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Top reasons to visit Edinburgh

• Iconic Edinburgh Castle: Explore the historic Edinburgh Castle, a symbol of Scotland's heritage and a must-see for visitors.
• Stunning Old Town: Wander through the charming streets of the Old Town, marveling at its medieval architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
• Thrilling Hogmanay Celebrations: Experience the lively New Year festivities that showcase Scotland's rich culture and community spirit.
• Beautiful Nearby Beaches: Relax on picturesque beaches just a short distance from the city, perfect for outdoor activities.
• Diverse Accommodation Options: Enjoy a range of stays, from guesthouses to modern hotels, catering to all preferences.

Find great hotels in Edinburgh

Discover a range of accommodation options in Edinburgh, from charming guesthouses to modern hotels, all tailored to meet your needs. Whether you're searching for pet-friendly stays, business-themed facilities, or LGBTQIA welcoming environments, Edinburgh has something for everyone. Enjoy a memorable vacation experience while exploring the historic and vibrant city, with a variety of choices for the best hotels and comfortable lodging.

• Apex Grassmarket Hotel: Nestled in the vibrant heart of Edinburgh, the Apex Grassmarket Hotel stands out with its distinctive business-focused theme and eco-friendly credentials. This 4-star hotel offers modern amenities tailored for the discerning business traveller, including multiple meeting rooms and a well-equipped business centre. Guests can enjoy a serene atmosphere while being steps away from the historic Grassmarket area, renowned for its lively atmosphere and stunning views of Edinburgh Castle. Eco-conscious visitors will appreciate the hotel's commitment to sustainability, making it a perfect choice for those seeking both comfort and environmental responsibility.
• Apex Waterloo Place Hotel: The Apex Waterloo Place Hotel combines elegance with family-friendly accommodations, making it an ideal spot for both business and leisure travellers. This 4-star property boasts sophisticated business amenities, including conference spaces and multiple meeting rooms, while also providing thoughtful services for families. Its eco-certified status ensures that your stay is environmentally friendly. Located near the iconic Princes Street, guests have easy access to Edinburgh's attractions. With its spacious rooms and welcoming atmosphere, this hotel promises a delightful stay for guests of all ages.
• ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge - Royal Mile: A vibrant and inclusive choice, the ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge - Royal Mile is a 3-star hotel that embraces a pet-friendly and LGBTQIA-welcoming environment. Ideal for budget-conscious travellers, this eco-certified property features modern amenities and a lively atmosphere. Located close to the Royal Mile, guests can easily explore Edinburgh's rich history and culture. The hotel provides essential comforts, including pet amenities and a warm welcome for all guests, ensuring a memorable stay in the heart of the city.

Where to stay in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a vibrant metropolis rich in history and culture, perfect for family-friendly adventures. Stroll through the charming Old Town to admire its medieval architecture and soak in the stunning city views. The city centre buzzes with friendly locals, while nearby neighbourhoods offer romantic atmospheres and historical experiences. Whether you’re exploring the iconic Edinburgh Castle or enjoying the lively vibes of the Royal Mile, your stay promises unforgettable memories in this captivating Scottish capital.

• Edinburgh: Nestled in the heart of Scotland, Edinburgh is a vibrant city renowned for its rich history and cultural offerings. With a year-round flow of visitors, the city sees peaks in April, July, and September. Edinburgh invites travellers to indulge in family-friendly activities and immerse themselves in a city steeped in culture. Explore its bustling shopping areas, enjoy top-notch theatre performances, and visit historic landmarks like the iconic Edinburgh Castle. The city is also a hub for education, making it an enriching destination for all.
• Old Town Edinburgh: Steeped in history, Old Town Edinburgh is a captivating neighbourhood that draws visitors year-round, particularly during the vibrant months of April and June to July. Known for its medieval architecture and cobbled streets, this area offers a unique blend of city and cultural experiences. Discover local shops, indulge in educational pursuits, and enjoy the lively theatre scene. With historic sites and event venues just around the corner, Old Town Edinburgh provides a picturesque backdrop to your Scottish adventure.
• Edinburgh City Centre: The bustling Edinburgh City Centre is the heart of the capital, attracting visitors predominantly from July to September. This vibrant neighbourhood combines culture, family-friendly attractions, and urban excitement. With an array of shopping options, educational institutions, and theatrical performances, there's something for everyone. The area is also home to significant historic places and symbolic landmarks, making it a must-visit for those keen to explore Edinburgh's rich heritage while enjoying the lively city atmosphere.

Things to do in Edinburgh

Edinburgh offers a rich blend of culture and family-friendly activities, making it an ideal vacation spot. Enjoy the vibrant shopping areas, catch a show in the theatre, or delve into educational experiences. Don't miss the thrill of Edinburgh adventures, the chance to play on stunning golf courses, and the lively Hogmanay celebrations that welcome the New Year with excitement and flair.

Shopping

For shopping in Edinburgh, visit Livingston Designer Outlet for a range of brands and family-friendly vibes. Explore The Hub for unique gifts and local treasures, and check out Scottish Gems for exquisite jewellery in a vibrant city atmosphere.

Recreation

Murrayfield Stadium offers an exhilarating atmosphere for sports enthusiasts, with its vibrant energy and thrilling events. For a relaxing day outdoors, visit Muirfield Golf Course, where you can enjoy lush greens and stunning views. Finally, immerse yourself in the cultural vibes at Queen's Hall, showcasing captivating musical performances.

Adventure

At the Edinburgh International Climbing Arena Ratho, experience exhilarating indoor climbing in a vibrant atmosphere. For snow enthusiasts, the Midlothian Snowsports Centre offers thrilling skiing and snowboarding activities. Meanwhile, A1 Paintball Edinburgh provides an adrenaline-pumping adventure with exciting paintball games set in a lively environment.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife in Edinburgh by catching a show at the Edinburgh Playhouse Theatre for a blend of culture and romance. For adventure and fun, visit the Camera Obscura and World of Illusions. Wind down with a drink at Greyfriar's Bobby, where entertainment meets a charming atmosphere.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Edinburgh

To save money on your trip to Edinburgh, visit during the off-peak months of January to March when accommodation prices are lower. Take advantage of free attractions like the Royal Mile and Princes Street. For transport, consider walking or using buses, trams, and trains to keep costs down. Book your hotel about a month in advance, and check for last-minute deals on Expedia, especially on Tuesdays for the best rates. Combine your hotel, flights, and activities in an Expedia package for additional savings.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Edinburgh are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Edinburgh is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Edinburgh is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Edinburgh is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, including your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To find the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Edinburgh hotel booking with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a fantastic destination for culture-loving families and city explorers alike. Highlights include the iconic Edinburgh Castle, picturesque streets, and nearby beaches, offering a blend of cultural and outdoor experiences. Whether you're keen on immersing yourself in history or enjoying the natural beauty, the city and its surroundings have something for everyone.

• Edinburgh Castle: Perched atop Castle Rock, this iconic fortress offers stunning views and a deep dive into Scotland's rich history. Explore the crown jewels, the Stone of Destiny, and the captivating stories of past monarchs.
• Princes Street: A bustling thoroughfare in the heart of Edinburgh, Princes Street is lined with shops and cafes, perfect for leisurely strolls. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and take in the sights of the stunning gardens and the castle above.
• University of Edinburgh: One of the world's oldest universities, its historic architecture and beautiful campuses exude charm. Take a walk through its grounds and appreciate the cultural significance and academic prestige that this institution holds.

Best time to go to Edinburgh

The best time to visit Edinburgh is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	38.5°F (3.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	39.4°F (4.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	41.5°F (5.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
April	45.1°F (7.3°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	50.0°F (10.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
June	55.2°F (12.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
July	58.1°F (14.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	57.4°F (14.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	54.3°F (12.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
October	49.5°F (9.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	43.5°F (6.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
December	39.6°F (4.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Edinburgh

Edinburgh is conveniently served by several airports, with Edinburgh Airport (EDI) being the closest at 11.3km from the city centre. Notable hotels nearby include the 5.5-star Crescent House and the luxurious 5-star Virgin Hotels Edinburgh and The Balmoral Hotel. Glasgow Airport (GLA), located 77.2km away, has excellent options like the 5-star Mar Hall Golf & Spa Resort and the Kimpton Blythswood Hotel & Spa, both offering various transportation services. Dundee Airport (DND) is 56.3km from Edinburgh, with options like the 5-star Hideaway Experience. Each airport provides accessible transport services to nearby accommodations for a seamless travel experience.