Scotland Scotland Edinburgh

Edinburgh

Scotland's historic capital, famed for its castle, festivals, and cultural heritage, nestled within seven hills.

Tips from the community

The city of Edinburgh wakes up during winter vacation the streets become filled with buskers and snow forms a blanket on the floor. Temperatures might drop up north, but this just adds to the appeal of exploring the surrounding areas before sipping on some warming whisky at one of Edinburgh’s famous bars. Dornoch Castle Hotel, voted best whisky bar in Scotland, is the place to go if you’re one to know the difference between your whisky and your whiskey. The city also loves its Christmas festivities, which means no matter the whereabouts you find yourself in Edinburgh, you’ll be able to gaze up at a multitude of twinkling lights. Princes Street is the place to visit for kitsch fairground rides, Scandinavian-themed bars, and the infamous ice-rink. You’ll inevitably queue to get into Edinburgh’s magical Dome any time of year, but it’s worth the wait to sip on a cocktail under the impressive ceiling. Of course, a holiday wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the Edinburgh castle. Or, if you’re a fan of crisp air and don’t mind a challenge, a hike up nearby Arthur’s Seat is well worth the steps to the top. 

georgierdarling 6 years ago

Heading to Scotland’s iconic capital city for a day trip from London is never a bad idea. Edinburgh is only a one hour flight from London. Known for Gothic architecture and cobblestoned streets, the Scottish hub is the perfect mix of city meets quaint town. To begin, take a stroll through the Royal Mile, Edinburgh’s cultural hub. Along the way you can wander into shops, pubs, and spot historical monuments like St. Giles Cathedral. 
You can’t take a trip from London to Edinburgh without witnessing the city’s crown jewel, Edinburgh Castle. The fortress sits atop a hill that can be spotted throughout the city. For the full experience, take a tour of one of the UK’s oldest castles where you’ll get to see the prestigious rooms and heirlooms while ultimately feeling very royal-like.   Visit during August to experience the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, one of the most unique UK festivals.

briari 6 years ago

For centuries, the Scottish have celebrated All Hallows’ Eve, which is rooted in the Gaelic festival of Samhuinn. Edinburgh’s Samhuinn Fire Parade is a spectacle of fire play and drumming to usher in winter that is not to be missed. Other ways to celebrate Halloween in the Scottish capital include embarking on one of the city’s many ghost tours and strolling Scotland’s Ghost Trail, which includes two haunted spots in Edinburgh.

laurenmack 4 years ago

For art lovers, you can’t do better than the Fringe Festival. It’s the largest arts festival in the world and lasts around twenty-five days. Obviously, street food and booze are free flowing throughout the event and there’s always more than one street party.
When: August (dates vary) Look forward to: Thousands of different performances (comedy, music, and lectures) in hundreds of beautiful venues.
Tips: It’s an amazing place to meet like-minded people and the best way to experience it is to not plan too much, take some fliers, and go along to things you never thought you’d be interested in. 

booksandbao 7 years ago

Edinburgh Guides