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Compact, hilly and filled with innumerable attractions, Edinburgh delights visitors with its medieval old town and vibrant personality. Dominating the skyline is Edinburgh Castle, where Scotland’s crown jewels are displayed and centuries of national history unravel. Take a free guided tour of this mighty citadel to hear stories of its fascinating past, and pause at the Argyle Battery for sweeping city views.

From the castle, the legendary Royal Mile leads down to Holyrood Palace in a jumble of museums and gift shops selling everything from kilts to vintage whisky. Some of the city’s best eats can be found here too – if the salty smell of fish and chips doesn’t tempt you, then perhaps a pub lunch of ‘haggis, neeps and tatties’ will.

Burn it all off with a walk to the top of Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano that overlooks the city in nearby Holyrood Park, and admire the natural landscape that stretches for miles around.

A wonderful time is guaranteed in Edinburgh, no matter the time of year. In winter there’s Hogmanay, a three-day festival of spectacular events and street parties to celebrate the new year. Summer brings balmier weather, before rounding up with the world’s biggest arts festival: The Fringe. Lasting an entire month, this all-out celebration packs stand-up comedy, magic shows and dramatic theatre into its busy schedule, creating a buzz that draws bigger crowds to the Scottish capital year after year.

Tonight

From £298 per night

Next weekend

From £517 per night

Most popular time to visit October–December
Cheapest time to visit January–March
Local currency GBP
Language English
Average weekend price £169 per night
Average weekday price £178 per night
Typical stay 2 nights

Points of interest in Edinburgh

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Inspiration and insider tips for what to do in Edinburgh

Destination inspiration: Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Take a scenic walk through Edinburgh’s legend-laden history.

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What to read and watch before visiting Edinburgh

Lose yourself in cult classics and historic tales inspired by the Scottish capital.

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Edinburgh reviews

What other travellers say about Edinburgh

10

It was a very nice hotel smack dab in the midst of all...

24 October 2018

It was a very nice hotel smack dab in the midst of all sights. The staff were friendly and helpful. Our room was a pleasant surprise because we unexpectedly had a side view of the castle. The accommodations were comfortable and spotless. We had a huge bathroom and amenities were plentiful. I want to go back there!

Barbara
Barbara United States
8.0

What a place!

12 August 2023

What a place! Particularly this time of year. I highly recommend going to watch as much as you can of the fringe but in particular Rock Choir. Very friendly people out and about; felt very safe with police around everywhere. Prices were a bit expensive but it is a tourist magnet. For those with medical issues / back and knee problems I’d recommend finding less direct routes to the castle - the steps by Waverley are very very steep and the winding road by Mary king close is too hard to walk with a bad back. Mary King Close was my fav attraction to visit. Watching the bands and military March from the castle to their coaches was incredible and the crowd was well marshalled. Lovely fish and chips shop open late into the evening on the Royal mile too Ciao Roma is a fabulous Italian just off the mile which is well worth a look All the locals and shopkeepers were incredibly friendly and the busses are easy - tap on no need to tap off and capped at 4.80 a day.

Emma
Emma
10

Fantastic city, so much to see.

12 August 2023

Fantastic city, so much to see. Plenty of restaurants and cafes. Large shops and independent shops in equal measure. Excellent public transport, reliable and frequent. Friendly and welcoming city, can’t wait to return

Dawn
Dawn United Kingdom
10

Great medieval history.

12 August 2023

Great medieval history. Well done museums like the Scottish National Museum. Proud presentation of a proud, ancient culture. Scots are descendant from Celts, Irish, Viking/Nordic people, Romans as well as English. Despite having been part of the UK for centuries, they remain a proudly separate people. Go to the Tattoo at the Castle. But don’t go to Edinburgh in August at all. Too many tourists. Prices insane. Crowds. Get out of the city while there. The beaches, neighborhoods and parks are worth the ride. Ride a bike there. Great bike trails from old railroad rights of way. Hire Tartan Bikes and E-bike Tours to guide you and provide the bikes. Great little company.

Don
Don United States
10

We primarily went for the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo...

11 August 2023

We primarily went for the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo which was wonderful. We were lucky with the weather as it was warm with no rain for the duration of our stay. If I went again to explore it wouldn’t be during August as the city is so busy, but there so much to experience it’s a place you could visit several times and do new things each time. We used the Tram to get from the airport in to the city centre and it was a lovely way to travel, quick and easy and excellent value for money. We also did the Edinburgh Tours live-guide hop-on/off bus which is an excellent way to familiarise yourself with the city.

Maureen
Maureen
10

Lots of great shows, a myriad of places to eat & drink,...

10 August 2023

Lots of great shows, a myriad of places to eat & drink, friendly helpful people . For folks with mobility issues or sensory impairment it might be advisable to call ahead to venues and to check location of performances .

fraser
fraser

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