in Edinburgh .

4. Christmas Lights Switch On

Kick off the festivities at Light Night as choir songs fill the air.

Previous locations include George Street and the Royal Mile.

5. Edinburgh Diwali: Festival of Light

Celebrate Diwali in Edinburgh this winter.

The event starts with a parade from St Andrew Square to Princes Street, then an afternoon packed with dance and music at the iconic Ross Bandstand.

Food will also be served, and the day ends with a fireworks display in the gardens.

6. Ice Skating at George Street

Get your hired skates on and fly through the New Town at the George Street ice rink.

Skates start from child size nine are available from the skate hire shop and included in the price of the ticket.

Book your skating time slot here .

7. Edinburgh Botanical Gardens Light Trail

Music, lasers, water reflections, and the tunnel of light, Royal Botanic Garden (Arboretum Pl).

This popular thing to do in Edinburgh in December gets busy. You can actually book your tickets now.

8. Edinburgh Castle at Christmas

Forget a Game of Thrones feast with horror and tragedy and enjoy an Edinburgh Castle Christmas afternoon tea instead!

Lunch is served in the opulent Queen Anne Room, fit for royalty.

9. Meet Santa in Edinburgh

Have you been a good kid this year?

Santa wants to meet you!

Book a breakfast, lunch, or just a meet and greet at one of the popular grottos.

Read the full guide on Santa grottos in Edinburgh .

10. Be Amazed by the Christmas Decor and Lights

Watch Rose Street, George Street, Cockburn Street, and alike twinkle as they are transformed from blank canvasses to free Christmas shows.

See Christmas colours at historic restaurants, modern bars, and busy shops.

We have a full guide on the best places to see deco and lights .

11. Stay in a Festive Hotel

Feel like you are on the set of a Hollywood classic movie at one of Edinburgh’s Christmas hotels where no money is spared for festivities.

12. Walk up Calton Hill

Ok, not very festive, but you do get magic views of the city all lit up.

The walk up Calton Hill is relatively easy and close to Princess Street.

You might just get some snow.

13. Hike Arthur’s Seat

A very popular Edinburgh activity throughout the year is the short hike up Arthur’s Seat.

It doesn’t matter that it is touristy because the views are worth it.

A great cobweb blower if you’ve had a bit too much the night ‘afore.

See also our guide to walks in Edinburgh .

14. Silent Disco Adventure Tour

I’ve now done the silent disco tour around Edinburgh twice. Once at Christmas and once for a fitness class.

It is such a laugh. You get given headsets that tune into the same frequency, and an enthusiastic guide coordinates a routine around Edinburgh’s landmarks.

Expect song battles, cheeky dance-offs to Mariah, and lots of public snap-shaming.

It is super popular (runs throughout the year and is always sold out during the Fringe), so book before it is too late.

15. Catch a Panto

He’s behind you! Oh no, he isn’t.

Pantomime shows are engrained in Scottish Christmas tradition.

Catch a show with the family at many of Edinburgh’s theatres and community centres. 

Expect goodies, baddies, talking animals, and a whole lot of crowd participation.

16. See a Christmas Show

If panto isn’t your thing, if you are child-free, I don’t blame you, then check out one of the festive shows running from November through to January. 

Musicals, ballet, and plays dominate the King’s Theatre, Edinburgh Playhouse, and The Festival Theatre.

17. Watch a Festive Film

Honestly, Edinburgh has two of the most charming film houses, the vintage Cameo on Home Street and Morningside’s Dominion.

You can even buy some alcoholic drinks with your snacks at the Dominion.

Chill with your partner on the comfortable seats, one of the romantic things to do in Edinburgh in December.

Giving the above a run for their money is the decadent Scotsman Picturehouse.

18. Watch a Festive Film in a Pub

Get comfy at the Brass Monkey film room, where you can lounge on thick mattresses while you sip on a beer and enjoy a seasonal movie.

Student discount is available, making this a perfect cheap thing to do this winter in Edinburgh for students before they go off on Christmas break.

19. Go Christmas Shopping in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is great for shopping any time of year, but especially at Christmas.

High street names can be found at St James Quarter, Princes Street, and Ocean Terminal in Leith .

At OT, check out The Leith Collective for gifts made by locals.

You can also find independent stores on Cockburn Street on the way to the Royal Mile and in Stockbridge and Bruntsfield.

Commercial shop sales often start just before Christmas if you are looking for some bargains at St. James Quarter.

Edinburgh’s Christmas market stalls actually sell some independent brands, so you can shop locally there too.

20. The Royal Boat Britannia at Christmas

Deck the deck with balls of holly…

Docked at Ocean Terminal, Her Majesty’s Yacht Britannia is the former royal yacht of the British monarch, Queen Elizabeth II, and damn those royals know how to decorate their sea home.

Read our guide to the RYB here .

21. Take That Insta Pic on Circus Lane

Circus Lane is cute every day of the year but super cute at Christmas.

The Insta-famous mews can be found in the New Town, wrapped up in green shrubbery with splashes of red bows.

22. Do the Santa Run

Make some space for the turkey and chocolates to come by running the 2.5K Santa Fun Run around West Princess Street Gardens.

This event is for charity; infants run free.

Did I mention you have to wear a Santa outfit?!

Remember to take your outfit home; there was an uproar about the mess left in previous years.

23. Eat a Traditional Turkey Meal

No, Scots don’t eat haggis at Christmas! Traditionally meals include turkey, sometimes ham, potatoes, vegetables, and everyone’s seasonal favourite, pigs in blankets. These wee cheeky fellas are sausages wrapped up in bacon. Delicious.

Christmas meals can be found at many of the Edinburgh hotels and restaurants .

24. Rooftop Rendezvous

Make it a date night or grab your pals for drinks at one of the many Edinburgh rooftop and beer garden bars , with heating, of course!

Drink with views of Edinburgh Castle at Cold Town House or Nor’ Loft.

25. Gorge on a Monster Marshmallow Hot Chocolate

The Marshmallow Lady makes crazy marshmallows and serves them in extravagant hot chocolate cups for takeout enjoyment.

Warm up with a toasted gourmet marshmallow the size of your palm plopped into a warm pool of hot chocolate.

There are also packs of marshmallows available at the shop in Bonnington (14 Rodney Street).

Highly recommend 10/10!

This is close to the Botanic Gardens, so you could combine a visit to their light show with a take-out hot chocolate.

26. Get a Buzz From a Hot Toddy

Even if you don’t like whisky, you might like a hot toddy.

It’s akin to a hug in a mug and is thought of as medicinal in many Scottish households!

Ingredients include hot water, whiskey, honey, and lemon.

Most whisky pubs have hot toddies on their menu by autumn when the temperatures drop or you can buy your own kits and make them at home.

Reading this abroad? Check out this hot toddy cocktail kit from Etsy.

Alternatively, go straight for the hard stuff and learn about Scotland’s national drink at the Scotch Whisky Experience .

27. Warm Up With Whisky

If this is your first visit to Scotland, you won’t want to miss an educational 4D tour of The Scotch Whisky Experience Tour and Tasting.

During the visit, you learn about the country’s whisky-producing regions, how the water of life is created, and a visit to the world’s largest collections of Scotch whisky.

See Edinburgh through new eyes after this whisky-tasting session, ha!

Reserve your ticket here .

28. The Johnnie Walker Whisky Experience

One of Edinburgh’s most popular attractions, The Johnnie Walker Whisky Experience, whisks you through the brand history using actors to tell its story, tests your personal preference using science and technology, and introduces you to whisky or high balls if you prefer some mixology.

This tour is not to be missed by first-time visitors; I don’t even like whisky but enjoyed it immensely.

29. Celebrate Hanukkah

Keep an eye on the Chabad of Edinburgh website for Festival of Lights updates in the city.

Special Mention: Jenner’s Christmas Tree

The Jenner’s tree, which was erected in-store by a team who harnessed the tree upright and then scaled the branches to put on the light and decorations, will be missed.

Here’s a video of what it looked like.

Edinburgh at Hogmanay

30. edinburgh torchlight procession.

Of course, the holiday season in Scotland only begins with Christmas.

The real partying starts in the run-up to New Year.

One experience loved by tourists is the Edinburgh Torchlight Procession on 29 December.

For the Procession, you purchase a fire and waxed-based torch with your ticket .

During the event, you walk with thousands of fellow torchbearers, pipers, drummers, and Vikings!

Regardless of how many times I hear the pipe band, the hairs of my neck still stand on end when the drums do their intro and the pipes whining kicks in.

The meeting point is The Meadows, and the lit parade walks through the Old Town.

I’m going to be honest here, I did the Procession, and I found that it was more waiting around than walking.

First of all, you wait in line to collect the torch; then, you wait to move on to the next section.

Once you are in place, you wait for your torch to be lit. Then you wait to walk.

Finally, the fun begins when you get to walk behind a local pipe band.

Glad I did it, don’t think I’d do it again.

Let us know your experience in the comments!

31. Night Afore

Filling the gap between the Torchlight Procession and Hogmanay, Night Afore events are scheduled throughout the city to keep folks entertained the night before!

Previous acts have included Paisley-born Paolo Nutini in the Princes Street Gardens.

This event is great for people who want to celebrate in Edinburgh this winter but can’t face the NYE crowds.

32. Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Street Party

Join Edinburgh for the world’s greatest street party! To really understand how to party Scottish style, get ready to ceilidh with strangers, party in the park, and make a new pal or two the bells. 

Beginning at 9pm, expect live acts in Princess Street Gardens, Scottish music and dance in the Tartan Zone, and some hilarious silent disco moves too.

As the bells welcome in the New Year, get ready for a firework display and belt out Auld Lang Syne!

33. Candlelit Concert at St. Giles’ Cathedral

For a more chilled yet still atmospheric Hogmanay, consider the city’s candlelit concert hosted by St. Giles’ Cathedral on the Royal Mile.

The event features a host of sopranos, tenors, and the St Giles’ Cathedral choir.

34. Loony Dook

On the 1st of January, visitors and some locals traditionally used to celebrate the new year by running into the Firth of Forth waters with the Forth Bridges as company.

The official event no longer runs, but there will be plenty of wild swimmers all over Scotland making a splash at the likes of Portobello (Edinburgh), Aberdour (Fife), and Gullane (East Lothian).

Check out our guide to Edinburgh beaches for more.

Weather in Edinburgh in Winter

Edinburgh’s weather in December and January is cold and sees dark mornings and evenings.

Sunset is around 4-4:30pm. While snow is unlikely, days can be damp and wet.

Pack accordingly because there is no such thing as bad weather in Scotland, just bad clothing!

If you are lucky, you will get to enjoy crisp mornings and glorious East Coast sunrises.

Expect temperatures as low as 1 degree Celsius and highs of a staggering 7!

Winters are getting milder, though, so it is not uncommon to see highs of 12 -degree Celsius on weather apps.

If you plan to travel out of Edinburgh to do a day trip or road trip , take the shorter days and seasonal opening times into consideration.

Edinburgh in Winter Packing List

• Layers such as cardigans and pullover sweaters or jumpers, as we call them in Scotland
• Tights with skirts and dresses
• Avoid denim if you can as it’s not pleasant when wet and takes an age to dry
• Waterproof coat\jacket and a padded warm coat
• Waterproof shoes or boots and trainers without air holes
• Hats, gloves, and scarf
• Umbrellas are a pain when windy
• Refillable water bottle – you can drink the water here
• Tote bags for shopping – bags are 5p in Scotland
• Camera! So much beauty to snap
• Anker battery packs for an extra charge on phones US / UK
• Hydration tablets for hangovers US / UK

Christmas Day in Edinburgh

The 25th (Christmas) and 26th (Boxing) of December and the 1st (New Year’s Day) and 2nd of January are official public holidays in Edinburgh which means there will be little to no activity around the city.

On Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, public buses run on a very limited timetable which you can access at the Lothian Buses website .

Trains do not run at all. Taxis will be difficult to find and will charge public holiday prices.

On Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, the main things that will be open will be:

• Hotels that serve Christmas lunch/dinner – reserve while booking a stay
• Chinese/Indian restaurants who do not celebrate Christmas
• Local convenience stores that do not celebrate Christmas
• Some pubs may be open on the 1st

Edinburgh attractions such as Edinburgh Castle, Botanics, Holyrood Palace, and museums will be closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day, re-opening on January 1st and 2nd.

Boxing Day used to be a big shopping day, it is less so now, but most major brands will open Sunday/holiday hours.

If staying in an apartment, get your grocery shop done before Christmas Day and enjoy the city to yourself!

Edinburgh Travel Information

Getting to edinburgh.

If you arrive by air, the airport is a short ride from the city centre. There are a few ways to get into Edinburgh, and it’s a good idea to have this planned before you arrive. 

• Edinburgh Airlink: This is a bus that offers free wifi and comfortable seating. Located just outside the terminal, you won’t have to look hard for it. Pre-book your ticket here .
• Private airport transfer. Take the worry out of waiting in cab lines and have a car pick you and your luggage up, taking you straight to your accommodation. Book here .
• Edinburgh tram: the tram runs from the airport to Princes Street.

Here’s our guide on the best ways to get to Edinburgh from the airport .

Getting Around Edinburgh

Edinburgh’s public transport includes the bus, train, and now tram. Lothian Buses have a useful trip planner on their site.

Buses run throughout the day and on a night timetable.

Edinburgh’s Airlink bus connects the city and the airport.

Edinburgh has three stations, Waverley is the most central (Princes Street 2 minute walk away/Royal Mile 10 minute walk away), Haymarket is in the west (closest to the West End and Murrayfield Stadium), and the Edinburgh Gateway connects users to the Gyle Shopping Centre and Edinburgh Airport.

Edinburgh Waverley has toilets (30p), showers, food places, and a bar.

Haymarket is smaller and has a coffee stall and M&S Food.

Trainline  is a great app/website for train journeys in the UK.

Edinburgh trams  run from Newhaven to Edinburgh Airport.

Purchase your ticket at the machine and validate at the machine before you board the tram.

Without a ticket? You will be charged £10 if caught. Day tickets are available.

The trams will be running for free after midnight on Hogmanay to get party-goers home safe.

We have Uber in Edinburgh (order through the app) as well as private taxi firms (order by calling) and black taxis, which you can hail down on the street or hire from a taxi rank.

Where to Stay in Edinburgh

We have a dreamy guide on the best Edinburgh Christmas hotels to stay at.

Alternatively, here is a snapshot of hotels to consider. I’ve personally stayed at all three.

• The Balmoral – Very close to Princes Street Gardens
• Ibis Hunter Square – Just off the Royal Mile
• Jurys Inn – Affordable option next to Waverley Train Station

Want more choices? Here’s our guide on where to stay in Edinburgh .

Final Words

Whether you are nipping to the capital for a weekend festive cocktail or choosing the city as your annual December trip, there are so many things to do during the Edinburgh Winter Festival. Tell us what you do in the comments below.

Our Christmas in Edinburgh Guides

• Festive Things to Do in Edinburgh in Winter
• Festive Santa’s Grottos In Edinburgh
• Hotels For A Wonderful Christmas Experience
• Restaurants Offering Christmas Dinner
• Magical Places to See Christmas Lights and Decor

Essential Edinburgh Information 

Food & drink in Edinburgh Best time to visit Edinburgh Things to do in Edinburgh How much does a trip to Edinburgh cost? Free 7-day Scotland itinerary

Everything Edinburgh

Everything Edinburgh is a friendly Edinburgh guide for visitors and locals. From food to festivals, itineraries to interests.

2 thoughts on “ 34 Festive Things to Do in Edinburgh in Winter ”

a little outdated now as Jenners is now closed and the waverley festival village, I don’t think is happening now either

Hi Nicki, thanks for your comment. I’m always updating our guides, just waiting on a personal visit up town and for official information to be released. I’m not sure what you are referring to re Jenners, the section says it is a special mention and it will be missed. Have a festive winter!

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• NORTHERN IRELAND
• TRAVEL TIPS

19 Best Things To Do in Edinburgh in Winter + Tips to Enjoy Your Visit

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost for you!

Heading to Scotland between November and March and looking for the best things to do in Edinburgh in winter ? You’ve come to the right place!  

Edinburgh is one of the most popular destinations in Europe . Although Scotland is not known for its good weather, visiting Edinburgh in winter is very good fun!  

The Scottish capital is a very dynamic city and has loads to offer all year round.  

In this article, you will discover exactly what to do in Edinburgh from November to March.

🔎 Table of Contents

Weather in Edinburgh in Winter

The weather in Edinburgh in Winter is fairly cold. The average temperatures are between 1°C and 7°C from December to March.

While it doesn’t actually snow that often, it can feel quite cold because of the wind. In terms of precipitation, autumn and winter are rainier than the other seasons so make sure you pack accordingly.

Why should you visit Edinburgh in winter?

Unlike what a lot of people think, winter is actually a very good time to visit Edinburgh.  

Of course, the weather can be a bit moody and you need to be prepared for a bit of cold and rain but besides that, there is a lot going on in Edinburgh in winter.  

The Scottish capital is a great winter city break in Europe.  

Going to Edinburgh in December is a great way to discover the city with the beautiful Christmas lights but also participate in cultural activities with locals.  

From January to march, the Christmas activities will be gone obviously but there is still loads to do.  

It’s also less busy than in summer which means that you will get to do way more and will avoid the crowds!  

What to do in Edinburgh in winter

Now let’s talk about the good stuff and discover what are the best things to do in Edinburgh in winter.

1. Visiting Edinburgh Christmas market

Edinburgh Christmas Market is ideally located in East Princes Street Gardens, right between Waverley train station and the National Gallery.  

If you are getting to Edinburgh by train, you only need to cross the road and can start exploring!  

The Christmas market has loads to offer.

Whether you’d like to find some amazing craft and local products or just enjoy drinking a delicious mulled wine, you will find it there!

Locals love going to the Christmas market as well.

The atmosphere is very friendly and festive!  

Edinburgh Christmas market is on from November to mid- December . It’s open every day from 10 am to 10 pm.  

2. Admiring the Christmas decorations at The Dome

The Dome is a cocktail bar located in Edinburgh New Town. It has an absolutely stunning Greco-roman facade with big pillars.  

In winter, it becomes one of the most visited places in Edinburgh as it features the most amazing Christmas decorations in town!  

They put them on quite early (October/November) and this kind of marks the beginning of the Christmas season in Edinburgh.  

It’s a great place to go grab a cocktail and enjoy the beautiful Christmas decorations.  

If you want to know more about it, you can also go on a walking tour in the new town.

The guide will show you the most interesting things about Edinburgh New Town (which is pretty underrated compared to the old town) and will explain everything you need to know about the Dome and the local traditions when it comes to their Christmas decorations. Prices and info here.

3. Checking out the Christmas lights

The Christmas decorations at the Dome are very impressive but it’s not the only place where you can find them.  

If you love to look at Christmas lights, make sure to walk along George Street and head to the Botanical Gardens.   Christmas at the Botanics has been running since 2016.

From November to January, the botanic gardens feature stunning Christmas lights and decorations!  

You can book your ticket online, on their official website.

READ MORE: 18 Best European Destinations for Christmas

4. Going on a Christmas walking tour of Edinburgh

If you love everything Christmas, you can opt for this Christmas walking tour.

The guide will bring you to all the best spots in the city! This includes the Christmas lights in the old town, the Dome, the Christmas market, the ice-rink and plenty more!  

It’s a great way to discover the festive traditions in Scotland with a local guide!

You will also go to a pub and drink a Christmas drink. Feel free to ask your guide many questions!  

Click here to see the latest prices.

5. Doing some Christmas shopping in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a paradise for shopping lovers! There are many shops all around the city centre so when Christmas comes around, it becomes even better!  

The main shopping street in Edinburgh is Princes Street. This is where you will find all high street shops. Primark, H&M… they are all there.   For food, you can head to the Christmas markets.  

For Harry Potter , craft and local products you can head to Victoria Street.  

Finally, if you’d like to bring back some souvenirs like tartan hats or scarves, the Royal Mile will be perfect.  

6. Whisky tasting

Scotland is famous in the entire world for its whisky which is why whisky tasting should be on your Edinburgh winter bucket list!

Not only you will get to try some of the best whiskies in the world but you will be indoor and clearly, what’s better than whisky to warm up!

For an authentic experience, book the whisky tasting and storytelling tour by Litte Fish Tours. It starts at 5PM and takes place at the Waverley Pub in the Old Town.

You will get to try 4 single malt whiskies (yep, it’s very good value for money!) and listen to some stories about the local legends.

It’s super interesting and the guide is adorable! Basically, it’s the perfect thing to do in Edinburgh on a winter evening.

If you wanted to try whisky during the day then head to the Scotch Whisky Experience , you will discover one of the most impressive collections of whisky in the world and of course, taste some!

7. Going to Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

Located near the Royal Mile, Camera obscura features over 100 interactive illusions. It’s very entertaining and fun!  

This is one of the top attractions in Edinburgh all year round but it’s particularly good in winter.

As it can get quite cold outside, it’s always a good thing to do an indoor activity.

Here you will find 5 floors of interactive optical illusions. It’s a great place for both adults and kids (and is dog-friendly!).

You can take beautiful photos and have fun trying out all the games.

On the rooftop, you will find the actual camera obscura and a member of staff will show you how it works. You can also go outside and see the beautiful views of Edinburgh including the castle!

8. Going to the national museum of Scotland

Located in Edinburgh Old Town, the National Museum of Scotland features amazing collections and various galleries of things to see!  

It’s one of the best museums in the UK and should definitely be on your list of things to visit in Edinburgh .  

In winter, it’s even more enjoyable as you get to warm up and escape the cold!  

And it’s free! Who doesn’t like free stuff?

There are loads of different things to see in the National Museum but make sure to check out the Natural World gallery, it’s very cool.

If you are travelling with kids, they will love it even more.  

9. Discovering the world of Harry Potter in Edinburgh

Any Potterhead here? Alright, if you love the Harry Potter books , Edinburgh will be your paradise.  

JK Rowling used to live in Edinburgh and that’s where she wrote most of the HP books.  

For this reason, you will find loads of Harry Potter sites in Edinburgh !  

This includes some sources of inspiration such as the Greyfriars Kirkyard or Victoria Street (aka Diagon Alley) but also the cafes where she would go and write the books.

If you are a true Harry Potter fan, I highly recommend going on a Harry Potter walking tour.

The guide will take you to all the HP sites and tell you many stories about JK Rowling and the books. It’s absolutely fabulous! A must-do! Prices and info here.  

If you don’t fancy the tour, that’s fine too but make sure to go to Victoria street to take some photos.  

After that, head to Elephant house to grab a coffee and warm up.

That’s one of the cafes where JK Rowling wrote Harry Potter.  

10. Going on a ghost tour

Edinburgh is one of the most haunted cities in the world. If you’d like to hear some spooky stories, going on a ghost tour is the perfect thing to do in Edinburgh!  

Ghost tours usually run in the evening. Yep, it’s always spookier at night!  

There are loads of stories and legends in Edinburgh. Murders, ghosts, witches… you name it!  

The tour starts on the Royal mile. You will go through some dark hallways and end up at the Greyfriars Kirkyard which is known as one of the most haunted graveyards in the world!  

You will learn loads of stories but the scariest (in my opinion at least) is the one about Bloody MacKenzie.  

As much as I’d love to tell you this story, I’m getting goosebumps just by writing about it so I think it’s better if I let you discover it on the tour!   Make sure to wear a warm coat and beanie for this one.

This ghost tour is perfect in winter as it’s even spookier but it’s also a bit cold so better to be prepared.  

Click here for more info and prices.

11. Going on a black taxi tour of Edinburgh

Walking tours are a great way to explore Edinburgh but I appreciate that in winter, it can be uncomfortable at times. If it’s raining, you can opt for a black taxi tour.  

You know these “super British” black taxis you see everywhere in London? Well, you can go on a tour in one of them in Edinburgh!   The taxi driver becomes your local guide.

He will explain everything about the local culture and give plenty of fun facts about Edinburgh.  

He will bring you to some of the famous sites but also show you beautiful hidden gems.

All of that, from the comfort of a heated car! Not bad, right?  

12. Eating haggis

Haggis is Scotland’s most authentic and famous dish.  

In case you don’t know, it’s a savoury pudding made of liver, lung, heart and stomach of sheep.  

Basically the Scottish version of black pudding.  

Said like that, I appreciate that I might not be selling it very well however, it’s delicious!  

Of course, it’s not for everybody but if you like things like black pudding, you are going to love haggis!  

The best place to eat haggis is in a pub. You can find it in mains but also in a Scottish breakfast.  

If you want it for lunch or dinner, you can go to the Castle Arms on Johnston Terrace, they have very good haggis.  

13. Visiting Edinburgh Chocolatarium

If you love chocolate (who doesn’t?) then this one is for you!  

Head to the Edinburgh Chocolatarium for a unique chocolate tasting tour!  

It’s located on Cranston Street, just behind the Royal mile.

You will go on a 90-minute tour during which you will discover the history of chocolate and try some of the most delicious chocolate in the world.

This indoor activity in Edinburgh is ideal for all the foodies out there!  

14. Going on a food tour with a local

If you want to learn more about the local delicacies, going on a food tour is the perfect winter activity in Edinburgh!  

You will be going to a restaurant with a local guide and eat authentic Scottish food.

He will tell you everything you need to know about the history of the dishes, how the locals eat them and when…  

The guide will also give you loads of tips and recommendations about places to eat which is always a good thing!  

15. Visiting Edinburgh castle

If it’s your first time in Edinburgh, visiting the castle should be on your bucket list!

Located on a hill in the old town, Edinburgh Castle is one of the most beautiful Scottish landmarks.  

You can walk up to the castle and enjoy the views over the city. This part is free.  

If you wish to come in to warm up and learn more about the history of Edinburgh, you will need to buy a ticket.

You can do so at the entrance or online (this is a bit cheaper).  

16. Watching a musical at Edinburgh Playhouse

The UK is famous for its theatres. Most people head to London to see a musical but there is also loads on in Edinburgh.  

Edinburgh Playhouse always has some amazing shows on. If you’d like to see Hairspray, the Lion King, Phantom of the Opera or any of the classics, that’s the place to go.  

Plays and musicals change all the time so make sure to check out what’s on when you go.

You can also buy tickets online.

Best winter day tours from Edinburgh

If you have a day to spare and want to explore more of Scotland, going on a day tour from Edinburgh will be an excellent use of your time.  

Here are some awesome day trips to take in winter!  

1. Loch Ness, Glencoe and Scottish Highlands Day Tour

Who doesn’t want to see Nessie and the Highlands when visiting Scotland? Well, you can do so in a day from Edinburgh!  

Of course, I’d always recommend staying more than a day in the highlands but I must say that this day tour is a great way to see the best of outdoor Scotland when you don’t have much time ahead of you.  

You will be leaving from Edinburgh and will head to Glencoe and Fort Williams where you can admire the beautiful landscapes and even Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the United Kingdom.  

After that, you will head to Loch Ness and drive through the highlands.  

I particularly recommend this tour in winter because Scotland is stunning at this time of year!  

The highlands are covered in snow and it offers a very different experience than in summer.  

The snow makes everything magical and seeing the highlands in winter is like a dream becoming true.  

2. Outlander day trip

The TV series “Outlander” was filmed in Scotland. If you are a fan and want to discover some of the best filming locations, you can opt for a day tour from Edinburgh.  

This is a great thing to do in winter as you will stay in warm places most of the time (bus, castles…).

A must-do for any Outlander fans who want to discover the castle of Jamie Fraser and walk into Claire’s footsteps.

For more information and see the latest prices, click here.

3. Whisky day tour from Edinburgh

If you love whisky and didn’t get enough with the whisky tasting in Edinburgh, you can go on a full-day trip to some of the most famous distilleries in Scotland.  

Not only you will get to taste delicious whisky, but you will also tour the distilleries and learn how whisky is made.  

You will also get to see Doune Castle, a Game of Thrones and Outlander filming location.  

Click here for more information and prices.

Where to stay in Edinburgh in winter

When visiting Edinburgh from November to march, you don’t want to spend too much time walking or taking public transport if you can avoid it.  

I particularly recommend staying in the centre so you are close to all the main attractions and don’t stay outside more than you have to.  

The best places to stay in Edinburgh during winter are the Old Town and the New Town.   Here are some recommendations for both.  

Places to stay in Edinburgh Old Town Edinburgh

Staying in the old town is very convenient as that’s where most of the activities are. Here is a selection of places located only a few minutes walk from the Royal Mile.  

• Situated right across Waverley station, this hostel is one of the best one in Edinburgh. Prices and services are very good. As a general thing, this chain of hostels in the UK is always a good bet anyway!
• Booking an Ibis hotel is always a safe choice. This one is just off the Royal Mile which is super convenient.
• This luxury hotel is located in the heart of Edinburgh. It’s the most famous hotel in the city and where JK Rowling wrote the last Harry Potter book.

Places to stay in Edinburgh New Town

Staying in New Town is also very convenient. You will be close to Princes Street and Georges street, perfect to see the Christmas lights and go shopping!  

• Ideally located on Rose Street, Code Pod Hostel is a great base to explore Edinburgh at Christmas. It’s particularly clean and pretty affordable.
• This beautiful contemporary hotel is situated in the New town, only a few minutes walk from the station.
• Le Monde features unique rooms and amazing services. The location, on George Street, is also ideal!

What to wear in Edinburgh in winter

As previously mentioned, Edinburgh in winter is quite cold and rainy. It’s not horrible but you do need to come prepared otherwise you will find it quite unpleasant.  

Make sure you have:

• A good winter rain jacket. I particularly recommend Lighthouse Clothing.
• They are amazing quality and made in the UK.
• A beanie and a scarf
• Warm shoes, preferably boots
• An umbrella  

So, pack your winter clothes and enjoy your time in Edinburgh in the wintertime!  

You may also be interested in:

• Harry Potter in Edinburgh
• 20 Amazing Facts about Edinburgh that will blow your mind
• Edinburgh 2-day itinerary: How to spend 2 days in Edinburgh, Scotland
• The Ultimate Edinburgh Quiz: 90 Questions and Answers about Edinburgh
• Outdoor Activities in Scotland
• Warm Winter Destinations in Europe

Founder of Beeloved City, I am originally from France and have been living in the UK since 2016. I've travelled to 25 countries as a backpacker, travel coordinator and for holidays. I spent a year in Australia before eventually settling down in Manchester, England

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December in Edinburgh By Shawna Law -->

By Shawna Law

December in Edinburgh

Writen by Shawna Law

Winter Tales Book Festival (3rd-5th December, New College)

New College is hosting its first-ever literary festival. The festival will take place over three days and cover literature, religion and the imagination. Confirmed speakers include Robert Harris, Sally Magnusson, Val McDermid, and more.

Scottish Jazz Weekend (10th–12th December, Online and In-Person)

Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival’s has organised an exciting programme for Scottish Jazz Weekend which will treat audiences to Scotland’s diverse array of talented artists.

The National Whisky Festival (11th December, Summerhall)

Whether you’re a seasoned whisky enthusiast or a curious newcomer, The National Whisky Festival is a fun day out. There’ll be whisky tastings, masterclasses, pop-up food and drink stalls, plus live music.

Edinburgh International Magic Festival (17th–30th December, Various Locations)

Edinburgh International Magic Festival is back! The popular not-for-profit annual festival ensures fun for all ages through magic and the limitless possibilities of the human imagination.

ENTERTAINMENT

The festive season is upon us and with it comes pantomimes, ballet performances, candlelight concerts and more. However, this time of year can also be a little overwhelming so if you’re looking for a few peaceful hours away from the frenzy, we’ve tried to include a diverse range of events.

New Arrivals: From Salvador Dalí to Jenny Saville (Throughout December, Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art – Modern One, Free)

King’s Panto: Sleeping Beauty (Until 16 th January, King’s Theatre, from £19)

Scottish Ballet: The Nutcracker (From 1 st December, Festival Theatre, from £19.50)

Black History Walking Tour of Edinburgh (4 th & 12 th December, Melville Monument, £16)

Christmas Drive-In (4 th –5 th December, Murrayfield Ice Rink, £33)

Christmas Dinner (From 6 th December, Lyceum Theatre, from £10)

1902 – A Play 114 Years In The Making (6 th -11 th December, Leith Arches, from £13)

Vivaldi’s Four Seasons at Christmas (11 th December, St Mary’s Cathedral, from £19)

What the Dickens? – Immersive Christmas Show (13 th -19 th December, Stravaig Theatre, £8)

White Christmas (From 14 th December, Edinburgh Playhouse, from £24)

Sir Ranulph Fiennes: Living Dangerously (18 th December, Usher Hall, From £29.70)

Glasgow Experimental Music Series (19 th December, Fruitmarket Gallery, Free)

The Best of Scottish Comedy Hogmanay Special (31 st December, The Stand, £30)

SEASONAL EVENTS

After a year away from tradition festive celebrations, it’s clear that Edinburgh is making up for lost time so here are a few more events that are guaranteed to get you in the Christmas spirit.

Festive Afternoon Tea at The Colonnades (throughout December, Signet Library, £50 per person)

Enjoy a decadent festive afternoon tea at The Colonnades with sandwiches, delectable savouries and cakes made using the finest seasonal ingredients and served on silver tea stands.

Edinburgh Zoo’s Christmas Nights (until 2 nd January, Edinburgh Zoo, £18)

Looking for a fun event for the family? Edinburgh Zoo is hosting a spectacular light trail – there may even be an appearance from Santa!

Christmas at the Botanics (until 2 nd January, Royal Botanic Garden, £20)

The Botanics’ hugely popular illuminated trail is back. Discover sparkling tunnels of light, dancing waterside reflections and trees drenched in jewel-like colour.

Edinburgh Christmas (until 4 th January, Various Locations)

Edinburgh Christmas is back and it’s bigger than ever! You can expect the annual Christmas markets, ice skating, and fairground rides as well as a new section in West Princes Street Garden.

The Mound Christmas Installation (until 4th January, The Mound, free) Edinburgh-based artist Hannah Ayre has installed a beautiful art installation featuring cascading geometric snowflakes beside Edinburgh’s Christmas tree.

Castle of Light (until 9 th January, Edinburgh Castle, £20)

Experience Edinburgh Castle at night with stunning visuals and state of the art lighting installations that guides you through the Castle grounds while you soak up the tales of this iconic landmark.

Craigies Santa Experience (From 3 rd December, Craigies Farm, £14.99)

An exciting festive adventure involving Mrs Claus, Santa Claus and the story of The Elf Who Saved Christmas at Craigies Farm!

Spectacle of Light (From 4 th December, Dalkeith Country Park, from £9.90)

Take a woodland walk through Dalkeith Country Park and enjoy luminescent blooms, the Nutcracker Garden and take in the view from Fort Douglas’ viewing platforms.

Edinburgh’s Hogmanay (29 th December–1 st January, Various Locations)

Bring this month to an explosive close with Edinburgh’s annual Hogmanay celebrations! Its hugely popular street party, torchlight procession, and loony dook are back.

LITERARY EVENTS

Edinburgh is known for its rich literary history and bookshops are an integral part of the city. Several host regular events and here is a selection:

Topping & Company (2 Blenheim Place)

Topping & Company will be welcoming four authors this month, one of them being, Alexander McCall Smith who will be chatting about his three new books (2 nd December).

Golden Hare Books (68 St Stephen Street)

Golden Hare Books has organised a cosy evening in partnership with Smith & Gertrude for a Wine & Cheese Book Club. Enjoy brilliant reads, beautiful wines and seasonal cheese! (8th December)

Lighthouse Bookshop (43-45 W Nicolson Street)

Lighthouse Bookshop has arranged two interesting literary events for the month of December, The Future Generations Book Group: Postcolonial Love Poem (online, 6 th December) and Women In Translation: Childhood (13 th December).

Portobello Bookshop (46 Portobello High Street)

Lastly, Portobello Bookshop is welcoming Juno Dawson to celebrate her new festive book with an Edinburgh setting, Stay Another Day. The event is scheduled to take place in person but will also be live-streamed (2 nd December).

Argonaut Books (11-15 Leith Walk)

Introducing Edinburgh’s newest bookshop! Argonaut Books is hosting a pre-launch Christmas pop-up bookshop from 11 th -24 th December.

Edinburgh is fortunate to have a variety of weekly neighbourhood markets to visit, here are a few to look out for.

Grassmarket Market (every Saturday, from 10am-5pm)

A weekly market offering freshly baked goods, seasonal produce, and local craftwork.

Leith Market (every Saturday, Dock Place, from 10am-5pm)

Sitting beside the Shore, Leith’s weekly market hosts predominantly food stalls as well as a few local makers.

Stockbridge Market (every Sunday, Saunders Street, from 10am-5pm)

Stockbridge is one of Edinburgh’s busiest markets selling a range of street food and lifestyle products.

Edinburgh Farmers’ Market (every Saturday, Castle Terrace, from 9am-2pm)

Drop by Edinburgh Farmers’ Market to browse seasonal produce such as fruit, vegetables, locally sourced game, and more.  

The Pitt Street Food Market (every Friday-Sunday, Pitt Street, various times)

This hugely popular street food market hosts a range of street food traders with live music.

SPECIAL EVENTS AND POP-UPS

A plethora of talented artists and makers call Edinburgh home. So, if you’re looking for a unique present for a loved one that also supports one of these local artists, visiting a Christmas market or fair is a good option. Thankfully, there are so many to choose from, here are just a few to look out for:

Abbeymount Makers Market (4 th December, Abbeymount Studios, Free)

The Abbeymount Makers Market takes place on the first Saturday of each month (11am-5pm) and showcases work from the talented resident artists, designers and makers.

Christmas on Castle Street (until 23 rd December, Castle Street, Free)

Castle Street is hosting a Christmas Fair with a range of independent makers and designers who will showcase their beautiful handcrafted products.

Ocean Terminal Christmas Market (2 nd -19 th December on Thursday to Sunday, free)

Ocean Terminal Christmas Market is predominantly a maker’s market so it’s the ideal place to pick up quality handcrafted gifts and enjoy delicious food and drinks.

Out of the Blue Christmas Arts Market (4 th & 11 th December, Out of the Blue, £2)

Out of the Blue Drill Hall is a hub for creativity and artists so where better to visit for beautiful gift inspiration. Over the two days, more than 100 artists will be exhibiting and selling their work!

Glow – Scottish Design Fair (4 th -5 th December, Dovecot Studios, £3)

Celebrating the best in local design, this is the perfect opportunity to support local makers, take part in a creative workshop, and pick up festive gifts.

Assembly Rooms Christmas Fair (4 th -5 th December, Assembly Rooms, £4)

3d2d’s popular annual Christmas Fair is back! Enjoy browsing the stalls of 120 of Britain’ finest artists, designers and makers under the Assembly Rooms’ stunning chandeliers and period features.

Summerhall’s Christmas Market (5 th December, Summerhall, Free)

Summerhall has hand-picked 50 of their favourite independent Scottish sellers and makers for their Christmas market. Pop along to Summerhall on the 5 th or shop from the comfort of your home with their virtual market.

Dovecot Christmas Shopping Evening (9th December, Dovecot Studios, Donation)

Dovecot Studios is staying open late for a very special after-hours shopping event. Enjoy a glass of prosecco and a mince pie while you browse their beautifully curated shop.

Hopetoun House Christmas Shopping Fair (10 th -12 th December, Hopetoun House, from £8)

Visit Hopetoun House for a luxurious shopping experience. There will be over 60 exhibitors offering a wide range of artisan and unique gifts for Christmas. The Stables Café will also be open for refreshments.

Support The Makers Christmas Market (19 th December, The Old Dr Bells Baths, £1)

If you find yourself approaching Christmas with still a few gifts to buy, pop along to Old Dr Bells Baths to browse a beautiful selection of locally curated handmade products.

Bruntsfield Christmas Night (1 st December, Eric Liddell Centre at 6pm)

Head along to Bruntsfield on the 1 st for their Christmas light switch on, Santa’s Grotto, discounts at stores, a fun treasure hunt plus mulled wine and nibbles!  

Cloud 9 Edinburgh: Late Night Shopping Event (2 nd December, open till 8pm, Cloud 9)

Cloud 9 is hosting a late-night shopping event with 10% off, refreshments and nibbles! There will be several late-night shopping events across Edinburgh so keep your eyes peeled.

Broughton Street Christmas Shopping Event (3 rd December, Various Locations)

Broughton Street, a haven for independent shopping, will be celebrating the season with a late-night shopping event! 

Tartan Blanket: Christmas Pop-Up (3 rd & 4 th December, Tartan Blanket Studio

The Tartan Blanket shop is having a sample sale with discounted prices plus the opportunity to browse their latest collection.

Coburg House Open Studios (4 th –5 th December, Coburg House)

Coburg House Open Studios invite you behind the scenes of their studio doors for a Winter Open Studios Event for a chance to get your hands on unique Christmas presents.

EDINBURGH WELCOMES

Last, but not least, there are always businesses opening their doors for the first time in Edinburgh. Here are a few which have opened in November and will be opening in December. Why not pop along and welcome them!

• Seb’s Urban Jungle Brunch Room – 187-189 Leith Walk
• The Refillery Waverley – Moorgarth’s Waverley Market
• Betty & George (coffee shop) – 1 Howard Street
• Harrods Beauty – Coming soon to St James Quarter
• Argonaut Books – Coming Soon to 15-17 Leith Walk
• Ocelot Chocolate Shop and Café – Coming Soon to 11A Portgower Place

Written by Shawna Law

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Travel tales, photography and a dash of humor

Winter in Edinburgh: Things to Do in Edinburgh in Winter

Last updated: November 3, 2023 . Written by Laurence Norah - 4 Comments

Edinburgh is one of our favourite cities in the UK, and we think it’s an awesome year-round destination. We’ve written a lot about visiting the city, and today we want to share some ideas for what to do during winter in Edinburgh Scotland.

Whilst the most popular time to visit Edinburgh is over the summer months, and in particular during the Festival Fringe that takes place in August, there are still plenty of reasons to visit Edinburgh in winter, including Edinburgh’s Christmas Markets and one of the world’s best New Years Eve parties.

In this post we’re going to tell you everything you need to know to plan your own Edinburgh winter getaway, including what to do, which month to visit in, tips on getting around, where to stay, and more! Let’s get started.

Things to do in Edinburgh in Winter

This is our guide to some of our favourite things to do in Edinburgh in winter. Of course, there’s lots more to do in the city, but these are the highlights we recommend you focus on.

If you find yourself with more time, we have additional ideas for you at the end of the post. We also have a guide to visiting Scotland in winter in general, for more ideas.

Visit Edinburgh’s Christmas Markets

If you’re visiting Edinburgh in December (or late November / early January), then you’ll find the city filled with all sorts of fun Christmas events and activities.

One of the most popular of these is the Edinburgh Christmas Market. This is a large and traditional German-style Christmas market as well as a Scottish market that fills much Princes Street Gardens from street level down into the gardens itself.

As well as stalls selling all sorts of Christmassy items, there’s food and drink (yay Glühwein!), fairground style games, and a variety of ride options.

These rides vary from the toddler-friendly Christmas train, through to the Big Ferris wheel, and one of my favourites, the Star Flyer – a thrilling chair ride which takes you high up above the streets of Edinburgh. You can also find Santa here.

Each year the rides and attractions vary slightly, but there’s always something fun to do. Entry to the Christmas Markets themselves is free, but rides and other attractions are paid. You can either pay in advance online to skip the queues, or pay in person.

Note that every year we have been in Edinburgh there’s been a discount offered to residents on many of the attractions, so if you live in the “EH” postcode area, bring proof of address like a council tax bill in order to qualify.

For loads more information on Christmas fun, see our guide to Christmas in Edinburgh , which has lots more ideas for what to do at this time of year.

See the Christmas Lights

Every year in the run up to Christmas, Edinburgh becomes festooned with beautiful decorations and light installations. In recent years George Street has played host to some enormous installations. In 2018 for example, there was an interactive light event called Silent Light.

Silent Light was a silent disco, where participants were given headphones and could dance under a huge light installation that flashes in time to the music. This was a lot of fun. Every year these installations and events change, so check local listings for what’s happening this year.

Another great light display can be found in the Edinburgh Botanic Gardens . The Christmas light trail here is spectacular, winding through the trees, and features both light installations and projections, as well as music and fire displays. This is well worth visiting. It is a ticketed attraction, and you should book in advance for this one to avoid disappointment.

There are plenty more light displays all around the city too, including the Christmas tree on the mound and on the Royal Mile, Princes Street, and George’s Street. We think the Christmas lights are one of the nicest things about winter in Edinburgh, and the UK in general – helping to compensate for those dark early nights.

Visit Edinburgh Castle

Visiting Edinburgh in winter doesn’t mean you need to skip out on the city’s major attractions, which for the most part are open year-round.

At the top of our list of recommendations for what to do in Edinburgh  is a visit to Edinburgh Castle . This impressive castle sits atop an extinct volcano in the center of the city, and is without doubt the most recognisable landmark in the city.

There has been a structure of some kind atop this hill for a very long time. So long in fact, that this is believed to be one of the oldest continuously inhabited structures in the UK.

The castle has a lot to offer the visitor, and you will easily be able to spend a few hours here. Inside the complex you’ll find a 12th century chapel, the Great Hall, mighty cannons, the Scottish Crown jewels, and much more. It’s also an excellent place to get views of the city, and we have included it in our list of Edinburgh photography locations .

We usually recommend booking your Edinburgh Castle ticket in advance to skip the lines. Advance ticket purchases are also cheaper than buying on the door, and you can show the ticket on your mobile so there’s no need to worry about finding a printer.

If you’re also interested in visiting Edinburgh’s other popular Royal attractions, such as Holyrood Palace and Royal Yacht Britannia, you can save money by investing in a Royal Edinburgh ticket , which also includes a Hop on Hop off bus. Using our link also saves you 5% on the Royal Edinburgh ticket.

If you are wondering if buying the tickets is a good idea for you, Jess wrote a  full review of the Royal Edinburgh Ticket here .

Walk the Royal Mile

Edinburgh’s Royal Mile is the name given to a connecting series of streets that run for just over a mile from Edinburgh Castle down to Holyrood Palace – the official royal residence of the British monarch in Scotland.

This street is absolutely loaded with visitor attractions, from the Scotch Whisky tasting experience through to the Camera Obscura , the Museum of Edinburgh , the Writers Museum and the Museum of Childhood .

Holyrood Palace is also open for tours, and this is well worth a visit. Formally known as the Palace of Holyroodhouse, this is where the Queen stays when on official business in Edinburgh.

It was also where Mary, Queen of Scots lived for a time in the 16th century, and you can still visit her apartments, which are in the oldest part of the building.

Go Shopping

Edinburgh is a good city for shopping at any time of year, but winter (and the run up to Christmas in particular) is definitely one of our favourite times to go shopping in the city.

This is largely because the shops go all out with their decorations, making the shopping experience wonderfully festive.

If you’re in Edinburgh in January or February though, don’t worry – instead of all the festive lights, you can take advantage of the post-Christmas sales! January in particular is an excellent month to snap up some deals, as stores look to get rid of their stock in time of the new seasons arrivals.

Climb Arthur’s Seat

Visiting Edinburgh in winter doesn’t mean you have to stay indoors! The city is often blessed with crisp clear days and stunning blue skies. If you happen to be in town for one of these days, we can highly recommend taking advantage of it and heading up Arthur’s Seat.

Arthur’s Seat is a beautiful extinct volcano, just a short distance (15 minutes walk) from the city center. Here you can take a fairly steep hike up to the top, where you will be rewarded with fantastic views – definitely worth the effort!

Just be aware that in winter it can be a bit slippery or muddy, depending on the conditions. It can also be quite windy at the top, so do dress appropriately, and we recommend wearing good shoes with ankle support ideally.

If you want a longer hike whilst you are in Edinburgh, we can highly recommend a trip to the Pentlands. These are found just south of the city center, and are a range of hills that offer a wide variety of hiking opportunities. Another option, closer to the city centre and with less effort required, is Calton Hill.

Calton Hill is a shorter walk up, and there are both stairs and a relatively easy slope to access the top. Here you’ll find the Nelson Monument, the National Monument, and the Dugald Stewart Monument, amongst other sights.

The view from Calton Hill across the city center, taking in locations including the Balmoral Hotel and Edinburgh Castle, is one of the most iconic photography locations in Edinburgh , and one we always recommend to visitors coming to the city – whatever the time of year!

Visit the National Museum of Scotland

As well as the many free museums on the Royal Mile, Edinburgh is also home to another fantastic free museum – the National Museum of Scotland .

This is a fantastic museum which has something for everyone – from interactive science exhibits through to natural history, cultural heritage, and art.

This is a big museum where you could spend a fair amount of time, and it is perfect for a rainy day in the city especially – although it’s worth visiting whatever the weather to be honest!

If you enjoy museums in general, and / or the weather is against you, you can also consider the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art , which is a little way outside the city center.

Visit the Royal Yacht Britannia

Rated by VisitScotland as Scotland’s best visitor attraction, the Royal Yacht Britannia was for forty years the official yacht of the Royal family. During her service, this vessel travelled over a million miles, carrying the Queen and other members of the Royal Family to destinations around the world.

Today, the Royal Yacht is permanently berthed in Edinburgh, at the Ocean Terminal. To get here, you can either take a bus or taxi from the city center, walk, or use the Hop on Hop off bus , which has a stop here.

On board, you’ll learn all about the history of the Yacht and the various people who lived and worked on board, from the captain and the Royal family, through to the rest of the crew. It’s a fascinating insight into how a vessel like this operated, plus you’ll get a chance to see the Queen’s actual on-board bedroom.

As mentioned previously in this post, if you are going to visit a few Royal attractions in Edinburgh, which consist of the Royal Yacht, Holyrood Palace and Edinburgh Castle, then you can save money with a Royal Edinburgh ticket , which also includes a ticket for the Hop on Hop off buses.

Learn About Harry Potter

Edinburgh has a strong association with Harry Potter, as it was in Edinburgh that J.K. Rowling worked on the first few novels in her hugely popular series, and in fact she still lives in the city.

As a result, there are a wide range of Harry Potter related activities to do in the city. Most interesting, in our mind at least, is exploring the various locations that may have inspired the books, from the names on graves in Greyfriars Kirkyard, through to the cafe’s where J.K. Rowling wrote the first novels, through to a pub that serves its own take on Butterbeer.

Of course, some links are more tenuous than others, and a great deal of the information that’s out there is speculation rather than fact. To help you figure out which is which, and to plan your own Harry Potter themed tour of the city, which is good at any time of year, check out our detailed guide to Harry Potter in Edinburgh .

The guide has all the key locations in the city that have a Harry Potter connection, along with a map, walking route, and tips and suggestions for the best Harry Potter walking tours in Edinburgh.

For more on Harry Potter, see our guides to Harry Potter filming locations in Scotland , and Harry Potter filming locations in the UK in general.

Celebrate Hogmanay

One of the world’s best New Years Eve parties is held every year in Edinburgh, and it is celebrated under the name “Hogmanay”, which is the Scottish name for New Years Eve.

The Hogmanay celebrations actually start on the 30th of December, on which day there are various events including a huge torchlight procession through the city streets (although events vary by year).

On New Year’s Eve itself, Edinburgh’s city center becomes a giant street party, with street performers, musical acts, bars, a Ceilidh, and more. There is also a concert in the gardens.

This is a huge event that draws thousands of people, and has to be seen to be believed. The highlight for many is of course the midnight moment itself, when a massive fireworks display launches over Edinburgh Castle.

That’s not it though. True revellers will want to continue the party into the 1st of January as well, where a variety of events take place, including the annual Loony Dook, where the truly brave (or foolhardy) dress up in the wackiest outfits they can find, and go for a swim in the Firth of Forth. I’ve done this, and yes, it is very cold.

We’ve been lucky enough to attend Hogmanay itself three times, and based on our experiences we’ve written a number of guides. You should start off with our guide to Hogmanay in Edinburgh itself, followed by a guide to what to wear for Hogmanay .

We also have a full guide to the Loony Dook if you’re feeling brave – although to be honest, this is one event that is just as much fun to watch as it is to take part in!

Have Afternoon Tea

When it’s cold and windy outside, one wonderful way to get warm and full is to enjoy a traditional afternoon tea. We, and in particular Jess, love afternoon tea – it’s a wonderful way to get a lot of delicious food in lovely surroundings, plus bottomless pots of tea!

We have had afternoon tea at a few locations in Edinburgh, but our favourite in winter is at the Dome . This is always spectacularly decorated for Christmas, and the building, which was a former bank, is also quite lovely. This is a really popular option though, so book well in advance.

Take a Day Trip out of the City

Edinburgh serves as a popular base from where to explore other parts of Scotland. Whilst some tours are not year round, there are a number of tour operators who do run year round.

There are also loads of options for things to do in Scotland in winter of course. For example, you can go skiing in Scotland in winter, you can visit the Cairngorms National Park in winter , and winter is the ideal time to visit the Isle of Skye without the crowds!

Here are some suggested tours to give you some inspiration.

• A  day trip to St. Andrews , home of golf, and the cute fishing villages of Fife
• A  day tour of Loch Lomond and Stirling Castle , as well as other highlights including the Trossachs and the Kelpies
• A  full day tour that includes Loch Ness, Glencoe and Whisky tasting . A long day, but a good way to see a lot.
• Another  full day tour of Loch Ness and the Highlands , including Glen Coe , but without the whisky tasting
• A day trip to beautiful Rosslyn Chapel and the Scottish borders

As you can see, there are plenty of options for day trips from Edinburgh , even when visiting in Winter.

When to visit Edinburgh in Winter?

Officially, winter in the UK runs from the 21st December through to the 20th March. However, we’d say that winter in Scotland tends to generally feel like it starts in November and runs through to the end of February.

Usually by November the leaves are off the trees and the nights are closing in. The clocks in the UK go back at the end of October, meaning that by November it’s usually dark around 4pm, and will definitely feel wintery! Conversely, by early March the days are lengthening, and it starts to feel a bit more spring like.

With this in mind, we’re going to say that you have three main months to choose from for visiting Edinburgh in winter, December, January and February. Here’s a breakdown of which is best and for what reason.

Edinburgh in December

December in Edinburgh is the time to visit if you want to do all the fun Christmas activities that the city has on offer. In fact, the official Christmas events run from around mid-November through to the first few days of January (you can see the official website for what is on when).

So if meeting Santa, shopping in a Christmas village, or spinning around in the Star Flyer are on your Edinburgh winter wishlist, we highly recommend visiting in December.

December is also the time to visit if you want to experience New Years Eve, or Hogmanay, in Edinburgh, with these events running from the 30th of December through to the 1st of January. Note that this is the busiest period in terms of the winter calendar, so accommodation will be more expensive and the city will be much busier overall.

If you are looking for a quieter experience, we’d suggest visiting right at the end of November or at the beginning of December, when things are getting going and there are fewer people out and about. St. Andrews Day, the patron saint of Scotland, has his day celebrated from the 30th November – 3rd December.

Edinburgh in January

Whilst the Christmas events are over, January is still a great time to visit Edinburgh. After Hogmanay, the city is much quieter at this time of year, so accommodation can be had for great prices, and you are unlikely to have to queue for most attractions.

It’s also a good time for shopping in Edinburgh, as most of the stores will have their January sales going on.

If you visit late in January, you’ll also be able to take part in “Burns Night”. This is celebrated across Scotland on the 25th January every year, and is in honor of Scotland’s famous poet, Robert Burns .

The night traditionally involves drinking whisky, eating “Haggis, Neeps and Tatties”, recitals of Burns poetry, and traditional Scottish dancing. Various venues across the city host Burns Night activities, and these are a lot of fun to take part in. See our full guide to celebrating Burns Night in Scotland for more information.

Edinburgh in February

February is the month that the days finally start to lengthen. Snowdrops (a small white flower) will start showing their heads, and the city starts to shake off the wintry chill.

There’s also lots to do in Edinburgh in February. The Six Nations rugby tournament (an annual competition between six of Europe’s major rugby playing countries) will be playing, with some of the games at home in Scotland.

February is also one of the best months for skiing in Scotland, and you could even do a day trip to one of Scotland’s ski resorts if you wanted to try skiing in Scotland!

It’s also Valentine’s Day of course, so romantics will likely be popping up to Edinburgh for a romantic getaway. Consider booking a weekend at one of the finer hotels in Edinburgh such as the Balmoral , the Witchery or the Caledonian .

Where to Stay in Edinburgh in Winter

Edinburgh has a huge choice of accommodation options, with everything from hostels to hotels and apartments on offer. Winter is a great time of year to visit as well, as for the most part (with the exception of the period around New Years Eve) there will be good availability and relatively good prices.

We’ve put together some options across the various price points to give you some ideas for where to stay. We usually use and recommend booking.com for accommodation when travelling, as we find they tend to have the widest choice and best prices. You can see all their Edinburgh listings here .

• Castle Rock Hostel – this well rated adults only hostel is 3 minutes walk from Edinburgh Castle, perfect for those on a budget
• Stay Central Hotel  – a very well reviewed budget hotel offering private rooms and private dormitory style accommodation, making it perfect for small groups. Also well located, minutes walk from the Royal Mile and other attractions in the city.
• Holiday Inn Express – a 3 star hotel offering good value in the old town near the main attractions along the Royal Mile
• The Grassmarket Hotel – another popular mid-range hotel found in the historic Grassmarket area, where there are many historic pubs. Just a short walk from the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle.
• The Balmoral – moving up to the higher end now, the Balmoral is one of Edinburgh’s most recognisable hotels. Found right next to the train station on Princes Street, this is a fantastic location for exploring the city, and is a moments walk from the Christmas Markets location.
• The Witchery – If it’s a romantic luxury break you’re after, you can’t go wrong with the Witchery. Found right next door to Edinburgh Castle, suites are beautifully furnished and the on-site restaurant is regarded as one of the best in Edinburgh. One of our favourite’s in Edinburgh, and perfect for a special occasion.
• Radisson Collection Hotel – this is one of Edinburgh’s five-star hotels, and the only one found on the Royal Mile. It’s perfectly located for the Castle and the highlights of the Royal Mile, and the on-site Italian restaurant is excellent.

If you prefer an apartment, then we recommend either Plum Guide or Vrbo .

Plum Guide doesn’t have quite so many choices, but they carefully curate their listings so their options tend to be of a very high quality whilst still being available at a range of price points. See their listings for Edinburgh here .

We’ve also used Vrbo all around the world, and they consistently have one of the widest choices of options to choose from.

If you can’t find what you want from the above choices, or you want some new options to try out, we wrote a whole post on the best alternatives to AirBnB which you should check out!

Getting around Edinburgh in Winter

Edinburgh is a compact city and is relatively easy to get around. Most of the city is accessible on foot, with the major attractions within a 1 mile radius.

It is worth bearing in mind that the city does have a fair few hills and staircases, especially in the transition between the old town, which is on a hill, and the new town, which isn’t.

Of course, foot isn’t the only option. There’s an extensive bus network and also trams that serves the city and surrounds, as well as taxis and Uber.

There are also the hop-on hop-off buses  that run year round, which are a good option.

Getting To and From Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a very well connected city, and is easy to get to and from.

Edinburgh Airport is just a few miles outside of the city, and is connected by bus, tram, Airlink shuttle , and private hire vehicles. From Edinburgh Airport you can fly to cities across the UK, as well as Europe and the US.

Edinburgh’s main train station, Edinburgh Waverley, is right in the heart of the city. Services operate direct to cities across the UK, including to London in around 4.5 – 5 hours. If you want to travel by train in the UK, we recommend you get your tickets on The Trainline , and book well in advance for the best deals.

See our guide to getting from London to Edinburgh for more on that.

There are also a number of long distance bus operators in the UK, who offer services to and from Edinburgh. We usually recommend either National Express or Megabus for long distance bus travel in the UK, and as with the train, tickets are cheapest when booked well in advance.

Practicalities for Visiting Edinburgh

What to pack for edinburgh in winter.

Visiting Edinburgh in winter means you are likely to get fairly cold temperatures, likely just a few degrees above freezing. Snow in the city center is uncommon, but possible, and rain is very likely. Whilst this might not sound too cold, the city often plays host to fairly cold northerly winds, which can make it feel a lot colder.

We’d advise packing layers of warm clothing, depending on how badly you feel the cold. Certainly, warm gloves , a hat and a scarf are a good idea. We have a guide to travel scarves here if you need some more inspiration! We can also recommend thermal base layers if you really feel the cold, and of course, a warm coat .

We have a detailed guide to what to pack and wear for Hogmanay , which should also help you plan your Edinburgh winter packing list.

Edinburgh, like the rest of the UK and Europe, use a 220v electricity supply. Unlike the rest of Europe, this is supplied through a three pin plug. As a result, travellers from most of the rest of the world, including mainland Europe and the US will need  an adapter like this .

We’d also advise US travellers to Edinburgh to check that their equipment supports a 220v supply, as the US uses a 110v electrical system. Most devices will have this written clearly on the power adapter, usually in the form of 110v – 240v. Don’t plug in a device that doesn’t support the right standard into a plug, even with an adaptor, as it will damage the device and may even cause a fire.

In our experience most newer laptops, phone and camera chargers and other small electronics work across the full voltage range, whilst larger devices like hair dryers and hair straighteners are not.

Edinburgh, and the wider UK, uses the pound, which is accepted across the UK. These will look different to the pounds that are issued in England, however they are the same. One thing to be aware of is that currency conversion locations in some countries do often get confused by these “Scottish” pounds, despite them being legal tender, so you might want to either spend them all, or exchange them for English pounds or your own currency before leaving.

Pounds are widely available from ATM’s, banks and currency exchanges across the city and country. Credit cards are also widely accepted, and there is no need to carry large quantities of currency.  Most credit cards will work fine, but be aware that American Express is not as widely accepted in Scotland as it is in England.

If you do decide to use a foreign credit or debit card in the UK, just make sure it doesn’t charge foreign exchange fees or have a poor currency conversion rate. There are a number of excellent credit cards for travellers, and it’s always worth checking to be sure you have a good deal before travelling and racking up unexpected fees.

Internet Access

Internet access is widely available in the form of WiFi all around the city, including in hotels and coffee shops, so you shouldn’t have any trouble getting online. You can also pick up local SIM cards if you have an unlocked phone. These are usually excellent value as data rates in the UK are very competitive.

For more options on getting online when travelling, check out our  guide to getting online when travelling  to help you figure out the best options. We also have a guide to picking the  best travel router , which can help you extend a weak WiFi network and share it across multiple devices.

Water 

The water that comes out of the taps in Edinburgh and the wider UK is safe to drink unless otherwise indicated. Whilst water fountains aren’t always easy to come by, you can nearly always get tap water at a restaurant or cafe.

We recommend you travel with a  re-usable water bottle like this  to save on having to buy water bottles.

Edinburgh is a safe city in our experience, although as with any major city, of course you need to keep your wits about you – keep your possessions in view all the time, keep your wallet or phone in a front pocket (with a zip if possible), and don’t do anything that you wouldn’t do at home.

If you’re going to use a taxi, make sure you use a licensed operator. These will have clear markings on the vehicle, and the drivers private hire license will be clearly displayed.

We’ve never had any issues of safety in the city in the years we’ve visited, but of course it is always worth being vigilant.

Further Reading

That sums up our guide to visiting Edinburgh in winter. Hopefully you found it useful and it will help you plan a wonderful wintery adventure in this lovely Scottish city.

Before you go though, we wanted to share with you some of our other guides. We’ve lived in Scotland for a while, and have put together a lot of content to help you plan an epic Scottish trip, both to Edinburgh, and beyond! Here are some of our favourites.

• We have a detailed guide to spending  Christmas in Edinburgh
• Our definitive  guide to attending Edinburgh’s Hogmanay , based on our experiences attending. We also have a guide to taking part in the fun  Loony Dook  event on New Years day, as well as a guide to what to pack and wear for Hogmanay
• If you’re interested in attending some of the other festivals in Edinburgh, check out our guide to attending  Edinburgh’s August festivals , the Edinburgh Fringe specifically, as well as the official Edinburgh Festivals website.
• For even more ideas for what to do in Edinburgh, check out my  guide to spending two days in Edinburgh , our guide to things to do in Edinburgh , and our guide to off the beaten path attractions in Edinburgh .
• If you’re a Harry Potter fan, you’ve got to check out Jess’s Guide to the Best Edinburgh Harry Potter locations . If you’re with kids, you might also like to check the Context Travel tour that explores literary Edinburgh as well as some of the major Harry Potter sights in the city. Plus you get 10% off with this link .
• Heading out of the capital? How about a trip to the Scottish Borders or a tour of some Whisky distilleries ? We also have a comprehensive guide to the best day trips from Edinburgh .
• You might also be interested to learn about ski resorts in Scotland !
• We also have guides to what to do in Aberdeen , what to do in Glasgow , a guide to the Black Isle , suggested day trips from Inverness , a guide to the North Coast 500 – and lots more Scotland content to keep you going for a while!
• For budget planning, see our guide to how much it costs to travel in the UK
• And finally, check out our pages on  Edinburgh  and  Scotland , to give you lots more ideas for how to spend your time in this lovely part of the world.

Well, that should certainly keep you busy for a while. As always, if you have any questions about your trip to Edinburgh or feedback on this post, just let us know in the comments below!

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3rd November 2023 at 12:06 pm

The Christmas tree in Jenner’s that’s in the article hasn’t been there for a few years, the store is currently being redeveloped and won’t be reopening any time soon.

Laurence Norah says

3rd November 2023 at 11:56 pm

You’re right! I did remove reference to Jenners as I knew it had closed, but I had left in the picture of the tree because I liked it. But you’re right, I don’t want to mislead people into thinking there’s something like that to see, so I’ll remove that.

Thanks for stopping by and letting me know!

Lauryn says

9th December 2021 at 8:40 pm

Hi, I just wanted to make you aware that this article states that Burns night is on the 26th of January when it should say the 25th. Thank you.

9th December 2021 at 8:57 pm

Oh that is terribly embarrassing. Thank you so much for letting me know. Having attended many Burns Night events when living in Scotland, you would think I would remember the date! I’ve fixed that now.

Thanks again!

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Savvy Travel Advice

15 Ways to Celebrate Christmas in Edinburgh Scotland

Last updated: December 21, 2023 - Written by Jessica Norah 53 Comments

After spending many winters in Edinburgh, we are sharing our favorite ways to celebrate Christmas in Edinburgh Scotland. There are loads of things to do in Edinburgh during December, which include browsing traditional Christmas markets, ice skating, Christmas shopping, enjoying the holiday lights, riding the Star Flyer, and attending concerts. We cover all things associated with Christmas in Edinburgh from amusement rides to church services, and everything in between.

Whether you are a visitor or a local, we give you advice to help you find the best shopping hotspots, Edinburgh Christmas markets, festive afternoon teas, Edinburgh Christmas events, Christmas meals, light displays, and Christmas decorations in Edinburgh. We also share a brief history of Christmas in Scotland and some of the common holiday traditions. So let’s delve into our guide to things to do in Edinburgh during Christmas!

Note that our Christmas guide has been updated for Edinburgh Christmas 2023. The main 2023 Edinburgh’s Christmas events are taking place from November 17th to January 6th. I will continue to update this guide as dates and events are announced.

Table of Contents:

Although Christianity in Scotland dates back to the Roman Occupation of Britain, Christmas has not always been a popular holiday in Scotland. Prior to the Scottish Reformation , Christmas was celebrated in a manner similar to the rest of Western Europe. However, after Scotland broke ties with the Catholic Church  Christmas celebrations in Scotland were banned as they were seen as Catholic feasts and rituals by the Church of Scotland.

Even after the bans were lessened, Christmas celebrations continued to be suppressed and discouraged by the church. Hogmanay (celebration of the New Year) became the most celebrated Scottish holiday, and Christmas was generally afforded only a quiet acknowledgment and celebration.

Believe it or not, Christmas has only been an official holiday in Scotland since 1958 and it wasn’t until the 1980’s that it was widely publicly celebrated. The increased influence is likely due to a lessening of influence by the Church of Scotland, the influence of popular Christmas customs from countries like Germany, England, Ireland, and the United States, and the demonstrated economic benefits of Christmas markets and celebrations.

Today both Christmas and Hogmanay are widely celebrated in Scotland and considered important holidays. So now there are twice as many fun celebrations!

There are a lot of ways to enjoy the holidays in Edinburgh and there are loads of special Christmas events throughout the city. Head to the official Edinburgh’s Christmas  website to see what events are scheduled during your visit. The official events this year are being held from November 17th, 2023 to January 6th 2024 . 

Although the specific events change each year, our list should give you a good idea of what the city can offer and help you plan your Christmas in Edinburgh. Here is our list of the top 15 things to do in Edinburgh during Christmas!

** A Special Note for Residents of Edinburgh & Vicinity : If you have an EH postcode, you are likely eligible for discounts on Edinburgh rides, attractions, and shows. For instance this year, residents can receive 20% off on most tickets for Edinburgh’s Christmas. Be sure to check when purchasing your ticket, whether online or in person. You’ll need to show proof (e.g., driver’s license or bank statement) to receive the discount.**

Browse the Edinburgh Christmas Markets

The main Christmas Market is held each year in the Princes Street Gardens. It seems to get bigger each year with several lanes filled with little shops and kiosks selling crafts, art, gifts, food, and more. It also now is spread out into part of George Street as well where you find even more booths, rides, and attractions so be sure to head there as well.

Typically, the market at the Princes Street Gardens features traditional European Christmas stalls and is often referred to as the “German Christmas Market”, and the George Street section features Scottish products and is often referred to as the “Scottish Christmas Market”.

You can find a bit of everything at the Christmas markets and some things we saw there this year were painted nutcrackers, scarfs, carved nativity scenes, leather wallets and purses, flavored coffee beans, candles, personalized engraved gifts, Christmas ornaments, stuffed animals, and chocolates.

Although many of the food stands feature German food such as German sausages, there are a number of options which include hamburgers, salmon filets, pulled pork, crepes, and churros.

There are also stands selling hot drinks such as hot chocolate and coffee, and alcoholic options like hot cider, mulled wine (often advertised using German word  Glühwein) , and hot toddies. There is also usually one stall selling Glayva drinks, Glayva is a local whisky that has a spicy taste and is good on its own or paired with coffee or hot apple juice. 

Seek out Holiday Lights

Seeking out festive twinkling light displays is a great way to get into the Christmas spirit in Edinburgh! I am a bit spoiled as I’ve been to some amazing over-the-top light displays in the United States, and have found the ones here in Scotland to be a bit more subdued and fewer people decorate their homes. However, you can still find some great lights here.

Our favorite find so far is the evening light trail at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh . Each evening from November 16th to December 30th, they have illuminated trails that include lots of lights, music, and illuminations. It is a really well done display and great for families. You can also buy hot chocolate or mulled wine to enjoy along the trail. There is an entrance fee and you just need to book tickets online in advance. Entries are timed to ensure that the trail doesn’t get too crowded. 

Although not exactly Christmas lights, Edinburgh Castle is having illuminations evenings as part of their Castle of Light programming throughout the Christmas season. There are also special Christmas packages for visitors.

In previous years there has been a Light Night. This is a festive event each year (normally in mid November) where the city’s holiday lights are officially switched on for the first time. There are also typically music performances, the lighting of the Christmas Tree on the Mound, and fireworks. Light Night is a free event, however the last one was held in 2019 and there has not been one scheduled since then as far as we are aware.

In terms of streets, the best street to walk along for lights and decorations is George Street as there is normally a large light installation here. The Dome on George Street is well-known for its lights as each year it places fairy lights and huge Christmas wreaths around its Corinthian columns. It is one of the most Instagrammed Edinburgh Christmas spots each year. 

You’ll find more light displays around the city and these change each year, so be on the look out!

Go Ice Skating

For over 20 years, there has been an outdoor ice skating rink in central Edinburgh as part of the Christmas celebration. Originally at Princes Street Garden and then in St. Andrews Square. This has long been a very popular attraction for both locals and tourists.

In 2023 the ice-skating rink will be on George Street. The rink is open to kids, adults, and wheelchair users! You can book tickets that include a skate rental or bring your own skates.

If you want a larger ice skating rink, check out the Murrayfield Ice Rink , an indoor skating rink located about a 15 minute drive from central Edinburgh. This offer general public skating sessions each day.

Enjoy a Festive Afternoon Tea 

A holiday afternoon tea is a great way to sit down, warm up, and enjoy a break from all the other festivities. There are a number of places in Edinburgh that offer special Christmas time afternoon teas with the best known being The Do me .

T he Dome is known for going over the top with its holiday decorations with lots of lights, garlands, and decorations filling its interior. Time slots for afternoon tea in the Georgian Room at The Dome normally fill up several days in advance during the holiday season, so making a reservation is strongly recommended. If you are not into afternoon tea, The Dome also serves lunch, drinks, and dinner in its bars and restaurants if you’d still like to come enjoy the holiday decorations.

Other spots that normally serve Christmas afternoon teas in Edinburgh (as well as normal afternoon tea service the rest of the year) are The Si gnet Library , Prestonfield ,  Hilton Edinburgh Carlton Hotel , The Balmoral , Mercure Edinburgh , Sheraton Edinburgh , and The Caledonian . Reservations are strongly recommended (or required) for these afternoon teas to ensure you get a table. 

Many of the city’s big attractions also serve afternoon tea, including the tea room at the Royal Yacht Britannia , café at Holyrood Palace (admission tickets here ), and the tea room at Edinburgh Castle . These attractions often have a special festive afternoon tea on offer during December, and can be special places to enjoy a more casual tea experience while out sightseeing.

See the Nativity & Attend the Nativity Carol Concert

In 2023, a new nativity scene for Edinburgh was created by sculpture Thomas Hildenbrand in Germany. The life-size is an image of Joseph and Mary and can be found on the Mound.

A celebration, such as a concert featuring traditional caroling, is normally held each year around the nativity. The Nativity Concert for 2023 will be held on December 3 at the Ross Bandstand.

Note that in prior years (2003 to 2020), the main nativity scene in Edinburgh was Tim Chalk ‘s life-size sculpture which was often found in St. Andrew’s Square garden. It was retired in 2021.

Admire the Holiday Decorations at Edinburgh’s Top Attractions

December is a great time of the year to visit some of the big attractions as many of them will have special holiday decorations out. Many also offer special holiday themed tours, workshops, caroling, holiday meals, or after-hour tours.

Some popular Edinburgh attractions that usually have good Christmas decorations and/or events include Edinburgh Castle, Royal Yacht Britannia, Edinburgh Royal Botanic Gardens, Palace of Holyroodhouse, St. Giles’ Cathedral, Georgian House, and the Edinburgh Zoo.

Check the attraction’s website to see the latest news and what holiday events are happening during your visit.

Go Christmas Shopping

If you haven’t finished your holiday shopping, Edinburgh is not a bad place to be as there are a lot of stores in Edinburgh!

An obvious place to begin is at the Christmas markets on Princes Street gardens and along George Street, but there are plenty of other places to go Christmas shopping. Princes Street and George Street are home to some of the city’s oldest flagship department stores as well as a number of UK and international fashion, fragrance, and accessory stores.

Multrees Walk is the place to head for luxury stores like Louis Vuitton, Michael Kors, Coach, and Tesla. Independent shops are easy to find in the Grassmarket area, Stockbridge, The Arches , Thistle Street, and the West End. Good places to find local arts and crafts products are at the  weekly markets that take place in several locations throughout the city including Stockbridge and Grassmarket.

If you are a Harry Potter fan (or are shopping for one), you can check out our Harry Potter Edinburgh guide which includes a list of stores selling Harry Potter items.

If you are looking for high-quality Scottish items, such as bagpipes, whisky, cashmere, quaichs, tweed, or kilts, do a little research online beforehand to find the best stores that specialize in that product.

There are a lot of stores selling these items and the quality can vary substantially in the main tourist areas, although you’ll find gems even on the Royal Mile if you know where to go.   Take your time to compare quality and prices before making a purchase. 

Visit Santa Claus 

There are usually at least two places you can find Santa in Edinburgh from the 1st of December to Christmas Eve. The main location is at Santa’s Grotto which is part of the large Edinburgh’s Christmas celebration. A visit includes a bit of storytelling by Santa in a group, an individual chat for each child with Santa, and a small gift from Santa’s elves.

The Santa’s Grotto has moved around a bit over the last several years. Last year (2022) it was located on the lower level of West Princes Street Gardens in Santa Land. In 2023 Santa will be in St. Andrew Square.

If you want to see this popular Santa, I’d book a ticket online with a timed entrance as lines can get long and time slots can get fully booked on busy days. 

In 2023, the Edinburgh Zoo will also have a Santa’s Grotto (need to book Grotto ticket in addition to Christmas Nights trail entry ticket) as part of their Christmas Nights program. These are pretty pricey.

Another place you can usually find Santa is at the   Ocean Terminal shopping center in Leith but do check in advance. Other department stores, attractions, and charity organizations often have Santa visits as well so you may want to check online or a local newspaper for other opportunities.

Sadly, Jenners , Scotland’s oldest independent department store, closed in January 2021. This had been a great place to bring kids to see Santa. We also loved their magnificent Christmas trees.

Attend a Religious Service

Christmas has become a fairly secular and commercial time of year, but at its core it is a Christian religious holiday designed to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. The word literally means Christ’s Mass or Mass of Christ.

If you are looking to spend Christmas in Edinburgh and want to attend a religious service, you’ll have lots of options with many churches offering services on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. In addition to worship services, many churches also offer candlelit concerts and services, caroling, and charity events during the holidays.

The largest religious denomination in Scotland is Presbyterian so you’ll find a number of Presbyterian churches in Edinburgh such as St. Giles’ Cathedral (principal church of the Church of Scotland ), St Cuthbert’s Church, and Grace Church. We’d particularly recommend checking out the December concert events for St. Giles’.

There are also a number of Roman Catholic (e.g., St. Mary’s RC Cathedral, Catholic Church of the Sacred Heart) and  Scottish Episcopal  (Anglican) churches (e.g., St Mary’s Episcopal Cathedra, St John’s Episcopal Church) in Edinburgh. But there are also churches offering other Christian services such as Carrubbers Christian Centre (independent evangelical church), Quaker Meeting House, City of Edinburgh Methodist Church, and Abbeyhill Baptist Church.

If you are looking for a more informal nondenominational service, check out the services offered by The Salvation Army .

Enjoy the Music and Theater Performances

Each year there is a special Edinburgh Christmas events program which includes music, theatre productions, and other evening events. Shows range from family friendly sing-alongs to silent discos to adult-only oriented shows. They usually have a couple of shows that were popular from the Edinburgh Fringe .

If you are looking for caroling, there is an outdoor Nativity Concert (see earlier section about Nativity Concert), caroling performances at some of the city’s churches and cathedrals, and the Carol Service concert put on by The University of Edinburgh’s Chaplaincy service. 

There is also normally an annual Scottish Norwegian Advent Concert held at St. Giles’ Cathedral. St. Giles’ also has other Christmas concerts scheduled for November and December. You can see their program of events here .

For holiday concerts, theater, and dance performances, check out this site which lists productions held at a number of performance venues around the city such as Festival Theatre, The Usher Hall, the Royal Lyceum Theatre, King’s Theatre, and Edinburgh Playhouse.

If you are into comedy and  variety shows check out the schedule at The Stand w hich usually offers some special Christmas performances.

Check out the Christmas Trees

Each year there is a large lighting ceremony of a Christmas tree that signifies the kickoff of the Christmas season in Edinburgh. This free annual event, called Light Night, is family-friendly and huge crowds gather to watch the tree being lit for the first time of the year and to hear choir performances and music. The tree lighting ceremony usually takes place in mid-November on the Mound off George Street.

The tree that is lit is a gift from the Hordaland Country Council in Norway. The tradition of Norway gifting a tree to the people of Edinburgh is a gesture of thanks for the support Scotland gave the Norwegians during World War 2. The tree used to be sent from Norway, but is now sourced in Scotland.

Other places to find decorated trees in Edinburgh which usually also have a special lighting ceremony include the University of Edinburgh’s tree in the Old College Quad, the Christmas tree in the Grassmarket Square in Old Town, and the Christmas tree in Jenners department store. Some other places you can usually find beautifully decorated Christmas trees are in Edinburgh’s Christmas Santa Land, The Dome, Palace of Holyroodhouse, prominent hotels such as the Balmoral, department stores, and at the Edinburgh Royal Botanic Garden.

Take Part in a Fun Charity Event

There are a number of fundraising and charity events that take place during the holiday season in Edinburgh. These include performances, lunches, comedy nights, charity walks and runs, charity auctions, concerts, and more! Some are raising money for a number of charities, and some are specific to one type of charity. These are mostly local events, but if you are a visitor to the city you can also buy tickets to participate in many of these and help fund a good cause.

To help find the latest local charity and fundraising events, check out the What’s On Edinburgh website , The List , and local newspapers.

There are always at least a couple of holiday themed charity walks and runs in Edinburgh each December. Most have fun holiday related themes and many participants wear a Santa suit or reindeer antlers during the event. There is even an Edinburgh  Christmas Charity Festival that hosts a series of events (walks, runs, parade, live entertainment) to help raise money for a number of charities. 

One of the longer running charity Christmas events is the Edinburgh Santa Run & Walk each December where adults and children don provided Santa suits and run or walk to help raise money for When You Wish Upon a Star , a UK foundation which helps fulfill the wishes of children with life-threatening illnesses. In 2023, the Edinburgh Santa Fun Run is scheduled for December 10th.

If you will also be celebrating Hogmanay in Edinburgh (Scottish New Year’s celebration) and have a bit of a crazy streak, you might want to consider participating in Loony Dook. On New Year’s Day, Loony Dook “dookers” participate in a fancy dress parade and then take a cold dip into the freezing River Forth in South Queensferry, just north of Edinburgh. You need to register for  Loony Dook well in advance as it always sells out, and some of the money raised from the event goes to local charities.

Head to the Special Edinburgh Christmas Events

Each year, there are usually a few new or special events that are part of Edinburgh’s Christmas programming , many are free to the public.

For example in 2015 and 2016 there was the Street of Light, a walk through light and sound installation. In 2017 there was Ice Adventure, a walk-through indoor ice and snow sculpture installation, and the Giant Advent Calendar, a daily evening light-and-sound show. In both 2018 and 2019 were outdoor evening silent discos set to synchronized lights. In 2019, there was also a phone-guided night walk and 2 community-focused events.

Each year there is also usually at least one free art-related event. The Winter Windows program has been displayed at Edinburgh’s Christmas for the last several years for example.

The Winter Windows program is a collaborative enterprise between Edinburgh’s primary schools and local businesses and each year a different theme is chosen. The best artwork entries from students around the city are chosen to be displayed in several areas in and around the city throughout the winter season.  

Eat a Tasty Christmas Dinner

If you’re in Edinburgh during Christmas, you might want to have a special Christmas lunch or dinner. Traditional Scottish Christmas meals vary widely but usually feature a roasted meat, ham, or fish (turkey is one of the most common), gravy, cranberry sauce, roasted vegetables (potatoes, carrots, parsnips), stuffing, a green vegetable (e.g., peas, Brussels sprouts, broccoli), and kilted chipolta (sausage wrapped in bacon).

The traditional dessert is Christmas pudding (dense suet, molasses, dried fruit, alcohol, and spiced cake), but other common options are clootie dumpling (a Scottish version of Christmas pudding), a Scottish trifle, or cranachan (whipped cream, whisky, honey, and raspberries). Although not typically part of the Christmas Day meal, mince pies are very common snacks or desserts during the Christmas season throughout the UK.

You’ll find dozens of local restaurants offering special holiday menus in Edinburgh throughout December, and reservations are recommended at most restaurants. Some places to consider for a special Christmas meal are The Witchery, Ghillie Dhu, The Printing Press, Howies, Tower Restaurant, Hotel du Vin, The Balmoral, The Dome, Monteith’s, The Caledonian, Browns, and Prestonfield House. Some popular Edinburgh attractions such as the Edinburgh Castle also have special holiday meals. 

Many restaurants are closed on Christmas Day (so do be sure to confirm opening dates and times), but a number are open, especially those connected to a hotel, and offer special Christmas Day meals. So just be aware that most of the nicer restaurants will be serving special fixed menus on Christmas (as well as on Hogmanay), which are generally more expensive than their regular holiday menus.

For Christmas, a few of the restaurants that are normally open on Christmas Day (December 25th) include The Printing Press , Browns , Number One (at the Balmoral Hotel), Ghillie Dhu , and Howies . Each typically offers a special Christmas Day menu. Be sure to book well in advance.

If you are celebrating Christmas in Edinburgh, there are some common Christmas traditions associated with Christmas Day and the Christmas meal in the UK. In the morning, some families may attend church services and most people exchange and open gifts. The main Christmas meal is often served in the late afternoon and accompanied by the pulling of  Christmas crackers and wearing paper crowns (usually found inside the cracker). The Advent calendar is taken down today.

Another common UK tradition is listening to the King’s Christmas Message  which is broadcast live on radio and TV on Christmas Day. Watching Christmas cartoons and films (a couple common ones that were new for me were Arthur Christmas and the animated The Snowman short film) and listening to Christmas music is common throughout December. Many of these are more common in England than Scotland, but are widely practiced throughout the UK.

Let your Inner Child Loose on the Amusement Rides

Each year a number of amusement rides are brought in for Edinburgh’s Christmas and set in Princes Street Gardens and along George Street. There are normally about a dozen rides geared towards children and families, and then several oriented to adults and thrill seekers.

Santa Land, where many of the children’s rides are, also normally features other attractions such as a Santa Train, carnival games, and a Christmas tree hedge maze.

Two popular local favorites are the Star Flyer (spinning swinging chairs that go up really high) and the Big Wheel (a large ferris wheel), both designed for those who don’t mind heights!

Tickets for rides can be booked online at the Edinburgh Christmas website (valid for the date you choose) or purchased in person at the Christmas market. If you are looking for the shortest lines, the best time to visit is near the opening times and on weekdays. The rides do typically get busy after 4pm and on weekends. 

Where to Stay in Edinburgh during Christmas

If you are planning to spend the night in Edinburgh around Christmas, you have a lot of options for  places to stay in the city  from hotels and apartments to B&B’s and hostels. If your main reason for coming is the Christmas and/or Hogmanay events, I’d recommend staying in a central location that is walkable to the Waverley train station and Princes Street gardens which is where the Christmas market is based.

We’d recommend booking in advance to get the best option as prices are higher around the holidays and finding good value options at the last minute can be difficult. Many places are fully booked in advance over Hogmanay.

Below are some centrally located options, from budget to luxury, that are all within walking distance of Edinburgh’s main Christmas Market.

Budget Lodging Options

• Royal Mile Backpackers   – Located along the Royal Mile, this centrally located hostel offers dormitory rooms in a central location. About a 9 minute walk to the Christmas markets.
• Castle Rock Hostel  – Well-rated hostel with a castle theme, offering both dormitory and private rooms. Adults only. Located within the Grassmarket area near Victoria Street and a 10 minute walk to the Edinburgh Christmas market.
• Stay Central Hotel   – A very nice budget hotel that is perfect for those traveling as a group. Hotel offers rooms that can sleep from 2 to 9 persons, so can be a great deal if you have people to split the cost of the stay. Located about a 10 minute walk to the Christmas markets.
• Vrbo apartments – If you are looking for an apartment, check out the local Vrbo offerings.

Mid-Range Accommodation Options

• Motel One   – A popular modern budget design hotel centrally located in Edinburgh’s Old Town. Located only a few minute walk from the Edinburgh Christmas markets.
• Travelodge Edinburgh Central  – A 3-star chain hotel located just a few minute walk from the Royal Mile and a 6 minute walk from the Christmas market.
• The Grassmarket Hotel  – This 3-star hotel is located within the Grassmarket area and about a 10 minute walk from the Christmas market. Hotel has a quirky and colorful modern decor.
• Holiday Inn Express  – This 3-star hotel offers well-prices rooms in the Old Town. Located near the Royal Mile and about a 12 minute walk from the Christmas market..

Luxury Hotels in Edinburgh

• The Balmoral  – This 5-star hotel opened in 1902 as a traditional railway hotel and has long been a landmark hotel in Edinburgh. This hotel is a mix of traditional and modern decor and has some beautiful suites. Located next to the Waverley train station and the Edinburgh Christmas market is just a 1 minute walk away. This is about close as you can get!
• Waldorf Astoria The Caledonian  – This 5-star luxury hotel was originally built in 1903 as part of Edinburgh train station. Today, it is one of the top luxury properties with a modern leisure club, spa, restaurants, and bars. Located less than a 10 minute walk to the Christmas market.
• The Principal Edinburgh  – This 5-star hotel consists of seven inter-connecting townhouses and sits in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town. A beautifully decorated hotel with a mix of modern decor and vintage travel touches. Across from Charlotte Square, it is about a 5 minute walk to the Christmas market.
• The Witchery  – This popular boutique luxury hotel & restaurant named after witches who were burned at Castlehill in the 16th and 17th centuries. The hotel has 9 different themed suites which are lavishly decorated with Gothic touches, large 4-poster oak beds, antiques, and flamboyant decorations. A 5 minute walk to Edinburgh Castle and a 9 minute walk to the Christmas market.

So there are our top 15 things to do to celebrate Christmas in Edinburgh! Of course, if you are visiting the city in December or January, there are plenty of other non-Christmas things you’ll likely want to do in the city. Check out our guide for what to do in Edinburgh in winter and our Hogmanay guide .

If you are going to be in Edinburgh later in the winter, check out our guide to Up Helly Aa, which are Viking-led fire-filled festivals that celebrate the end of the Yule season in Shetland.

If this is your first time in Edinburgh, we’d recommend checking our guide to  top things to do in Edinburgh  and if you’re returning we also have a guide to exploring   Edinburgh’s lesser known attractions . Also if you are looking for what there is to do nearby, check out our Edinburgh day trip guide .

If you have time to explore further afield in Scotland, check out our Scotland winter guide for lots of ideas from visiting the Isle of Skye to  Cairngorms in winter to skiing in Scotland .

Do you think you would enjoy spending Christmas in Edinburgh? Have you visited Edinburgh in December or for Christmas? If so, we’d love to hear about your favorites things to do during the holidays. If you are going to be visiting, feel free to ask us any questions below in the comments and we are happy to try to help. We love hearing from you!

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Kriti Tula Post author

October 29, 2023 at 6:41 am

Hi, I am in Edinburgh from 23rd to 26th dec. I was wondering if you have suggestions for nice tours/day trips that will still be open around christmas to explore from Edinburgh? Best, Kriti

Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author

October 29, 2023 at 7:28 am

Happy to try to help. So there will of course be all the Christmas celebrations in Edinburgh itself and most of the city’s popular attractions will be open for part of the time you are there (and closed over the actual holidays).

In terms of day tours or day trips, there won’t likely be much going on December 24, 25th, or 26th as those are Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day. A lot of major attractions are closed over the holidays and most people are going to want to be home with their families and most companies are not running any tours on those dates. So I would probably try to structure your trip so that you can do the day tour out on December 23rd or 27th if those are possibilities.

If you can do a day trip on the 23rd or 27th, then there are several day tours with Rabbie’s leaving on December 23rd and/or the 27th. These include visits to Rosslyn Chapel, whisky tasting, Highlands, Loch Lomond, Hadrian’s Walls, castles, St. Andrew’s, Loch Ness, etc. You can see the available tours here . These leave from central Edinburgh.

If you want to do a tour but can’t find one leaving during your dates, you can request to book a private tour and see if one is available but these tend to be pretty expensive, especially if you are traveling alone and are not sharing the cost with anyone.

If you want to head out on your own, an easy day trip without a car is to head over to Glasgow . You can take a train or a bus, and walk around the city and/or use public transit. There is also a sightseeing bus. Since it is a city, there will be more open and things to do than in the smaller towns where lots of places are likely closed. There is lots to do in Glasgow but I would check specific attractions in advance as many will be closed or have limited hours during the dates of your visit.

Or you can consider renting a car for the day and going to a place like Loch Lomond or the Cairngorms National Park if you want to see some natural sites and maybe do some walking or hiking, both parks are nice and most things don’t depend on opening hours. Just note the weather in December is not always the best for outdoor activities.

Hope that helps and just let us know if you have further questions as you plan your visit to Edinburgh!

Best, Jessica

Alice Post author

December 13, 2022 at 9:18 am

Edinburgh is super fun during christmas + all the Hogmanay festivities!

December 17, 2022 at 8:37 am

It is indeed, hope you have a great time exploring Edinburgh over the holidays!

Karen F Post author

November 23, 2019 at 9:30 pm

Hi, I may be in Edinburgh in Christmas Day and Boxing Day. Am I likely to find things open such as pubs to eat and things to do? Or does everything close down?

November 24, 2019 at 12:12 pm

Hi Karen, Edinburgh is a fairly large city and although many places will close (or have reduced hours) you’ll be able to find places to eat, including pubs and casual eateries. Although as noted in the article if you want a special holiday meal, we recommend booking it in advance.

Most attractions will be closed, especially on Christmas Day but you should find a few open on Boxing Day. Just be sure to check hours. For example, the National Museum of Scotland is open in the afternoon on Boxing Day this year. But you also have lots of outdoor stuff to consider such as the Christmas Market, Calton Hill, Arthur’s Seat, neighborhood walks, public parks etc.

Karen Post author

November 24, 2019 at 12:21 pm

Ah thank you Do the Christmas markets stay open after Christmas Day?

November 25, 2019 at 1:26 am

Yes, the Christmas market opened earlier in November and is open until January 4th. The Edinburgh Christmas Market is open on Christmas Eve and Boxing Day (opens at noon I believe) but not on Christmas Day itself. The amount of Christmas stalls and activities does decrease after Christmas Eve, but you’ll still find that most of the rides, food vendors, and market stall shops are open until the 4th.

Halley Post author

November 22, 2019 at 7:09 am

This is such an amazing article! Thank you for taking the time to collect all this information in one place. I am visiting Edinburgh with my family (age range 16-88) over Christmas and New Year’s this year. One thing I’ve noticed is that many places are closed on 24th and 25th but we want to make the most of our time there and do some sightseeing then as well. Do you have recommendations for fun things to do that aren’t closed on the holidays themselves?

November 24, 2019 at 10:54 am

I think you find that several attractions are open on Christmas Eve (although some have reduced hours) in Edinburgh such as Edinburgh Castle and National Museum of Scotland, but yes most of the main sights are going to be closed for Christmas Day and Hogmanay (New Year’s). Many also on Christmas Eve and Boxing Day (December 26th). But you, of course, you have the Christmas Market (open Christmas Eve and Boxing Day) and all the holiday events. These are also good days to consider free outdoor things like a walk along the Royal Mile, exploring Calton Hill, climbing Arthur’s Seat, visiting the city’s gardens and parks, wander around areas such as Stockbridge, Dean’s Village, or Leith, etc.

There will be places open to eat so you should not have an issue finding meals although some places will of course be closed over the holidays. If you are looking for a special meal on Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, or New Year’s Day, I’d book in advance as many places will have special holiday menus.

You might also consider a day trip, for example I don’t think Rabbie’s has any day tour available on Christmas Day or Boxing Day, but I think they do have some tours from Edinburgh available on December 24th such as this day trip to Sterling Castle, the Kelpies, and Loch Lomond National Park.

Hope that helps! Jessica

Amjad Post author

December 6, 2018 at 9:53 am

Thanks for sharing this amazing article, great tips and awesome photos. I just visited London and saw how beautiful its decorated and looking forward seeing Edinburgh’s tomorrow.

It’s my 4th time to visit Edinburgh but it’s the 1st in Dec. Original plan was to visit last Dec but unfortunately I couldnt make it. It’s about time now to be there and i cant wait to take a deep breathe once i step out the gates..gates of freedom

Thanks again Regards, Amjad

December 6, 2018 at 10:09 am

Hi Amjad, thanks for taking the time to comment. Glad you enjoyed seeing London at Christmas and I am sure you will enjoy Edinburgh as well. Recommend taking a lot of time to explore the Edinburgh Christmas market as there are a lot of stalls to see and it is across multiple levels as well as the lights and attractions along and around George Street. The Christmas Market is the least crowded in the mornings and weekdays so that is when I’d recommend visiting if you can.

There are also several shows and events happening over the next few days as well 😉 Enjoy!

anna Post author

December 3, 2018 at 6:42 pm

SCOTTISH NORWEGIAN ADVENT CONCERT – St Giles, High Street, Edinburgh on Monday 19 November at 7.00pm.

Hi is it happening then? do we need tickets?thanks

December 4, 2018 at 7:48 am

Hi Anna, Yes, the Scottish Norwegian Advent concert took place on November 19th but this date has passed so you have missed it unfortunately. But if you are planning to come next year (2019) the concert normally takes place every year. You do need tickets, but they are free, just book them online on the Edinburgh’s Christmas website. Best, Jessica

Louise Post author

November 29, 2018 at 6:03 am

The largest religious denomination in Scotland is actually the Catholic Church whose membership is more than double that of the Church of Scotland (Presbyterian.)

November 29, 2018 at 6:14 am

Hi Louise, Actually, according to the last Census (the best data available), the Church of Scotland is still definitely by far the largest religious group in Scotland – 32% identified as belonging to the Church of Scotland and 16% identified as Roman Catholic. The number of people belonging to the Church of Scotland though has fallen a lot over recent years. You can see those stats on the Scottish government website here . The next planned Census (2021) will provide some updated data. Best, Jessica

Louise Bradley Post author

November 29, 2018 at 2:58 pm

Hi Jessica, I am actually a member of the Church of Scotland and their own statistics put the membership at 398,389 which is 7.5% of the population. The Church itself goes by it’s own statistics because claiming one is a member (as in the census) and actually being a member are two different things.

November 30, 2018 at 12:49 am

Hi Louise, Interesting, that number is very different than the 2011 Census data (1.7 million). But I suppose that is probably true of all religions as there are a lot people who believe in something but who do not necessarily become members or go to worship services. I am guessing, based on your number, the 2021 Census will show another large decline for those who report belonging to the Church of Scotland. Best, Jessica

Bella Post author

November 27, 2018 at 2:27 am

Edinburgh, it is an appealing venue, after reading this article now I want to visit the city on Christmas! It sounds as magical as London on Christmas. Last time I had a party of Christmas at in the Party Clubs of London, it was super with a very attractive environment with amazing drinks. Going to try Edinburgh this year!

Uma Post author

November 21, 2018 at 3:36 pm

Hi Jessica,

Thanks for this write up! I am in a confusion whether to go to Scotland during Christmas. I am planning to fly with my husband and 4 yr old daughter from London to Edinburgh for the first time, on Xmas Eve. I heard there wont be any travels/public transport functional on 25th and 26th. I am still a little confused as what to do on these 2 days as we are planning only for a 4 night trip to Scotland. I heard Scotland is “Xmasy” than London and really beautiful, and worth going. Do you have any tips or advice please?

November 22, 2018 at 5:54 am

In terms of Christmas stuff (decorations, markets, shopping, shows), you’ll find more to see and do in London than Edinburgh. London is much larger than Edinburgh and has a much longer history of celebrating Christmas in a public manner. This article outlines the highlights of the Christmas celebration in Edinburgh, which is the city with the largest Christmas markets and attractions in Scotland. So it really depends on what you want to see and do.

In terms of public transport, I think that you were given incorrect information. While transport services will be more limited on Christmas and Boxing Day (December 26th), there will still be a number of buses running in Edinburgh, you can see that schedule here .

If you decide to go to Scotland and are wanting to see some of the Highlands and perhaps some snow, I’d consider heading up the Cairngorms and Highlands for a day or two. You can join an overnight tour like this one , which includes your transport from Edinburgh, a driver/guide, and accommodation.

I hope this helps. There is no right answer, London is a great city and Scotland is beautiful. I’d base it on your time and what you specifically want to do.

November 22, 2018 at 2:26 pm

Thank you so much Jessica. It really helps and a special thanks for the bus time table.. I read that the tours/travels would not take kids below 5 yr old. Do yo u know what are the other reasonable means of travelling to highlands from Edinburgh?

November 23, 2018 at 3:25 am

You’re welcome 😉

Oh, yes, I forgot that on the scheduled tours the bus companies are unable to take kids under age 5. A guided tour or driving yourself are the easiest way to travel around the Highlands, but your options also include bus and train. You can also contact a tour company about a private tour as they may be able to accommodate children on those.

Buses can get you to all the cities and most of the larger towns and villages in Scotland. For bus, you can check out the Stagecoach and National Express bus schedules. Just note any holiday timetables.

Train travel is more limited in the Scottish Highlands . But you can travel to places like Fort William, Carrbridge, Aviemore, and Inverness. You can then take a bus or taxi from these places to visit spots further afield.

But if you are looking to just explore another Scottish city, in the Highlands or not, it is easy to get a train from Edinburgh to Glasgow , Aberdeen , or Inverness.

But if you only have 4 days, you can easily find plenty to do in Edinburgh and surrounds as well.

Katie Dougal Post author

November 16, 2018 at 1:26 am

I want to visit Edinburgh on the weekend of 4-6th Jan 2019 – will all the christmas stuff still be up that weekend?

November 16, 2018 at 6:53 am

While a few things will no longer be operating (e.g., Santa’s Grotto, Silent Night), the Christmas Market and most of the rides will still be going until January 5th, so you will still be able to visit and see the main Christmas stuff in Edinburgh. I would recommend visiting on that Friday if you can as weekdays tend to be less busy than weekends.

Some of the shows, like La Clique Noel and Kinky Boots, will also still have shows until January 5th so you can also get tickets to those for that weekend as well.

Elsewhere in Edinburgh, some of the other holiday lights and decorations will likely still be up until that weekend as well, but many places tend to take them down after Hogmanay.

Theresa Farrugia Post author

November 15, 2018 at 2:46 am

hi I will be visiting Edinburgh in December from the 20th to the 27th December. i will be traveling alone, and was wondering if any of the restaurants take bookings for one person only ?? also i would like to know if its safe to go out in the evening/and late evenings alone, or maybe go to a pub or restaurants ? how safe is it? i will be in a hotel in St. Andrews square. thanks

November 15, 2018 at 4:59 am

Hi Theresa,

Yes, I think most of restaurants in Edinburgh will take bookings for one person. Around the holidays though many places are closed or have limited hours for certain dates (e.g., Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day [Dec. 26th], NYE/Hogmanay) or only offer set menus on certain dates. So I would recommend starting to make reservations now since you know when you’ll be in the city.

I have never felt unsafe walking around central Edinburgh, alone or with others, so I think you will be OK with taking just normal safety precautions as you would in any other city. Crime does happen here of course, as it does everywhere, but it is not super common and I think most people feel safe walking around central Edinburgh at night. Your hotel is in located in the New Town area which is generally fairly quiet at night.

Of course, if you feel uncomfortable walking to your hotel after a night at the pub or something, you can easily book an Uber or taxi to take you there directly.

Hope that helps! Do let us know if you have any further questions as you plan your visit to Edinburgh for Christmas.

Brooke Post author

November 8, 2018 at 1:38 pm

Found this post because I have a trip booked for Scotland this December! Thanks for the great tips! I can’t wait to see the Christmas decorations/markets, as it will be our first Christmas in Europe this year.

November 9, 2018 at 2:06 am

Hi Brooke, Thanks so much for taking the time to leave us a comment, and wishing you a great time in Edinburgh in December. The Christmas markets are definitely a must-see if you are in Edinburgh around Christmas. The lights are also nice, we really enjoyed the ones at the Botanic Garden last year. Best, Jessica

Elin Post author

October 20, 2018 at 12:54 am

Dear Jessica and Laurence,

Hello! I’ll be coming to Edinburgh for Christmas day, still searching for a good Christmas day lunch or dinner for the 25th of December. Do you have any restaurants recommendation which are within friendly budget range? Maybe around less than 80 pounds per person? Your recommendations are a bit on the expensive side, would love to see if there’s any cheaper options.

Thank you. 🙂

Regards, Edellin

October 20, 2018 at 10:06 am

So glad you are going to be spending time in Edinburgh in and around Christmas 😉 Yes, Edinburgh prices in general are higher than the rest of Scotland, and the set holidays menus tend to be higher than normal, especially those on Christmas Day as many restaurants are closed.

You’ll find lots of holiday meal options and better prices on any other day in December as many close so their staff can celebrate the holiday at home. If you could shift your holiday meal to Christmas Eve or the 26th, you’ll have a lot more options within your budget.

Here is a list from doing a bit of searching. It is unclear if some of these are open Christmas Day or not, so you’ll need to double check, but here some more options:

– The Voodoo Rooms is offering 3-course lunch and dinner Christmas set menus for £24 to £29 (at least 2 persons). – The Ghillie Dhu has menus starting at £24 per person but it looks like their Christmas menus is £69 per adult. – Howie’s – this place normally has good value menus (2 course dinner menu for £15) – but their 4-course Christmas Day menus is £80 per person. This one clearly states it is open Christmas day. – Monteith’s has a Christmas menu for £39 per person – not sure if open Christmas Day. – The Tigerlily has holiday menus starting at £30 – The Grain Store has 2-course Christmas menus starting at £22 per person – The Printing Press has a Christmas Day menu for £85 per person (definitely open on the 25th) but have much less expensive festive menus offered on every day but the 25th

There are not a lot of restaurants open on Christmas Day, so once you find a menu that suits, I’d make reservations as many places will be fully booked.

Hope this helps, and I’d love to hear where you choose to eat on Christmas Day!

October 22, 2018 at 8:08 am

Dear Jessica,

Yes, we’re very excited since it’s our first time coming to Scotland and the Christmas timing couldn’t be more perfect, I hope it’s going to be fantastic! Unfortunately we have other plans on 24th and 26th, so we decided to have Christmas feast on the 25th. Anyway thank you so much for your recommendations, those are great options with friendly budget.

I’m going to check the restaurants and book the suitable one for me very soon.

Thank you for being very helpful, have a great day! 🙂

Regards, Elin

October 22, 2018 at 11:55 am

You’re very welcome and I hope you find a great restaurant for Christmas lunch or dinner in Edinburgh. We are actually going to the Ghillie Dhu for a Christmas Eve lunch and ceilidh this year 😉 Best, Jessica

Sharon.vaughan Post author

September 8, 2018 at 4:00 am

How do you apply the Edinburgh residents discount code when booking Hogmanay tickets on line?

September 8, 2018 at 4:14 am

I am not sure if there are any current discounts available for Hogmanay tickets, but there definitely are for the Edinburgh Christmas events. But if more discounted tickets go on sale for locals, it will work the same way (the events are run by the same company).

If you book online, you will be asked at the very end of the checkout process for your tickets for your mailing address. If you are an Edinburgh area resident and your postcard begins with EH then you should automatically get the 20% off discount applied to your order. If you purchase online, you should just be sure to bring proof of your address to show when collecting your tickets/entering the venue (e.g., driver’s license or bank statement or Young Scot ID).

If you book in person, you just need to bring proof of address to get the discount on the Edinburgh Christmas tickets.

Hope that helps!!

Jennifer Newell Post author

April 3, 2018 at 8:03 pm

What a fantastic article! I am planning to visit Edinburgh in December 2018. My fourth visit to Scotland, but first time in December! Can’t wait!!

April 4, 2018 at 5:29 am

Hi Jennifer, Glad you enjoyed our article and wishing you have a wonderful time in Edinburgh in December! If you have mainly been only in summer, it is definitely a different experience to be in Scotland in the winter. Jessica

Aileen Post author

January 4, 2018 at 11:32 pm

I live in Edinburgh and this is an amazing list of things to do in Edinburgh in December and for Christmas. I like the variety of your suggestions as I think there is something for everyone here, good for locals and travelers. I also like that you included the religious services and the meaning (literally!) of Christmas. We attend a Christmas mass each year and I am sure many Christian visitors may be looking for one as well in our city. Our family’s favorite thing is probably to just wander around the Christmas markets and then the rides for the wee ones, but only on weekdays (and early on in the season) when it is not so crowded!

January 5, 2018 at 3:49 pm

Thanks Aileen, always good to hear that a local found one of our Edinburgh articles useful and sound 😉 There is such a variety of things to do from the rides to afternoon teas to Christmas mass. We agree with you about visiting the Edinburgh Christmas Markets and rides on weekdays if you can, we also tend to visit in the mornings/afternoons, as evenings and weekends can be really busy. The days around Hogmanay are also very crowded and it can feel a but claustrophobic in the market area. Jessica

Hilary Post author

December 12, 2017 at 9:57 pm

I’ve always wanted to visit Edinburgh at Christmas! Your photos are stunning and are making me wish this was our year… It’s definitely happening! I had no idea that celebrating modern Christmas is a somewhat recent happening in Scotland. Happy Holidays!

December 13, 2017 at 2:29 am

Hi Hilary, Maybe you can make it to Edinburgh for Christmas next year?! Yes, the history of Christmas is really interesting in different countries. Jessica

Seana Turner Post author

December 11, 2017 at 4:22 pm

I’m so glad you posted this. I’ve never actually thought about going abroad at Christmas. I’ve always thought of Christmas of a “stay at home” time. But I have to say, this looks super fun! I think I would love being here. Maybe I could swing a trip earlier in the month and still be back for the 25th!

December 12, 2017 at 3:23 am

Hi Seana, Definitely! Many of the Edinburgh’s Christmas events begin at the end of November and are all in full swing starting on December 1st. You could definitely visit Edinburgh (or other European Christmas markets) in early to mid December and be home for Christmas with the family. A lot of people do river cruises as well on the Rhine or Danube around this time to see Christmas markets in different European cities, especially Germany. Wishing you a merry Christmas! Best, Jessica

Rob+Ann Post author

December 10, 2017 at 10:11 pm

So many pretty sights and, as always, great photos. You’ve got us eager to visit Scotland for the holidays now! (Granted, we’d love to visit Scotland pretty much any time. 😉 Thanks for sharing with us and Merry Christmas to you both!

December 11, 2017 at 8:10 am

Hi Rob & Ann, Hope you get a chance to visit Scotland during the holidays some time soon (maybe next year??). Wishing you a Merry Christmas as well! Best, Jessica

Anda Post author

December 8, 2017 at 9:37 pm

Your beautiful post took me back to the time when I lived in Europe. Christmas time was so charming and there was indeed so much to see and do at this time of year. But not here, in California, where there are about 28ºC right now. The city is beautifully decorated, and so are the stores and people’s houses, but there is no Christmas atmosphere in this heat. I’d love to visit Edinburgh sometimes in December. It looks so charming!

December 9, 2017 at 11:10 am

Hi Anda, I definitely understand what you mean from my five years in California. Most of California just doesn’t feel very “Christmasy” sometimes despite the decorations and festivities. We headed to Yosemite one year for the Bracebridge Dinner and that did feel like Christmas with the snow, mountains, winter activities, and decorated hotels. But on the other hand, it is has been cold and rainy here in the UK with the recent storms, so easy to envy the warm weather you are having there! Best, Jessica

Anisa Post author

December 8, 2017 at 1:12 pm

I would love to spend Christmas in Edinburgh! I went to the Dome restaurant when I was there last year and I loved it. Christmas tea there sounds like a great idea. I would also love to visit the Christmas markets, they look lovely. Thanks for sharing on TheWeeklyPostcard.

December 9, 2017 at 11:06 am

Hi Anisa, The Dome is really an over-the-top Christmas spot, it is quite “overdecorated” in terms of Edinburgh, but reminds me of places in the U.S. around Christmas. We are excited to go to The Dome for afternoon tea this year, we are going a few days before Christmas 😉 I hope you have a wonderful Christmas in Norwich and hope you get a chance in the future to come explore the Edinburgh Christmas markets! Best, Jessica

Ursula Post author

December 8, 2017 at 2:03 am

Thanks for sharing this article with the wonderful photos, it definitely makes me want to visit Edinburgh one day at Christmas time. I had to pin it so that I don’t lose it. I wish you a wonderful Christmas time!

December 8, 2017 at 9:02 am

Hi Ursula, Glad you enjoyed the post and hope you get a chance to have Christmas in Edinburgh in the future. Wishing you a wonderful Christmas and holiday season as well! Best, Jessica

Tanja Post author

December 7, 2017 at 10:16 am

Edinburgh looks magical in Christmas season! I’ve visited it a few years ago and loved it! I need to come again:)

December 8, 2017 at 9:01 am

Hi Tanja, Yes, December is a great time to visit Edinburgh and there are a lot of events and activities going on throughout the Christmas season. Early December is a nice time to visit Edinburgh as it is less crowded, but if you are looking for more people and liveliness, visit in late December and stay for Hogmanay! Best, Jessica

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12 Magically Brilliant Things To Do In Edinburgh This December

We're obsessed with all these un-brr-lievable things to do this December!

December is here, and it’s officially acceptable to put up your Christmas tree. With the Christmas markets staying for the month and the city fully livening up just in time for Christmas, there are plenty of exciting events happening around the Scottish capital. So, hold onto your mulled wines, because we’ve gathered a sensational list of terrific things to do in Edinburgh this December.

1. Indulge in striking cocktails at the freshly refurbished Copper Blossom

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Copper Blossom Edin (@copper_blossom)

For those looking for some seriously good cocktails and swanky decor, Copper Blossom is the place to be. Having just reopened at the end of November with a brand new look, the spot offers a whole new level of cocktails accompanied by small plates perfect for sharing. What is more, Copper Blossom is inviting guests for a wee Christmassy feast, starting from £23.95 for a two-course meal between Mondays and Wednesdays, and £28.95 during the rest of the week.

2. Enjoy a nostalgic Candlelight Christmas special

This festive season, get merry and immerse yourself in the holiday feels by enjoying seasonal music meticulously performed under twinkling candlelight . A special performance of our favourite Christmas movie soundtracks like Home Alone and Love Actually will be the theme of the concert, where a string quartet will give the famous tunes an exceptional remake. The experience will take place at Nicholson Square on December 16 and 21. You can book your tickets here .

3. Give Christmas At The Botanics light trail a visit

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Secret Edinburgh (@secret.edinburgh.smn)

Christmas at the Botanics is back for another year, and this time, hosting Edinburgh favourites such as the tunnel of sparkling lights, the colourful projection onto the front of  Inverleith House and the captivating Christmas Cathedral, brand new light installations will be unravelled throughout. The one-mile trail  is running between  November 16  and  December 30 , taking guests on a magical journey filled with festive joy and childhood wonder. Christmas at the Botanics attracted around  90,000 visitors last year, and the trail will certainly remain a hit this year.

4. Play your favourite retro games and sip on themed cocktails at this nostalgic arcade game bar

The good old days have been brought back to NQ64 Edinburgh , an  arcade game bar with all the nostalgic feels and more: from classic arcade games to old-school consoles, the neon-lit spot is a true treat. Located on  Lothian Road  near Usher Hall, NQ64 Edinburgh takes visitors back in time with its time capsule-like bar concept. The space is dotted with arcade games throughout and even has a separate wee room for  Guitar Hero. Moreover, one of the best parts of NQ64 is that you can sip on creative, game-themed cocktails while bashing those buttons in a competitive strike with your mate. You don’t need to book, just turn up, buy some tokens and you’re good to go, however, they are also taking Christmas bookings for the time being.

5. Check out the newest speakeasy bar in town

View this post on Instagram A post shared by ENCORE EDINBURGH (@encoreedinburgh)

Encore, a Moulin Rouge-inspired late-night speakeasy bar within the Parisian-style, West End Brasserie restaurant, is opening its doors this December. Guests can expect a laid-back and bouncing atmosphere, offering  live music and performances. Try out the Bohemian-style cocktail menu that will remind guests of visiting the French capital’s most iconic neighbourhoods.

6. Go see one of the most famous musicals of all time

The award-winning musical  Wicked is flying back to  Edinburgh Playhouse for six weeks from Tuesday, December 7, 2023  to  Sunday, January 14, 2024 . The world-famous West End and Broadway musical phenomenon, tells the incredible untold story of the Witches of Oz and is based on the novel by Gregory Maguire.  Wicked imagines the backstory and future possibilities in the lives of beloved characters from  The Wonderful Wizard of Oz and reveals the decisions and events that shape the destinies of two unlikely university friends on their journey to becoming Glinda The Good  and the  Wicked Witch of the West .

7. Dine under an immersive aurora borealis light show at Tattu Edinburgh

This winter, snowfall will dust the oriental paradise of Tattu Edinburgh  and the restaurant’s cherry blossoms will shimmer and sparkle alongside projections of the artic sky on the walls to create an  immersive dining experience known as The Great Snow this festive season. This December, Tattu will be bringing winter to Edinburgh minus the drop in temperature and allowing guests to step into an enchanted winter scene and be transported to China’s northernmost point, Mohe, nicknamed China’s ‘Arctic town’. You can expect to feel fully immersed in the Northern Lights as you enjoy a festive meal, while the restaurant’s wall art comes to life with a dazzling show of The Aurora Borealis .

8. Visit all the wonderful Christmas markets Edinburgh has to offer

As the first year in a long time with the festivities in full swing, the excitement for the upcoming season can be sensed in the air as you walk through the streets of Edinburgh. The nostalgic traditions of Christmas markets that come back every year have us in our festive feels, as well as provide something to look forward to in the dark days. While it wouldn’t be a Christmas without visiting the main Edinburgh Christmas market, there are still plenty of charming Christmas markets to visit around Edinburgh . The main market will run between November 17  and  January 6 and will see its traditional locations on Princes Street, West Princes Street Gardens and George Street.

Other noteworthy markets to visit are the Jupiter Christmas Fair at Jupiter Artland on December 3 & 4 , the Leith Christmas Brewery Market on December 17 & 18 , and the Leith Witchcraft Market on December 10 . And to check out our list of the best Christmas markets in Edinburgh, click here .

9. Experience Edinburgh Castle in a whole new light at this magical light trail

View this post on Instagram

Castle of Light: A Kingdom of Colours is going to bring a whole new side to the famous Edinburgh landmark with a cheerful  light trail within the castle grounds. Castle of Light will run every  Friday, Saturday  and  Sunday  from  November 24 until January 3 , excluding  Christmas Eve, Christmas Day Boxing Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Bursting with colour and spectacular illuminations , guests will be able to witness the Magic and Mystery  theme throughout the 60-minute light trail, such as kaleidoscope patterns on St Margaret’s Chapel .

10. Attend a Queen-themed bingo rave

The infamous Bongo’s Bingo is hosting festive Queen-themed Bongo’s Will Rock You  shows at Edinburgh’s  02 Academy . If you’ve never been to a bingo rave before, it’s as crazy as it sounds, where chaos meets organised rebellion in the form of an honest game of bingo. Guests can expect all of Queen’s biggest hits and loads of all-time Christmas classics, as well as crazy prizes and dance-offs. The remaining dates for December are 21, 30 and New Year’s Eve , helping ravers to see out the year, Bongo’s Bingo style.

11. Toast to Hogmanay at one of the greatest New Year’s celebrations in the world

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Edinburgh's Hogmanay (@edhogmanay)

It’s official,  Edinburgh Hogmanay  is back with the iconic  Street Party  to welcome in 2024 with a bang in the city centre. Expect DJ soundtracks, giant screens, funfair attractions and a complete selection of street food & drink throughout the arena. What is more, around 40,000 visitors from around the world are expected to attend the event, so come early!

12. Indulge in a flawless festive dinner at Gordon Ramsay Bread Street Kitchen

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bread Street Kitchen & Bar (@breadstreetkitchen)

We have found the perfect spot for all your meaty, dessert and cocktail needs, and it’s Gordon Ramsay Bread Street Kitchen & Bar . Located at  St Andrew Square ,  Bread Street Kitchen & Bar is a place of effortless splendour, where classic British cuisine meets modern signature touches. If you’re there for the signature Beef Wellington experience  or to indulge in the  large cuts , the portions are generous and are created to be shared. However, the spot is also offering festive menus this December. Indulge in a three-course festive set menu for £40 per person, including a traditional roast turkey . Festive cocktails are also up for grabs, such as the Cognac Mulled Wine with Martell VS Cognac, winter spices, mulled red wine, or the Christmas Peach with Monkey 47 Black Forest Gin, Peach Liqueur, orange, cranberry.

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Best Things to Do in December in Edinburgh

LAST UPDATED BY Simon Hill November 30, 2019

Edinburgh transforms into a winter wonderland every year for the festive period. The city centre is swathed in lights, there are parties galore and some great shops and markets where you can buy presents and treats for your loved ones. There are also some wonderful annual attractions which are bound to put a smile on even the face of even most hardened Scrooge.

The pantomime is an annual tradition which is loved by children and adults alike. The jokes may be cheesy and the costumes outlandish but it is hard not to be swept up by the atmosphere and find yourself joining in ... “he’s behind you!” As ever, this year’s pantomime at the Kings Theatre , “Goldilocks and the Three Bears" with Grant Stott looks set to be a crowd pleaser. 

There are a number of other great attractions for the kids, possibly the most magical of which is a visit to Santa Land . This great city center attraction includes a Santa Train, waltzers, maze, Reindeer Ride and Candy Cane Bungees. Of course you can also get to meet Santa himself and pick up an early present.

The ultimate festive attraction in Edinburgh is of course the Hogmanay (New Year’s) celebrations in the city center. In Scotland the celebration of New Year’s Eve comes close to eclipsing Christmas. The capital plays host to a massive street party with an open air concert, and a huge ceilidh culminating in a world class fireworks display. 

Edinburgh Santa Fun Run

The Edinburgh Santa Fun Run is a great annual event which raises money for "When you wish upon a star" - a worthy charity which brings some joy to very ill children across the UK. Every year huge numbers of fundraisers dress up as Santa Claus and walk, jog or run the 2.5 km course around West Princes Street Gardens. Even if you do not feel like dressing up and joining in, it is still worth popping along to enjoy the sight of so many Santas and perhaps making a donation to this excellent charity. Your donation may help send a ill or disabled child on a thrilling trip of a lifetime to Lapland!

Recommended for Things to Do in December because : The Santa Fun Run is a great way to have fun and raise money for a very good charity

Simon's expert tip : The event starts at 11 am on 1 December, but go along early for the warm up and to soak up the atmosphere

Read more about Edinburgh Santa Fun Run →

Christmas Market

Every year, between November 22 and January 5, the center of Edinburgh plays host to a collection of wonderful Christmas markets. The European Market stretches from the National Gallery on the Mound all the way along Princes Street Gardens and right up to St Andrews Square and features a host of gorgeous wooden toys and ornaments, German artisan delicacies, including sausages and gingerbread, and a wide range of arts and crafts stalls. The Children's Market in St Andrews Square sells beautiful hand crafted toys and offers little ones a chance to express their artistic side with a craft workshop and a gingerbread decorating workshop. Finally, there is the Scottish Market also in St Andrews Square with a plethora of Scottish goodies, including craft beers, local delicacies, clothing and jewelry. Great for shopping and browsing these markets are a fine way to get into the festive spirit.

Recommended for Things to Do in December because : The Christmas Market in Princes Street Gardens has quickly become a favourite festive attraction.

Simon's expert tip : The markets are open between 10am and 10pm, but if you want the full experience head there in the evening as the lights twinkling in the trees are simply beautiful.

Read more about Christmas Market →

Cameo Cinema

The Cameo Cinema is one of Edinburgh's best-loved independent cinemas. It has a comfortable, cozy bar and shows an eclectic mix of interesting movies. It was originally the King's Cinema and it is a stone's throw away from the King's Theater. It opened in 1914, so it's one of the oldest cinemas in Scotland. It became the Cameo in 1949, and in 1992 it expanded to become a three screen cinema. It is one of the venues for the Edinburgh International Film Festival where famous directors and actors come to talk before the premiers of their movies. It is a comfortable, relaxed place to catch a film and provides a real antidote to the typical multiplex approach.

Recommended for Things to Do in December because : The Cameo has a great program of festive movies from "Elf" to "The Muppet Christmas Carol" and "CBeebies Christmas Show".

Simon's expert tip : This Christmas the Cameo is hosting a dog-friendly showing of "It's a Wonderful Life" in aid of the Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home

Read more about Cameo Cinema →

Royal Lyceum Theatre

YouÂ'll find this elegant, nineteenth century building next door to the much larger Usher Hall. This theater has its own company that puts on high quality productions of modern plays, many by regional playwrights, as well as Shakespeare productions and plays by the likes of Miller and Chekhov. YouÂ'll also find that many ballet performances and children's shows are featured here. ItÂ's a three-tier auditorium with a stunning chandelier and lots of red velvet and ornate decorations. It seats up to 650 people and there are three bars to serve them drinks. There are also a couple of function rooms.

Recommended for Things to Do in December because : This years Christmas offering is the much loved A Christmas Carol (28th November - 4th January)

Simon's expert tip : The Lyceum version of A Christmas Carol features a guest appearance from an Edinburgh celebrity - Greyfriars Bobby!

Read more about Royal Lyceum Theatre →

The "Loony Dook" is a completely crazy Scottish tradition. After staying up all night on Hogmanay (New Year's) and drinking copious quantities of alcohol, brave souls plunge into a freezing cold river, loch or even the North Sea! This annual insanity is also a fun way to raise money for charity. For three decades Edinburgh revelers have been diving into the Firth of Forth in fancy dress for a variety of good causes. The Loony Dook at South Queensferry is a ticketed event which sees hundreds of people in fancy dress take the plunge. Last year it sold out - so buy your ticket early! You can also go along and spectate, as long as you contribute to the charity!

Recommended for Things to Do in December because : The Loony Dook is great fun and raises loads of money for worthy causes

Simon's expert tip : Do not forget a change of clothes and take shoes you can wear into the water - the beach is rocky

Read more about Loony Dook →

Festival Square Theatre

Thanks to the huge number of festivals and performances that come to Edinburgh each summer, there are plenty of venues in the area. This is one of the largest, hosting performances such as opera, orchestra concerts, and theater. It wouldnÂ't be a surprise to see a concert performance of the works of Vivaldi, Mozart and Haydn, but the following week there might be a stand-up comedian, an illusionist, a play, or some contemporary pop music. The glass front makes the bar a good place to sit and people watch, and there are plenty of good restaurants and pubs nearby for before or after your show.

Recommended for Things to Do in December because : Scottish Ballet's production of the Snow Queen (7th December - 29th December) looks likely to be a feast for the eyes and ears.

Simon's expert tip : Check the website for details of the pre-dining packages on offer from One Square Restaurant.

Read more about Festival Square Theatre →

For musical performances of every description, the Usher Hall is one of Edinburgh's most popular venues. It is also one of the most dramatic structures in the city. It was funded by the son of a whisky distiller who donated £100,000 and, after a competition to choose a design, it was finally opened in 1911. Decorative plaster panels within depict famous Scots like Robert Burns alongside famous international musicians like Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. It is owned by Edinburgh Council and has been refurbished a few times over the years at great expense. It can hold just shy of 3,000 people and it generally hosts music of all types, but it also serves as an Edinburgh International Festival venue.

Recommended for Things to Do in December because : This Christmas the Usher Hall is hosting The Nutcracker (narrated by Alan Cummings), and a host of other festive treats

Simon's expert tip : Choose your seat with care - they vary widely in price and in the view they afford.

Read more about Usher Hall →

Kings Theatre

Kings Theatre first opened its doors in 1906, and has been a prominent venue for performing arts ever since. Although the original frontage has been maintained, it was comprehensively renovated by Edinburgh City Council in the 1980's and has recently seen further improvements to the auditorium and seating. It remains one of Scotland's most prestigious and luxurious theater buildings. The Kings is the venue of choice for touring West End productions, but also supports local amateur operatic and theater productions. As well as hosting a variety of live acts throughout the year it is one of the Edinburgh festival venues and is home to an extremely popular Christmas pantomime.

Recommended for Things to Do in December because : This Year's Pantomime offering from the King's is Goldilocks and the Three Bears with Grant Stott.

Simon's expert tip : The venue does not have great wheelchair access, but there are a few dedicated seating areas and staff will bring drinks to wheelchair using patrons.

Read more about Kings Theatre →

Between 16 November and 4 January Princes Street Gardens is transformed into Santa Land. In the heart of the Christmas Tree maze you can find the Elves Workshop where young ones will receive a little treat from Santa's helpers. There is also a Reindeer Ride, Santa Train, Candy Cane Bungees, Waltzers, Chair-o-plane, and Race-o-Rama. More than enough to keep little kids (and big kids) happy! The traditional Carousel is a wonderfully nostalgic treat and the Helter Skelter offers great views of the city as well as a thrilling ride. Finally, who could resist a visit to Santa's grotto to meet St Nick himself!

Recommended for Things to Do in December because : Young and old alike will enjoy the winter wonderland that is Santa Land

Simon's expert tip : Santa will only be in his grotto from 20 - 24 December so be sure not to miss him!

Read more about Santa Land →

Hogmanay Edinburgh

Hogmanay is Scotland's world famous New Year's celebration, and the three day party held in Edinburgh is one of the liveliest in the country. Festivities begin with the torchlight procession and fireworks display on 30 December. On the eve of 31 December there is a massive street party in Princes Street (last year over 160,000 people attended) which this year will be headlined by Marc Almond, Idlewild, The Snuts, and Arielle Free (and many more). In the shadow of Edinburgh Castle the Concert in the Gardens is hosted by DJ Mark Ronson. Alternatively, you could opt for the Ceilidh under the Castle, or the candlelight concert in St Giles Cathedral. At "the Bells" (Midnight 31 December) there will be one of the world's largest fireworks displays. Anyone still standing can take part in the "Final Fling" ceilidh at 5.30pm on New Years Day.

Recommended for Things to Do in December because : Edinburgh's Hogmanay is one of the biggest and best New Year's celebrations in the world

Simon's expert tip : Many events are ticketed, and getting around the packed city center can be difficult, so decide where you want to celebrate New Years and go early!

Read more about Hogmanay Edinburgh →

Simon has lived in various corners of Edinburgh over the last 18 years. He fell in love with the city as a small child after visiting the castle and returned to study Scottish History.

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Simon Hill: Edinburgh Local Expert

Simon says, Don't leave Edinburgh without having a picnic in Princes Street Gardens and a saunter down the Royal Mile."

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If you’re thinking of traveling to Edinburgh in December, you’ll definitely have plenty to do! Edinburgh is a great winter, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve destination. December weather in Edinburgh can be chilly, ranging from 1 to 7 degrees Celsius, so make sure you pack layers of clothing, mittens, and a hat.

You should also be aware that on Christmas Day, Boxing Day (the 26th), and New Year’s Day, many places will be closed. Make sure you visit any tourist locations before or after those dates!

Read More: Edinburgh Hogmanay: What You Need to Know

Table of contents

1. edinburgh christmas market, 2. festival village, 3. visit the edinburgh dome, 4. christmas lights, 5. go ice skating, 6. edinburgh castle at christmas, 7. hiking arthur’s seat, 8. christmas shows, 9. holiday shopping in edinburgh, 10. visit the edinburgh chocolatarium, 11. enjoy a monster marshmallow hot chocolate, 12. edinburgh’s hogmanay street party, keep exploring edinburgh.

• Opening Time: During the entire month of December, from 10am-10pm
• Entre Fee: Free

One of the most fun December activities in Edinburgh is to visit the Christmas markets. The Edinburgh Christmas Market is a German Christmas market in Princes Street Gardens. It has Christmas crafts, gifts, food, drink, games, and rides. You can sip on mulled wine or hot cider as you tour the wares and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

The Market has a delightful Christmas train , a large ferris wheel, and its famous Star Flyer ride – which gives you a great view of the city. If you have little ones, you might want to visit Santa at the Edinburgh Christmas Market.

Read More: The Ultimate Guide to Edinburgh Christmas Markets

If you want to get a taste of the local grub, or grab a drink in a fun atmosphere, head over to the Festival Village on the Waverly Mall rooftop.

The pop-up locations there offer local products from Smugglers Spirits and The Secret Garden Gin and food from local vendors like Brothers Poutinerie and Butcher Boy. You can listen to music and dance at the stage area, or dine in their restaurant. They have a seasonal menu and a cozy fireplace to boot.

If you’re looking for a decorative, festive location to have a great cocktail, head over to the Dome on George Street. There, you’ll see an enormous floor to ceiling tree, bedecked with Christmas lights.

Alternatively, you can enjoy Christmas afternoon tea at the Edinburgh Dome. You’ll need to book it ahead of time, and should know that you cannot book multiple tables. The table sizes range from 6-10 people. ​​You can dine in the Grill Room, the Club Room, or the Georgian Tea Room at the Edinburgh Dome.

Edinburgh Christmas lights are always spectacular, and one of the many things you’ll enjoy in December. George Street has traditionally been the best place to view spectacular light displays. They have festive events there, too.

You can also see amazing Christmas lights in Edinburgh on the Royal Mile. You won’t want to miss the Edinburgh Botanical Gardens Light Trail, either! It includes lasers, music , a tunnel of lights, and more. You’ll need to book a ticket to see these.

If you’re in the mood to get active, head to George Street ice rink and go ice skating in Edinburgh! You will need to book ahead of time, and your ticket includes skate rental.

Things to do in Edinburgh

Edinburgh Castle is an exciting place to visit, especially in December. You can have lunch in the Queen Anne room at Edinburgh castle, or a Christmas afternoon tea instead. You can take a guided tour or look at the exhibit about the historic fight to defend the castle. The castle dates back to the 1500s and is fit for royalty, with everything from large fireplaces to suits of armor and high ceilings.

Tickets sell out in advance, so you’ll want to purchase your ticket for Edinburgh Castle long before you get there!

If you’re willing to brave the cold weather and want some physical exercise, take a hike at Arthur’s Seat. There, you’ll see one of the best views of Edinburgh from the craggy mountains. It’s near Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, where you can see festive light displays in Edinburgh at night.

There are plenty of options for entertainment in December in Edinburgh, including many Christmas shows. You could see the classic A Christmas Carol, the Nutcracker Ballet, and much more!

You can visit the King’s Theatre in Edinburgh to see musicals, ballets, or plays. You could also check out the Edinburgh Playhouse or The Festival Theatre.

If you’re wanting to grab some Christmas or Hannukah gifts, or snag a souvenir or two, you should head over to The Leith Collective at Ocean Terminal in Leith. There, you’ll find many stunning gifts created by locals.

There are also some of the best Edinburgh Christmas shops near the Royal Mile, including The Nutcracker Christmas Shop and Ye Olde Christmas Shoppe.

• Estimated time to complete: 1.5 hours
• Price range: £-££
• Ideal for: everyone

If you’re a chocolate-lover, you won’t want to miss Edinburgh’s Chocolatarium, where you can take a 90-minute tour of chocolate and create your own chocolate bar. You’ll see how the chocolate is made, from the cocoa tree to the factory, and then get to sample unique flavors in the tasting room. Some of these include Japanese chocolate, whisky, and even haggis! The cost is £22 for adults and £15 for children. You can also sign up for their chocolate and wine pairing, chocolate and whisky experience, or their truffle-making masterclass! It’s a fun and delicious indoor activity for December in Edinburgh!

If you’re feeling chilly and need a treat to warm you up, stop in at The Marshmallow Lady on 14 Rodney St for some gourmet hot chocolate and impressive marshmallows. This delicious December drink in Edinburgh will delight your taste buds.

Unfortunately, there aren’t any vegan marshmallows, but Costa does have a vegan hot chocolate with vegan marshmallows.

New Year’s Eve in Edinburgh is a spectacular sight, especially the Hogmanay Street Party. Near Edinburgh Castle, tens of thousands of people dance the night away in the streets to live DJ music while enjoying the fair attractions and local food & drink. Everyone stays connected

and enjoys a sense of well-being with light up bracelets and singing as they welcome the New Year.

Meet the Author: CrowdSourcedExplorer

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What’s On Guide Edinburgh December 2024

December is a cold winter month in Edinburgh, with an average temperature of 5°C. Christmas is fantastic time of year to visit, as Edinburgh comes alive with festive fun and sparkle. There are also lots of special events and shows to enjoy across the city. Here’s what’s on in Edinburgh in December 2024.

All details given below are subject to change. Please contact the event organisers for the most up-to-date information.

Music, Theatre and Comedy

• Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat , Edinburgh Playhouse, 3 – 29 Dec
• Fat Freddy’s Drop , Usher Hall, 11 Dec
• Toyah & Robert: Christmas Party 2024 , Queen’s Hall, 16 Dec
• The Bootleg Beetles , Usher Hall, 16 Dec
• Skerryvore Winter Tour 2024 , O2 Academy, 27 Dec

Festivals and Special Events

• Magic Fest , various venues, 20 – 31 Dec
• Christmas at The Botanics , TBC
• Edinburgh’s Christmas , TBC
• Castle of Light , TBC
• Edinburgh’s Hogmanay , TBC

Activities, Tours and Experiences

• Edinburgh Ceilidh Club , TBC

Markets and Fairs

• Edinburgh Farmers Market , Castle Terrace, every Sat
• Grassmarket Weekly Market , Grassmarket, every Sat
• Leith Market , Dock Place, every Sat
• Edinburgh Car Boot Sale , O2 Academy, every Sat & Sun (except Christmas and New Year)
• Stockbridge Market , Saunders Street, every Sun
• Christmas Craft Fair , TBC
• Christmas Fair , TBC
• Christmas Market , TBC
• Castle St Fair , TBC
• Edinburgh Flea Market , TBC

Museums, Galleries and Exhibitions

• Women in Revolt! Art & Activism in UK… , Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, 25 May – 26 Jan
• Everlyn Nicodemus , Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, 19 Oct – 25 May
• Guadalupe Maravilla , Talbot Rice Gallery, 26 Oct – 15 Feb
• Gabrielle Goliath: Personal Accounts , Talbot Rice Gallery, 26 Oct – 15 Feb
• Dürer to Van Dyck: Drawings from Chatsworth House , Royal Scottish Academy, 9 Nov – 23 Feb

Sport and Fundraising Events

• The Great Scottish Christmas Festival , Inverleith Park, 1 Dec
• Edinburgh Attractions
• Edinburgh Accommodation

Related posts

Fun Things to Do in Scotland in December

Looking for the perfect way to end 2023 on a high? Then it’s time to get planning your festive break in Scotland! Scotland in December is as beautiful a month as any, with its own subtle charms, and year-topping highlights you won’t forget. There’s festive atmosphere galore, perfect cosy retreats and bright winter days. Scotland guarantees you a fabulous festive season!

Christmas Markets and Festivals Across Scotland

Edinburgh Castle and Edinburgh's Christmas Market from the Scott Monument.

Think of twinkling lights all around, with the smell of your favourite winter food & drinks wafting in the air and get into the festive spirit.

Edinburgh’s Christmas  – located in Princes Street Gardens, enjoy the numerous fairground rides, carnival atmosphere and stalls.

Castle of Light – Magic and Mystery  – see Edinburgh Castle light in all its glory for a mesmerising light show experience.

Glasgow WinterFest - browse the festive stalls, relax with your favourite beverage at the festive bars or get ready to party at the silent disco.

Beecraigs Festive Forest  – head to Beecraigs Country Park near Linlithgow to enjoy an atmospheric light show complete with lasers, illuminated trails, santa’s grotto and plenty of treats.

Aberdeen Winter Festival and Christmas Village  – enjoy an outdoor ice rink, festive fairground and scrumptious food and drink.

Perth Winter Festival  – this year sees street performers and magicians to santa runs and silent discos.

Glamis Castle Christmas Market  – take a trip to this famous attraction for family fun, Santa’s Grotto, festive gifts, and tasty treats.

Find a festive place to stay for Christmas Across Scotland

A family enjoy a snowball fight at Castle Fraser.

Surely one of the best things to do in Scotland in December must be to stay in a magical castle? Many castles offer Christmas packages, for a special holiday you won’t forget! There are plenty of castles across Scotland to choose from, but here are a few to spark your imagination:

Find your fairytale castle for a Christmas stay

We can’t think of anything better than ‘cooring’ up in front of a burning log fire on a cold winters’ day whilst the snow falls outside. Scotland doesn’t disappoint when it comes to rustic cottages and cosy log cabins, some even have hot tubs, jacuzzis or sauna to enjoy too. They are perfect for a winter retreat for two, or invite family and friends and make a bigger celebration of it, you’ve got plenty of choices.

IRN-BRU Carnival Glasgow

It’s a great thing to do in Glasgow in December and the perfect way to get out of the cold on a winter day without sacrificing fun and action. The carnival has it all – from children’s fairground rides, games, stalls and prizes to an inflatable play area, giant slide and delicious food. This carnival is set to be fantastic fun for both the little and the big kids among us!

Curl up and watch a Christmas Rom-Com Across Scotland

A view across Loch Lomond with snow capped hills in the background.

Sometimes all you want to do is stay in and watch a movie! There are some fantastic new romantic comedies on Netflix set and filmed in Scotland; the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring. Here are just a few:

• The Princess Switch 3: Romancing the Star  was filmed at Hopetoun House in West Lothian, and Newbattle Abbey College in Midlothian. You’ll also see Gosford House, Borthwick Castle, Dundas Castle, Dakota Hotel, Barnbougle and Dalmeny Estate, as well as the Royal Highland Centre.
• Falling for Figaro , which stars Joanna Lumley as a former opera diva-turned singing teacher, was filmed in Glencoe and Luss, on the west bank of Loch Lomond, and Glasgow.
• A Castle for Christmas , which stars Brooke Shields as a novelist and Cary Elwes as a Scottish duke, was filmed at Dalmeny House near Edinburgh, Tantallon Castle in East Lothian, Dakota Hotel in South Queensferry and Edinburgh Airport.

Christmas at the Botanics Royal Botanic Gardens Edinburgh

Christmas at the Royal Botanic Gardens Edinburgh

Christmas at the Botanics (16 November – 30 December) is a must-see! One of the top things to do in Edinburgh in December, wander round the capital’s 70 acres of majestic gardens in the dark, magically lit up with light features such as the Tunnel of Light, Laser Garden, Festive Flotilla of glowing boats and Scented Fire Garden. There’s music, mulled wine, hot chocolate, festive foods and fire-pits to gather round. You’re guaranteed to get some insta-worthy shots on your way round. We highly recommend it!

Husky Sled Rides Highlands

Bowland Trails Husky Dog Sled Rides in Blairgowrie, Perthshire

What better and more memorable way to enjoy Scotland’s beautiful outdoors in the winter than a husky sledge ride! Scotland has a number of husky centres where you can meet the dogs and go for a sledge ride, or even have a full-day experience with professional racers where you help to train the dogs. Snow is also not essential for a ride!

Visit Santa and his Reindeer Cairngorms National Park

Reindeer in the Cairngorms National Park

Head to the Cairngorms National Park to meet Santa and his reindeer! The Cairngorm Reindeer Centre is home to around 150 free-ranging reindeer, and is the best spot to meet these friendly characters in their natural habitat. Surrounded by tinsel and decorations, Santa will be there keeping an eye on his reindeer and there are crafting activities you can try, too. You could also head to the nearby Highland Wildlife Park, where you’ll see polar bears, reindeer, arctic foxes, snow leopards and many more.

Enjoy World Class Snowsports Various locations

Skiing at the Cairngorm Mountain

Get out to the hills for some snowsports action! Did you know Scotland offers the best outdoor skiing and snowboarding in the UK? Surrounded by beautiful scenery, the country’s ski centres are accessible from all of Scotland’s cities and offer great runs for beginners and seasoned skiers or boarders alike. There are five resorts in Scotland to choose from – all of which offer skiing or snowboarding equipment hire, slopes suitable for beginners and lessons. The season in Scotland runs from December to April, although do check the conditions before you travel.

• Check travel conditions
• Sign up for snow alerts
• Read our snowsport FAQs 

Immerse yourself in unforgettable Hogmanay Celebrations Across Scotland

Up Helly Aa Vikings during the Torchlight Procession, Edinburgh

Hogmanay street celebrations in Scotland are legendary!

• Edinburgh’s Hogmanay  – soak in the atmosphere at Edinburgh’s Hogmanay street party on New Year’s Eve, with live music from well-known stars, outdoor bars and spectacular fireworks at midnight.
• The Hogmanay Hoolie  – at Edinburgh’s iconic Ghillie Dhu, famous for its ceilidhs in this stunning converted church.
• Beach Ballroom Hogmanay Ceilidh  – in Aberdeen you can dance the night away at the brilliant Beach Ballroom ceilidh.
• Oban Hogmanay Party  – an annual celebration where you can enjoy a lively night of ceilidh music.

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Edinburgh in Winter: Things to Do, Day Trips & Best Hotels

The capital of Scotland, Edinburgh, is bursting at the seams with historic character and while its Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this university city has a thoroughly modern outlook. Founded sometime back in the 7th century, Edinburgh has become world famous, not just for its medieval architecture, but for its annual festivals, many of which were first celebrated hundreds of years ago. 

While Scotland is well renowned for its pretty much year-round inclement weather that doesn’t mean that Edinburgh goes into hibernation during the winter. There are just as many things to do in Edinburgh in winter as there are the rest of the year. Winter, unless there’s a festival happening, is one of the best times to visit Edinburgh too as you won’t have to jostle your way through quite so many of the four million visitors the city receives every year.

How Cold Does Edinburgh Get in Winter?

Unless climate changes suddenly get a stronger hold of the city, you can forget wandering around the streets of Edinburgh in shorts and a short-sleeved shirt in winter. From October through to March the average temperatures in Edinburgh can generally be described as frigid. Although that said there are rare occasions, once or twice a decade, when the sun does come out, but don’t worry, you won’t need to rush to the nearest store to buy some sunscreen.

Average Winter Temperatures In Edinburgh

Tip: If you’re going to Edinburgh in winter pack an umbrella because it’s bound to rain at some time during your stay. Scotland isn’t so green for nothing. During December you should be prepared for it to start getting dark from four in the afternoon too, but that’s great as it makes it even more Christmassy when the illuminations go on mid-afternoon.

Things to Do in Edinburgh in Winter

Edinburgh is one city you’re not going to get bored in when you’re visiting it. In winter you can visit Edinburgh Castle, hike up to Arthur’s Seat without breaking into a sweat, discover the city’s Harry Potter connection or browse some of the city’s many museums. Yes, it might be chilly, but what better excuse is there for slipping in a warming Scotch whiskey tasting session than that? 

1. Visit Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh’s most prominent point is the plug of an extinct volcano known as Castle Rock on top of which sits the formidable fortress, Edinburgh Castle.

Edinburgh Castle has a somewhat ominous appearance and a history to match. While it has been a royal residence and has been used for military purposes, it’s also served as a prison. Head up to the castle ramparts, and as long as it’s not a foggy winter’s day, you’ll get to see amazing views of Edinburgh spread out below.

Some of the things not to miss seeing in Edinburgh Castle are:

The Great Hall – The Great Hall in the castle’s Crown Square is a room that really brings the term medieval to life. From its immense fireplace to its intricately beamed ceiling to the suits of armor and weaponry that adorn the walls, it is pure 16 th century and has to be seen to be believed.

The Royal Palace – The Royal Palace, also in Crown Square, may look like just an old stone building on the outside, but inside it takes grandeur to the next level. The palace is full of incredible treasures ranging from paintings of Scottish royals to a priceless collection of glittering crown jewels.

The War Prisons – Underneath Crown Square are a series of vaults that were used to house prisoners in the 18 th and early 19 th century. Go down into the vaults and you’ll have an eye-opening experience that will make you glad you live in the 21 st century. Tip: Visiting Edinburgh Castle is something that most visitors to the city do. That means there can often be queues to get in. If you don’t feel like shivering in line you can buy your ticket online and get a fast track entry with a guided tour thrown in.

2. See Edinburgh from Calton Hill or Arthur’s Seat

One way to keep warm and get some exercise when you’re in Edinburgh is to trek up one or two of the city’s seven hills. The ones that will reward you with the best views when you reach the top are Calton Hill and Arthur’s Seat.

Calton Hill – You don’t need to go outside of the city limits to climb up Calton Hill. Start your walk from the eastern end of Princes Street and you’ll be wandering through the winding, tree-lined pathways of Regent Gardens in around twenty minutes. If you can, take a thermos of soup or coffee, find a bench and sip away at something warming while taking in the panoramic views.

Arthur’s Seat – Arthur’s Seat will take you a little longer than Calton Hill to accomplish and cross off your must-do list. This Edinburgh hill, at two-hundred and fifty one meters tall, is the highest point in the city’s Holyrood Park. The park is around a fifteen minute walk from the Royal Mile in the city center. The hill is a little steep, but the views of the city and castle along the way will take your breath away far more than the climb will. Tip: If you have some energy left after climbing Arthur’s Seat, take an hour or two to explore the six-hundred acre park. It contains an interesting two-thousand year old hill fort, a 15 th century medieval chapel, the Salisbury Crags cliffs and a loch with lots of birdlife.

3. Celebrate Hogmanay – The Scottish New Year

While you will need to be in Edinburgh on the 31 st of December to celebrate Hogmanay, it’s a Scottish party you really shouldn’t miss. Planning for the Hogmanay festivities starts as soon as the previous one is over and you’ll need to plan in advance too if you’re going to be in Edinburgh for the New Year.

The central focus of Edinbrugh’s Hogmanay is the castle beneath which the street party is an almost neverending revelry of live music, DJ’s and torchlit processions. They almost pale into insignificance when the annual midnight fireworks display starts. Edinburgh’s New Year fireworks display is one of the best fireworks shows in the world so don’t imbibe too much too early or you may miss the spectacular.

Tip: Hogmanay is one of the city’s most popular events and attended by around thirty-thousand partygoers. Book your accommodation well in advance or you could find yourself without a bed once the celebration is over.

4. Try Traditional Scottish Winter Food

There’s nothing like a hot meal when there’s a nip in the air and you’ve been out sightseeing in Edinburgh. Traditional Scottish winter dishes are designed to be satisfying and they can certainly help to combat the chill. If you’re in Edinburgh for Burn’s Night, the annual festival dedicated to the legendary Scots poet, you’ll probably be enticed to try one, if not both, of the following which are often served at Burn’s Night suppers:-

Haggis – Read a list of the ingredients that go into making a haggis and you might find it offputting, but in reality, haggis is a tasty, although somewhat stodgy dish. Haggis is made from a combination of minced sheep’s heart, liver and lungs mixed with oatmeal and onions which are cooked in a sheep’s stomach. The thought of it may make you shudder, but give it a try served with mashed potatoes and turnips, neeps as they’re called in Scotland, and you may well be surprised to discover you actually like it.

Cullen skink – If you really can’t face haggis without retching at the thought of what’s in it, try a bowl of Cullen skink instead. Cullen skink is a chowder-like soup made from smoked haddock, onions and potatoes. It’s definitely a lot easier to tackle than haggis and just as appetite satisfying.

Where are the best places to try haggis and Cullen skink in Edinburgh? 

The Arcade Bar Haggis and Whiskey House on Cockburn Street and the Whiski Bar and Restaurant on the High Street serve some of the best of both you’ll find anywhere in the city.  

5. Discover Edinburgh’s Connection to Harry Potter

J.K. Rowling, the author of the Harry Potter fantasy novels, lived in Edinburgh during the time she wrote the early books and you can visit places in the city that inspired her as well as places she frequented while there.

The Elephant House Cafe – The Elephant House is a writer-friendly cafeteria on Marshall Street that has been frequented, not just by J.K. Rowling, but by authors such as Ian Rankin and many more. Sadly, after suffering fire damage, the cafe is temporarily closed, but you can still get a selfie standing in front of it. Reopening dates will be posted on the official website at some time in the future.

Greyfriars Kirkyard – Cemeteries can be inspiring places and Greyfriars Kirkyard on Candlemaker Row in the city’s Old Town is said to be where J.K. Rowling found some of the names for her famous characters.

Victoria Street – Take a wander down Victoria Street in the Old Town and you may well feel as if you’re wandering down Diagon Alley from the stories. It’s not the only place in Edinburgh that will give you a sense of Potterish deja vu either. There are many more places in the city that have a Potter connection. If you’re worried about not finding some of them you should consider taking a Harry Potter-oriented guided tour .

6. Royal Botanic Gardens

Just because the flowers won’t be in full bloom, the Royal Botanic Gardens is not somewhere you should shun when visiting Edinburgh in winter. The gardens are just as attractive in the colder months as they are in the warmer ones.

While you may feel inclined to head straight for the Palm House or the warmth of the other glasshouses where the exotic plants are, don’t, especially if you’re a photographer. Get there for when the gardens open at ten and you may be lucky enough to capture shots of the bushes and plants rimmed with a late morning frost, the woodlands dripping dew or the Chinese hillside adorned with icicles. Your photos will look even better if you take them in black and white.

The gardens don’t escape Christmas adornment either and when the festive season gets underway the gardens are transformed into a magical wonderland of light. For the rest of the year it’s nature that does the adorning and the seasonal changes are incredibly beautiful even when they’re covered with a wintery sprinkling of snow.

7. Visit the National Museum of Scotland

If you wake up to rain pattering against your room window when you’re in Edinburgh, you’ll need an activity that’s going to keep you warm and dry. The National Museum of Scotland is the ideal place to go on a damp day and the added bonus is, admission is free.

The museum houses numerous permanent collections and also hosts lots of diverse temporary ones that are as different as Dr Who is to Queen Victoria. One of the most popular exhibits at the museum is a sheep called Dolly . The fleecy, taxidermied ruminant was the result of scientific experimentation and the first creature to be cloned from a single cell.

8. Go to Edinburgh Zoo

Not everyone is adverse to cold weather and if there’s any creatures that enjoy it then it has to be the penguins in Edinburgh Zoo. The penguins at the zoo thrive in what is the biggest outdoor penguin pool in Europe and they even have floating icebergs to slide down.

Edinburgh Zoo, as well as providing a habitat for rockhoppers, gentoos and a thousand other animals, is home to the only pandas in captivity in the UK . The two pandas, which are part of a conservation program, will be heading back to their homeland of China at the end of 2023 so get there sooner rather than later if you want to see them.

There’s lots of special events happening at the zoo throughout the year too, even during the winter months. While the animal enclosures aren’t adorned with Christmas decorations other parts of the zoo are and there’s even a Santa’s grotto for the young ones. 

When you don’t want to waste half of your day standing in line to get your entrance ticket, make an online reservation . If you want to be a zoo keeper for the day and help feed the animals you can, but you’ll need to book well in advance as places are very limited.

9. Camera Obscura & World of Illusions

Another rainy day thing to do in Edinburgh in winter is to visit the Camera Obscura. While the five floors of illusions housed in the Outlook Tower on the Royal Mile may well leave you totally mind-boggled, you’ll have great fun.

What is there to do in the Camera Obscura? You can take a live tour of Edinburgh in a dark room with images created by camera lenses, lose yourself among the optical illusions and hands-on exhibits of the Magic Gallery and Bewilderworld then, when you’re ready to return to reality, head up to the rooftop terrace to take in the sky high views of Edinburgh Castle and the rest of the city.

Tip: This is a very popular wintertime attraction so prebook the date and time of your visit to guarantee your entry. Wait to get your ticket until you’re at the door and you could be disappointed.

10. Go Whiskey Tasting

One thing that is inexorably linked with Scotland is the distilled spirit called whiskey. While the Scots may not have invented it, they’ve been producing some of the best in the world since way back in the 15 th century.

There are several first-class distilleries with tasting rooms in Edinburgh where you can go to try a tipple of Scotland’s national drink. If you want to fully immerse yourself in the world of whiskey though you should go to the Scotch Whiskey Experience located next to the cathedral in the Old Town. 

At the Scotch Whiskey Experience you’ll learn all there is to know about whiskey, how it’s made and aged and get to sample several different ones. You can continue your tasting experience in the attraction’s bar where there are around four-hundred and fifty different whiskeys to choose from. They serve some amazing Scottish tapas too so there’s no need to drink on an empty stomach.

11. Go Shopping

The Scots are known for their shrewdness where monetary matters are concerned so you can expect to pick up a bargain or two if you go shopping in Edinburgh. The main shopping street in Edinburgh is Princes Street which is where all the main retailers are located. If you want to search for souvenirs then try the stores on the Royal Mile and you’ll find what you’re looking for.

Malls are few and far between, but there’s one, St James Quarter , in St James Square which is big enough to keep you shopping in store after store for an entire day. If that’s not enough to fulfill your retail needs then check out Ocean Terminal on Ocean Drive in the port area or the Fort Kinnaird shopping mall which is a twenty minute cab or bus ride from the city center.

Christmas shopping in Edinburgh is an absolute delight. Not only are the streets illuminated, but there are some amazing Christmas markets to go to. The festive markets held in East Princes Street Gardens and St Andrew Square will take your Christmass shopping to the next level so don’t miss them if you’re in Edinburgh in December. If you’re as shrewd as a Scot though you’ll want to wait to go shopping in Edinburgh until after Christmas which is when the annual January sales begin. That’s the time to bag a real bargain.  

Best Day Trips from Edinburgh

While Edinburgh is a fascinating city where there’s plenty to do in winter, there are also other places nearby that are worth a visit too. When you’re in Scotland can you honestly skip going to Loch Ness to try and catch a glimpse of its elusive monster or going to take a look at the scenic Highlands for yourself rather than see them duplicated on a postcard? Of course not, so start planning which one of these day trips from Edinburgh you’re going to do when you’re there.

Loch Ness, Glencoe and the Scottish Highlands

It might be tempting to hire a car and take a self-drive tour of central Scotland, it’s not the best way of doing it though. For one you won’t be able to take your eyes off the road if you’re driving and two, the winter road conditions can be tricky to deal with when you’re not used to them.

Leave the driving to a professional and go on a full-day coach tour that will take you from Edinburgh west through the stunning landscapes of the Trossachs National Park on to Glencoe then north to Loch Ness. Yes, it’s a twelve hour day so you’ll need to wake up at the crack of dawn, but the effort will pay dividends so it’s totally worth it.

Go to Glasgow

Glasgow and Edinburgh are both Scottish cities, but they are completely different from one another. You can jump aboard a train in Edinburgh that will take you to Glasgow and although it will cross the width of Scotland, it’ll only take around an hour to get there.

There’s a lot to see in Glasgow so plan what you want to do before you go. It’ll save you wandering around the streets not knowing where to go next. Some of the best sights in Glasgow center are:

• The Lighthouse – A city center tower with a rooftop observation deck.
• The Glasgow Science Center – A state-of-the-art hands-on science museum.
• The Glasgow Necropolis – A spooky Victorian era cemetery
• Buchanan Street – A top spot for shopping and restaurants
• The Clydeside Distillery – A place for whiskey tasting with riverside views
• The Scottish Football Museum – For soccer fans

There’s many more things to do in Glasgow apart from those, but there’s only so much you can cram into a day trip so choose what suits your interests and you’ll have a great day.

Discover St Andrews

St Andrews isn’t just a must-visit for golfers. While you won’t be basking on the extensive beaches of this town in northeastern Scotland, you can take a winter walk along them. It has a lot more to offer than sandy strolls too, especially if you like historic buildings or rather, what’s left of them.

In St Andrews you can explore the ruins of St Andrews Cathedral and St Andrews Castle, browse the exhibits in the University Museum, check out the marine species in the St Andrews Aquarium and wander through the botanical gardens. If you decide to try your hand at a round of golf unless you have a great handicap, be prepared to struggle as all seven golf courses in St Andrews are world class and definitely well above par.

Best Hotels for a Winter Stay in Edinburgh

One of the best things about hotels in Edinburgh is that there’s something to suit every budget. Whatever your preferred type of accommodation is, from a shared room in a hostel to a five star deluxe suite, you’ll find something to suit. Don’t forget though that Edinburgh receives over four million visitors a year so reserve your hotel early or you could end up sleeping on a bench in Holyrood Park.

Motel One Edinburgh-Royal

This is the hotel to stay at when you want everything on the doorstep, but don’t want to pay through the nose for the convenience. Motel One Edinburgh-Royal is in the Old Town and close to both the train station, the castle and the Royal Mile. The rooms are smartly furnished and have all the amenities you could ask for so stay here and you’ll have bagged yourself your first Scottish bargain.

Location: Market Street, 18-21

Tigerlily is a super trendy boutique hotel that really has it all. As well as hip décor and great amenities including a fireplace in your room, this hotel has a classy cocktail bar, an on-site restaurant and a nightclub on the premises. Stay at Tigerlily and you can forget about the weather spoiling your night out as you don’t even need to go out of the building to have a fantastic time. If you want to stay somewhere that’ll get your Instagram account zinging with likes, this is definitely the one.

Location: George Street, 125

The Balmoral Hotel

Treat yourself like royalty with a stay at the Balmoral Hotel . It looks like a palace both inside and out. Book yourself the J.K. Rowling suite and you’ll be sleeping in the rooms where the author finished the chapters of her last Potter book. Although it may cost a little, okay a lot, more than some hotels, stay at the Balmoral and you’ll have all of the main sights within a short walking distance and a view of Edinburgh Castle from your window.

Location: Princes Street, 1

Edinburgh   Travel Guide

Best Times To Visit Edinburgh

The best time to visit Edinburgh is June through August when the average high temperatures rise to a balmy 65 degrees Fahrenheit. But this is also the city's busiest time for tourism, especially in August when festivals fill up the calendar. To avoid spending a small fortune, you'll have to bundle up: winter (November to March) offers the best low-season deals, except during the city's New Year's celebration, Hogmanay. Spring and early fall are the sweet spots – relatively mild weather and thin crowds pair with the chance to find hotel and airfare deals. 

Weather in Edinburgh

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

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Popular Times to Visit Edinburgh

Tourism volume is estimated based on in-market destination search query interest from Google and on travel.usnews.com in 2015-2016. Hotel prices are sourced from a sample of U.S. News Best Hotels rates through 2015-2016.

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10 Things to Do in Edinburgh in December

If you visit the magnificent city of Edinburgh in December, prepare to be overwhelmed by the festive spirit. What's going on this month? Here are all the specifics!

At Edinburgh Castle, enjoy the icy scenery.

Although Edinburgh is rarely buried with snow in December, the first snowfall of the season normally falls during this month. If you are in town for this major event, I recommend that you visit Edinburgh Castle, which looks even more magnificent beneath a blanket of fine white snow.

The hilltop setting of the castle gives off a lovely medieval fairytale radiance, especially when combined with the enchanting Christmas markets and winding alleyways of the Royal Mile.

Keep in mind that, while Edinburgh Castle is the most well-known and possibly the most beautiful, it is only one of many castles in the city. So, if you enjoy photography, architecture, and winter landscapes, take advantage of this opportunity to capture some stunning images of the city's most recognizable monuments!

December is the greatest month for a Scotch Whisky Tour.

Fine whisky enthusiasts will feel quite at home in Edinburgh. If you're one of them, don't miss out on the popular whisky tours, which take a group of tourists to some of Edinburgh's finest distilleries before concluding with a whisky tasting in a sumptuous oak hall.

The winter months are ideal for this excursion, as they allow you to warm yourself while learning about the history of Scotch whisky and the complex process of manufacturing it. If you don't speak English, the experience is available in a variety of languages, including Spanish.

Visit Loch Ness to view the breathtaking winter beauty.

Beautiful frozen landscapes, towering snow-capped summits, and mountains with a lovely wintry aura… If you spend enough time in Edinburgh, you might wish to venture out of the city and explore the stunning beauty of the Highlands, the Scottish Highlands, which look even more breathtaking at this time of year.

This 12-hour tour also includes visits to Loch Ness and Stirling Castle, as well as free time to warm up in a traditional Scottish pub. A one-of-a-kind and unforgettable experience that will live long in your memories.

Take a tour of the city to see the Christmas lights and decorations.

Fans of Christmas lights and decorations will enjoy visiting Edinburgh in December since the city and business owners (of all sizes) work hard to create a memorable holiday ambiance for tourists and locals alike. Spend some time roaming the streets and viewing the Christmas lights while sipping a great hot drink, in my opinion.

Visit the historic Christmas markets in Edinburgh.

Edinburgh's Christmas market season runs from November until early January. It's probably the best time to go shopping for family Christmas gifts, buy decorations for your home, find a one-of-a-kind handmade artwork, or simply relax with a warm drink and a delicious meal in the festive environment.

If you visit Edinburgh in December, you will notice that there are various Christmas markets, and while some are more larger and more popular than others, they all have their own distinct charm.

Have a good time at Santa's Charity Run.

Every year in early December, Edinburgh holds the Santa Fun Run & Walk, a charity event aimed at raising funds. It is one of the most entertaining things to do if you are visiting Edinburgh with children during the holiday season.

What's the reason? This event is entertaining and exciting for children for two reasons: first, it is a race accessible to the public, and even youngsters can join; second, a mandatory prerequisite to participate in the race is to dress up as Father Christmas.

Ride the Princes Street Mechanical Ferris Wheel.

This is a gigantic red and white Ferris wheel that is placed in the city just twice a year: in the summer during the festival season in August (make a note of this if you're traveling in August) and in the winter.

The attraction is open from late November until early January, but check the official website for updated information.

The Big Wheel, as it is known locally, rises above the surrounding buildings to provide stunning views of Edinburgh's medieval city core, as well as vistas across the Firth of Forth to the Kingdom of Fife when the weather permits. Don't pass it up!

Learn about the Edinburgh Botanic Gardens Light Trail.

The Royal Botanic Gardens' path of lights is one of the top things to do in Edinburgh in December.

This light park is installed at the end of November and is open to the public until the beginning of January.

Flowers, dancing reflections, lit trees, colored lights, and music effects are carefully set in a wonderful winter trail across the many regions of the garden.

The George Street Ice Rink should

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Activities to Do in Edinburgh in December

Here is the list of the top things to do in edinburgh in december:, quick navigation.

Enjoy The Snowy Scenery Of Edinburgh Castle

• If you want to witness the first snow of the winter season, you can pay a visit to Edinburgh Castle.
• Enjoying the snowy scenery on Edinburgh Castle is among the enchanting activities to do in Edinburgh in December since the castle is entirely covered with a white blanket of snow.
• When you look at the castle, the setting on the castle’s hilltop exudes a majestic medieval fairytale glow, particularly from the Christmas markets and the twisting streets of the Royal Mile.

Visit The Palace Of Holyroodhouse

• After enjoying your exploration walk along the Royal Mile, you can pay a visit to the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
• It is one of the best things to do in Edinburgh in December as you get a chance to witness the working royal palace and its current royal connections with Bonnie Prince Charlie, Mary, and the Queen of Scots.
• On your visit to the palace, you can even explore the oldest section of this regal building, i.e., the Queen of Scots Mary’s chamber.

Shop At Edinburgh's Traditional Christmas Markets

• The Christmas markets kick off from the start of November until the beginning of January, which makes it a great opportunity to explore and shop your heart out in December.
• It is one of the most wonderful things to do in Edinburgh in December as the markets offer numerous things that you can gift your family on your way back home.
• In these Christmas markets, you can purchase beautiful home decorations, discover a unique handmade item, and relish a hot drink in the festive atmosphere.
• You can explore the Christmas Market on Princes Street, The Assembly Rooms, and Castle Street to enjoy the particular charm of each of these markets.

Ride The Princes Street Ferris Wheel

• Also known as the Edinburgh Festival Wheel, riding the Ferris Wheel on Princes Street is one of the best things to do in Edinburgh in December.
• This activity lets you rise above the surrounding buildings and admire the gorgeous views of the entire city of Edinburgh.
• Through this ride, you can catch an aerial glimpse of the historic city center of Edinburgh, including the Firth of Forth and the Kingdom of Fife.
• It also gives you sweeping views of the coastline in the North East and the Edinburgh rooftops while sinking down the wheel.

Discover The Edinburgh Botanic Gardens Light Trail

• One of the most beautiful activities to do in Edinburgh in December is discovering the trail of lights in the Edinburgh Botanic Garden.
• On your visit to this attraction, you will come across numerous flowers, dancing reflections, colored lights, illuminated trees, and musical effects that will surely fascinate you.
• You can walk along the trail of lights through the garden to see the magical lighting unfold in front of your eyes. 
• Capture aesthetic photographs with your loved ones with the twinkling background dotted with lush greenery.

Have Fun At Ice Skating Rink

• If you are planning to visit Edinburgh in December, you should not miss the opportunity of having fun at the ice skating rink that is hosted every year between late November and early January.
• You can enjoy this classic sport of the winter season with your friends and family at any of the ice skating rinks in Edinburgh and have a remarkable time.
• No matter whether you are a novice or a professional ice skater, it is one of the best things to do in Edinburgh in December as you can even take skating lessons.

Explore Royal Mile

• Among the other things to do in Edinburgh in December, exploring the Royal Mile is another worth considering activity to shop for your favorite winter outfits.
• Starting from Edinburgh Castle and ending at Holyrood Castle, this street remains bustling with tourists at this time of the year due to the Christmas festivities.
• You can indulge in the tasting experience of Scottish Whiskey or pay a visit to the different attractions on the street, including Camera Obscura, the Museum of Edinburgh, the Museum of Childhood, and the Writers Museum on this street.

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Walk Around St Andrews Square

• Walking around St Andrews Square is another one of the worth considering things to do in Edinburgh in December, which consists of a vast array of clothing boutiques, tiny offices, the ritziest clubs, and the flashiest restaurants in the city.
• On this square, you can see the nativity scene of the city that features traditional caroling in December, along with an ice skating rink, where people are enjoying their hearts out on the ice.
• After enough strolling, you can curb your hunger with a delicious Scottish meal at any one of the restaurants in St Andrews Square.

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Enjoy At Hogmanay

• The visitors can relish their hearts at Hogmanay, which is a three-day festival held in Edinburgh in December. 
• It is one of the most magnificent things to do in Edinburgh in December as it allows you to indulge in concerts, street parties, and a torchlight procession.
• You can even watch or participate in the Loony Deck if you visit the place on New Year’s Eve.
• In this event, you can witness the brave hearts taking a chilling dunk in the Firth of Froth while other people dress in different costumes to entertain the audience.

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Have Fun At Santa's Charity Run

• One of the other remarkable activities that you must include in your list of things to do in Edinburgh in December is attending the charity event of the Santa Fun Run and Walk.
• Whether you are traveling alone or with a family, you can race with the public and children in this charity event that is held every year in December.
• All you need to do is dress up like a Father Christmas and race along the streets of Edinburgh to be the winner.
• Through this activity, you can raise funds for the children while running, jogging, and walking along the West Princes Street Gardens.

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Edinburgh Top Attractions

The 70-minute interactive, immersive, award-winning underground walk-through experience known as The Edinburgh Dungeon brings thousands of years of Scottish history to life right before your eyes! Discover Edinburgh's most sinister past as you see, hear, and, yes, smell it on the ultimate underground journey! Get ready to confront infamous figures from Scotland's shadowy past, such as the murdering duo Burke and Hare, the neighbourhood cannibal Sawney Bean, and the legendary witch Agnes Finnie while visiting this tourist attractions in Edinburgh. As you laugh, study, and scream your way through the nation's horrifying past, feel the gloomy shadows of the black plague and encounter the terrifying torture chamber!

Edinburgh Castle, the most famous fortress among Scottish castles was once the residence of Scottish monarchs and now serves as a museum. This grand building was named after the Marquis of Argyle, imprisoned here. The castle was recently voted top UK Heritage Attraction in the British Travel Awards and is Scotland’s number one paid-for tourist attraction. It stands 443 feet (135 meters) above sea level and you can enjoy a panoramic view of Edinburgh standing on a volcanic crag called Castle Rock. Can you believe if we say that Castle Rock has been the site of human activity for at least 3,000 years? As you walk into the castle, you will get a glimpse of bronze statues of legendary heroes; Robert the Bruce and William Wallace. The castle overlooks several tourist attractions in the city, including the Royal Mile and the long green swath of Princes Street Gardens and Princes Street.

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The Best Time to Visit Edinburgh – An Insider’s Guide

Edinburgh ‘s northern location ensures that the Scottish capital is always at the mercy of the elements. Even in summer, you can be hit by thunderstorms and high winds, while in winter, the days are short, cold, and blustery.

But brave the weather, and you can hit a sweet spot in the off-season, beating the high summer prices and inevitable crowds. This is a city I’ve seen in the rain and sleet and in the summer sunshine (I was born in Scotland , even if I’ve spent most of my life south of the border in England ), and as long as you’re prepared, you can have a fantastic time all year round. 

In winter, experience the festive cheer at the Christmas markets, before celebrating Hogmanay and Burns Night with the locals. In spring, hike to Arthur’s Seat, and in August, embrace the chaos of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. If you’re planning a trip to Scotland, then keep reading as I break down the best time to go to Edinburgh.

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When is the best time to visit Edinburgh?

Edinburgh is one of the most popular destinations in the UK – and for good reason – but in my opinion, there’s no single “best time to visit Edinburgh,” as this largely depends on what you’re looking to experience in the city. 

For example, August is one of the busiest months of the year, and if you want to see the famous Edinburgh Fringe Festival, then you’re going to have to endure large crowds and high accommodation prices (but it’s worth it!). 

Equally, December and January have some of the worst weather of the year, but the city is awash with Christmas markets and festive cheer, which more than account for the dull skies and cold temperatures. 

For an excellent all-round experience, the shoulder seasons are the best times to visit Edinburgh. February and March are quiet compared to Christmas and Easter, while autumn offers a reprieve from the packed summer season. From festivities to hiking, here are my top picks on when to visit Edinburgh!

Festivities – December/January 

December and January are the best times of year to visit Edinburgh if you’re looking to embrace the city’s festive season. Sure, the weather is cold – with temperatures dropping as low as freezing in January – and the days are short, but with Christmas, Hogmanay, and Burns Night on the calendar, it’s a great time to be here. 

From late November onwards, Edinburgh’s Christmas markets fill the city with festive cheer. The Royal Mile is illuminated by light displays and framed by Christmas cheers, while East Princes Street Gardens and Grassmarket are both home to excellent markets. 

Hogmanay is the Scottish celebration marking the end of the old and the start of the New Year. Taking place on December 31, big parties and events spill over onto January 1 and, in some cases, January 2. Edinburgh holds an epic torch-lit parade, which culminates in the burning of a Viking longship that remembers the country’s Norse history.

At the end of the month, Burns Night brings a little cheer and poetry to Edinburgh, as Scotland’s most famous writer, Robert Burns, is celebrated with whisky-drinking abandon on January 25. 

The best time to avoid the crowds – February 

If you’re looking to avoid the peak season crowds, then unfortunately, you’re going to have to brave Edinburgh’s infamously unpredictable weather. When the January festivities are over, the Scottish capital quietens down, and February is my top pick for the best time to visit Edinburgh for a crowd-beating trip. 

Temperatures still reach freezing in February, but towards the end of the month, things can pick up (ever so slightly!), and highs of 9°C (48°F) aren’t uncommon. It will rain, so be prepared with a rain jacket, warm clothes, and an umbrella.

February is the perfect time to visit Edinburgh’s indoor attractions , and on those rainy days, I recommend making a beeline for sights like the National Museum of Scotland , The Scotch Whisky Experience, and the Scottish National Gallery . 

Museum Lovers – March 

March is one of the best times to visit Edinburgh for a shoulder season experience. You’ll miss the winter crowds, enjoy the first sunny days in spring (I hope!), and skip the Easter high season that’s soon to follow. 

The weather in March is also best described as unpredictable, so again, pack plenty of warm clothes and waterproofs. March is the perfect month for museum lovers though, and while the ramparts of Edinburgh Castle are sure to be windy, you can escape those rainy days by exploring the castle’s indoor sections, including the National War Museum .

Learn about Scottish history – from the prehistoric era to the present – at the National Museum of Scotland, or delve into the lives of the royal family at the Palace of Holyroodhouse . 

Then there’s the Scottish Parliament, St. Giles’ Cathedral, and the Museum of Edinburgh . And if it’s still raining, why not pop into one of Edinburgh’s historic pubs – my favorite is The World’s End – for a pint of ale and a spot of haggis and neeps? 

Hiking – May

Edinburgh might not be the first destination that comes to mind when you think of hiking in Scotland. After all, the country is home to endless lochs and highland peaks like Ben Nevis, but what I love most about the city is how connected it is to nature. 

Take a walk along the Golden Mile and you’ll soon find yourself in Holyrood Park. This large outdoor area is right on the edge of the city, and in the middle, Arthur’s Seat offers an exceptional panorama of Edinburgh. This ancient volcanic plug is an easy day hike from the city, and in my opinion, the perfect time to visit is May.

This is when Scotland’s short summer is getting into full swing, but it’s still not peak season. Temperatures can hit highs of 15°C (59°F) – which is scorching hot for Scotland – while rainy days are few and far between. 

Arthur’s Seat isn’t the only hike in Edinburgh either. You can also tackle the excellent walk to Calton Hill while the coastline around Leith on the Firth of Forth is exceptionally beautiful. 

Edinburgh Fringe Festival – August

August is arguably the best time to go to Edinburgh. It’s also the busiest month of the year, but it’s well worth braving the crowds when the Fringe Festival is in town.

The world’s largest performing arts festival consumes Edinburgh for the entire month of August, as thousands of performers, musicians, comedians, artists, and actors descend on the city to showcase their talents to the world. The scale of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival has to be seen to be believed, and every venue, arts center, pub, and bar in the city has a constant stream of events. 

The Edinburgh Fringe is famed for its up-and-coming acts, and many of the UK’s best comedians have made their names here – often giving free shows in pubs across the city. There are ticketed events too, including big-name acts, while the city has a festival-like atmosphere all through August.

Accommodation prices are sky-high during the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, so book well in advance for the best deals. 

Distilleries – All Year Round!

You can’t visit Edinburgh without enjoying a wee dram of whiskey , and for those of us who enjoy the finer things in life, you’ll be happy to hear the distilleries are open all year round. In fact, a whiskey tasting or distillery tour is an activity I’d recommend in any season, regardless of whether the sun is shining or the rain is pouring. 

In the Old Town, The Scotch Whisky Experience is a classic (if touristy) place to learn about centuries of distilling history. You’ll learn about the processes behind whiskey production, see one of the world’s largest whiskey collections (home to 3,384 bottles), and then enjoy a tasting in the Amber Restaurant & Whisky Bar.

Get off the beaten track a little and you can visit the Port of Leith Distillery or the Holyrood Distillery .

The worst times to visit Edinburgh

So what are the best times to avoid visiting Edinburgh? Here’s my quick take on the worst times of the year to be in the Scottish capital:

July is often cited as one of the best times to visit Edinburgh, but I’d disagree. While the weather is often at its best – with temperatures reaching highs of 29°C (68°F) and lots of sunny days – it’s also the start of the summer peak season. 

You’ll be jostling with crowds, especially when the British school holidays officially begin halfway through the month, and you’ll be paying high prices for flights and accommodation before the Edinburgh Fringe Festival has even begun. 

November 

One of my least favorite times of the year to visit Edinburgh is November. It’s cold, dark, inevitably rainy, and you’ve got none of the Christmas cheer that awaits you in December. 

Admittedly, though, this is the low season, and if you don’t mind braving the bad weather, you can score some great deals, especially on accommodation. My advice, though, is to wait until the Christmas markets open at the end of the month!

There you have it! The best time to visit Edinburgh? When will you be planning a trip to the Scottish capital?

About the author:.

Richard is an award-winning travel writer based in Southwest England who’s addicted to traveling off the beaten track. He’s traveled to 75 countries and counting in search of intriguing stories, unusual destinations, and cultural curiosities. Richard loves traveling the long way round over land and sea, and you’ll find him visiting quirky micronations and breakaway territories as often as he’s found lounging on a beach (which is a lot). When he’s not writing for BBC Travel, National Geographic, or Lonely Planet, you can find Richard writing for the Wandering Wheatleys or updating his off-beat travel blog, Travel Tramp.

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10 Reasons to Visit Edinburgh in December

1 - Cheap Accommodation

2 - The Christmas Markets at Night

3 - Mulled Wine

4 - Cocktails in the Dome

5 - The Street of Light

6 - Scottish Hospitality

7 - Beautiful Decorations

9 - Ice Skating

10 - Scottish Food

16 comments

You have to visit The Witchery next time! Expensive but magical. The restaurant is like a grotto. Very Harry Potter-esque :)

Oh yes, we have visited before (and stayed in one of their suite's pre-children). Unfortunately we were on a shoestring budget so couldn't visit this time but we did walk past and vow to save enough to re-visit at some point.

Edinburgh is one of my favourite cities in the UK and I cannot believe I have never taken the kids. Gorgeous photos

Oh it's lovely isn't it. We've taken the kids a few times but never at Christmas time - maybe next year.

Your photos are beautiful! So Christmassy!!!!! I've not visited Edinburgh at Christmas time for years, think I need to make it a priority next year. Good find with Motel One, most hotels in Edinburgh are crazy expensive, especially at Fringe time! I am DESPERATE to go to the Dome, I can't believe I've never been!

Definitely make it a priority! We've decided to visit Amsterdam for my birthday next year. I hope the North Sea crossing isn't too rough in winter!

Happy Birthday! It looks like you had a wonderful time! Gorgeous photos x

Love your photos, Sam! What a bargain of a room. We stayed at Tiger Lily for our wedding anniversary earlier in the year. Edinburh was the first place I had a job when I qualified as a chiropodist --- a very long time ago --- its such a beaut city.My husband ( another Steve) quickly felt the same way when we met!

This looks amazing!! Love Edinburgh and want to go back to festival in August

It looks like you have had the best time, beautiful photos. I love Edinburgh although I have only ever stayed overnight twice as we normally just visit for the day. The Rutland hotel is amazing at the bottom of princes street & we also loved hotel du vin too. The Mary close tour was probably my favourite touristy type thing I have done there xx

Edinburgh's fab, but I've never been there in December. Great tip about the mulled wine at the Scandi bar. If we visit D's brother this winter, I'll give everyone a nod to head there! #citytripping

Oooh Edinburgh looks lovely during the holiday season! Especially that tree! Although I'm sad to see they give you paper cups for your Glühwein! #CityTripping (www.caliglobetrotter.com)

I bet accommodation prices are much lower in December? Coming from the tropics, the thought of visiting Edinburgh in Dec gives me the shivers but as long as I'm properly dressed for the climate should be quite an enjoyable trip, right? Based on your post and pictures, looks like it's great fun! :-) #Citytripping

You've absolutely made me want to revisit Edinburgh - at Christmas time. Great value hotels, lights, mulled wine and great food! Yes please. #citytripping

You had me at cocktails in the Dome, but this all looks so magical. Would love to go during Yuletide! #citytripping

Lovely blog. My husband is Lebanese and we've only been in the UK together for a year, so I am going to take him to Edinburgh for his December birthday. The place you went to for a cheese board looks great, so we'll try that! Thanks for the blog and the recommendations. :-)

I'd love you to Tweet your thoughts about this post (@nefamilyfun) or leave a comment over on my Facebook page (fb.com/NeFamilyFun) - Sam x

10 Things to Do in Edinburgh in December

If you're visiting the beautiful city of Edinburgh in December, get ready to enjoy a city that's inebriated by the festive atmosphere. What activities will you find this month? Here are all the details!

Katherine Betances

Christmas in Edinburgh | ©Karsten Moerman

Knowing all that Edinburgh has to offer is a good plan no matter what time of the year you decide to travel to this city. The charms of the capital of Scotland are really impressive, even though it is not a very big city.

If you are visiting in December and you have already taken into account the most fun tourist activities such as a ghost tour of Edinburgh , a sightseeing bus tour of Edinburgh or the iconic Harry Potter tour of Edinburgh , it's time for activities outside of the traditional .

1. Enjoy the snowy scenery of Edinburgh Castle

Although Edinburgh is not usually covered in snow in December, the first snowfall of the winter usually occurs in this month. If you are in town for this important occasion, my advice is to take the opportunity to visit Edinburgh Castle which looks, if possible, even more enchanting under a blanket of fine white snow.

The castle's hilltop setting gives off a magical medieval fairytale glow, especially when viewed in combination with the enchanting Christmas markets and winding streets of the Royal Mile.

Keep in mind that although Edinburgh Castle is the most popular and arguably the most beautiful, it is just one of many castles in Edinburgh . So if you love photography , architecture and wintry landscapes, take this opportunity to get some amazing shots of the city's most iconic landmarks!

Book a guided tour of Edinburgh Castle

2. December, the best month to enjoy the Scotch Whisky Tour

Fans of fine whisky will feel right at home in Edinburgh. If you are one of them you can't miss the popular whisky tours, where a group of tourists is taken to visit some of the best distilleries in Edinburgh and then conclude the adventure with a tasting of this drink in a luxurious wooden room.

The cold weather months are the best for this adventure, as it allows you to warm up while learning about the history of Scotch whisky and its complex production process. If you don't know English, the experience is offered in several languages including Spanish .

Useful information

• Price range: From 25€ per person.
• Duration of the experience: You should reserve one to two hours for this experience.

Book a guided tour to The Scotch Whisky Experience

3. Take a trip to Loch Ness and see the incredible winter scenery

Mind-blowing icy landscapes, towering snow-capped peaks, mountains imbued with a magical wintry atmosphere ... If you spend enough time in Edinburgh, you might want to get out of the city and see the spectacular landscapes of the Highlands, the Scottish Highlands that, at this time of the year, look even more impressive.

This 12-hour tour will also take you to visit Loch Ness and Stirling Castle and, afterwards, you will have free time to warm up in a typical Scottish pub. A unique and unforgettable experience that will surely remain in your memory.

• Price range: From 73€ per person.
• Duration of the experience: 12 hours.

Book a tour to Loch Ness and the Highlands

4. Take a tour to admire the city's Christmas lights and decorations

Fans of Christmas lights and decorations will love visiting Edinburgh in December because of the care that the city and business owners (of all sizes) put into creating a unique festive atmosphere for tourists and locals to enjoy. My advice is to spend some time wandering the streets and admiring the Christmas lights while sipping a delicious hot drink.

Best places with Christmas lights in Edinburgh

• The Dome: You can't miss The Dome bar-restaurant during the festive season. In this impressive building of Greco-Roman architecture, the pillars that make up the central colonnade are draped in twinkling foliage. Inside you can see a gigantic Christmas tree that reaches to the top of the impressive dome inside.
• George Street: One of the main shopping streets in Edinburgh, famous for hosting luxury stores and numerous boutique hotels that add to the festive atmosphere of the city and its light show .
• St Andrews Square: The Ivy on the Square is a well-known restaurant that offers fabulous decorations every year. Come and admire them for yourself. In the square you will find these and other decorations.
• Multrees Walk: Another important commercial street in the city full of luxury stores, every year they install shiny white Christmas trees , beautiful and elegant.

An excellent option to tour the illuminated streets of Edinburgh in the month of December in a comfortable way and, above all, sheltered from the winter cold , is to book a seat on the tourist bus. You can see the main monuments of the city dressed in Christmas costumes and, when you feel like it, get off to explore the surroundings at one of the 12 stops that this bus makes.

Book a seat on the tourist bus

5. Go shopping at Edinburgh's traditional Christmas markets

From November to the beginning of January, the Christmas market season begins in Edinburgh. It is, without a doubt, the ideal time to buy Christmas gifts for the family, buy decorations for your home, find a unique handmade piece or simply enjoy a drink and a hot meal in the festive atmosphere.

If you visit Edinburgh in December you will realize that the Christmas markets are numerous and, although some are much larger and popular, the truth is that they all have a particular charm . Here is a small list of the must-see Christmas markets :

• Christmas Market on Princes Street . The largest of all markets in Edinburgh. With hundreds of stalls, variety and fun are guaranteed. Open every day from 10 am to 10 pm; from the last weeks of November until the first week of January, except Christmas Day.
• Castle Street Christmas Market : Organized since 2007 by the team of Local Motive Markets, is located in the vicinity of Edinburgh Castle from November until the day before Christmas.
• The Assembly Rooms : In the Assembly Rooms of Edinburgh are held every Christmas and for two days a fair of art, crafts and design in general. Attend to find beautiful creations!

6. Have fun at Santa's charity race

Every year in early December, a charity event, the Santa Fun Run & Walk , is held in Edinburgh to raise money for charity. It is one of the most fun activities to do if you visit Edinburgh with children during the holidays.

The reason? Two particularities make this event fun and interesting for the little ones: first, it is a race open to all the public and even minors can participate; second, a mandatory requirement to participate in the race is to be dressed up as Santa Claus .

Where it takes place

It is 2.5 km along West Princes Street Gardens . The race takes place in the morning to take advantage of the freshness of winter mornings, usually between 9.30 am and 11 am.

How to buy tickets

Price categories are set according to the age of the participant; about £17 for an adult ticket; about £6 for children aged 5 to 11; about £3 for children aged 2 to 4 and free for children under 2.

7. Ride the mechanical Ferris wheel at Princes Street

Known as the wheel of the Edinburgh festival, it is a large red and white Ferris wheel that is installed in the city only twice a year: in summer during the festival season in August (you can write it down in case you are going to travel in that month ) and in winter.

The attraction is available from the last days of November until the first days of January, although it is advisable to visit the official website to keep an eye on the dates.

The Big Wheel, as the locals call it, rises above the surrounding buildings to offer breathtaking views of the entire historic center of Edinburgh, the views can see the Firth of Forth to the Kingdom of Fife when the day is clear. Do not miss it!

The temporary structure of the beautiful Edinburgh Ferris Wheel is placed every year in a prime location in the center of the Old Town, specifically in East Princes Street Garden. It operates every day from 10am to 10pm.

You can purchase your ticket directly from the box office , the cost is approximately £12 per person; family packages for four people can be purchased for £35.

8. Discover the light trail at the Edinburgh Botanic Gardens

One of the best things to do in Edinburgh in December is to attend the Royal Botanic Gardens' trail of lights .

This light park is installed at the end of November and remains open for the public to enjoy until the first days of January.

The show is carefully staged to impress you: with flowers, dancing reflections, illuminated trees, colored lights and music effects that are distributed in a magical winter trail that runs through the different areas of the garden.

The event takes place at the Royal Botanic Garden ; you can reach the facilities using the city's public transportation. The nearest bus stop, called Royal Botanic Garden, is only a 7-minute walk away.

It's a popular activity in the city during this month that attracts even tourists from nearby, so my recommendation is to book tickets as far in advance as possible through their website.

9. Hot Chocolate and Giant Marshmallows at The Marshmallow Lady

The Marshmallow Lady is an adorable Edinburgh cafe that you can't miss. Their specialty is their giant, crazy marshmallows served in quirky hot chocolate cups.

You can buy to go or sit in the establishment if you can find a table - a social media photo is a must before you take your first sip!

• Address and directions: Located at 14 Rodney Street in Mansfield Traquair, the cafe is very close to the Royal Botanic Gardens, so you can combine your visit to the Marshmallow Lady with a trip to the Park of Lights.
• Hours: Closed from Tuesday to Thursday; from Friday to Sunday, the place is open to the public from 11 am to 6 pm.
• Price range: Between €13 and €30.

10. Don't miss the George Street Ice Rink

Every year, from late November to early January, is installed in Edinburgh the most fun ice rink in the city, by now a classic of the winter season.

In addition to being able to skate on it, this place offers skating lessons for children . Please note that skate rental is available for children's size 9 and up.

• Address and directions: Between Castle Street and Charlotte Square. There are several public transportation stops nearby.
• Hours: Regular rink hours are Monday through Friday from 12:30pm to 9:15pm. On weekends, extended hours are from 10:15 am to 9:15 pm. On Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve they work with reduced hours until 19h.
• Price range: An adult ticket usually costs around 12€; family tickets including two adults are available from 28€. Please note that prices may increase during peak hours, weekends and Friday nights.

11. In December do the Edinburgh Silent Disco Tour

Walk the beautiful streets of downtown Edinburgh on a fun and quirky adventure : the silent discos! During the tour participants wear high-tech headphones to tune in to the frequency that the guide-Dj-entertainer chooses in advance for you.

During Christmas in Edinburgh , some local companies offer this experience in a Christmas version that includes exclusively Christmas carol tracks and beats, laughter is more than guaranteed!

Some useful information

• Price range: Approximately 20€, although it may vary depending on the company you choose.
• Duration of the experience: You must reserve at least one hour of your itinerary.

The Best Travel Guide to Edinburgh

• 10 Things to Do in Edinburgh in April
• 10 Things to Do in Edinburgh in September
• 10 Things to Do in Edinburgh in February
• Edinburgh in 5 Days: tips, what to see, and much more
• 10 Things to Do in Edinburgh with Kids
• 13 Things to Do in Edinburgh at Christmas
• 10 Best Castles Near Edinburgh
• 10 Things to Do in Edinburgh in August
• 10 Best Things To Do in Edinburgh
• Edinburgh Ghosts and Mystery Tours
• Castle of Edinburgh Tickets
• Loch Ness Day Trips and other Lochs from Edinburgh

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From Alice In Wonderland To Brewing Magic Potions: Edinburgh's Best Immersive Experiences In 2024

Published 09 April 2024 . By Lauren Cole .

Love yourself something a little different and want to take things up another notch? Whether you're in need of quirky dates or group activities, often only the most interactive events and venues will do. So, read on to uncover the  best immersive experiences Edinburgh has on offer in 2024  and book your next outing.

Escape Hunt Edinburgh

60-minute immersive adventures are on the cards at  Escape Hunt , which is found inside Boom Battle Bar in the Omni Centre. With the aim of escaping from your interactive environment within the time limit, this fun activity will plunge you into a whole different world from our own; think searching for the lost city of Atlantis, navigating ancient Japan as a samurai, stealing from Blackbeard himself, and even falling down the rabbit hole into Alice in Puzzleland.

This immersive experience in Edinburgh is unmissable, with prices starting at £22 per person.

Combining musical theatre and (yes, you guessed it) cabaret is  Cab-aratte ; an interactive event that takes place both in a cab and across the city of Edinburgh. You'll be transported figuratively and literally through the streets across this immersive performance tour, which includes plenty of music, dance, songs, facts and fictions to get your teeth into. You'll be in great hands with Lola and her kooky characters throughout your 90-minute experience.

For a slice of immersive theatre in Edinburgh, it's got to be Cab-arette.

The Cauldron

An immersive potion-making experience for the best witches and wizards,  The Cauldron  awaits in Edinburgh New Town. Grab a cloak, wield a magic wand and mix up two delicious elixirs during the class, which is just under two hours long. Plus you'll enjoy a welcome drink poured from the mouth of a unicorn, lion or three-headed snake - making the most of that gorgeous, interactive setting. Finish off with a couple of drinks in the enchanting cocktail lounge too.

Bubble a deliciously witchy brew over at The Cauldron for £40 per adult .

Johnnie Walker Experience: Journey Of Flavour

Scotch lovers, rejoice; Johnnie Walker: Journey of Flavour  is a signature 90-minute adventure uncovering the very best of this famous brand at their Princes Street location. The whisky connoisseurs are offering an event of epic proportions, spanning live performances, tastings, light shows and more across a multi-media, sensory experience. You'll even kick things off with a flavour profile quiz to ensure the tour's three cocktails (or drams and non-alcoholic choices if you prefer) are catered to your tastes. All that for just £30 each?  Sign us up.

Whiskies galore and a multi-media experience to boot - all your senses are ignited here.

Camera Obscura And World Of Illusions

As well as being one of Edinburgh's most well-known attractions, Camera Obscura and World of Illusions  is also immersive. Aside from the 360-degree views over the city and the show taking you through how the Camera Obscura works while seeing it in action, there are also over 100 interactive exhibits across five floors: from mind-bending optical illusions and the vortex tunnel in Bewilderworld to holograms or light experiences. 

You'll be bowled over (maybe literally) by the immersive exhibits here.

For more quirky activities across Edinburgh, take a look at this guide. Then sign up to our future newsletter and stay in the know.

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10 Things to Do in Edinburgh in December

If you're visiting the beautiful city of Edinburgh in December, get ready to enjoy a city that's inebriated with festive atmosphere. What's on this month? Here are all the details!

Katherine Betances

Christmas in Edinburgh | ©Karsten Moerman

Seeing all that Edinburgh has to offer is a great plan no matter what time of year you decide to travel to the city. The charms of Scotland's capital are truly impressive, even though it's not a very big city.

If you're visiting in December and you've already had your fill of fun sightseeing activities like a ghost tour of Edinburgh , a sightseeing bus tour of Edinburgh or the iconic Harry Potter tour of Edinburgh , it's time for some off-the-beaten-track activities.

1. Enjoy the snowy scenery at Edinburgh Castle

Although Edinburgh is not usually covered in snow in December, the first snow of the winter usually occurs in this month. If you are in town for this important occasion, my advice is to take the opportunity to visit Edinburgh Castle which looks, if possible, even more enchanting under a blanket of fine white snow.

The castle's hilltop setting gives off a magical medieval fairytale glow, especially when viewed in combination with the enchanting Christmas markets and winding streets of the Royal Mile.

Bear in mind that although Edinburgh Castle is the most popular and arguably the most beautiful, it is just one of many castles in Edinburgh . So if you love photography , architecture and wintry landscapes, take this opportunity to get some amazing shots of the city's most iconic landmarks!

Book a guided tour of Edinburgh Castle

2. December, the best month to enjoy a Scotch Whisky Tour

Fans of fine whisky will feel right at home in Edinburgh. If you're one of them, don't miss the popular whisky tours, where a group of tourists are taken to visit some of Edinburgh's finest distilleries and then conclude the adventure with a whisky tasting in a luxurious wooden hall.

The cold weather months are the best time to take this adventure, allowing you to warm up while learning about the history of Scotch whisky and the complex process of making it. If you don't know English, the experience is offered in several languages including Spanish .

Useful information

• Price range: From £25 per person.
• Duration of experience: You will need to book one to two hours for this experience.

Book a guided tour at The Scotch Whisky Experience

3. Take a trip to Loch Ness and see the incredible winter scenery

Stunning icy landscapes, towering snow-capped peaks, mountains imbued with a magical wintry atmosphere ... If you spend enough time in Edinburgh, you might want to get out of the city and see the spectacular scenery of the Highlands, the Scottish Highlands which, at this time of year, look even more breathtaking.

This 12-hour tour will also take you to Loch Ness and Stirling Castle , and afterwards you'll have some free time to warm up in a typical Scottish pub. A unique and unmissable experience that is sure to stick in your memory.

• Price range: From £73 per person.
• Duration of experience: 12 hours.

Book a Loch Ness and Highlands Tour

4. Take a tour to admire the city's Christmas lights and decorations

Fans of Christmas lights and decorations will love visiting Edinburgh in December because of the care that the city and business owners (of all sizes) put into creating a unique festive atmosphere for tourists and locals to enjoy. My advice is to spend some time wandering the streets and admiring the Christmas lights while sipping a delicious hot drink.

The best places with Christmas lights in Edinburgh

• The Dome: You can't miss The Dome bar and restaurant during the festive season. In this impressive building of Greco-Roman architecture, the pillars that make up the central colonnade are draped in twinkling foliage. Inside you can see a gigantic Christmas tree that reaches all the way to the top of the impressive dome inside.
• George Street: One of Edinburgh's main shopping streets, famous for its luxury shops and numerous boutique hotels that add to the city's festive atmosphere and light show .
• St Andrews Square: The Ivy on the Square is a well-known restaurant that offers fabulous decorations every year. Come and see for yourself. You will find these and other decorations in the square.
• Multrees Walk: Another major shopping street in the city lined with luxury shops, every year they install glittering white Christmas trees , beautiful and elegant.

An excellent way to explore Edinburgh's illuminated streets in December in comfort and, above all, out of the winter cold , is to book a seat on the sightseeing bus. You'll be able to see the city's main sights in their Christmas costumes and, when you feel like it, hop off to explore the surrounding area at one of the bus's 12 stops.

Book a place on the tourist bus

5. Go shopping at Edinburgh's traditional Christmas markets

From November to early January, Edinburgh's Christmas market season kicks off. It's definitely the ideal time to shop for family Christmas presents, buy decorations for your home, find a unique handmade piece or simply enjoy a warm drink and a hot meal amidst the festive atmosphere.

If you visit Edinburgh in December you will find that the Christmas markets are numerous and although some are much bigger and more popular, they all have their own particular charm . Here is a short list of the must-see Christmas markets :

• Christmas Market on Princes Street . The largest of all the markets in Edinburgh. With hundreds of stalls, variety and fun are guaranteed. Open daily from 10am to 10pm; from the last weeks of November to the first week of January, except Christmas Day.
• Castle Street Christmas Market : Organised since 2007 by the Local Motive Markets team, it is located in the immediate vicinity of Edinburgh Castle from November until the day before Christmas.
• The Assembly Rooms : The Assembly Rooms in Edinburgh host a two-day art, craft and design fair every Christmas - come along to find beautiful creations!

6. Have fun at Santa's Charity Run

Every year, in early December, Edinburgh hosts a charity event, the Santa Fun Run & Walk , which aims to raise money for charity. It is one of the most fun things to do if you are visiting Edinburgh with children over the festive season.

The reason? Two particularities make this event fun and interesting for the little ones: firstly, it is a race open to the public and even children can participate; secondly, a mandatory requirement to participate in the race is to be dressed up as Father Christmas .

Where it takes place

It is a 2.5 km run along West Princes Street Gardens . The race takes place in the morning to take advantage of the cooler winter mornings, usually between 9.30am and 11am.

How to buy tickets

Price categories are set according to the age of the participant; about £17 for an adult ticket; about £6 for children aged 5-11; about £3 for children aged 2-4 and free for children under 2.

7. Ride the Mechanical Ferris Wheel on Princes Street

Known as Edinburgh's festival wheel, this is a large red and white Ferris wheel which is installed in the city only twice a year: in summer during the festival season in August (you can make a note of this if you're travelling in August ) and in winter.

The attraction is available from late November to early January, although it's worth checking the official website to keep an eye on the dates.

The Big Wheel, as the locals call it, rises above the surrounding buildings to offer stunning views of the whole of Edinburgh' s historic city centre , with views across the Firth of Forth to the Kingdom of Fife when the weather is clear. Don't miss it!

The temporary structure of the beautiful Edinburgh Ferris Wheel is set up every year in a prime location in the centre of the Old Town, specifically in East Princes Street Garden. It operates daily from 10am until 10pm.

You can purchase your ticket directly from the box office , the cost is approximately £12 per person; family packages for four people are available for £35.

8. Discover the Edinburgh Botanic Gardens Light Trail

One of the best things to do in Edinburgh in December is to attend the Royal Botanic Gardens' trail of lights .

This light park is installed at the end of November and remains open for the public to enjoy until the first days of January.

The show is carefully staged to impress: flowers, dancing reflections, illuminated trees, coloured lights and music effects are laid out in a magical winter trail through the different areas of the garden.

The event takes place at the Royal Botanic Garden and can be reached by public transport in the city. The nearest bus stop, called the Royal Botanic Garden, is just a 7 minute walk away.

It's a popular activity in the city during this month and even attracts tourists from nearby, so I recommend booking tickets as far in advance as possible via their website.

9. Hot chocolate and giant marshmallows at The Marshmallow Lady

The Marshmallow Lady is an adorable Edinburgh cafe that you can't miss. Their speciality is their giant, crazy marshmallows served in quirky hot chocolate cups.

You can buy to go or sit in the shop if you can find a table - a social media photo is a must before you take your first sip!

Useful info

• Address and directions: Located at 14 Rodney Street in Mansfield Traquair, the café is very close to the Royal Botanic Gardens, so you can combine your visit to the Marshmallow Lady with a trip to the Park of Lights.
• Opening hours: Closed Tuesday to Thursday; Friday to Sunday, the café is open to the public from 11am to 6pm.
• Price range: Between €13 and €30.

10. Don't miss the George Street Ice Rink

Every year, from late November to early January, Edinburgh's most entertaining ice rink is installed in the city, by now a winter season classic.

As well as skating, there are skating lessons for children . Please note that skate hire is available from children's size 9 upwards.

• Address and directions: Between Castle Street and Charlotte Square. There are several public transport stops nearby.
• Opening times: The rink is open Monday to Friday from 12.30pm to 9.15pm. On weekends, extended hours are from 10.15am to 9.15pm. On Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve they work with reduced opening hours until 19h.
• Price range: Adult tickets are usually around €12; family tickets for two adults are available from €28. Be aware that prices may increase during peak times, weekends and Friday evenings.

11. Take the Edinburgh Silent Disco Tour in December.

Wander the beautiful streets of Edinburgh's city centre on a fun and quirky adventure : the silent disco! During the tour participants wear hi-tech headphones to tune in to the frequency that the DJ-guide pre-selects for you.

During Christmas in Edinburgh , some local companies offer this experience in a Christmas version that includes exclusively Christmas carol tracks and beats - laughs are more than guaranteed!

• Price range: Approximately €20, although this may vary depending on the company you choose.
• Duration of experience: You will need to book at least one hour of your itinerary.

The Best Travel Guide to Edinburgh

• 10 Things to Do in Edinburgh in April
• 10 Things to Do in Edinburgh in September
• 10 Things to Do in Edinburgh in February
• Edinburgh in 5 Days: tips, what to see, and much more
• 10 Things to Do in Edinburgh with Kids
• 13 Things to Do in Edinburgh at Christmas
• 10 Best Castles Near Edinburgh
• 10 Things to Do in Edinburgh in August
• 10 Best Things To Do in Edinburgh
• Edinburgh Ghosts and Mystery Tours
• Castle of Edinburgh Tickets
• Loch Ness and other Loch Day Trips from Edinburgh

Things to do in other destinations

• San Francisco

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France (EUR)

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