Travel guide · United Kingdom
Edinburgh: what to see and when to go
Edinburgh is Scotland's capital, a city of dark stone built on volcanic hills, where the medieval Old Town and the Georgian New Town together form a UNESCO site. In August it hosts the world's largest arts festival, and green hills and beaches are a short walk from the centre.
What to see and do in Edinburgh
Edinburgh Castle
On its volcanic rock, home to the Scottish Crown Jewels and the One O'Clock Gun.
The Royal Mile
The Old Town's spine, from the castle to Holyrood Palace, with narrow closes and underground vaults.
Arthur's Seat
An extinct volcano in the middle of the city, an easy climb with views to the sea.
Calton Hill and the New Town
Neoclassical monuments and the city's best sunset view, above elegant Georgian streets.
Dean Village and Leith
An old mill village on the river, and the port district full of restaurants.
Best time to go
Getting there
| From | Flight time | Return flight |
|---|---|---|
| London | 1 hr, 15 min | ≈ €80 · See flights |
| New York | 7 hr, 15 min | ≈ €430 · See flights |
| Los Angeles | 11 hr, 15 min | ≈ €560 · See flights |
| Dubai | 8 hr | ≈ €470 · See flights |
| Singapore | 14 hr, 30 min | ≈ €640 · See flights |
| Sydney | 22 hr, 15 min | ≈ €820 · See flights |
3 nights from London: ≈ €370 per person, flight and stay included.
Per person. Estimates from distance and local prices; real fares depend on your dates.
Essentials
- Country
- United Kingdom
- Currency
- British Pound
- Good for
- culture · city
- How long to stay
- 2–3 days
- Where to stay
- Old Town or New Town to walk everywhere; Leith or Stockbridge for a quieter, more local feel.Find a place to stay in Edinburgh
Plan your trip
Flights, a place to stay and what else you need for Edinburgh, one tap each.
- FlightsFrom London · about €80 (opens in a new tab)
- StayHotels and apartments in Edinburgh (opens in a new tab)
- Things to doTours, tickets and experiences (opens in a new tab)
- Travel insuranceMedical, luggage and cancellation (opens in a new tab)
- Internet on arrivalData eSIM, no roaming bills (opens in a new tab)
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Frequently asked questions
What's the weather like in Edinburgh and when should you go?
Average highs range from 6° in January to 18° in July.
How many days do you need in Edinburgh?
2 to 3 days is enough to see the essentials without rushing.
What does a few days in Edinburgh cost?
Accommodation runs at around €100 per person per night. 3 nights from London: ≈ €370 per person, flight and stay included. The flight from London takes about 1 hr, 15 min.
Where should you stay in Edinburgh?
Old Town or New Town to walk everywhere; Leith or Stockbridge for a quieter, more local feel.
