Welcome to your Edinburgh Travel Guide – a friendly, jam-packed walkthrough of everything you need to know before visiting Scotland’s mesmerising capital. From castles and crags to cosy coffee corners and cultural gems, Edinburgh really does have it all.

Collage of Edinburgh landmarks and views for an Edinburgh Travel Guide – Edinburgh Castle, Scott Monument, St Giles’ Cathedral, Calton Hill, Victoria Street, and Arthur’s Seat, photographed by Hazel’s Travels.
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I’m Hazel, a travel blogger from Essex (just outside London), and over the years I’ve explored Edinburgh in every season – from snowy Decembers to festival-filled Augusts – so this guide comes packed with insider tips and personal favourites.

Whether you’re coming for a whirlwind weekend or a longer escape, this Edinburgh travel guide will help you make the most of your time in Auld Reekie – Scotland’s atmospheric capital of stories, spires and scones.

🌍 So, Where Exactly is Edinburgh?

Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland, perched in the south-eastern corner of the country along the southern shore of the Firth of Forth. It’s where ancient volcanoes meet cobbled streets, and medieval history mingles with a modern cultural buzz.

View from Calton Hill with the Dugald Stewart Monument and the Edinburgh skyline at golden hour.
Calton Hill

Edinburgh Facts: Know Before You Go 📋

🌍 Country: Scotland, United Kingdom
💷 Currency: British Pound Sterling (GBP)
🗣️ Language: English (you may hear some Scots or Gaelic too!)
⏰ Time Zone: GMT / BST (in summer)
🔌 Plug Type: Type G (3-pin)
🚨 Emergency Number: 999
☁️ Climate: Generally cool and changeable – pack layers and a raincoat!

Edinburgh’s Geography & Landscape 🌋

Built on a series of hills and surrounded by natural beauty, Edinburgh is as scenic as it is historic.

🏰 Castle Rock: An extinct volcano right in the city centre, home to the iconic Edinburgh Castle.

⛰️ Arthur’s Seat: The city’s highest peak, offering epic views and a fairly easy hike.

📸 Calton Hill: A photographer’s dream with its Athenian-style monuments and sweeping views.

🌊 Water of Leith: A river walk weaving through tranquil green corridors and urban villages.

View from Arthur’s Seat in Edinburgh at sunset with purple clouds over the city.

Getting to Edinburgh / Getting Around ✈️

✈️ By Air: Edinburgh Airport is around 8 miles from the city centre. Hop on the tram (🚋 30 mins), Airlink 100 bus (🚌 25 mins), or grab a 🚖 taxi.

🚆 By Train : Edinburgh Waverley is the main station – right in the heart of the city, linking you with London, Glasgow, and beyond.

🚌 By Bus: National Express and Megabus serve St Andrew Square Bus Station.

🚗 By Car: Roads are good, but parking is tricky in the centre. Park & Ride options are handy.

Getting Around

  • Walk: Compact city centre = ideal for exploring on foot.
  • Bus: Lothian Buses cover the whole city. Buy tickets on board or via the app.
  • Tram: Connects airport to city centre (and now to Leith).
  • Taxi/Uber: Readily available.
Stone walls and towers of Edinburgh Castle lit by afternoon sun under a clear blue sky.
Close-up of the ornate façade of The Balmoral Hotel in Edinburgh lit by afternoon sun.
Edinburgh Castle and The Balmoral Hotel

When to Visit Edinburgh 🌸

Not sure when to go? Here’s what each season in Edinburgh has in store – from festival frenzies to peaceful winter wanders.

🌱 Spring (Mar-May): Flowers bloom, festivals begin, and it’s generally quieter.

☀️ Summer (Jun-Aug): Warm(ish), buzzing, and packed with festivals.

🍂 Autumn (Sep-Nov): Gorgeous golden hues and fewer crowds.

❄️ Winter (Dec-Feb): Crisp, festive, cold, but full of cosy charm.

Winter in Edinburgh has its own charm – think fairy-lit streets, roaring pub fires and the Balmoral clock glowing above Princes Street. If you’re visiting at Christmas time, try my 3 Day Edinburgh Christmas Itinerary.

Towns & Neighbourhoods in Edinburgh 🌇

Edinburgh is a city of contrasts – from ancient cobbled lanes to elegant Georgian boulevards. Each neighbourhood has its own unique vibe, so here’s a quick look at where to wander, stay, and soak up the city’s charm.

☕ Bruntsfield & Morningside: Cosy cafes, parks, and villagey vibes.

🏰 Old Town: Medieval magic and history galore.

🏛️ New Town: Georgian elegance with shops and bars aplenty.

⚓ Leith: Waterside dining and the Royal Yacht Britannia.

🌿 Stockbridge: Leafy, lovely, and full of indie boutiques.

Row of Victorian houses in Edinburgh's west End, Scotland.
Narrow, stone-paved street flanked by historic buildings and greenery, leading up to a distant stone tower under a cloudy sky.
West End and Stockbridge

Top Sights and Must-Dos in Edinburgh 🌄

Edinburgh is packed with jaw-dropping views, hidden gems, and historic haunts. These are the spots you absolutely can’t miss.

🏰 Edinburgh Castle – A towering fortress with panoramic city views and centuries of history. Buy tickets.

🛣️ Royal Mile & Holyrood Palace – Stroll the city’s most historic street all the way to the royal residence. Purchase a Palace Tour.

⛰️ Arthur’s Seat – Hike this extinct volcano for jaw-dropping views across the city. Try hiking it with a local guide.

🗿 Calton Hill – Sunset spot with iconic monuments and postcard-perfect panoramas.

🏡 Dean Village – A fairy-tale neighbourhood with old mills and riverside charm. Take a Dean Village private tour or read my post 9 Best Things to Do in Dean Village.

🦕 National Museum of Scotland – Packed with everything from T-Rexes to tartan history. Museum guided tour.

🌈 Victoria Street – Edinburgh’s most Instagrammable curve (and Harry Potter inspo).

A cobblestone street in a historic city with stone buildings, colorful storefronts, and hanging festive bunting. People walk and gather below a partly cloudy sky.
A green, hilly landscape under a blue sky with scattered white clouds. Vegetation covers the hills, with rocks and patches of dry grass visible.
Victoria Street and Arthur’s Seat

🌳 Princes Street Gardens – Chill out beneath the castle with coffee and ducks.

👻 The Real Mary King’s Close – Underground alleys frozen in time below the Royal Mile. Tickets only available from their website.

🚢 Royal Yacht Britannia – Step aboard the Queen’s former floating palace in Leith.

🔮 Camera Obscura & World of Illusions – Mind-bending fun for all ages near the Castle.

⚡ Harry Potter tour spots – Discover the wizarding roots of Rowling’s world. 👉 Read more: 15 Magical Harry Potter Locations in Scotland.

🎭 Seasonal: From the Fringe Festival (🎤 August) to twinkling Christmas Markets (🎄 Nov–Jan)

Giant Christmas tree decorated in red and gold lights inside The Dome Edinburgh beneath its ornate domed ceiling.
Golden spiral staircase decorated with twinkling fairy lights inside The Dome Edinburgh during the festive season.
Festive photos taken at The Dome Edinburgh

👉 Read more: Things to Do in Edinburgh, Scotland: Castles, Crags & Coffee Breaks 🏰

Hotels in Edinburgh 🏨

Whether you’re after five-star elegance, boutique charm, or budget-friendly comfort, Edinburgh has a bed for every budget.

Here’s where to check in (and check out the view!).

💷 Budget: Motel One, Ibis South Bridge, Holiday Inn Express.

🛌 Mid-range: Apex Waterloo Place, The Edinburgh Residence.

💎 Luxury: The Balmoral, The Caledonian Edinburgh, The Witchery.

The Balmoral Hotel in Edinburgh illuminated at dusk, with its clock tower glowing against a clear blue sky.
Balmoral Hotel

👉 Read more: Where to Stay in Edinburgh City Centre | Best Cosy Hotels & Festive Stays in Edinburgh.

Map of Edinburgh Hotels

Here is a map from Booking.com:

Mini Itineraries for Edinburgh 🗺️

If you’ve only got a short time in the Scottish capital, don’t worry – I’ve got you covered.

You can follow my Edinburgh in One Day: The Perfect 1-Day Itinerary for a whistle-stop tour of the city’s highlights, from cobbled lanes to castle views.

For those staying a little longer, here are some quick ideas to build your perfect trip:

3-Day Itinerary:

🏰 Day 1: Explore the Old Town: Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and maybe a ghost tour after dark
⛰️ Day 2: Hike up Arthur’s Seat, visit Holyrood Palace, and catch sunset from Calton Hill.
⚓ Day 3: Wander through Leith’s waterfront, tour the Royal Yacht Britannia, and stroll through Dean Village.

👉 Visiting at Christmas? Try my 3 Day Edinburgh Christmas Itinerary for some festive magic.

5-Day Itinerary:

Add a visit to the National Museum of Scotland, brunch in Stockbridge, and a day trip to Rosslyn Chapel or North Berwick for a coastal escape.

Person walking on Calton Hill, Edinburgh, with the National Monument in the background under a clear blue sky.

Quick Tips for Visiting Edinburgh ⚡

Before you set off exploring, here are a few quick tips to help you conquer Edinburgh’s hills, cobbles, and occasional sideways rain – like a true local.

📱 Download offline maps for easy navigation.
💳 Use contactless cards or apps for buses and trams.
🥾 Wear comfy shoes (hello cobbles!).
🌦️ Weather changes fast – layers are key.
💷 Tipping is appreciated (10% is standard).

What to Eat and Drink in Edinburgh 🍽️

Scotland’s capital knows how to feed you well – from cosy pubs to Michelin-star magic.

Here’s what to tuck into while you’re here.

🐑 Haggis, Neeps & Tatties.
🐟 Cullen Skink (smoked fish soup).
🐖 Bangers and Mash.
🍣 Scottish Salmon.
🍪 Shortbread & Cranachan.
🥃 Scotch Whisky (try a tasting session!)
🧡 Irn-Bru (Scotland’s favourite soft drink)

Plate with Scottish smoked salmon, bread slices, cream cheese, and a side salad of mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion. Knife and fork on the right.
Close-up of Scottish haggis with oatcakes and whisky sauce, garnished with microgreens on a restaurant table.
Scottish smoked salmon, and haggis with whisky sauce

👉 Read more: 😋 Food of Scotland: 18 Scottish Dishes.

Map of Edinburgh📍

Here’s a handy Google Map showing the key neighbourhoods and top attractions.

Top Tours in Edinburgh 🎟️

Here are some must-do tours in Edinburgh!

🏰 Edinburgh Castle tour.
⚡ Harry Potter walking tour.
🍴 Foodie tour with tastings.
👻 Ghost walk or Vaults tour.
⛰️ Arthur’s Seat guided hike.

Sustainable Travel Tips for Edinburgh 🌱

🚌 Use public transport or walk.
🏨 Stay in eco-certified hotels.
🌿 Dine at restaurants using local ingredients.
💧 Carry a reusable bottle (great water here!)

View of the Scott Monument in Edinburgh, with the city name spelled out in large letters on a grassy hill. A tall amusement ride is visible on the right.
Edinburgh in December

FAQs for Edinburgh Travel Guide 💡

Common questions about visiting Edinburgh.

What is the best time to visit Edinburgh?

The best time to visit Edinburgh is May to August, when the weather is mild and the city comes alive with festivals like the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. However, each season has its own charm.

What are the best things to do in Edinburgh?

There are so many things to do in Edinburgh that you could spend weeks here. But don’t miss Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, Arthur’s Seat, and the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

Where should I stay in Edinburgh?

Old Town for the history lovers, New Town for elegant vibes, Leith for foodie scenes, and Stockbridge for village feels. Bruntsfield and the West End are great too.

👉 Read more: Where to Stay in Edinburgh City Centre.

What are the best day trips from Edinburgh?

Castles, coasts, and caffeine! Explore Stirling, Rosslyn Chapel, Loch Lomond, or take a seaside stroll in North Berwick.

👉 Read more: Day Trips from Edinburgh: Castles, Coasts & Caffeine Breaks.

What events should I not miss?

The biggies: Fringe Festival, International Book Festival, Military Tattoo, and Edinburgh’s Christmas. There’s something on nearly every month of the year.

👉 Read more: Edinburgh 3 Day Christmas Itinerary.

What should I pack for Edinburgh?

Layered clothing 🧥, waterproofs ☔, comfy shoes 👟, and a travel adaptor 🔌. The weather can change in a heartbeat, so pack smart!

Is Edinburgh expensive?

It can be – but there are loads of free things to do, like museums and gardens. Plus, it’s walkable, so you’ll save on transport. Budget eats and boutique stays are also easy to find.

Is Edinburgh safe for solo travellers?

Yes! Edinburgh is one of the safest cities in Europe. It’s a top pick for solo travellers (especially women).

👉 Read more: 10 Best Solo Female Travel Destinations in Europe.

The facade of a large Gothic-style cathedral in Edinburgh with pointed arches and elaborate stained glass windows under a blue sky. Several people are seated or standing outside.
A woman sits beside a bronze statue of a cloaked figure on a bench at The Real Mary King's Close exhibit.
St Giles Cathedral and Mary King’s Close

Final Thoughts on Edinburgh ✨

Edinburgh is one of those cities that lingers with you – a place where history feels alive in every close and skyline view. Whether you’re wandering the Royal Mile, sipping whisky in a snug pub, or catching the sunset from Arthur’s Seat, this is a city that blends centuries of charm with just the right amount of mystery.

I hope this Edinburgh Travel Guide has given you a head start in planning your trip. From castles to coffee stops, there’s something here for every kind of traveller (and if you’re anything like me, you’ll be planning your return before you’ve even left!)

 

Here are some quick links to help you with your trip to Edinburgh.

Related Reading for Edinburgh

🚶 Best Day trips from Edinburgh.
🎉 15 Fun Things to do in Edinburgh.
🏨 Where to Stay in Edinburgh.
🏴 Edinburgh in One Day: The Perfect 1-Day Itinerary
🧙‍♂️ Harry Potter locations in Scotland.
🌊 Things to do in Newhaven, Edinburgh.
🌄 Things to do in Dean Village, Edinburgh.
😋 Food of Scotland: 18 Scottish Dishes.
🎄Edinburgh Christmas Itinerary: 3 Magical Days in Scotland’s Festive Capital.
🏨 Best Cosy Hotels & Festive Stays in Edinburgh.

Pinterest Pins 📌

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Edinburgh travel guide cover featuring the castle, cityscape, Scott Monument, and a bagpiper.
Cover image of an Edinburgh travel guide featuring an ancient monument in Edinburgh, UK, with a cityscape in the background and website URL: www.hazelstravels.co.uk.

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