Edinburgh holidays

Best time to go to Edinburgh

On the east coast of Scotland, Edinburgh has chilly winters with a high chance of snow from November through to March, followed by a brisk but bright spring. It never gets excessively warm, although it does get sunny through the summer months (May–September). The hottest months are July and August, averaging 15 degrees but with highs around 20 degrees in the daytime. In August, you can also expect a delightful 10 hours of sunshine per day and sea temperatures around 15.

Edinburgh is a popular city year-round, even in the colder winter months when it looks even more magical under a dusting of snow and has bags of Christmas charm. In summer, it’s exceptionally popular because it’s festival season, with August and July laying claim to the Edinburgh Fringe, Edinburgh International Festival, the Art Festival, Book Festival and Jazz and Blues Festivals. Mostly due to the world-famous Fringe Festival, the city sees a spike in accommodation prices and visitors in August. To experience a more peaceful but no less interesting, lively or beautiful Edinburgh, try the shoulder seasons like April/May and September/October.

How to get to Edinburgh

Edinburgh is very well connected to the rest of the UK by train. There are direct trains from Manchester, Birmingham, York and Leeds to Edinburgh Waverley station, as well as a direct route from London to Edinburgh. You can also book a sleeper train from various cities, such as London, and arrive in Edinburgh fresh in the morning. There’s also an airport, and you can get direct flights to Edinburgh from London, Bristol, Bournemouth, Birmingham and Belfast. From the airport to the old town is less than half an hour by car, or you can take public transport and reach the city centre in 45 minutes by tram or bus.

Getting around Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a very convenient city to explore on foot, as the historic city centre is compact. However, the wider city is more sprawling, and there’s plenty to see on the outskirts and in the new town. The city is well served by buses offering routes around town, to the coast and nearby towns and to and from the airport. You can also use the tram line, which runs from the airport directly into New Town.

Things to do in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is awash with things to do, from outdoor activities to sprawling galleries and museums to a plethora of shopping opportunities. Here are just a few:

• Edinburgh Castle: An impressive, 11th century castle home to the crown jewels and the National War Museum of Scotland.

• Royal Botanic Gardens: 70 acres of gardens with stunning glasshouses and palm houses.

• National Museum of Scotland: Traditional museum home to natural history and Scottish history exhibits.

• National Galleries of Scotland: One large national collection housing masterpieces from across Europe and various eras, one grand portrait gallery and two sprawling modern art galleries in Dean Village.

• Palace of Holyroodhouse: 16th century Stuart Palace with tours of the interior.

• Museum of Edinburgh: Local and industrial history museum.

• The Edinburgh Dungeon: 1000 years of Scottish history presented via underground tours, live exhibitions and rides.

• Whisky Experience: Sample the traditional local tipple at one of several distilleries and whisky experiences in Edinburgh.

• Lauriston Castle: A 16th century castle near Cramond, home to Georgian and Victorian relics, with pretty gardens.

• Craigmillar Castle: It is a medieval castle with a tower, dungeons, and grounds.

• Day trip to Cramond Island: If you have a day to spare, head out to scenic Cramond island, which is connected to the village of Cramond only by causeway when the tide is right.

Activities for families in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is certainly a family-friendly city, with plenty of activities and attractions that span all generations.

• Edinburgh Zoo: An impressive zoo that needs no introduction, frequently hosting events, exhibitions and activities for families.

• Museum of Childhood: Fascinating museum of toys throughout the ages.

• Camera Obscura & World of Illusions: Five floors of hands-on, whimsical and downright unusual immersive exhibitions for all ages.

• The Royal Yacht Britannia: Famous ocean liner used by the Royal Family for over forty years, now open for interior tours.

• Dynamic Earth: Interactive and family focused exhibitions of history, right from the dinosaurs to modern day.

• Wonder World Soft Play: If you find yourself at a loose end on a rainy day in Edinburgh, Wonder World might be your saviour. Slightly out of the town centre, this is a large, indoor amusement centre with ball pits, slides and more.

Free things to do in Edinburgh

Luckily, you needn’t break the bank while you’re here. You may wish to splash out on a few higher-ticker experiences and then spend the rest of your Edinburgh holiday making the most of the city for free.

• Harry Potter sightseeing: Edinburgh is famous for many things, but one more recent addition to the list is that it was the inspiration for so many names, characters, and locations in the Harry Potter franchise. You can easily find a list of the top Harry-Potter-related sights in the city and wander between them for free, ticking off your Potter Bucket List.

• Holyrood Park and Arthur’s Seat: In this delightfully green city, you never feel far from the countryside. Holyrood Park is an enormous and rugged-feeling natural space that’s only steps from the city. There are myriad walks to try here, but a popular weekend activity is hiking to the top of Arthur’s Seat and taking in the view.

• Scott Monument and Princess Street Gardens: This Victorian memorial to Sir Walter Scott is one of the city’s most-famous pieces of architecture and definitely worth a stop on the way to the delightful Princess Street Gardens.

• Picnic on The Meadows: A picnic anywhere is a fantastic free activity and Edinburgh has plenty of parks and green spaces, big and small, to choose from. However, our top pick would be The Meadows; a favourite student haunt surrounded by historic streets and buildings.

• Dean Village: Another popular city walk is through picturesque Dean Village, along the river banks, crossing the several pretty bridges to snap pictures of the chocolate-box scene.

• **Scavenger hunt: **Scavenger hunts are often free or very cheap to download on your phone and make a great budget-proof activity for friends and families alike. Plus it’s a great way to get to know unexpected parts of the city.

• **Royal Mile: **While shopping is certainly not a free activity, window shopping always is, and Edinburgh has some fantastic, notable streets on which to promenade and window shop. Try Royal Mile, Princes St, Cockburn Street, Candlemaker Row and Grassmarket.

Most popular beaches in Edinburgh

Edinburgh sits on Scotland’s pretty east coast, nestled in where the River Forth reaches the sea. It has a few well-rated beaches, all within an easy bus ride of the city centre and all very popular in summer.

• Portobello Beach: Probably the city’s most popular family beach, Portobello Beach is a traditional, Victorian seafront with an esplanade and a long, sandy stretch of shore. A sauna cabin is a recent addition to the beach’s facilities.

• Musselburgh Beach: This is a more rugged and quieter beach, close to a small harbour and popular with locals. The nearby lagoons are very popular with birdwatchers.

• Silverknowes Beach: A wide, sandy estuary beach popular for picnicking and paddling in summer, and for walking in winter.

• Cramond Island: Just a short bus ride from the city centre, Cramond is a quaint, former-fishing-village with a causeway leading (at low tide) to tiny Cramond Island. Barely a kilometre in length, the island has a few pretty cove-like beaches.

• Gullane Beach & Yellowcraig Beach: Further afield from Edinburgh, towards North Berwick, you’ll find more delightful beaches, including Gullane and Yellowcraig. Both are wide, sandy and unspoilt, backed by dunes and greenery.

What to eat in Edinburgh

Edinburgh, Scotland’s enchanting capital, offers a culinary journey as diverse and captivating as its historical and cultural landscape. From traditional Scottish fare to international cuisines, the city's food and drink scene promises delightful experiences for every palate. Here, we guide you through Edinburgh’s gastronomic highlights, ensuring your holiday is as tantalising to the taste buds as it is to the soul.

Vibrant Markets

Begin your culinary adventure at Stockbridge Market, a Sunday haven for foodies. This bustling market features an array of local produce, artisanal cheeses, freshly baked goods, and gourmet street food. It's an ideal spot to sample local delicacies or pick up ingredients for a picnic in the picturesque Royal Botanic Garden nearby.

Grassmarket is another must-visit, located in the heart of the Old Town. This historic market area is surrounded by pubs and cafes, offering a perfect blend of shopping and dining experiences. On Saturdays, the area comes alive with the weekly market, where you can find everything from Scottish crafts to international eats.

Traditional Scottish Cuisine

No visit to Edinburgh is complete without indulging in Scotland's traditional dishes. Haggis, a savoury pudding containing sheep's heart, liver, and lungs, mixed with onions, oatmeal, suet, spices, and stock, is a must-try. It's traditionally served with "neeps and tatties" (turnips and potatoes). For the adventurous foodie, it’s an experience not to be missed.

For seafood lovers, Edinburgh's coastal location means fresh seafood is abundant. Cullen Skink, a thick Scottish soup made of smoked haddock, potatoes, and onions, offers comforting warmth, especially on chilly Edinburgh days.

Distinctive Restaurants and Pubs

Edinburgh's restaurant scene is as varied as it is exquisite, with several establishments boasting Michelin stars. The Kitchin in Leith presents modern British cuisine influenced by French cooking techniques, with a focus on the finest Scottish ingredients. Meanwhile, Number One at The Balmoral offers an elegant dining experience with dishes that blend Scottish produce with international flavours.

For a taste of history, visit The Witchery by the Castle. Located in a 16th-century building near Edinburgh Castle, it serves sumptuous Scottish dishes in a setting filled with antiques and a gothic ambience.

Pubs are an integral part of Edinburgh’s charm, offering a warm welcome alongside a pint of ale or whisky. The Last Drop in Grassmarket, named after its proximity to the last hanging spot in Edinburgh, provides a cosy atmosphere to enjoy traditional pub fare and a wide selection of Scottish whiskies.

Innovative and International Flavours

Edinburgh is also home to a thriving international culinary scene. From the Italian delights of Valvona & Crolla, an Edinburgh institution since 1934, to the authentic Indian cuisine of Mother India’s Café where you can enjoy tapas-style Indian dishes, the city caters to global tastes with local hospitality.

Edinburgh's food and drink scene is a reflection of its history, culture, and global connections. From the historic markets to the luxurious dining rooms, traditional pubs to international eateries, the city offers a gastronomic journey that complements its scenic beauty and rich heritage. On your Edinburgh holiday, be prepared to indulge in flavours that are as memorable as the city’s landmarks.

Local sports events in Edinburgh

Edinburgh's vibrant sports scene comes alive with a variety of local events that allow visitors to experience the city's enthusiasm for athletics, rugby, and more. Highlights include:

• Six Nations Rugby at The Three Sisters and Brewhemia Edinburgh: Join locals in the ultimate fan zones to watch Scotland compete in the Six Nations Championship. These venues offer a lively atmosphere with multiple screens and rugby-themed festivities.

• American Wrestling - W3L Wrestling Showdown in Penicuik: A family-friendly event showcasing spectacular wrestling matches.

• An Evening with Snooker Greats and Darts at Corn Exchange and O2 Academy Edinburgh: For snooker and darts fans, these events feature legends of the sports in a thrilling display of skill.

Sports facilities for travellers in Edinburgh

For those looking to stay active during their holiday, Edinburgh offers a wide range of sports facilities:

• Meadowbank Sports Centre: Recently rebuilt, this state-of-the-art facility includes sports halls, pitches, athletic areas, and more. It's a great place for travellers to dive into local sporting activities or simply maintain their fitness routine.

• Other notable centres like Oriam and The Crags Centre provide excellent amenities for fitness enthusiasts, from gyms to climbing walls.

Cycling in Edinburgh

• Bike Rental: Edinburgh boasts several bike rental services, making it easy for visitors to explore the city on two wheels.

• Popular Cycling Routes: The city and its surroundings offer numerous scenic cycling routes, including paths around Holyrood Park and the Water of Leith.

Hiking

• Edinburgh is surrounded by splendid hiking trails, such as Arthur's Seat in Holyrood Park, offering panoramic views of the city.

Water sports

• For water sports enthusiasts, the nearby coast and lochs provide opportunities for sailing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding.

Golf courses

• Edinburgh is a haven for golfers, with prestigious courses like Bruntsfield Links and The Royal Burgess Golfing Society offering exceptional golfing experiences amidst historic and scenic settings.

Edinburgh seamlessly blends its rich historical and cultural heritage with a love for sports, making it an ideal holiday destination for those who wish to immerse themselves in local sports culture or stay active while exploring the beauty of Scotland's capital.

Events in Edinburgh

Edinburgh, a city rich in culture and history, boasts a vibrant calendar of events throughout the year. From traditional Scottish celebrations to international festivals, there's always something happening in Scotland's capital.

Seasonal events

• New Year: Celebrate Hogmanay in style with Edinburgh's world-renowned festivities, featuring concerts, street parties, and the spectacular fireworks display over Edinburgh Castle.

• Christmas Shopping and Markets: The Edinburgh Christmas Market is a highlight, offering a magical shopping experience with a variety of stalls selling gifts, crafts, and culinary delights.

• Easter: Enjoy family-friendly activities and Easter egg hunts at various locations, including the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh.

• Pride Edinburgh: The city's annual LGBTQ+ event includes a parade and festival celebrating diversity and inclusivity.

• Carnival: The Edinburgh Festival Carnival brings a burst of colour and music to the streets, with performers from around the world.

Festivals in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is famously known as the world's leading festival city, with major annual events that attract visitors globally:

• Edinburgh International Festival: Showcasing the finest in performing arts, this festival is a celebration of theatre, music, opera, and dance.

• Edinburgh Festival Fringe: The largest arts festival in the world, offering thousands of shows ranging from theatre and comedy to music and spoken word.

• Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo: An iconic event featuring military bands, cultural performances, and a stunning backdrop of Edinburgh Castle.

• Edinburgh International Book Festival: A gathering of writers, poets, and thinkers, offering talks, debates, and book signings.

• Edinburgh International Film Festival: Celebrating the best in international cinema with screenings, premieres, and events.

• Scottish International Storytelling Festival: Focusing on the art of storytelling with a mix of live performances and workshops.

These events highlight Edinburgh's status as a cultural hub, offering diverse experiences that cater to all interests and ages. Whether you're drawn to the arts, interested in exploring Scottish traditions or looking to participate in vibrant celebrations, Edinburgh's events calendar is sure to have something for you.