18 essential tips for your visit to Edinburgh

With its majestic castle and renowned festivals, Edinburgh attracts tourists from all over. However, Scotland’s capital is more than just iconic landmarks. Nestled among ancient volcanoes and filled with winding medieval streets and impressive public squares, Edinburgh boasts both beauty and depth.

History is evident at every turn, yet you’ll also experience vibrant life in its parks, pubs, and neighborhoods. Edinburgh is not just a destination; it’s an experience waiting to be embraced. Here’s what you should know before you embark: the best times to visit, packing tips, local slang, distinctive scents, and currency details.

Tips for planning your trip to Edinburgh

1. Getting to Edinburgh

Edinburgh Airport is located 8 miles (13km) from the city. You can choose from buses (the budget-friendly option), trams (faster during peak traffic), or taxis (ideal for direct drops) to reach the city center.

Train travelers arrive at Edinburgh Waverley, where those coming from England can enjoy stunning coastal views along the journey. Buses come into St Andrew’s Square in the New Town, just north of the city center.

2. Visit in summer for the best chance of sunny weather

Summer offers long, bright days with generally mild winds, making it the ideal season for most visitors. However, if you can handle a bit of dreich (gloomy) weather, consider visiting in the colder months for cozy pubs and museums alongside invigorating walks through charming streets.

3. Avoid the Festival (unless that’s your reason for visiting)

The Edinburgh International Festival, the world’s largest arts festival, takes over the city every August. If you plan to attend, secure your accommodation several months in advance and be prepared to book tickets for major performances early. If you’re not attending, it’s best to steer clear of August. The city also gets quite busy around Hogmanay (New Year’s Eve), though that rush is shorter-lived.

4. Advance booking is often beneficial

Booking your accommodation as early as possible is crucial, especially during festival season. Major events, including the Tattoo, require early reservations as well. Consider the Edinburgh City Pass if you plan to visit attractions like the Castle and Leith’s Royal Yacht Britannia — it also grants access to fun city bus tours.

Additionally, booking your tickets online a day or two before your visit to the castle can save you both time and money.

5. Don’t forget to pack waterproof clothing

A jacket is essential during your visit. While Edinburgh isn’t typically very cold, the weather can shift dramatically from sunny to rainy in an instant. Expect to do quite a bit of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must. There’s no need to bring anything overly formal.

6. What’s the story behind the two towns?

Central Edinburgh is essentially split in two. However, it’s not due to any rivalry; rather, a valley containing the picturesque Princes Street Gardens and Waverly Station separates the Old and New Towns. The Old Town, a medieval area, boasts towering tenements and winding cobblestone streets that flow from the renowned Royal Mile. The New Town, which is about 250 years old, features spacious boulevards and well-kept squares laid out in a tidy grid.

Beyond the city center, you'll find areas like the upscale West End, the gritty Leith (famous for its role in Trainspotting and currently undergoing gentrification), and the relaxed, student-friendly Southside.

7. How much time should you spend in Edinburgh?

Dedicate a day for a quick tour of the Royal Mile and the Castle, or two days to truly appreciate what the Old and New Towns have to offer. Spending four days or more will let you dive deeper into the city, including trips to the former port of Leith and the Gallery of Modern Art, while checking off all the major attractions downtown.

Enjoying your time in Edinburgh

8. What currency will you need?

Scotland issues its own banknotes, but English currency is widely accepted throughout the country. (You might encounter a few places in England that don’t reciprocate.) Nowadays, card and contactless payments are more prevalent than cash, making them the easiest option for public transport as well—if you opt for cash on a bus, make sure you have the exact change, or consider using a pass instead.

9. Discover LGBTQ+ Edinburgh at the Pink Triangle

The heart of Edinburgh’s LGBTQ+ community is known as the “Pink Triangle,” located just northeast of Princes Street. CC Blooms stands out as a staple, offering somewhat pricey dining during the day and vibrant cabaret and DJ events at night. Nearby in Abbeyhill, the Regent provides a more relaxed vibe. Scotland legalized same-sex marriage in 2014.

10. The Story Behind Old Reekie

“Old Reekie” is a nickname for Edinburgh that has stood the test of time. It originates from the 17th century when the narrow, tall streets of the Old Town combined with the Nor Loch (now Princes Street Gardens) created a distinctive stench of smoke and waste. Today, Edinburgh smells similar to other cities, although the West End occasionally has a faint boozy aroma from the brewery.

11. Navigating Edinburgh

Edinburgh is hilly, but walking is the most enjoyable way to explore—you’ll encounter stunning views and immerse yourself in the city’s vibe. For longer distances, taking a taxi (Central Taxis is recommended) or using a ride-sharing app like Uber can be convenient. There’s no subway, but trams connect the city center and West End to the airport, and buses are useful for trips to Leith or the Southside.

Understanding Etiquette in Edinburgh

12. Be Respectful to the Locals

When greeting someone in a casual setting, a simple “hi” or a handshake is appropriate. You’re unlikely to offend anyone, but it’s best to steer clear of topics like politics and religion during small talk, as discussions about Scottish independence or Brexit can spark strong opinions.

Keep in mind that while Edinburgh is in Scotland, which is part of Britain, it’s definitely not England. Many English people choose to live in Edinburgh, but the local enthusiasm for booing the England football team is well-known.

13. Mind Your Language!

Edinburgh, being cosmopolitan, embraces a variety of accents. However, you might encounter some unfamiliar words—such as haar (sea fog), Jambos (Hearts supporters), Hibbies (Hibernian fans), Weegies (people from Glasgow), and salt ‘n sauce (a tangy condiment for chips). Also, note that Cockburn Street is pronounced “Coe-burn” and Edinburgh itself can be pronounced as “Edin-bru” or even “Embra.”

14. Buy a Round at the Pub

The customs here mirror those in other parts of Britain and Ireland—typically, one person orders drinks for the entire group at the bar, paying for the “round” and bringing them back to your table. Everyone else then takes turns buying the next round. Some upscale bars may offer table service, and most will provide a tray if you're carrying multiple drinks.

While most venues accept cash, card or mobile payments are becoming more prevalent. Pubs generally stay open later than those south of the border, often until midnight or 1am.

15. When to Tip and How Much?

Tipping is mainly expected for table service in restaurants, typically around 10% to 15%, though locals often round up taxi fares. If a hotel porter assists with your bags, it’s customary to give a pound or two per bag.

Safety Considerations in Edinburgh

16. A Safe City – Just Mind Your Step

Edinburgh is generally a safe place. Areas bustling with pubs, like Cowgate (Old Town), Rose Street (New Town), and Lothian Road (West End), can get lively on weekends, but serious incidents are uncommon. While Calton Hill provides stunning daytime views, it’s advisable to steer clear at night. Always take standard precautions in any city and opt for recognized ride-sharing services or black cabs if you’re unsure during the evening.

While street scams are rare, be cautious as you explore: the sloping cobblestones in the Old Town can be slippery when wet. Also, remember that traffic flows on the left when crossing roads.

17. Most Attractions Are Accessible

Many modern hotels and attractions cater to travelers with disabilities, but some older establishments, including guesthouses and certain pubs and restaurants, may lack ramps and lifts. The New Town, with its broader streets, is generally easier for wheelchair users compared to the steep, often cobbled paths of the Old Town. VisitScotland provides a helpful guide for accessible accommodations.

18. Is the Tap Water Safe to Drink?

Absolutely. The tap water in Edinburgh is safe to drink, and you can ask for it free of charge when dining out. The local water is soft (low in dissolved minerals), which gives it a fresher taste compared to much of the UK.