Edinburgh

Travel Guide

Edinburgh
Edinburgh
Edinburgh Castle which includes a park
Edinburgh
Royal Botanic Garden which includes a park and heritage elements

Edinburgh Travel Guide Video

Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh,nestled between extinct volcanoes and hills, is almost fairytale in appearance,with its medieval buildings in the Old Town and the wide streets and spacioushomes Georgian New Town, and the spectacular castle looking down from itscliff. Edinburgh was declared a World HeritageSite in 1995, which only begs the question: why did it take so long?

EdinburghCastle has to be the most beautiful building in town. This fortressis built over an ancient extinct volcano, defended the city against attacks forhundreds of years. Below this you’ll find The Royal Mile, which is an idealplace to start your exploration of the Scottish capital. The cobblestone streetsconnect the Palace of Holyrood, the current official royal residence, with itsmedieval counterpart, Edinburgh Castle. Along theroute you will find some of the most important buildings of the city, such asSt. Giles' Cathedral and Parliament House.

It is only a short walk to Princes Street Gardens,which stretch along Princes Street, the main shopping area of ​​the city. Inthis beautiful green space you’ll find memorials and monuments, including theScott Monument, built in striking Gothic style in honour of the writer, Sir.Walter Scott from its galleries you have an incredible view of the city.

But that’s not even the best. From the hills risingup behind the city, the view is even more beautiful. Hike to the top ofArthur's Seat, an extinct volcano, and up Calton Hill, which houses a number ofimpressive monuments, including the National Monument.

If you want escape the beaten track, Edinburghalso has a number of lesser-known locations. Dean Village is located in a greenarea and is just five minutes drive from the city centre. In this harbordistrict you’ll find numerous bars, cafes and restaurants. It is also the finalresting place for the royal yacht Britannia. This magnificent ship served theBritish royal family for over 40 years all over the world’s hazardous waters.

The two most popular months to visit Edinburgh,are December and August. In August there are several art festivals, includingthe legendary Edinburgh Fringe and the Edinburgh Art Festival. In December,there are all kinds of Christmas attractions and markets. The month ends withone of the most famous street parties in the world: Edinburgh's Hogmanay.

Where to stay in Edinburgh

Default Image

Old Town Edinburgh

4.5/5(1,168 area reviews)

Gourmet restaurants interesting history and top sights from Edinburgh Castle to St. Giles' Cathedral – discover Old Town Edinburgh, a destination also famous for its shopping.

Old Town Edinburgh
Calton Hill featuring general coastal views, skyline and a city

Edinburgh City Centre

If you're spending time in Edinburgh City Centre, check out sights like Edinburgh Castle or Scott Monument and hop on the metro to see more of the city at St Andrew Square Tram Stop or Princes Street Tram Stop.

Edinburgh City Centre
Edinburgh which includes heritage architecture and night scenes

New Town

4.5/5(1,225 area reviews)

Travellers love New Town for its popular shops, and you can see more of Edinburgh by jumping on the metro at Princes Street Tram Stop or St Andrew Square Tram Stop. You might spend time checking out top sights like Assembly Rooms and George Street.

New Town
Royal Yacht Britannia featuring boating and interior views

Leith

5/5(1 area review)

Known for its abundant dining options and seaside views, there's plenty to explore in Leith. Top attractions like Edinburgh Port and Royal Yacht Britannia are major draws, and you can catch the metro at The Shore Tram Stop or Port of Leith Tram Stop to see more of the city.

Leith
Default Image

Tollcross

4.5/5(49 area reviews)

Tollcross is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Usher Hall and King's Theatre while in the area.

Tollcross
Default Image

West End

4/5(668 area reviews)

Gourmet restaurants interesting history and top sights from Dean Village to Johnnie Walker Princes Street – discover West End, a destination also famous for its shopping.

West End
Apex Grassmarket Hotel

Apex Grassmarket Hotel

4 out of 5
31-35 Grassmarket, Edinburgh, Scotland
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is €246 per night from 31 Aug to 1 Sept
€246
31 Aug - 1 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star eco-certified hotel in Edinburgh. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and 24-hour room service. Our guests praise the breakfast and the ...
9/10 Wonderful! (2,017 reviews)
"Very nice and comfortable hotel. Convenient location."

Reviewed on 30 Jul 2025

Apex Grassmarket Hotel
Holiday Inn Edinburgh by IHG

Holiday Inn Edinburgh by IHG

4 out of 5
132 Corstorphine Road, Edinburgh, Scotland
Fully refundable
The price is €127 per night from 31 Aug to 1 Sept
€127
31 Aug - 1 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star spa hotel in Edinburgh. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in our ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (1,006 reviews)
"Great location - adjacent to the Heathrow Airport - walk through the short term parking - about 100 yards Typical Hilton - excellent location & well kept facility. Will definitely stay here next trip to England"

Reviewed on 2 Aug 2025

Holiday Inn Edinburgh by IHG
YOTEL Edinburgh

YOTEL Edinburgh

4 out of 5
Erskine House, Queen Street, Edinburgh, Scotland
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is €185 per night from 31 Aug to 1 Sept
€185
31 Aug - 1 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star hotel in Edinburgh. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and a 24-hour fitness center. Our guests praise the breakfast and the bar in ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (2,275 reviews)
"N/a"

Reviewed on 30 Jul 2025

YOTEL Edinburgh
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Aparthotel Adagio Edinburgh Royal Mile

Aparthotel Adagio Edinburgh Royal Mile

4 out of 5
231 Canongate, Edinburgh, Scotland
Stay at this 4-star aparthotel in Edinburgh. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and a 24-hour fitness center. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful ...
9/10 Wonderful! (2,194 reviews)
"The staff were friendly and helpful, the room and whole building were clean and everything was in good working order. The television however was old and slow- difficult to really use because of this. Otherwise it was excellent!"

Reviewed on 1 Aug 2025

Aparthotel Adagio Edinburgh Royal Mile
Wilde Aparthotels, Edinburgh, Grassmarket

Wilde Aparthotels, Edinburgh, Grassmarket

4 out of 5
26 King's Stables Road, Edinburgh, Scotland
Stay at this 4-star aparthotel in Edinburgh. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and a fitness center. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (951 reviews)
"Great central location"

Reviewed on 31 Jul 2025

Wilde Aparthotels, Edinburgh, Grassmarket
Fraser Suites Edinburgh

Fraser Suites Edinburgh

4 out of 5
Fraser Suites Edinburgh, 12 - 26 St Giles Street, Edinburgh, Scotland
Stay at this 4-star aparthotel in Edinburgh. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and a 24-hour fitness center. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (2,976 reviews)
"Fantastic place to stay as right at the heart of Edinburgh city. Transport to and from hotel/ airport very easy. Hotel staff friendly and helpful. The breakfast was ok but lacked variety. However, definitely would stay here again and recommend to others."

Reviewed on 30 Jul 2025

Fraser Suites Edinburgh
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Popular places to visit

Things to do