Edinburgh

Travel Guide
Edinburgh
Edinburgh
Edinburgh Castle which includes a park
Edinburgh
Royal Botanic Garden which includes a park and heritage elements

Edinburgh Travel Guide Video

Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh,nestled between extinct volcanoes and hills, is almost fairytale in appearance,with its medieval buildings in the Old Town and the wide streets and spacioushomes Georgian New Town, and the spectacular castle looking down from itscliff. Edinburgh was declared a World HeritageSite in 1995, which only begs the question: why did it take so long?

EdinburghCastle has to be the most beautiful building in town. This fortressis built over an ancient extinct volcano, defended the city against attacks forhundreds of years. Below this you’ll find The Royal Mile, which is an idealplace to start your exploration of the Scottish capital. The cobblestone streetsconnect the Palace of Holyrood, the current official royal residence, with itsmedieval counterpart, Edinburgh Castle. Along theroute you will find some of the most important buildings of the city, such asSt. Giles' Cathedral and Parliament House.

It is only a short walk to Princes Street Gardens,which stretch along Princes Street, the main shopping area of ​​the city. Inthis beautiful green space you’ll find memorials and monuments, including theScott Monument, built in striking Gothic style in honour of the writer, Sir.Walter Scott from its galleries you have an incredible view of the city.

But that’s not even the best. From the hills risingup behind the city, the view is even more beautiful. Hike to the top ofArthur's Seat, an extinct volcano, and up Calton Hill, which houses a number ofimpressive monuments, including the National Monument.

If you want escape the beaten track, Edinburghalso has a number of lesser-known locations. Dean Village is located in a greenarea and is just five minutes drive from the city centre. In this harbordistrict you’ll find numerous bars, cafes and restaurants. It is also the finalresting place for the royal yacht Britannia. This magnificent ship served theBritish royal family for over 40 years all over the world’s hazardous waters.

The two most popular months to visit Edinburgh,are December and August. In August there are several art festivals, includingthe legendary Edinburgh Fringe and the Edinburgh Art Festival. In December,there are all kinds of Christmas attractions and markets. The month ends withone of the most famous street parties in the world: Edinburgh's Hogmanay.

Where to stay in Edinburgh

Calton Hill which includes general coastal views, a city and skyline

Edinburgh City Centre

If you're spending time in Edinburgh City Centre, check out sights like Edinburgh Castle or Scott Monument and hop on the metro to see more of the city at St Andrew Square Tram Stop or Princes Street Tram Stop.

Edinburgh City Centre
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Old Town Edinburgh

4.5/5(1,168 area reviews)

Gourmet restaurants interesting history and top sights from Edinburgh Castle to Parliament House – discover Old Town Edinburgh, a destination also famous for its shopping.

Old Town Edinburgh
Edinburgh which includes night scenes and heritage architecture

New Town

4.5/5(1,225 area reviews)

Travellers love New Town for its popular shops, and you can see more of Edinburgh by jumping on the metro at Princes Street Tram Stop or St Andrew Square Tram Stop. You might spend time checking out top sights like Assembly Rooms and George Street.

New Town
Royal Yacht Britannia featuring interior views and boating

Leith

5/5(1 area review)

Known for its abundant dining options and seaside views, there's plenty to explore in Leith. Top attractions like Edinburgh Port and Ocean Terminal Shopping Centre are major draws, and you can catch the metro at The Shore Tram Stop or Port of Leith Tram Stop to see more of the city.

Leith
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Haymarket

4.5/5(22 area reviews)

Visitors often come to Haymarket for its abundant dining options, but many stay to explore sights like Princes Street and FountainPark. Getting around the area on the metro is easy if you take a ride at Haymarket Tram Station.

Haymarket
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Tollcross

4.5/5(49 area reviews)

Tollcross is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Usher Hall and The Meadows while in the area.

Tollcross
YOTEL Edinburgh
YOTEL Edinburgh
4 out of 5
Erskine House, Queen Street, Edinburgh, Scotland
The price is €77 per night from 19 Jan to 20 Jan
€77
includes taxes & fees
19 Jan - 20 Jan 2025
Stay at this 4-star hotel in Edinburgh. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and a 24-hour fitness center. Our guests praise the breakfast and the bar in ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (2,150 reviews)
Great hotel
"Excellent location"

Reviewed on 18 Dec 2024

YOTEL Edinburgh
Apex Grassmarket Hotel
Apex Grassmarket Hotel
4 out of 5
31-35 Grassmarket, Edinburgh, Scotland
The price is €99 per night from 7 Jan to 8 Jan
€99
includes taxes & fees
7 Jan - 8 Jan 2025
Stay at this 4-star eco-certified hotel in Edinburgh. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and 24-hour room service. Our guests praise the breakfast and the ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,474 reviews)
Amazing staff
"The staff were truly amazing!!! I am currently on crutches and they made every effort possible to assist me and make my stay as comfortable as possible. I highly recommend the hotel for a stay in Edinburgh, especially if you need a bit of help."

Reviewed on 19 Dec 2024

Apex Grassmarket Hotel
Apex Waterloo Place Hotel
Apex Waterloo Place Hotel
4 out of 5
23-27 Waterloo Place, Edinburgh, Scotland
The price is €104 per night from 5 Jan to 6 Jan
€104
includes taxes & fees
5 Jan - 6 Jan 2025
Stay at this 4-star spa hotel in Edinburgh. Enjoy free WiFi, a full-service spa, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool in our ...
9/10 Wonderful! (1,421 reviews)
Lovely modern hotel in central location.
"Lovely modern hotel in an excellent central location. Large suite with a big bathroom. Plenty of space to spread out and relax. Could have done with a touch more decorative items but no complaints, the bed was very comfortable. Food and service was very good. Have stayed before and will again."

Reviewed on 17 Dec 2024

Apex Waterloo Place Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Aparthotel Adagio Edinburgh Royal Mile
Aparthotel Adagio Edinburgh Royal Mile
3.5 out of 5
231 Canongate, Edinburgh, Scotland
Stay at this 3.5-star aparthotel in Edinburgh. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and a 24-hour fitness center. Our guests praise the breakfast and the ...
9/10 Wonderful! (1,881 reviews)
"The reception staff could not have been more helpful, really helped add to an excellent experience"

Reviewed on 15 Dec 2024

Aparthotel Adagio Edinburgh Royal Mile
Wilde Aparthotels, Edinburgh, Grassmarket
Wilde Aparthotels, Edinburgh, Grassmarket
4 out of 5
26 King's Stables Road, Edinburgh, Scotland
Stay at this 4-star aparthotel in Edinburgh. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and a fitness center. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (737 reviews)
"As advertised"

Reviewed on 13 Dec 2024

Wilde Aparthotels, Edinburgh, Grassmarket
Eden Locke
Eden Locke
4 out of 5
127 George Street, Edinburgh, Scotland
Stay at this 4-star aparthotel in Edinburgh. Enjoy free WiFi, a 24-hour front desk, and concierge services. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (1,159 reviews)
"Absolutely loved my stay! Second Locke Hotel I've stayed in and they really do make it feel like it's a home away from home."

Reviewed on 16 Dec 2024

Eden Locke
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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Things to do

Reviews of Edinburgh

4.7
Top destination
5 - Excellent
2147
" "5 - Excellent 72%
4 - Good
762
" "4 - Good 26%
3 - Okay
66
" "3 - Okay 2%
2 - Disappointing
4
" "2 - Disappointing 0%
1 - Terrible
5
" "1 - Terrible 0%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

Great for shopping attractions and food.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

Love Edinburgh!!!

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller

would recommend the hop on hop off city tour buses great value,

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller

Good place to stay at Edinburgh airpoft

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller

Had dinner at no 11 Brasserie and it was lovely food.

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller

Too many begging people on pavements