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Best Times to Visit Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh, Scotland travel destination - best times to visit
Image: Skyline of Edinburgh.jpg viaWikimedia Commons

Quick Answer:

May and June in Edinburgh offer a majestic experience, with long sunny days perfect for exploring the city's historic streets and vibrant festivals. Imagine strolling the Royal Mile, bathed in the golden light of a late afternoon sun, the air alive with the sounds of bustling markets and the scent of blooming heather. August brings the majestic Edinburgh Festival Fringe, transforming the city into a whirlwind of artistic energy, while the autumn months paint the surrounding hillsides in breathtaking hues of red and gold, creating a stunning backdrop to the city's majestic architecture. For a quieter, more intimate experience, the winter months offer a cozy charm, with the city twinkling under a blanket of snow, a truly majestic sight.

Best Months to Visit:

JunJulAugSep

Airport Code

EDI

Coordinates

55.95°, -3.19°

Top Things to Do

Edinburgh Castle's Crown Jewels & Hidden Vaults

Explore Edinburgh Castle, but go beyond the usual tourist trail. Descend into the hidden vaults for a spine-tingling glimpse into the castle's darker history, and marvel at the glittering Crown Jewels – the best time to visit is during the day for optimal light on the jewels. Pre-booking tickets avoids long queues.

Whisky Tasting in a Hidden Distillery

Venture beyond the famous Scotch Whisky Experience and discover a smaller, independent distillery tucked away in a quiet corner of the city. Engage your senses with a tutored tasting, learning about the nuances of different malts and the craft of whisky-making. Look for smaller distilleries in the Leith area.

A Literary Pub Crawl with a Twist

Join a literary pub crawl, but choose one that focuses on lesser-known authors or historical literary figures associated with Edinburgh. Embrace the city's literary heritage with a unique perspective, enjoying drinks and stories in atmospheric pubs. Check for themed crawls focusing on specific periods or genres.

Secret Gardens and Hidden Closes Walk

Escape the bustling Royal Mile and discover Edinburgh's hidden closes (narrow alleyways) and secret gardens. These tranquil oases offer a glimpse into the city's past and provide stunning photo opportunities. Look for walking tours specializing in hidden gems, or explore independently using a map.

See all 8 things to do →

Essential Travel Tips

transport

Edinburgh's public transport is pretty good, but walking is often the best way to explore the Old Town's hilly streets and charming closes. Download the Citymapper app for real-time updates, but be prepared for some steep inclines! Consider a day ticket if you plan on using buses frequently.

money

Many smaller shops and cafes in Edinburgh prefer cash, so it's a good idea to have some pounds on hand, especially if you're venturing outside of the main tourist areas. ATMs are plentiful, but you'll get better exchange rates if you withdraw from your bank's international network rather than using a bureau de change.

safety

Edinburgh is generally safe, but like any city, be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Stick to well-lit areas, and avoid walking alone in less populated areas, particularly in the closes (narrow alleyways) of the Old Town. Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps.

culture

Edinburgh has a vibrant pub culture. When entering a pub, it's customary to say 'hello' to the bar staff. Don't be surprised if locals strike up conversations – the Scots are known for their friendly and chatty nature. Try a local brew like Innis & Gunn or a dram of Scotch whisky.

food

Take advantage of Edinburgh's many independent cafes and restaurants. Look beyond the tourist traps on the Royal Mile for more authentic and affordable options. Check online reviews on sites like TripAdvisor or Google Maps to find hidden gems. Haggis, neeps, and tatties is a must-try traditional dish!

packing

Pack layers! Edinburgh's weather can be unpredictable, even in summer. Bring a waterproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes (essential for exploring the city's hills), and a warm sweater, even if the forecast looks sunny. A small, foldable backpack is also handy for carrying essentials.

Weather Details

Jan
12 days
Feb
11 days
Mar
11 days
Apr
10 days
May
10 days
Jun
11 days
Jul
12 days
Aug
11 days
Sep
10 days
Oct
12 days
Nov
13 days
Dec
12 days

Monthly Weather Data Table

MonthHigh (°C)Low (°C)High (°F)Low (°F)Rainfall (mm)Rain DaysDaylight (h)
Jan5°C1°C41°F34°F45mm
12 days
7.5h
Feb6°C1°C43°F34°F40mm
11 days
8.5h
Mar8°C3°C46°F37°F48mm
11 days
11h
Apr11°C5°C52°F41°F45mm
10 days
13.5h
May14°C7°C57°F45°F50mm
10 days
16h
Jun17°C10°C63°F50°F60mm
11 days
17h
Jul19°C12°C66°F54°F65mm
12 days
16.5h
Aug18°C11°C64°F52°F60mm
11 days
15h
Sep15°C8°C59°F46°F55mm
10 days
13h
Oct11°C5°C52°F41°F60mm
12 days
10.5h
Nov7°C3°C45°F37°F55mm
13 days
8.5h
Dec5°C1°C41°F34°F50mm
12 days
7.5h

All Things to Do in Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh Castle's Crown Jewels & Hidden Vaults

attraction

Explore Edinburgh Castle, but go beyond the usual tourist trail. Descend into the hidden vaults for a spine-tingling glimpse into the castle's darker history, and marvel at the glittering Crown Jewels – the best time to visit is during the day for optimal light on the jewels. Pre-booking tickets avoids long queues.

Best time: May-September

Whisky Tasting in a Hidden Distillery

food

Venture beyond the famous Scotch Whisky Experience and discover a smaller, independent distillery tucked away in a quiet corner of the city. Engage your senses with a tutored tasting, learning about the nuances of different malts and the craft of whisky-making. Look for smaller distilleries in the Leith area.

Best time: Year-round

A Literary Pub Crawl with a Twist

cultural

Join a literary pub crawl, but choose one that focuses on lesser-known authors or historical literary figures associated with Edinburgh. Embrace the city's literary heritage with a unique perspective, enjoying drinks and stories in atmospheric pubs. Check for themed crawls focusing on specific periods or genres.

Best time: Year-round

Secret Gardens and Hidden Closes Walk

nature

Escape the bustling Royal Mile and discover Edinburgh's hidden closes (narrow alleyways) and secret gardens. These tranquil oases offer a glimpse into the city's past and provide stunning photo opportunities. Look for walking tours specializing in hidden gems, or explore independently using a map.

Best time: May-September

Shopping for Scottish Crafts on Victoria Street

shopping

While the Royal Mile is touristy, Victoria Street offers a charming alternative for shopping. Discover unique Scottish crafts, textiles, and jewellery in independent boutiques. Look for shops selling Harris Tweed or cashmere – the perfect souvenirs.

Best time: Year-round

Ghost Tour of Edinburgh's Old Town

activity

Experience Edinburgh's spooky side with a ghost tour focusing on lesser-known haunted locations. Explore atmospheric closes and graveyards, listening to chilling tales of Edinburgh's past. Choose a tour with a knowledgeable guide who focuses on local legends.

Best time: October

Sunrise Hike up Arthur's Seat

nature

Beat the crowds and hike up Arthur's Seat for a breathtaking sunrise view over Edinburgh. The panoramic vista is unforgettable, and the experience is far more peaceful than during the day. Wear sturdy shoes and check the weather forecast.

Best time: April-September

Traditional Scottish Ceilidh

cultural

Experience a traditional Scottish Ceilidh (social gathering with music and dancing). Learn some basic steps and join in the fun, experiencing the vibrant energy of Scottish folk music and dance. Check local listings for events in pubs or community halls.

Best time: Year-round

Getting Around Edinburgh, Scotland

Lothian Buses

Edinburgh's extensive bus network covers the city and surrounding areas. Single fares are affordable, and day tickets offer great value for sightseeing. Night buses operate on major routes.

Cost:Single fare from £1.80, day tickets from £4.50. Consider a contactless payment or the mTicket app for ease.
Tip:Purchase tickets in advance via the Lothian Buses app or contactless payment to avoid queues. Be aware of peak times (7-9 am and 5-7 pm) for potential crowding. Always check the route carefully before boarding, as some routes are less frequent.

Edinburgh Trams

The tram system connects Edinburgh Airport to the city center, offering a convenient and scenic route. It's a good option for traveling between these two points, but not as useful for exploring the city itself.

Cost:Single fare from £6, day tickets available. Check the official website for current prices and routes.
Tip:Purchase tickets in advance through the app or at a ticket machine to save time. Trams can be crowded, especially during peak hours. The tram line doesn't cover all of Edinburgh's attractions; plan other transport for inner-city exploration.

Taxi/Private Hire

Taxis and private hire vehicles are readily available throughout the city. Apps like Uber and Ola operate in Edinburgh, offering a convenient alternative to traditional taxis.

Cost:Fares vary depending on distance and time of day. Expect to pay around £10-£20 for a typical city center journey. Uber and Ola provide upfront pricing.
Tip:Use reputable apps like Uber or Ola for transparent pricing and safety. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. During peak hours or events, expect longer wait times and potentially higher fares.

Walking

Edinburgh is a walkable city, particularly the Old Town and New Town. Many attractions are within easy walking distance of each other, offering a chance to soak in the atmosphere.

Cost:Free
Tip:Wear comfortable shoes! Edinburgh's streets are hilly. Use a map or walking app to plan your route and avoid getting lost. Take advantage of the many hidden closes (narrow alleyways) for a unique experience.

Cycling

Cycling is a great way to explore Edinburgh, especially during the summer months. Several bike rental shops are available, and dedicated cycle paths exist throughout the city.

Cost:Rental bikes typically cost around £10-£15 per day. Consider a 'nextbike' subscription for frequent use.
Tip:Be aware of the hilly terrain. Always wear a helmet and use lights at night. Use designated cycle paths whenever possible. Check the weather forecast before setting off.

Similar Destinations

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best time of year to visit Edinburgh to avoid crowds and enjoy pleasant weather?

June and September offer a sweet spot. You'll escape the peak summer surge of August, yet still enjoy relatively mild weather and long daylight hours, perfect for exploring. Plus, many festivals happen in the shoulder seasons, offering unique cultural experiences.

How easy is it to get around Edinburgh using public transport, and are there any hidden costs I should be aware of?

Edinburgh has a fantastic public transport system! Buses are frequent and cover most areas, while the trams are great for reaching the airport and further-out attractions. Consider a day or multi-day travel pass for cost savings; individual tickets can add up quickly.

What are some local customs or etiquette tips that a visitor should be aware of?

Scots are generally friendly and welcoming, but do appreciate politeness. Saying 'please' and 'thank you' goes a long way. Also, be mindful of noise levels, especially in residential areas, particularly in the evenings. And, of course, embrace the local pubs – it's a quintessential part of the culture!

Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known spots in Edinburgh that you would recommend?

Definitely check out the Dean Village! It's a charming, secluded former milling village tucked away just west of the city center. It's incredibly picturesque and offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city. Also, explore Calton Hill for stunning panoramic views – it's less crowded than Arthur's Seat.

What's the best way to experience Edinburgh's unique literary history beyond just visiting the Writers' Museum?

Take a literary walking tour – several companies offer themed walks focusing on famous authors like Robert Burns or Sir Walter Scott. Alternatively, explore independent bookstores like 'The Golden Hare' for a more intimate experience. Many pubs also have literary connections, offering a unique atmosphere.

How safe is Edinburgh, and are there any particular areas I should be more cautious in, especially at night?

Edinburgh is generally very safe, but like any city, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Stick to well-lit areas, and avoid walking alone in less populated areas late at night. The city center is generally very safe, even at night.

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