Edinburgh travel guide
Meet EdinburghEdinburgh weather reportGetting into EdinburghTop attractions in EdinburghGetting around Edinburgh Where to eat in EdinburghPage 2: More information on Edinburgh
Meet Edinburgh
Nicknamed ‘Athens of the North’ by the thinkers of the Scottish Enlightenment, Edinburgh is a city of philosophy, fine arts and high-brow literature; set against a backdrop of ancient castle battlements, dramatic crags and green hills overlooking the sea, and the ancient Greek acropolis-inspired monuments.
Fresh blood arrives each September, as it has for centuries, to attend the world famous University, injecting the spirit of Botox into the wrinkles of the year. History is not forgotten in text books; it is still being lived, with new chapters being written constantly. No matter how old Edinburgh gets, it will never be fuddy-duddy.
As diverse as it is old: students fill the bars and taverns in hoards, and come summer, the famous Edinburgh festival brings thousands of performers, writers, artists and many others to its cobbled streets, wanting to soak up the buzzing, creative atmosphere. Poet Laureate Carol Ann Duffy has named Edinburgh her favourite city – as if any further evidence of the cities poetic majesty were needed.
Edinburgh weather report
Scotland, like the rest of the UK is not known for its good weather. Scotland being so high up tends to be particularly chilly.
Temperatures are highest in July and August, however this is rarely what you would consider hot (it very rarely hits 20°C) with the lowest and the most rainfall From July to December and the coldest months from November to February. There is generally less rainfall than other Scottish cities such as Glasgow and Fort William (which has the highest).
For the latest weather info use the Pampo weather forecast tool.
Getting into Edinburgh
Edinburgh Airport sits eight miles west of the city and has connections to various spots around the UK and Europe. From the airport the Lothian Buses Airlink no.100 bus runs from the airport to Waverly train station in the city centre. Buses run every 15 minutes and cost £5 return.
Coaches run between many major cities in Scotland and England with Megabus. A single ticket from London Victoria to Edinburgh’s St. Andrew’s Square is £14, and concessions prices are available.
Scottish Citylink runs buses between many of the Scotland’s main towns.
The main train terminal in Edinburgh is Waverly train station, and there are many train services to and from the city. Visit National Rail for up to date train times. A train from London Paddington takes approximately 5 hours and will cost about £110 single fare, but prices vary so check the website before travelling.
Top attractions in Edinburgh
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Edinburgh Castle is the focal point in the story of Scotland, and is one of the most popular tourist destinations. Built on the top of an ancient volcano, this was the most easily defended spot due to its height. Many legions of armies passed through this way, with many battles won and lost, and it retains a dramatic atmosphere. It was also home to the Scottish royals for many years. Entrance is £9.80 adults and £3.50 children. While you’re here pay a visit the National War Museum of Scotland which brings the countries military history to life. Admission is included with your Edinburgh castle ticket.
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The Royal Mile is – as its name suggests, a mile long stretch of road which in the 16th century was the route the king would travel between the castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Spend an afternoon perusing down the mile – there is loads to see. Sites include the Scotch Whiskey Heritage Centre, to learn all about your favourite tipple and the Writers Museum – containing manuscripts and artefacts belonging to Scotland’s most renowned writers: Robert Burns, Robert Louis Stevenson and Sir Walter Scott. Further on down the road you will also find Lawnmarket – a market dating back to the 18th century, selling knick-knacks in what used to be the smartest part of town. Those interested in Scottish legends will enjoy the Loch Ness Discovery Centre which details the history of the myth (or not!) of Nessie.
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For an example of Scottish extravagance pay a visit to the new parliament building, which opened in 2004 and went £300 million over budget. Designed by Catalan architect Enric Miralles who won a design competition to lead the project. Tours last 45 minutes and cost £3.50 adults, £1.75 children.
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The Palace of Holyroodhouse is the Queen’s official residence in Scotland and is a splendid Baroque palace located at the end of the Royal Mile. The palace is best known for being the home of Mary, Queen of Scots and is the location of many dramatic events during her lifetime including the murder of her secretary by her jealous second husband.
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Art and architecture lovers will love the National Gallery of Scotland. Designed by William Playfair and dating back from the 1850’s, this Greek influenced building complete with dramatic Ionic porticoes is as impressive outside as it is in. The vast collections are among the best in the world with everything from Da Vinci to Warhol. Admission is free.
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Carlton Hill is one of Edinburgh’s most central hills and is easily recognised by the Athenian acropolis rising grandly from the landscape – a memorial for those who lost their lives in the Napoleonic wars. Built in 1816 – but never completed, the monument which was supposed to be a replica of the Athenian Parthenon was dubbed as ‘Edinburgh’s shame’ when building discontinued due to financial difficulties. It is now one of the city’s most popular features.
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Head out of the city-centre and visit the Rosslyn Chapel – arguably Scotland’s most beautiful church. A sudden influx of interest has occurred since featuring as a key landmark in Dan Brown’s ‘The Da Vinci Code’, which notes the chapel as a possible location for the Holy Grail.
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Not what you may expect to find in Edinburgh perhaps but this is the home to one of the world’s top conservation zoos. Edinburgh Zoo has many endangered species including Siberian tigers and red pandas. Take a hilltop safari to look around.
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For something a bit different take a Cadies and Witchery Tour – a murder mystery style tour of the old town. Expect lots of loud shrieks when costumed actors jump out from dark corners...
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In August thousands descend on the city to enjoy the annual festivals of arts, culture and ideas. The Edinburgh Fringe Festival is the largest performing arts festival in the world and the film festival is a major international event in the film world. The International Book Festival is an important event for the literati. If you want to explore the city in peace then avoid visiting in August – for many though this is the highlight of the year.
Getting around Edinburgh
Edinburgh is a real walking city with so many cobbled alleyways, and many tours on offer are walking tours so make sure you pack comfy shoes. Bicycles are also a common mode of transport and Edinburgh is a very bike friendly city. Bikes can be rented from Biketrax for £16 a day.
The main form of public transport is by bus. Timetables and routes are located at all the main bus stops. The main bus companies are Lothian Buses and First Edinburgh. Adult fares should be no more than £1 for a single ticket and beware that Lothian Buses don’t give change so make sure you have the exact change.
Where to eat in Edinburgh
The number of spots to grab a bite in Edinburgh has considerably expanded in the last ten years or so and there is plenty of variety to choose from.
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Monster Mash serves retro British food at pocket-friendly prices. Dishes include shepherds pie, bangers and mash and fish and chips. It also serves breakfast and has a wine list.
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Apartment is a trendy, buzzing place to eat – so popular you need to book in advance. Bistro style food and rather posh (lobster is on the menu).
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Tower is a very smart and rather expensive restaurant set on top of the Museum of Scotland, the excellent food is accompanied by excellent views of the castle. Traditional Scottish food is on the menu, such as Aberdeen Angus steak and Loch Fyne Oysters. Famous food critic AA Gill said: “Uniquely for a museum this has become the hottest seat in Edinburgh.”
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Mussel Inn serves the best and freshest Scottish seafood.