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Scotland

Edinburgh: itinerary & travel tips

Edinburgh is compact: most of the sights are in the Old Town and the New Town, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and can be reached on foot. In between are hills, lanes and steps that give the city its own character. That suits a weekend or a short trip well.

Besides the Castle and museums, the city has nature right on its doorstep: on Arthur's Seat you climb for around 45 minutes up a volcanic hill with views over the city and the Firth of Forth. Add to that traditional pubs, whisky tastings and a lively cultural scene, especially in August during the festivals.

Ready-made itineraries

What to see

  • Edinburgh Castle

    The castle on Castle Rock dominates the city and displays, among other things, the Scottish Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny.

  • Royal Mile

    The main street of the Old Town links the Castle and the Palace and is lined with churches, museums, pubs and narrow passages known as closes.

  • Palace of Holyroodhouse

    The monarch's official residence in Scotland stands at the end of the Royal Mile and can be visited together with the ruins of Holyrood Abbey.

  • Arthur's Seat

    The extinct volcano in Holyrood Park offers the best panoramic view in the city and can be done in about an hour without any equipment.

  • National Museum of Scotland

    The museum tells the story of Scotland's history, nature and technology over several floors, and admission is free.

  • Calton Hill

    The small hill with the National Monument and the Nelson Monument is an easy viewpoint, especially at sunset.

Where to stay

  • Old Town

    For anyone who wants short walks to the Castle, Royal Mile and pubs and can live with some bustle and cobblestones.

  • New Town

    Quieter and elegant, with Georgian architecture, shops on George Street and good restaurants, ideal for a relaxed stay.

  • Leith

    The former port district on the Water of Leith suits guests who like restaurants, seafood and a less touristy atmosphere.

  • Stockbridge

    The village-like area north of the New Town, with cafés, second-hand shops and a Sunday market, suits couples and those seeking peace and quiet.

Best time to visit

May to June and September are the most pleasant: it is mild, the days are long and prices are lower than in high summer. In August the city is very crowded because of the festival bustle and accommodation is much more expensive. From November to February the days are short, cold and often rainy, but there are Christmas markets and Hogmanay at New Year, at higher prices. Rain and wind are possible all year round, so always bring a waterproof jacket.

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Getting there

Edinburgh Airport (EDI) is about 12 km west of the city and has direct and connecting flights from Germany, Austria and Switzerland. The tram takes about 35 minutes to the St Andrew Square stop, and the Airlink bus about 30 minutes to Waverley station; both usually cost under £10. A taxi takes about 25 to 30 minutes and costs roughly £25 to £35. If you are coming from London, you can reach Waverley by train in about 4.5 hours.

Getting around

The city centre is best explored on foot; distances are short but hilly. For longer journeys there are Lothian Buses, paid for by contactless card with daily capping or via the app. A day ticket is only worthwhile if you make many trips, for example to Leith or to the seaside.

Daily budget

budget

€50

mid-range

€110

per person, without accommodation. Accommodation and food in the Old Town are expensive, while many museums and parks are free, but the Castle and the Palace charge a noticeable admission fee.

Local tips

  • Go up Arthur's Seat in the early morning or evening, when the paths are emptier and the light is better.
  • Book tickets for Edinburgh Castle online in advance, especially in the summer months, to avoid queues.
  • The streets of the Royal Mile are the most touristy; you'll often find the better pubs in the side streets or in the Grassmarket and the New Town.
  • Always plan for layers: the weather changes quickly, and it is usually windier on the hills than below.

FAQ

How many days do you need for Edinburgh?

Two full days are enough for the Castle, Royal Mile, museum and Arthur's Seat. With three to four days there is time for Leith, the New Town and a day trip, for example to St Andrews or the Highlands.

Where is the best place to stay in Edinburgh?

For first-time visitors, the Old Town and New Town are the most practical, because you can reach almost everything on foot. You'll stay somewhere quieter and often slightly cheaper in Stockbridge or Leith.

Is Edinburgh expensive?

Edinburgh's prices are roughly at German level or slightly higher, and accommodation is expensive, especially in August and at Hogmanay. Free museums, parks and viewpoints help keep the budget down.

How do I get from Edinburgh Airport into the city?

The tram and the Airlink bus are the fastest and cheapest; both run frequently and take about 30 to 35 minutes. A taxi is worthwhile mainly for groups or late in the evening.

Is Edinburgh safe and how much should you tip?

The city is considered safe; the usual caution about pickpockets in crowds is enough. In restaurants about 10 percent is the usual tip, unless a service charge is included; in a pub you usually don't tip.

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