Edinburgh
United Kingdom · Scotland · 47 m
Description
Edinburgh is the historic capital of Scotland and a major centre of culture, education, and history. The city is defined by its medieval Old Town and elegant Georgian New Town, which together form a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Landmarks such as imposing Edinburgh Castle, perched on volcanic Castle Rock, and the Palace of Holyroodhouse shape the cityscape. Edinburgh is also renowned for its vibrant festival scene, above all the world-famous Edinburgh Festival Fringe, which transforms the city into a vast stage each summer. With historic streets, museums, theatres, and green hills, Edinburgh blends Scottish tradition with a modern, international atmosphere and is widely regarded as the cultural heart of Scotland.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 2 to 5 days (optimal 3 days)
Travel season
Best time to visit: May – September or December
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Edinburgh Castle
- Royal Mile & Old Town
- Arthur's Seat
- Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park(Day trip)
- Palace of Holyroodhouse
- Calton Hill
- National Museum of Scotland
- Stirling Castle(Day trip)
- Scottish Parliament Building
- St Giles' Cathedral
- Edinburgh New Town
- Dean Village & Water of Leith
- Holyrood Park
- Princes Street Gardens
- Scottish National Gallery
- Scottish National Portrait Gallery
- Royal Yacht Britannia
- Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
- The Scotch Whisky Experience
- Mary King's Close
- Greyfriars Kirkyard & Greyfriars Bobby
- Edinburgh Festival Fringe (August)
- Hogmanay (December)
- Victoria Street
- Grassmarket
- Stockbridge
- Edinburgh Christmas Market (November - January)
- Rosslyn Chapel(Day trip)
Getting there
- Airports:
- EDI
- Train stations:
- Edinburgh Waverley
- Seaport:
- Reachable by ship or ferry