Things To Do
in Edinburgh
Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is known for its stunning architecture, historic landmarks, and vibrant cultural scene. The city is dominated by the iconic Edinburgh Castle, perched atop an extinct volcano and offering panoramic views of the city. Visitors can explore the charming Old Town with its cobblestone streets and medieval buildings, as well as the elegant Georgian New Town with its stylish shops and restaurants.
Edinburgh hosts the renowned Edinburgh Festival each summer, attracting performers and artists from around the world.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the iconic Edinburgh Castle, taking in breathtaking views of the city. Explore the historic buildings and exhibits that showcase Scotland's regal heritage.
After lunch, stroll down the Royal Mile, visiting craft shops and local eateries. Make sure to stop by St Giles' Cathedral to admire its stunning architecture.
As the sun sets, enjoy a traditional Scottish dinner at a local pub. Wind down with a leisurely walk along Grassmarket, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Begin your day with a hike up Arthur's Seat, an ancient volcano with incredible panoramic views. The fresh Scottish air will invigorate you for the adventure ahead.
After descending, relax in Holyrood Park and enjoy a picnic with scenic surroundings. Then, visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse to learn about Scottish royal history.
Head to Leith for dinner at a waterfront restaurant, enjoying fresh seafood. Afterwards, take a stroll along the Water of Leith to enjoy the peaceful evening ambiance.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and architecture, including the iconic Edinburgh Castle.
- Vibrant cultural scene with numerous festivals, such as the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
- Beautiful natural scenery, including Arthur's Seat and Calton Hill.
- Strong educational institutions, including the University of Edinburgh.
- A compact city that is easy to navigate on foot.
- Variable weather, often featuring rain and chilly temperatures.
- High cost of living, particularly in terms of housing and accommodation.
- Tourism can lead to overcrowding in certain areas during peak seasons.
- Limited public transport options compared to larger cities.
- The risk of social issues such as homelessness in certain areas.
Best Activities in Edinburgh
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy stunning views of Edinburgh from the summit of Arthur's Seat by hiking in Holyrood Park.
Experience the beautiful outdoor spaces and diverse plant collections at the Royal Botanic Garden.
Take a scenic bike ride along the Water of Leith, a picturesque river that passes through Edinburgh.
Explore the outdoor exhibits and see various animal species at Edinburgh Zoo.
Tours
Uncover the best of Edinburgh with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Edinburgh
Visit one of these nice places.
An extinct volcano in Holyrood Park offering panoramic views of the city.
Historic hill with several monuments and stunning views of the city skyline.
Iconic fortress with breathtaking views over the city.
Beautiful gardens in the heart of the city with views of Edinburgh Castle and the Scott Monument.
Food in Edinburgh
Edinburgh Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try Scottish dish made from sheep's pluck, minced with onion, oatmeal, suet, spices, and traditionally encased in the animal's stomach.
Must-Try!
A hearty Scottish soup made of smoked haddock, potatoes, and onions, giving it a rich and comforting flavor.
A delightful Scottish dessert consisting of whipped cream, whisky, honey, raspberries, and toasted oatmeal, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and texture.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Edinburgh better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located just off the Royal Mile, this market offers a delightful array of fresh local produce, artisanal cheeses, baked goods, and street food stalls serving up delicious treats from around the world.
A vibrant street food market showcasing a diverse range of vendors offering everything from gourmet burgers and wood-fired pizzas to Korean BBQ and vegan delights, creating a buzzing atmosphere for food lovers.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Edinburgh, it is important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when queuing or in crowded places.
Politeness and good manners are highly valued in Edinburgh. It is important to use 'please' and 'thank you' in interactions and to be courteous to others.
It's important to be aware of and respect local customs and traditions in Edinburgh, such as observing quiet hours in residential areas and being mindful of local holidays and events.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Edinburgh with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Edinburgh
Ensure a smooth experience
In Edinburgh, tipping is generally not expected but is appreciated for good service. In restaurants, it is common to leave a 10-15% tip if the service charge is not included in the bill. Tipping for other services such as taxis or hotel staff is at the discretion of the individual and is not obligatory.
In Edinburgh, the widely accepted forms of payment include cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payment methods. Most businesses and establishments accept major credit cards, but it is always advisable to carry some cash for smaller transactions. Contactless payment and mobile payment apps are also increasingly popular and widely used.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Edinburgh.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Visiting Edinburgh in spring offers mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and various festivals such as the Edinburgh International Science Festival and the Beltane Fire Festival.
The summer in Edinburgh is bustling with tourists due to events like the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, and the warmer weather for outdoor activities.
Autumn brings beautiful foliage in Edinburgh's parks and gardens, as well as events like the Scottish International Storytelling Festival and the Edinburgh Doors Open Day.
During winter, Edinburgh transforms with festive decorations, Christmas markets, and events such as the Edinburgh's Hogmanay celebrations and traditional Burns Night suppers.
Edinburgh at Night
Hiking in Edinburgh
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
An ancient volcano and popular hiking spot, offering panoramic views of Edinburgh and its surroundings.
A stunning natural park just southwest of Edinburgh, featuring a variety of trails suitable for all levels.
A hill in Edinburgh that provides scenic walking paths and an excellent viewpoint of the city.
A large park adjacent to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, offering numerous trails and beautiful landscapes.
A coastal walk that stretches along the beach and offers a mix of scenic views and nature trails.
A charming path that takes you through wooded areas and parks, perfect for a leisurely hike.
A hill located to the west of the city, featuring forest walks and excellent views of Edinburgh.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Edinburgh through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Edinburgh by plane.
The primary airport serving Edinburgh, it is the busiest airport in Scotland and offers numerous international flights.
Located approximately 47 miles from Edinburgh, this is the primary airport serving the city of Glasgow and offers a wide range of international flights.
Located about 120 miles northeast of Edinburgh, this airport serves the city of Aberdeen and provides various international connections.
Approximately 215 miles south of Edinburgh, this major international airport serves the Greater Manchester area and is one of the busiest airports in the UK.
Located around 300 miles south of Edinburgh, this international airport serves Birmingham and offers a wide range of flights to various destinations around the world.
Situated about 120 miles southeast of Edinburgh, this airport serves Newcastle upon Tyne and offers several international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group, encompassing various backgrounds including Scottish, English, Irish, and other white ethnicities.
Includes groups such as Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, Chinese, and other Asian ethnicities.
This group includes individuals from African countries, the Caribbean, and those identifying as Black British.
Individuals identifying with mixed heritage or multiple ethnic backgrounds.
A diverse category that includes individuals who do not fit into the other specified groups, often including Middle Eastern or Latin American backgrounds.
The Soul of Edinburgh
Discover the essence of Edinburgh through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Edinburgh has a vibrant football scene, with two major clubs, Hibernian and Heart of Midlothian, competing in the Scottish leagues.
Rugby is highly popular in Edinburgh, with Edinburgh Rugby being the city's professional team playing in the United Rugby Championship.
Cricket enjoys a following in Edinburgh, with various clubs and the Scotland national team playing fixtures at the historic Grange Cricket Club.
Edinburgh is surrounded by numerous golf courses, making it a popular hub for golf enthusiasts, with the city being close to historic venues like Muirfield.
Tennis is played at various clubs around the city, with events like the Edinburgh Open attracting attention and promoting the sport.
Field hockey has a strong presence in Edinburgh, supported by clubs participating in the Scottish Hockey leagues and tournaments.
Cycling is a popular recreational activity in Edinburgh, with numerous trails and routes, as well as events like the Edinburgh Cycle Festival.
Athletics clubs and events are prominent in Edinburgh, with the city hosting various competitions and a running community.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Edinburgh.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Edinburgh boasts a wide range of restaurants and cafes that cater to vegetarians and vegans, offering creative and flavorful plant-based dishes. Additionally, many traditional Scottish restaurants now include vegetarian haggis as a popular alternative.
Visitors with gluten intolerances can find various gluten-free options across the city, with many eateries clearly labeling their menus and staff readily available to provide information and alternatives for gluten-free dining.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Edinburgh with these cultural adventures.
