Disclosure: This blog is reader-supported, and some posts contain affiliate links. If you make a booking, I may earn a small commission-at no extra cost to you. Thank you for keeping me writing and doing what I love!
Edinburgh is one of the most beautiful cities in Scotland, known for its medieval streets, historic landmarks, and vibrant food scene. I’ve visited Edinburgh twice: first as a solo traveler at 19 and later with my family, where my now husband proposed with Edinburgh Castle in the background.
Whether you’re planning your first trip to Scotland or looking for the best things to do in Edinburgh, this guide covers everything you need to know. From how to get to Edinburgh and where to stay, to the best restaurants, attractions, and hidden gems, here’s my complete Edinburgh travel guide.
How to travel to Edinburgh
Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland and one of the easiest cities in the United Kingdom to reach. With excellent flight connections, rail service, and public transportation, getting here is relatively straightforward whether you’re traveling internationally or from elsewhere in the UK.
Flying
The fastest way to get to Edinburgh is by flying into the Edinburgh airport (EDI), which is just outside the city.
From Airport to City:
Tram: Clean and easy, the tram runs every 10 minutes and it’s about 35 minutes to reach the city center. You can follow signs in the airport to find the tram.
You can bus for a cheaper option or taxi for a personal reason.
By Train
Taking a train to Edinburgh Waverley Station is scenic and stress-free.
- London (King’s Cross) ~ 4h 20m
- Manchester (Piccadilly) ~3h 15m
- Birmingham ~4h 30m
- Glasgow ~50m – 1h 10m
Edinburgh Travel Tips
- Book early. Accommodation and transportation prices rise significantly during peak travel periods, especially during the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in August.
- Pack layers. Edinburgh weather is famously unpredictable. Even in summer, you’ll want a waterproof jacket and layers you can easily add or remove.
- Consider a rail pass. If you’re exploring more of Scotland, a BritRail or ScotRail pass may help save money.
Where to Stay in Edinburgh
One of the best things about Edinburgh is that each neighborhood has its own personality. Whether you’re looking for historic charm, great food, luxury hotels, or a quieter local experience, there’s an area that fits your travel style.
Old Town
Best for: First-Time Visitors & History Lovers
If it’s your first time in Edinburgh, Old Town is a no-brainer. You’ll be right in the heart of the city, surrounded by cobbled streets, medieval architecture, and major attractions like the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, and St Giles’ Cathedral.
Hotel Recommendations for Old Town:
- Hostel: CoDE Pod – I personally loved a hostel when I was backpacking. It’s a great way to save money and make friends.
- Budget: ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge – I stayed at an apartment near here on my last visit to Edinburgh and we really enjoyed this area of the city.
- Mid-range: The Scotsman Hotel – a 4-star hotel overlooking the Castle. This was once The Scotsman newspaper and each room is unique.
- Splurge: Old Town Chambers, Autograph Collection – Conveniently located on the Royal Mile, and each apartment features a full kitchen and some even have balconies.
- Luxury: The Witchery by the castle – I could never afford this but it’s fun to look at.
New Town
Best for: Elegant Architecture & Shopping
Just across Princes Street Gardens from Old Town, New Town offers a more refined, Georgian-era contrast. It’s ideal for travelers who want a slightly quieter base while still being central. Here you’ll find gorgeous architecture, wide streets, and excellent restaurants.
Hotel Recommendations for New Town:
- Apartment: Edinburgh Castle Apartment – an apartment stay is a great option if you’re traveling with friends or need to break up a long trip.
- Budget: Courtyard by Marriott – Great deal and even better if you are a Marriott member.
- Mid-range: Frederick House Hotel – I love a hotel option over airbnb. Elegant, modern rooms at this cost is a steal for Scottish prices.
- Splurge: The Balmoral Hotel – An absolute dream stay with 5-start accommodations in the heart of the city. It’s on the cusp of old town and new town.
Leith
Best for: For Foodies & Local Vibes
Leith is Edinburgh’s historic port district turned trendy hotspot. It’s a little outside the center, but offers a different perspective—and arguably the city’s best food scene.
Hotel Recommendations for Leith:
- Budget: Malmaison Edinburgh – A boutique hotel on the banks of the Fort in Leith.
- Mid-range: 89 the Merchants – A recently renovated hotel in a historic building, offering a blend of old Edinburgh with modern comforts.
- Splurge: Fingal Hotel – staying on the water? This is a oneof a kind experience.
Stockbridge
Best for: a quieter, village feel
Just northwest of New Town, Stockbridge is like a little village tucked inside the city. It’s perfect for longer stays, slow travel, or anyone looking to escape the crowds.
Hotel Recommendations for Stockbridge:
- Budget: Nira Caledonia – Each room in this townhome is individually designed. Please note that there is no elevator!
- Mid-range: The Raeburn – I love the charming area of Stockbridge and this hotel embraces the Scottish designs.
- Splurge: South Learmonth Gardens Apartment – This is a great apartment option for traveling in a group or looking to do a load of laundry on your travels.
Best Restaurants in Edinburgh
Edinburgh’s food and drink scene is every bit as rich and layered as its cobbled streets and medieval skyline. From Michelin-starred fine dining to hearty pub grub, cozy cafés to sleek cocktail bars, the city is a feast for the senses.
Do you tip in Edinburgh? If you receive good service while in Edinburgh, keep in mind that topping 10-15% is customary.
The Black Bull
We went to the location in between Victoria Street and Vennel Viewpoint. This would be such a cool spot to catch a game on tv with the locals cheering on their team. The drinks were great, the food was decent, and overall the vibes were really fun for all of us.
The Canons’ Gait
Located along the Royal Mile, this was the best food I ate in Edinburgh, and is such an accessible location when you’re walking around to hit the sites. From burgers, to pints, to fish ‘n’ chips, you won’t leave here on an empty stomach.
The Scran & Scallie
You can find the Scarn & Scallie in the Stockbridge neighborhood. A Michelin Bib Gourmand gastropub by Tom Kitchin. Think: refined comfort food in a cozy setting. If you go, you should try Haggis, neeps & tatties, or the steak pie.
Timberyard
If you don’t mind splurging and are an adventuerous eaterm Timberyard is for you. This is a farm-to-table style and changes their menu with the seasons.
The Pantry
Located in Stockbridge, The Pantry is a favorite among locals. This is a place you’re going to for brunch or breakfast. If you go, you should order the Full Scottish breakfast or their pancake stacks.
Coffee & Drinks
Cairngorm Coffee
This café is a great stop when you walk towards Dean Village. The last time I was in Edinburgh was at the tail end of November, so the weather was crisp. We stopped in to warm up and grab a little snack, and I even thought about stopping there again after Dean Village.
The Bow Bar
Found on Victoria Street, this is a no-frills haven for whisky and craft beer lovers. This is a very old-school establishment with a warm charm.
Lucky Liquor Co.
On Cockburn Street, Lucky Liquor Co has a rotating menu of 13 experimental cocktails. This is a great place to stop and give your feet a break from walking, or a pre-dinner pitstop.
The Tron
We actually caught the world cup games here late at night and it felt like another dive bar. We were surrounded by football fans and it was a great way to have our last night in Edinburgh. The Tron also happened to be just across from where we were staying, so we lucked out!
Things to do in Edinburgh
Whether you’re into history, nature, literature, or just great food and whisky, this city has something for everyone. Here’s a list of the top things to do in Edinburgh – from iconic landmarks to hidden corners.
Visit the Vennel Viewpoint
This is now one of my favorite locations in any city, mainly because I got engaged here, but there’s another reason. The Vennel View point is situated on the old Edinburgh border, and the views from the alleyway with the castle in the background creates the most medieval and magical view in any city I’ve seen.
Tour Edinburgh Castle
Towering over the city on Castle Rock, this fortress is the crown jewel of Edinburgh. Walk through centuries of Scottish history, see the Crown Jewels, and enjoy panoramic views from the battlements.
The first time I came to this city, I was so broke I really had to be selective on what I spent my money on. Since I was living in Germany with loads of castles, I opted not to tour Edinburgh’s castle. My second time in the city, that wasn’t the case.
My family and I went to Edinburgh castle and timed our entry to be at sunset, and I loved creating this memory with people I love. As an American, the history inside the castle walls is so humbling at the extensive history it holds.
We bought tickets with a timed entry. The included audio guides allowed us to enjoy the grounds at our lesiure and learn as much as we’d like, while taking in the sunset over the city.
Climb Arthur’s Seat
My first time to Edinburgh was over Easter weekend. On Easter Sunday, I climbed this extinct volcano in Holyrood Park to see the best view of the city. The hike takes about an hour and is well worth it. Pack a snack, bring a camera, and enjoy sunrise or sunset if you can.
I think I sat at the top of this hike for at least an hour soaking in the view.
Holyrood Palace
As I sharedabove, my first time I came to Edinburgh I was poor and was very selective with what I spent money on. Holyrood Palace is a place I just HAD to go to my first trip. (I know, strange choice out of everything to choose from.)
I think I liked the idea of walking inside a place the queen would stay on her visits, and feel connected to more recent history.
Free Admission to the Museum of Edinburgh
In all honesty, we entered this free museum to escape the November frost, and I think it wasn’t a coincidence. This museum has a mini replica of the city and outlines where the old Edinburgh walls are, and learning the history of Edinburgh made me appreciate every piece of this city we explored.
Wander Through Dean Village
I know this is in Scotland, but Dean Village feels a little like a french town tucked away in the highlands. This is a residential neighborhood, so please be mindful and respectful of the area. There are walking trails where locals can be seen walking, running, or taking the dogs on a morning stroll.
Walk down Victoria Street
Made famous for Harry Potter vibes, Victoria street is a small, yet vibrant street with shops and restaurants. There’s even a Harry Potter shop now, which was cool to stop in and see what they had on display.
Discover Harry Potter Connections
J.K. Rowling found a lot of inspiration from Edinburgh for the Harry Potter series. Iconic Harry Potter names were inspired by names in the graveyard, Diagon Alley looks eerily familiar to Victoria Street, and there’s even more similarities.
Don’t believe me? Check this out.
Go on a Ghost Tour
When it comes to ghost tours, Edinburgh isn’t lacking. We saw a handful of them advertised on posters along the Royal Mile, and we were enticed enough to go on one! Now to be frank, I am easily spooked.
I can’t say I was thrilled to be going, but the tour we did wasn’t too long and was an ideal blend of educational and spooky. We went on a tour of the vaults in the South Bridge, where it just so happened we were staying near. Whichever tour you do, I wish you the best of luck!
Frequently Asked Questions About Edinburgh
Is Edinburgh worth visiting?
Absolutely. Edinburgh combines world-class history, stunning architecture, incredible food, and easy access to the Scottish Highlands, making it one of the best cities to visit in Europe.
How many days should you spend in Edinburgh?
Most travelers should spend at least 2 to 4 days in Edinburgh to experience major attractions, neighborhoods, restaurants, and viewpoints.
What is the best area to stay in Edinburgh?
Old Town is best for first-time visitors, New Town is ideal for shopping and dining, Leith is perfect for food lovers, and Stockbridge offers a quieter local experience.
When is the best time to visit Edinburgh?
Late spring through early autumn offers the best weather. August is especially lively thanks to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, though it is also the busiest and most expensive month to visit.
