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Explore Edinburgh: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Everything you need to know for visiting Edinburgh

I may be a little biased about the city I call home, but hear me out when I tell you Edinburgh really has it all. Built on seven hills, the Scottish capital’s natural beauty is matched by it’s stunning architecture and inviting atmosphere.

From the medieval Old Town to the grand New Town, the city feels straight out of a storybook. The food scene puts some of Scotland’s best home-grown ingredients in the spotlight, and its selection of historic cosy pubs is unmatched.

While Edinburgh draws a crowd in summer for its world famous Festival calendar, there’s so much more to the city to discover throughout the year.

Take it from a local, here’s everything you need to know if you’re planning a trip to Edinburgh.

  1. Planning your visit to Edinburgh
  2. When to visit Edinburgh
  3. Getting around
  4. What to see and do in Edinburgh
  5. Where to eat in Edinburgh
  6. Where to drink in Edinburgh
  7. Where to stay in Edinburgh

Planning your visit to Edinburgh

Essentials to know

  • Currency: British Pound (£). Cash is rarely needed. Some places may accept contactless only.
  • Language: English, but you might hear some Scots or Gaelic thrown in (e.g “Cheers” = thank you).
  • Plugs: The UK uses plug type G: three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern.
  • Weather: Layer up. Always. Even in peak summer.
  • Etiquette: Tip 10% at restaurants if service isn’t included. Don’t feed the seagulls. If you see bagpipers busking (very likely) make sure to give them a donation if you’re taking photos.
  • Local Events/Festivals: If you’re visiting in August, plan ahead like a pro. Accommodation and tickets sell out fast during festival season.

When to visit Edinburgh

Scotland’s weather is…in a word, unpredictable. But don’t let that put you off —Edinburgh is stunning rain or shine – with moody mist bringing out the gothic architecture, and warm sunny days making the green spaces extra inviting. Whenever you visit, make sure to pack a raincoat – the wind laughs at umberellas here.

  • Spring (April to June):
    • Green spaces in bloom, longer days. Weather is unpredictable. Bring layers.
  • Summer (July to August):
    • Peak festival season. It’s buzzing, it’s beautiful—and it’s busy.
  • Autumn (September to October):
    • Moody skies, fiery leaves, perfect coffee walks or cosying up in the pub.
  • Winter (November to March):
    • Quiet and cosy. Short days (or long nights, depending how you look at it), and magical Christmas markets.

Local tip: August in Edinburgh is madness in the best way, when Festival fever takes over the city. Be sure to book everything early (like, everything).

Getting around

Edinburgh is a compact city with a real mix of elevation – whether hilly streets or winding alleys in the old town. Here are the best ways to nagivate it.

  • Walking: 100% the best way to explore. Bring good shoes for navigating the hills and cobbles—your calves will thank you later.
  • Buses: Clean, frequent, and go basically everywhere. Download the Lothian Buses app for real-time info.
  • Trams: Great for getting to/from the airport, Murrayfield stadium for rugby and concerts, and down to Leith and the shore.
  • Taxis/Uber: Easy to find but pricier than public transport. Worth it in a pinch—or when it’s raining sideways.
  • Car: Don’t bother renting a car here, unless you’re heading outside of the city. The public transport is excellent, walking is easy, and parking can be a pain.
  • Bike Rentals: Doable, but keep in mind the hills (and weather).

Local tip: If you’re navigating with a map (or app), beware of steep streets and lots of steps in the Old Town. If you’re travelling with luggage or have limited mobility, you can often find alternative routes to avoid the steepest parts.

What to see and do in Edinburgh

Edinburgh has history around every corner. Beyond the city’s iconic landmarks, you’ll find charming neighborhoods, serene green spaces, and even a beach (though you’re unlikely to have swimsuit weather).

Check out my full guides above on the best things to see and do in Edinburgh to load up your itinerary.

Dont miss:

  • Edinburgh Castle
    • Walk in the footsteps of Scottish royalty, discover the history of the castle and its former occupants, and take in panoramic views of the city from above.
    • Visit: edinburghcastle.scot
  • The Royal Mile
    • A mix of historic buildings and authentic old whisky pubs and shops, alongside souvenir shops that range from authentic to tacky. Touristy for a reason – its atmospheric, and full of charm.
  • Arthur’s Seat
    • A a big hike-worthy hill with some of the best views of the city from its rocky summit. It will be steep, it will be windy, but you’ll be glad you climbed it.
  • Victoria Street
    • The winding cobblestone street with rainbow coloured shop fronts is famous as photo spot and for being the inspiration behind Diagon Alley, but don’t miss I.J Mellis or the a dram at Bow Bar for a taste of artisanal and authentic Scotland.
  • National Museum of Scotland
  • Dean Village
    • A peaceful riverside neighborhood that feels like a step back in time. With lush greenery and fairytale feeling, you wont believe you’re only minutes from the city centre.
  • Calton Hill
    • The “other” viewpoint in town. Easier to climb than Arthur’s Seat, and with one of the best lookout points to enjoy panoramic views of the city.

Where to eat in Edinburgh

As an Edinburgh resident and avid foodie, I’ve thrown myself into the city’s food scene and gathered enough recommendations to fill an entire series of eating and drinking guides (so stay tuned).

My top picks include:

AM

  • Edinburgh Larder
    • Brunch/lunch spot just off the Royal Mile with a Scottish produce-led menu.
    • Visit: edinburghlarder.co.uk
  • Snax
    • Local staple for classic fried breakfasts you’ll need to lie back down after
    • Visit: snaxcafe.com
  • Dishoom
    • Don’t miss the breakfast menu (served until 12) for naan sandwiches and bottomless chai
    • Visit: dishoom.com/edinburgh
  • Ante

PM

  • Pomelo
  • Kampong Ah Lee
    • Deeply underrated. No matter how good I tell you the Roti is – its better.
    • Visit: kampongahlee.co.uk
  • Tipo
    • Housemade pasta cooked to perfection and ultra-tasty small plates.
    • Visit: tipoedinburgh.co.uk
  • Eleanore
    • Set menu showcasing seasonal Scottish ingredients and innovative dishes.
    • Visit: eleanore.uk
  • The Palmerston

Where to drink in Edinburgh

For coffee:

  • Artisan Roast
  • Lowdown
    • Minimalist coffee shop hiding in plain sight on George Street.
    • Visit: lowdown.coffee
  • Origin
  • Beatnik
    • A coffee shop that is almost certainly cooler than you. Between the Meadows and Tollcross.
    • Visit: beatnik.cafe/

For drinks:

  • Bennets
    • Wood-panelled walls, cask ales, and characteristic Edinburgh old pub charm.
    • Visit: bennetsbar.co.uk
  • The Bow Bar
    • Big on character and charm, even bigger on its whisky selection.
    • Visit: thebowbar.co.uk
  • Bramble
    • Speakeasy vibes and serious mixology. Officially among the best cocktail bars in the world.
    • Visit: bramblebar.co.uk/
  • Spry
    • Wine bar and bottle shop with a focus on natural wine. Minimalist space and surprisingly excellent small plates.
    • Visit: sprywines.co.uk

Where to stay in Edinburgh

Hotels:

Apartments: