Our Detailed Edinburgh Travel Guide (Updated 2023)

 

Getting to Edinburgh

There are several options to reach Edinburgh, including driving, flying, and taking the train. Let's take a closer look at each option and discuss their specific details, pros, and cons, as well as different price points.

Driving

If you're traveling from within the UK, you can drive to Edinburgh by car. This is a convenient option if you have your own car or if you're traveling with a group of people and want to split the cost of fuel and tolls. You can reach Edinburgh in about 5 hours from London, or 2-3 hours from cities such as Manchester or Newcastle.

Pros:

• Flexibility and independence - you can stop whenever you want and visit places along the way.
• Cost-effective - if you're traveling in a group, splitting fuel and toll costs can make this a cheaper option compared to flying or taking the train.

Cons:

• Lengthy journey time - the drive can take 5 hours or more, depending on your starting point and the traffic.
• Cost of fuel - fuel prices can add up, especially if you're traveling a long distance.

Price point: The cost of driving to Edinburgh will depend on several factors, including the distance you're traveling, the cost of fuel, and any tolls you need to pay along the way. On average, you can expect to spend around £50-100 on fuel and tolls, depending on your starting point.

 

Flying

If you're traveling from overseas, flying to Edinburgh is probably the quickest and most convenient option. Edinburgh Airport (EDI) is located about 6 miles west of the city center and offers direct flights to a wide range of destinations, including London, Paris, Amsterdam, and Dublin. You can browse flights with Omio

Pros:

• Quick and convenient - flights to Edinburgh are usually less than 2 hours from major European cities.
• Accessibility - Edinburgh Airport has a good public transport network, including buses, trains, and taxis, which makes it easy to reach the city center.

Cons:

• Cost - flights can be expensive, especially if you're traveling at peak times or if you book at short notice.
• Limited luggage allowances - airlines often have strict baggage allowances, which can be a problem if you're carrying a lot of luggage.

Price point: The cost of flying to Edinburgh will depend on several factors, including your starting point, the time of year, and how far in advance you book your flight. On average, you can expect to spend between £50-200 for a one-way ticket, although prices can be much higher during peak season.

Train

If you're traveling from within the UK, taking the train to Edinburgh is another option. Trains from London take around 4.5 hours, while trains from cities such as Manchester and Newcastle take around 2-3 hours. You can book train tickets too with Omio

Pros:

• Convenient - trains offer a comfortable and convenient way to travel, with regular services to Edinburgh from major cities across the UK.
• Scenic journey - the train journey to Edinburgh offers some spectacular views of the Scottish countryside.

Cons:

• Cost - trains can be expensive, especially if you book at short notice or if you're traveling at peak times.
• Journey time - although trains are faster than driving, they can still take several hours, depending on your starting point.

Price point: The cost of taking the train to Edinburgh will depend on several factors, including your starting point, the time of day, and how far in advance you book. On average, you can expect to spend around £100 for a return ticket.

What to see in Edinburgh

Edinburgh Castle

This iconic castle is perched atop an extinct volcano and is one of Edinburgh's most popular tourist attractions. The castle dates back to the 12th century and has served as a royal residence, military stronghold, and prison over the centuries. Today, visitors can explore the castle's many rooms and halls, including the Scottish Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny, and the National War Museum of Scotland.

Location: Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NG Distance from city center: The castle is located in the heart of the city center, just a 10-minute walk from the Royal Mile.

 

Arthur's Seat

This extinct volcano is the highest point in Edinburgh and offers breathtaking views of the city and beyond. Visitors can climb to the top of the hill for panoramic views of Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Botanic Garden, and the Firth of Forth.

Location: Queen's Drive, Edinburgh EH8 8HW Distance from city center: Arthur's Seat is located about 1.5 miles from the city center and is easily accessible by bus, taxi, or on foot.

Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

This 70-acre garden is located on the edge of the city and is home to a stunning collection of plants, trees, and flowers from around the world. The garden also features several greenhouses, a rock garden, and a Victorian Palm House.

Location: Inverleith Row, Edinburgh EH3 5LR Distance from city center: The garden is located about 2 miles from the city center and is easily accessible by bus, taxi, or on foot.

Palace of Holyroodhouse

This historic palace has been the residence of the kings and queens of Scotland for centuries, and today serves as the official residence of the monarch in Scotland. Visitors can explore the palace's many rooms, including the historic Great Gallery, the Chapel Royal, and the Royal Dining Room.

Location: Canongate, Edinburgh EH8 8DX Distance from city center: The Palace of Holyroodhouse is located at the bottom of the Royal Mile, just a 10-minute walk from Edinburgh Castle

St Giles' Cathedral

This historic cathedral has been a place of worship for over 900 years and is one of Edinburgh's oldest and most famous landmarks. Visitors can explore the cathedral's many rooms and halls, including the Chapel of the Thistle and the Chapel of the Order of the Thistle.

Location: High Street, Edinburgh EH1 1RE Distance from city center: St Giles' Cathedral is located in the heart of the city center, just a 5-minute walk from Edinburgh Castle.

The Royal Mile

This historic street runs from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse and is one of the city's most famous landmarks. The Royal Mile is lined with shops, cafes, and historic buildings, and is the perfect place to take a stroll and explore the city's rich history and culture.

Location: Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2ND to Canongate, Edinburgh EH8 8DX Distance from city center: The Royal Mile is located in the heart of the city center and is easily accessible on foot from any location in the city center.

Where to stay In Edinburgh

Native Edinburgh 

This hotel is a top choice for many visitors, with a central location and modern, comfortable rooms. Located just a few minutes' walk from the city centre, you can easily explore the city's many sights and attractions. Reviewers praise the friendly staff and great value for money.

Browse their prices & availability here

Old Waverley Hotel 

The Old Waverley Hotel is a historic building with a prime location on the famous Princes Street. It offers a traditional and elegant atmosphere, with well-appointed rooms and a fantastic restaurant. Despite being a bit further from the city centre, the hotel's central location makes it easy to get around.

Browse their prices & availability here

Yotel Edinburgh

Yotel is a modern hotel with a focus on efficiency and affordability. The hotel is located just a short walk from Waverley Station, making it a great choice for those arriving by train. Reviewers appreciate the clean and well-appointed rooms, as well as the convenient location.

Browse their prices & availability here

The Place Hotel 

The Place Hotel is a stylish and modern hotel that offers comfortable rooms and a prime location in the heart of the city. Just a short walk from the Royal Mile and other top attractions, it's a great choice for those looking to be close to the action. Reviewers appreciate the hotel's great value for money and friendly staff.

Browse their prices & availability here

Brewdog Doghouse

The Brewdog Doghouse is a unique hotel for beer lovers, with its own microbrewery and a focus on sustainable and eco-friendly practices. Although it's a bit further from the city centre, it offers a great base for exploring the city and its many craft beer establishments. Reviewers appreciate the unique atmosphere and the hotel's commitment to sustainability.

Browse their prices & availability here 

Where to eat & drink in Edinburgh

Cafe's & Brunch

Hula, Edinburgh

1. The Crossing (EH7 4AA) - Coffee, Brunch & Baked Goods
2. Union of Genius (EH1 2LU) - Soup, Coffee & Brunch
3. Hula Juice Bar (EH1 2LX) - Juice, Smoothies & Brunch
4. Nicolson's Cafe (EH8 9DW) - Coffee, Tea & Brunch

1. Patisserie Maxime (EH2 4JS) - Coffee, Pastries & Brunch
2. The West Room (EH3 9DW) - Coffee, Tea & Brunch with a View
3. La Barantine (EH2 2DX) - Coffee, Pastries & Brunch
4. The Elephant House (EH1 2NG) - Coffee, Tea & Brunch with a View

Restaurants

 

Restaurant Martin Wishart, Edinburgh

Budget-Friendly Restaurants:

1. Karahi Palace (EH7 5DR) - Indian Cuisine
2. The Kitchin (EH6 6QW) - Seafood & Modern French
3. Mother India (EH1 1EW) - Indian Street Food
4. Hadrian's Tipsy Tea Room (EH7 4AW) - Traditional British Food
5. Dishoom (EH1 2EW) - Indian Bombay Cafe

Mid-Range Restaurants:

1. Osteria Marco Polo (EH2 2EQ) - Italian Cuisine
2. Kanpai Sushi (EH3 9DR) - Japanese Sushi & Ramen
3. The Little Chartroom (EH6 6NN) - Seafood & Mediterranean
4. Fishers in the City (EH3 9DX) - Seafood & Grill

Luxury Restaurants:

1. The Witchery by the Castle (EH1 2NF) - Fine Dining & Scottish Cuisine
2. The Pompadour by Galvin (EH2 2EL) - French Haute Cuisine
3. Restaurant Martin Wishart (EH6 6NZ) - Fine Dining & Seafood
4. The Tower (EH1 2NE) - Scottish Fine Dining & Whisky
5. The Plumed Horse (EH7 5AA) - French Haute Cuisine & Wine

Bars

The Dome, Edinburgh

Budget-Friendly Bars:

1. The Hanging Bat Brewery (EH6 6LW) - Craft Beer
2. The Royal Oak (EH1 2PB) - Traditional Pub
3. The Port O'Leith (EH6 6NH) - Seafood & Cocktails
4. The Foot of the Walk (EH6 6NX) - Local Pub
5. Whistlebinkies (EH1 1BQ) - Live Music & Drinks

Mid-Range Bars:

1. The Grail (EH3 9DG) - Craft Beer & Whisky
2. Bramble Bar (EH1 2NE) - Cocktails & Small Plates
3. Blackbird (EH6 6NX) - Cocktails & Craft Beer
4. The Canny Man's (EH4 1EG) - Whisky & Local Ales
5. The Jazz Bar (EH1 2HE) - Live Jazz & Cocktails

Luxury Bars:

1. The Dome Bar (EH2 2EL) - Champagne & Cocktails
2. The Bon Vivant (EH1 2EW) - Craft Cocktails
3. The Devil's Advocate (EH1 1BQ) - Whisky & Cocktails
4. The Bohemia (EH2 4JB) - Cocktails & Light Bites
5. The Last Word Saloon (EH3 9DX) - Craft Cocktails & Whisky

Edinburgh FAQ's

• What is Edinburgh best known for? Edinburgh is best known for its rich history and culture, stunning architecture, and beautiful natural scenery. The city is home to many famous landmarks, including Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and the Palace of Holyroodhouse, as well as numerous museums, galleries, and cultural attractions.

• Is Edinburgh worth visiting? Definitely! Edinburgh is a unique and captivating city that is well worth visiting. Whether you're interested in history, culture, or natural beauty, Edinburgh has something for everyone, especially in winter!

• Is Edinburgh a cheap city? It depends on how you approach your trip. Accommodation and food can be relatively expensive in Edinburgh, especially during peak tourist season. However, there are many free attractions and activities to enjoy if you want to be budget friendly, including parks, gardens, and historic landmarks.

• What is the posh part of Edinburgh? One of the more affluent areas of Edinburgh is Stockbridge, which is located to the northwest of the city center. This charming neighborhood is home to many independent shops, cafes, and restaurants, and is known for its lovely Georgian architecture and beautiful tree-lined streets.
• How many days do you need in Edinburgh? The ideal length of time to spend in Edinburgh depends on your interests and travel style. However, we would recommend at least three days in the city to explore a lot ( but not all) it has to offer

Trips from Edinburgh