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Edinburgh

VisitBritain/Andrew Pickett

Edinburgh image

A young couple taking a selfie of view over historic town

Why we love Edinburgh

The world’s first UNESCO City of Literature, Edinburgh is home to 10 major international festivals, including the world’s biggest – the vibrant and artsy Edinburgh Fringe Festival and Edinburgh International Festival.

Take in 360 degree views and even the odd yoga class from Arthur’s Seat. For sports lovers, there’s Murrayfield Stadium for top-notch international events. Whether it’s beautiful shopping arcades, boutique outlets or botanical gardens, Scotland’s capital has something for everyone.

Edinburgh

The capital of Scotland is the world’s leading festival city: it’s home to 10 international festivals, including the world’s biggest celebration of the art and culture, Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

Head up the ancient volcano, Arthur’s Seat, for spectacular views, or explore the former fortress, Edinburgh Castle.

Admire Old Masters at the Scottish National Gallery and modern sculpture at Jupiter Artland, or sample the Scotch Whisky Experience for a taste of the nation’s favourite spirit.

Wander down the cobbled Royal Mile in the heart of the city’s Old Town and discover the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

Fun fact

Shutterstock / Nattapoom V

Image Edinburgh

Balmoral's clock tower with Edinburgh cityscape skyline and Scott Monument background during sunset

Fun fact

When completed in 1902, the iconic Balmoral Clock was purposely set three minutes fast to help travellers not miss their trains from nearby Edinburgh Waverley Station. The only day the time is corrected in on New Year’s Eve for Hogmanay.

Did you know?

VisitScotland

Palace image

The Palace of Holyroodhouse, a royal residence in Edinburgh, Scotland

Did you know?

  • Edinburgh was named the world’s first UNESCO City of Literature and is famed for being the birthplace of Arthur Conan Doyle, writer and creator of fictional detective Sherlock Holmes.

  • The Royal Yacht Britannia carried the Royal family on 968 official voyages until it was decommissioned in 1997. It is now permanently berthed at Edinburgh’s Ocean Terminal, Leith.

  • The Palace of Holyroodhouse is King Charles III’s official residence in Edinburgh, and was also home to Mary Queen of Scots from 1561- 1567, with her rooms forming part of an exhibition.

  • A warren of hidden streets can be found beneath Edinburgh’s Old Town, providing a glimpse into city life between the 17th and 19th centuries, with Real Mary King’s Close now a visitor attraction.

  • The magical city of Edinburgh inspired J.K. Rowling’s world-famous Harry Potter book series, with tours of the capital providing a sense of Hogwarts and the Wizarding World.

Things to do in Edinburgh

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Discover this dramatic fortress, perched on top of a dormant volcano at the top of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.

Plan your visit to Edinburgh Castle

VisitBritain/Steven Oates

Edinburgh

Green and red deck chairs laid out on grass in a park
Edinburgh Castle

Welcome to the previous home of Mary, Queen of Scots, offering guided tours, royal exhibitions and opulent afternoon teas.

Step inside the Palace of Holyroodhouse

VisitScotland

The Palace of Holyroodhouse, a royal residence in Edinburgh, Scotland
The Palace of Holyroodhouse and the Royal Mile

Witness an explosion of creative energy as Edinburgh hosts stand-up comedy, music, dance and more, for three action-packed weeks in August.

Explore Edinburgh Festival Fringe

VisitBritain/Pinzutu/Kit Oates/Peter Anderson

Street perfomer Peter Anderson, juggles swords in front of a crowd on the Royal Mile, Edinburgh, during the Festival Fringe 2022.
Edinburgh Festival Fringe

Climb to Arthur’s Seat and be rewarded with spectacular 360-degree views of Edinburgh and the Lothians.

Plan your Arthur’s Seat adventure

VisitBritain/Pinzutu/Jemima Jones

An instructor from Adventure Yoga Edinburgh holds a yoga pose on Arthur’s Seat overlooking the city
Arthur’s Seat

Discover this award-winning contemporary sculpture garden, set in over 100 acres of meadows and woodlands.

Get your tickets for Jupiter Artland

VisitBritain/Jupiter Artland

Ground pool sculpture in the landscape at Jupiter Artland with house and topiary gardens in distance
Jupiter Artland

This is no ordinary chauffeur-driven tour: on the back of a gleaming 1600cc powered trike, you’ll explore the city in style.

Discover Trike Tours Scotland

VisitBritain/Trike Tours Scotland

Couple hugging next to a yellow motor-trike in front of a lake
Trike Tours Scotland

See the world from a whole new perspective at this surreal museum: it’s full of hilarious, interactive and mind-twisting tricks.

Book Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

VisitBritain/Oscura & World of Illusions

High view of rooftops of Edinburgh with sea beyond as seen from Oscura & World of Illusions attraction
Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

Local artists have transformed this old railway tunnel into a vibrant art-filled space: an incredible setting for walks and cycling.

Venture into Colinton Tunnel

thomas_travweb

Walking throught Colinton Tunnel
Colinton Tunnel

Discover the art behind Scotland’s favourite drink on this guided tour, tasting and food pairing, with three new immersive areas for 2024.

Visit the Scotch Whisky Experience

VisitBritain/Simon Winnall

A couple tasting whisky with three bottles in front of them
The Scotch Whisky Experience

Discover this Medieval church on a free tour, catch a concert, or climb the clock tower for impressive city-wide views.

What’s on at St Giles’ Cathedral
Exterior view of St Giles Cathedral
St Giles’ Cathedral

Hidden beneath the Royal Mile, this secret warren of houses and shops dates back over 400 years.

Book a visit to The Real Mary King’s Close

marykingsclose

Mary King's Close
The Real Mary King’s Close

Filling the streets with colourful parades, dancing and live music, this is Scotland’s longest-running Pride party.

Party at Pride Edinburgh

Pride Edinburgh

Crowd at Pride in Edinburgh
Pride Edinburgh

Edinburgh’s oldest gay venue brings the party with late night dancing, creative cocktails and drag queens.

Find out more about CC Blooms

CC Blooms

Large wall mural of a funky zebra hodling a cocktail saying "Amazing" inside the bar at CC Blooms.
CC Blooms

The place to be for a traditional Scottish meal and real ale pint.

Find out more about Regent Bar

VisitScotland/The Regent Bar

A series of pride and LGTBQ+ flags on display at the Regent Bar in Edinburgh
Regent Bar

A must visit for drag open mic nights, late karaoke nights and late-night dancing.

Find out more about Planet Bar

planetbarandkitchen

Planet Bar
Planet Bar

On 31 December, Scotland’s capital welcomes the new year with a bang - expect Ceilidh dances, live music and fireworks.

Plan your perfect Hogmanay

Keith Valentine

Edinburgh Hogmanay Midnight Moment c Keith Valentine
Edinburgh Hogmanay

Every August, Edinburgh hosts dance, music, comedy, theatre and opera stars from all over the globe.

Discover the Edinburgh International Festival

VisitScotland/Kenny Lam

The Fireworks Concert brings the Edinburgh International Festival to a conclusion with music from the Scottish Chamber Orchestra
Edinburgh International Festival

The mighty Edinburgh Castle is the backdrop for this extraordinary display of military pomp and pageantry.

Watch The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

VisitBritain/Andrew Pickett

Marching band and light show projecting onto the castle
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

Held on beaches, in woodlands, or even at Arthur’s Seat, these yoga sessions reveal Edinburgh’s wild side.

Stretch out at Adventure Yoga

VisitBritain/Pinzutu/Jemima Jones

An instructor from Adventure Yoga Edinburgh holds a yoga pose on Arthur’s Seat overlooking the city
Adventure Yoga

For extra-special souvenirs, high-quality fashions and unique artworks, check out this neighbourhood’s indie boutiques.

Get to know the Grassmarket

VisitBritain/Aurélie Four

Fluffly dog, wagging it's tongue, sitting on grass outside an English palace.
Grassmarket

This glittering, state-of-the-art space is dedicated to wellbeing – with a hammam, salt room, bio sauna and more.

Relax at One Spa

onespaedinburgh

Rooftop infinity pool at One Spa
One Spa

Climbing up Arthur’s Seat is an Edinburgh must-do – but look out for Medieval ruins and wildlife-filled lochs too.

Get to know Holyrood Park

VisitBritain/Pinzutu/Jemima Jones

An instructor from Adventure Yoga Edinburgh holds a yoga pose on Arthur’s Seat overlooking the city
Holyrood Park

The shops on Edinburgh’s famous thoroughfare offer authentic Scotch tweed, kilts, whiskies and local delicacies.

Discover the Royal Mile

VisitBritain/Simon Jarratt

Three muslim women walking outside near stone arches
Royal Mile

Lying in the shadow of the historic city castle, tuck into delicious comfort food including pizzas, hot buffalo wings and truffle fries.

Visit Cold Town House

VisitBritain/Aurélie Four

Fluffly dog, wagging it's tongue, sitting on grass outside an English palace.
Cold Town House, Edinburgh

Discover the five decks of Queen Elizabeth II’s former floating palace, from the State Apartments to the Crew’s Quarters, with tea and scones on the Royal Deck.

Step aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia

Royal Yacht Britannia

Edinburgh, Scotland

Exterior of a royal yacht with a British flag
The Royal Yacht Britannia

Test your problem-solving skills in these themed escape rooms, which are full of puzzles and riddles to crack.

Buy tickets for Escape Hunt

Alice Reading

Devon

Escape Hunt
Escape Hunt

Welcome to the ultimate obstacle course, where you’ll need to climb, balance, swing and jump to the finish line.

Book Ninja Warrior Edinburgh

Alamy Stock Photo

Edinburgh

Ninja Warrior Edinburgh
Ninja Warrior Edinburgh

Discover the home of the Scottish Rugby Union, Scotland’s biggest stadium with a capacity of over 67,000.

What’s on at Murrayfield Stadium

Alamy Stock Photo

Devon

Murrayfield Stadium
Murrayfield Stadium

Explore modern and surrealist works of Matisse, Picasso, Barbara Hepworth and Joan Miró, in this gallery wrapped in sculpture parks.

Visit the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art

VisitBritain/Simon Jarratt

Devon

Three men walking on steps beside large columns
Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art

This hands-on museum explores the greatest story on Earth: the formation of our very own planet…

Plan your visit to Dynamic Earth

Alamy Stock Photo

Edinburgh

Dynamic Earth, Edinburgh
Dynamic Earth

Tuck into traditional Scottish fare on this foodie walking tour – such as smoked salmon, haggis and whisky.

Discover an Edinburgh Food Safari

Food Safari

Edinburgh

Food Safari
Edinburgh Food Safari

Showcasing Scotland’s top restaurants, food trucks and producers, this annual festival is sheer gourmet heaven.

Discover Edinburgh Food Festival

VisitBritain/Pinzutu/Andrew Hood

Edinburgh

Woman pouring a dram of whisky from a barrel
Edinburgh Food Festival

Dedicated to Sir Walter Scott, this towering monument is the world’s biggest literary memorial, and a museum.

Explore the Scott Monument

Alamy Stock Photo

Edinburgh

Scott Monument, Edinburgh
Scott Monument

Discover the tales of witchcraft, love stories and royal murder plots at this imposing Medieval fortress.

Book tickets to Craigmillar Castle

Alamy Stock Photo

Edinburgh

Craigmillar Castle
Craigmillar Castle

Looking for LGBTQIA+ nightlife? There’s everything from drag cabaret to craft ale in this rollicking neighbourhood.

Learn more about the Pink Triangle

Getty Images

Edinburgh

Edinburgh Pink Triangle
Pink Triangle

Full of tales, songs and poems, this 12-day celebration unites performers from all over the world.

Visit the Scottish International Storytelling Festival

Getty Images

Edinburgh

Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Scottish International Storytelling Festival

Though Granton Castle lies in ruins, its garden lives on - hosting mindful events such as leaf printing and art workshops.

Explore Granton Castle Walled Garden

Alamy Stock Photo

Edinburgh

Granton Castle Walled Garden
Granton Castle Walled Garden

Whether for summer sunbathing or a bracing winter’s walk, this long sandy beach is beautiful year-round.

Head to Portobello Beach

Shutterstock

Edinburgh

Portobello Beach,Edinburgh
Portobello Beach

Fletcher’s Cottage, the spa at this luxury hotel, is a sanctuary of rest and relaxation.

Treat yourself at Archerfield House

Archerfield House

Edinburgh

The Relax Room, Fletcher’s Cottage, Archerfield House, Dirleton, East Lothian, Scotland
Archerfield House

This historic green space is a peaceful setting for walks, picnics and festivals – and is wheelchair-accessible too.

What’s on at the Royal Botanic Garden

Alamy Stock Photo

Edinburgh

The Palm House in the Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh
Royal Botanic Garden

For fashion and beauty from top high street brands, look no further – and the castle views are impressive too.

Browse the boutiques at Princes Street

Alamy Stock Photo

Edinburgh

Princes Street, Edinburgh
Princes Street

This pedestrianised area is home to jewellers, bakeries, tweed merchants and a fantastic choice of pubs.

Learn more about Rose Street 

Alamy Stock Photo

Edinburgh

Rose Street, Edinburgh
Rose Street

Fashionable bars, high-end boutiques, luxury hotels and international brands: you’ll find it all on this historic road.

Explore George Street

Shutterstock / Carlos G. Lopez

Edinburgh

George Street
George Street

This family-run company offers bike tours to all the top sights – as well as secret spots you won’t want to miss.

Get tickets for A Wee Pedal

Claire Clifton Coles

Edinburgh

A Wee Pedal
A Wee Pedal

Maybe you’ll pedal all the way from New Town to the coast, or take a history-filled tour of the city centre?

Discover Edinburgh Bike Tours

Getty Images

Edinburgh

A woman putting on her bike helmet about to hop on a bike by the riverfront on a sunny day
Edinburgh Bike Tours

With a maximum of ten people in each group, these walking tours offer an intimate insight into Edinburgh’s history.

Book Edinburgh Guided Tour

Getty Images

Edinburgh

Young man and woman exploring city streets with shops in background
Edinburgh Guided Tour

Using hyper-local ingredients, including some that are foraged, this cosy restaurant has a no-waste philosophy.

Dine at Forage and Chatter

Forage and Chatter

Edinburgh

Forage and Chatter
Forage and Chatter

From hearty breakfasts to long lunches and decadent dinners – this vegan restaurant is all about plant power.

Visit Seeds for the Soul

Iain Gallacher

Edinburgh

Seeds For The Soul
Seeds for the Soul

Part of Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, Calton Hill is where you’ll find some of the city’s most recognisable landmarks.

See Edinburgh from Calton Hill

George Clerk/Getty Images

Fireworks at dusk in the sky over historic city monuments and castle.
Calton Hill

Discover this dramatic fortress, perched on top of a dormant volcano at the top of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.

Plan your visit to Edinburgh Castle

VisitBritain/Steven Oates

Edinburgh

Green and red deck chairs laid out on grass in a park
Edinburgh Castle

Welcome to the previous home of Mary, Queen of Scots, offering guided tours, royal exhibitions and opulent afternoon teas.

Step inside the Palace of Holyroodhouse

VisitScotland

The Palace of Holyroodhouse, a royal residence in Edinburgh, Scotland
The Palace of Holyroodhouse and the Royal Mile

Witness an explosion of creative energy as Edinburgh hosts stand-up comedy, music, dance and more, for three action-packed weeks in August.

Explore Edinburgh Festival Fringe

VisitBritain/Pinzutu/Kit Oates/Peter Anderson

Street perfomer Peter Anderson, juggles swords in front of a crowd on the Royal Mile, Edinburgh, during the Festival Fringe 2022.
Edinburgh Festival Fringe

Climb to Arthur’s Seat and be rewarded with spectacular 360-degree views of Edinburgh and the Lothians.

Plan your Arthur’s Seat adventure

VisitBritain/Pinzutu/Jemima Jones

An instructor from Adventure Yoga Edinburgh holds a yoga pose on Arthur’s Seat overlooking the city
Arthur’s Seat

Discover this award-winning contemporary sculpture garden, set in over 100 acres of meadows and woodlands.

Get your tickets for Jupiter Artland

VisitBritain/Jupiter Artland

Ground pool sculpture in the landscape at Jupiter Artland with house and topiary gardens in distance
Jupiter Artland

This is no ordinary chauffeur-driven tour: on the back of a gleaming 1600cc powered trike, you’ll explore the city in style.

Discover Trike Tours Scotland

VisitBritain/Trike Tours Scotland

Couple hugging next to a yellow motor-trike in front of a lake
Trike Tours Scotland

See the world from a whole new perspective at this surreal museum: it’s full of hilarious, interactive and mind-twisting tricks.

Book Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

VisitBritain/Oscura & World of Illusions

High view of rooftops of Edinburgh with sea beyond as seen from Oscura & World of Illusions attraction
Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

Local artists have transformed this old railway tunnel into a vibrant art-filled space: an incredible setting for walks and cycling.

Venture into Colinton Tunnel

thomas_travweb

Walking throught Colinton Tunnel
Colinton Tunnel

Discover the art behind Scotland’s favourite drink on this guided tour, tasting and food pairing, with three new immersive areas for 2024.

Visit the Scotch Whisky Experience

VisitBritain/Simon Winnall

A couple tasting whisky with three bottles in front of them
The Scotch Whisky Experience

Discover this Medieval church on a free tour, catch a concert, or climb the clock tower for impressive city-wide views.

What’s on at St Giles’ Cathedral
Exterior view of St Giles Cathedral
St Giles’ Cathedral

Hidden beneath the Royal Mile, this secret warren of houses and shops dates back over 400 years.

Book a visit to The Real Mary King’s Close

marykingsclose

Mary King's Close
The Real Mary King’s Close

Filling the streets with colourful parades, dancing and live music, this is Scotland’s longest-running Pride party.

Party at Pride Edinburgh

Pride Edinburgh

Crowd at Pride in Edinburgh
Pride Edinburgh

Edinburgh’s oldest gay venue brings the party with late night dancing, creative cocktails and drag queens.

Find out more about CC Blooms

CC Blooms

Large wall mural of a funky zebra hodling a cocktail saying "Amazing" inside the bar at CC Blooms.
CC Blooms

The place to be for a traditional Scottish meal and real ale pint.

Find out more about Regent Bar

VisitScotland/The Regent Bar

A series of pride and LGTBQ+ flags on display at the Regent Bar in Edinburgh
Regent Bar

A must visit for drag open mic nights, late karaoke nights and late-night dancing.

Find out more about Planet Bar

planetbarandkitchen

Planet Bar
Planet Bar

On 31 December, Scotland’s capital welcomes the new year with a bang - expect Ceilidh dances, live music and fireworks.

Plan your perfect Hogmanay

Keith Valentine

Edinburgh Hogmanay Midnight Moment c Keith Valentine
Edinburgh Hogmanay

Every August, Edinburgh hosts dance, music, comedy, theatre and opera stars from all over the globe.

Discover the Edinburgh International Festival

VisitScotland/Kenny Lam

The Fireworks Concert brings the Edinburgh International Festival to a conclusion with music from the Scottish Chamber Orchestra
Edinburgh International Festival

The mighty Edinburgh Castle is the backdrop for this extraordinary display of military pomp and pageantry.

Watch The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

VisitBritain/Andrew Pickett

Marching band and light show projecting onto the castle
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

Held on beaches, in woodlands, or even at Arthur’s Seat, these yoga sessions reveal Edinburgh’s wild side.

Stretch out at Adventure Yoga

VisitBritain/Pinzutu/Jemima Jones

An instructor from Adventure Yoga Edinburgh holds a yoga pose on Arthur’s Seat overlooking the city
Adventure Yoga

For extra-special souvenirs, high-quality fashions and unique artworks, check out this neighbourhood’s indie boutiques.

Get to know the Grassmarket

VisitBritain/Aurélie Four

Fluffly dog, wagging it's tongue, sitting on grass outside an English palace.
Grassmarket

This glittering, state-of-the-art space is dedicated to wellbeing – with a hammam, salt room, bio sauna and more.

Relax at One Spa

onespaedinburgh

Rooftop infinity pool at One Spa
One Spa

Climbing up Arthur’s Seat is an Edinburgh must-do – but look out for Medieval ruins and wildlife-filled lochs too.

Get to know Holyrood Park

VisitBritain/Pinzutu/Jemima Jones

An instructor from Adventure Yoga Edinburgh holds a yoga pose on Arthur’s Seat overlooking the city
Holyrood Park

The shops on Edinburgh’s famous thoroughfare offer authentic Scotch tweed, kilts, whiskies and local delicacies.

Discover the Royal Mile

VisitBritain/Simon Jarratt

Three muslim women walking outside near stone arches
Royal Mile

Lying in the shadow of the historic city castle, tuck into delicious comfort food including pizzas, hot buffalo wings and truffle fries.

Visit Cold Town House

VisitBritain/Aurélie Four

Fluffly dog, wagging it's tongue, sitting on grass outside an English palace.
Cold Town House, Edinburgh

Discover the five decks of Queen Elizabeth II’s former floating palace, from the State Apartments to the Crew’s Quarters, with tea and scones on the Royal Deck.

Step aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia

Royal Yacht Britannia

Edinburgh, Scotland

Exterior of a royal yacht with a British flag
The Royal Yacht Britannia

Test your problem-solving skills in these themed escape rooms, which are full of puzzles and riddles to crack.

Buy tickets for Escape Hunt

Alice Reading

Devon

Escape Hunt
Escape Hunt

Welcome to the ultimate obstacle course, where you’ll need to climb, balance, swing and jump to the finish line.

Book Ninja Warrior Edinburgh

Alamy Stock Photo

Edinburgh

Ninja Warrior Edinburgh
Ninja Warrior Edinburgh

Discover the home of the Scottish Rugby Union, Scotland’s biggest stadium with a capacity of over 67,000.

What’s on at Murrayfield Stadium

Alamy Stock Photo

Devon

Murrayfield Stadium
Murrayfield Stadium

Explore modern and surrealist works of Matisse, Picasso, Barbara Hepworth and Joan Miró, in this gallery wrapped in sculpture parks.

Visit the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art

VisitBritain/Simon Jarratt

Devon

Three men walking on steps beside large columns
Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art

This hands-on museum explores the greatest story on Earth: the formation of our very own planet…

Plan your visit to Dynamic Earth

Alamy Stock Photo

Edinburgh

Dynamic Earth, Edinburgh
Dynamic Earth

Tuck into traditional Scottish fare on this foodie walking tour – such as smoked salmon, haggis and whisky.

Discover an Edinburgh Food Safari

Food Safari

Edinburgh

Food Safari
Edinburgh Food Safari

Showcasing Scotland’s top restaurants, food trucks and producers, this annual festival is sheer gourmet heaven.

Discover Edinburgh Food Festival

VisitBritain/Pinzutu/Andrew Hood

Edinburgh

Woman pouring a dram of whisky from a barrel
Edinburgh Food Festival

Dedicated to Sir Walter Scott, this towering monument is the world’s biggest literary memorial, and a museum.

Explore the Scott Monument

Alamy Stock Photo

Edinburgh

Scott Monument, Edinburgh
Scott Monument

Discover the tales of witchcraft, love stories and royal murder plots at this imposing Medieval fortress.

Book tickets to Craigmillar Castle

Alamy Stock Photo

Edinburgh

Craigmillar Castle
Craigmillar Castle

Looking for LGBTQIA+ nightlife? There’s everything from drag cabaret to craft ale in this rollicking neighbourhood.

Learn more about the Pink Triangle

Getty Images

Edinburgh

Edinburgh Pink Triangle
Pink Triangle

Full of tales, songs and poems, this 12-day celebration unites performers from all over the world.

Visit the Scottish International Storytelling Festival

Getty Images

Edinburgh

Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Scottish International Storytelling Festival

Though Granton Castle lies in ruins, its garden lives on - hosting mindful events such as leaf printing and art workshops.

Explore Granton Castle Walled Garden

Alamy Stock Photo

Edinburgh

Granton Castle Walled Garden
Granton Castle Walled Garden

Whether for summer sunbathing or a bracing winter’s walk, this long sandy beach is beautiful year-round.

Head to Portobello Beach

Shutterstock

Edinburgh

Portobello Beach,Edinburgh
Portobello Beach

Fletcher’s Cottage, the spa at this luxury hotel, is a sanctuary of rest and relaxation.

Treat yourself at Archerfield House

Archerfield House

Edinburgh

The Relax Room, Fletcher’s Cottage, Archerfield House, Dirleton, East Lothian, Scotland
Archerfield House

This historic green space is a peaceful setting for walks, picnics and festivals – and is wheelchair-accessible too.

What’s on at the Royal Botanic Garden

Alamy Stock Photo

Edinburgh

The Palm House in the Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh
Royal Botanic Garden

For fashion and beauty from top high street brands, look no further – and the castle views are impressive too.

Browse the boutiques at Princes Street

Alamy Stock Photo

Edinburgh

Princes Street, Edinburgh
Princes Street

This pedestrianised area is home to jewellers, bakeries, tweed merchants and a fantastic choice of pubs.

Learn more about Rose Street 

Alamy Stock Photo

Edinburgh

Rose Street, Edinburgh
Rose Street

Fashionable bars, high-end boutiques, luxury hotels and international brands: you’ll find it all on this historic road.

Explore George Street

Shutterstock / Carlos G. Lopez

Edinburgh

George Street
George Street

This family-run company offers bike tours to all the top sights – as well as secret spots you won’t want to miss.

Get tickets for A Wee Pedal

Claire Clifton Coles

Edinburgh

A Wee Pedal
A Wee Pedal

Maybe you’ll pedal all the way from New Town to the coast, or take a history-filled tour of the city centre?

Discover Edinburgh Bike Tours

Getty Images

Edinburgh

A woman putting on her bike helmet about to hop on a bike by the riverfront on a sunny day
Edinburgh Bike Tours

With a maximum of ten people in each group, these walking tours offer an intimate insight into Edinburgh’s history.

Book Edinburgh Guided Tour

Getty Images

Edinburgh

Young man and woman exploring city streets with shops in background
Edinburgh Guided Tour

Using hyper-local ingredients, including some that are foraged, this cosy restaurant has a no-waste philosophy.

Dine at Forage and Chatter

Forage and Chatter

Edinburgh

Forage and Chatter
Forage and Chatter

From hearty breakfasts to long lunches and decadent dinners – this vegan restaurant is all about plant power.

Visit Seeds for the Soul

Iain Gallacher

Edinburgh

Seeds For The Soul
Seeds for the Soul

Part of Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, Calton Hill is where you’ll find some of the city’s most recognisable landmarks.

See Edinburgh from Calton Hill

George Clerk/Getty Images

Fireworks at dusk in the sky over historic city monuments and castle.
Calton Hill

Places to stay in Edinburgh

Old Town

Home to centuries-old buildings and Edinburgh Castle, as well as The Royal Mile lined with pubs and eateries - perfect for first-time visitors.

New Town

Rammed full of restaurants and a shoppers’ paradise - this elegant part of the city features Georgian townhouses and open squares, alongside chic cocktail lounges and places to eat.

Leith 

Trendy Leith is great for all tastes and budgets. Find everything from delicious street food to vintage shops and cafes in this buzzing port district.

Explore nearby

Pushing the boundaries of art and culture, with a heart that beats through its people.

VisitBritain/Tommy Ga-Ken Wan

Two men looking at installation of suspended head sculptures

The gateway into Scotland, the Borders and Lowlands pack a punch.

VisitBritain/Simon Jarratt

Girls standing on the zipwire platform in the pine forest

Linked by no fewer than seven bridges around a bustling quayside, Newcastle and Gateshead form one vibrant place to visit.

Rich Kenworthy

Newcastle, England

Mensen die fietsen en skateboarden op een pad langs rivier de Tyne bij Newcastle

Explore pristine woods, climb mountains and paddle the waters of Scotland's wild landscape.

VisitScotland

A woman sitting and looking out across Loch Lomond

Getting to Edinburgh

Edinburgh is the capital city of Scotland, located in the central-eastern region. Edinburgh Airport serves international routes to Europe, the Americas and the UAE. It is found just 7.5 miles (12 kilometres) from the city centre, and well connected to the city centre by bus, tram or taxi.

Edinburgh is well linked to the rest of the UK by road, rail and the air, it is 402 miles (649 km) from London. The quickest option to get to Edinburgh from London is to fly, which takes 1 hour 10 minutes, although regular train services link London with Edinburgh, with the quickest taking 4 hours 20 minutes.

Getting around

With a 24-hour bus service running from the airport to the city centre plus buses, trains and the tram, getting around Edinburgh is a breeze. More than 1,000 black cabs operate here too. Lothian Airport Day tickets give you unlimited one-day travel on Lothian trams and buses, plus travel to and from the airport. There are also Hop on Hop-off Bus Tours.

By bus

Buses run 24 hours a day in Edinburgh, with regular services round the clock. Lothian buses is one of the main operators.

By tram

Edinburgh Tram covers 15 stops between Edinburgh Airport and York Place, making it a useful travel option for the start and end of your trip.

By taxi

Licensed black cabs, Central Taxis and City Cabs, take up to five people per car, a good option if you’re a family or group of friends. Taxis can be hailed on the street.

Want to know more

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