Edinburgh

Medieval Old Town, castle on volcanic rock, and Scotch whisky.

CulturalHistoricalUrban

About Edinburgh

Edinburgh enchants with its medieval Old Town, Georgian New Town, and imposing castle perched on volcanic rock. Walk the Royal Mile, explore underground vaults, sample single malts in cozy pubs, and experience the world's largest arts festival every August. Scotland's capital combines literary heritage, dramatic landscapes, and warm hospitality.

What to See & Do

Edinburgh Castle

Royal Mile

Arthur's Seat hike

Scottish whisky tasting

Edinburgh Fringe Festival

Underground vaults tour

Where to Stay

The Balmoral

luxury

Iconic clock tower hotel on Princes Street with Michelin dining

The Witchery

boutique

Gothic luxury suites near castle with dramatic decor

Grassmarket Hotel

boutique

Stylish boutique in historic Grassmarket district

Activities & Experiences

Edinburgh Castle Tour

Historic fortress with Crown Jewels and city views

Duration: 2 hours

Whisky Tasting Experience

Sample Scottish single malts with expert guide

Duration: 2 hours

Arthur's Seat Hike

Extinct volcano with panoramic city views

Duration: 2 hours

Underground Vaults Tour

Explore spooky underground tunnels

Duration: 1.5 hours

Where to Eat

The Kitchin

Scottish Fine Dining

Michelin-starred farm-to-table Scottish cuisine

The Scran & Scallie

Gastropub

Upscale pub food with Scottish ingredients

Mary's Milk Bar

Ice Cream

Artisan gelato and Scottish flavors

Sample Itineraries

Edinburgh Highlights

3 days
Culture & History Lovers
3 days
1

Old Town

  • Edinburgh Castle
  • Royal Mile walk
  • St Giles Cathedral
  • Underground vaults
  • Pub dinner
2

Nature & Whisky

  • Arthur's Seat hike
  • Holyrood Palace
  • Whisky tasting
  • Dinner at The Kitchin
3

New Town & Departure

  • Princes Street
  • Scottish National Gallery
  • Shopping
  • Final pub visit

Quick Facts

Region

Europe

Best Time to Visit

May-Sep

When to Go

May-September for best weather. August for Fringe Festival (book far ahead).

Avoid: November-February is cold and dark but festive at Christmas.

Getting There

Edinburgh Airport (EDI) is 30 min from center by tram or bus. Direct trains from London (4.5 hours).

Local Tips

  • Book castle and popular restaurants ahead
  • Fringe Festival (Aug) is amazing but book months early
  • Layer clothing - weather changes quickly
  • Try haggis at least once

Ready to Experience Edinburgh?

Our concierge team will craft a bespoke itinerary tailored to your preferences, handling every detail from flights to hidden gems.