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View of Edinburgh skyline from Holyrood Park
Edinburgh
Edinburgh is Scotland's capital; a city filled with history, culture, engaging attractions and beautiful architecture. Spend your time exploring its cobbled streets, hidden closes, world-class festivals and lively food and drink scene. Find out what makes Edinburgh so special, from its status as a UNESCO City of Literature and UNESCO World Heritage Site, to being named one of Time Out's top cities in the world.
Please note, from 1 October 2025, a visitor levy of 5% is added to overnight stays in paid accommodation for bookings on or after 24 July 2026. Find out more at ForeverEdinburgh.
Great things to do in Edinburgh
Edinburgh is known for famous landmarks, beautiful outdoor spaces and a rich cultural scene.
15 Hidden gems and things to do in Edinburgh
From breathtaking city views to a serene Japanese garden, discover some of Edinburgh's greatest hidden treasures.
11 Fascinating things to do in Edinburgh
Find a range of things to do, including top attractions like Edinburgh Castle, Arthur's Seat and more.
10 Amazing free things to do in Edinburgh
From the National Museum of Scotland to Botanic Gardens, find free things to do and places to go in Edinburgh.
13 Neighbourhoods to explore in Edinburgh
Edinburgh is divided into 13 unique neighbourhood areas. Check out these local insider guides for things to do.
Museums and galleries in Edinburgh
From world-class museums and galleries to quirky hidden gems, get your cultural fix in Edinburgh.
Castles and historical sites in Edinburgh
Edinburgh is home to many historical sites, including Gladstone’s Land, the Georgian House and Rosslyn Chapel.
Top days out ideas
There's always something new to discover in Edinburgh, but it's pretty special to be able to explore three UNESCO sites in the city which celebrate its architectural, engineering and cultural heritage. From fabulous shopping to amazing distilleries, find a wide array of attractions the whole family will love.
Old & New Towns of Edinburgh
One of the most architecturally significant cities in the world, thanks to the dramatic contrast of its Old and New Towns, a recognised UNESCO site.
Edinburgh: UNESCO Creative City of Literature
Explore the capital city's historic connections with literature and the spoken word, through attractions and events held throughout the year.
The Forth Bridge World Heritage Site
Recognised for its innovative design and technology all over the world, the Forth Bridge is an impressive feat in engineering.
6 Great day trips from Edinburgh
Discover great days trips from Edinburgh easily accessible by public transport. Including South Queensferry, Melrose, Roslin, North Berwick and more!
Tours in Edinburgh
Find a wide variety of tours in Edinburgh, from history and literature walks to pub and ghost tours, and see the city from a new perspective.
Shopping in Edinburgh
Edinburgh is a fantastic city for shopping. From upscale luxury brands to high street stores and beautiful boutiques, we have it covered.
Lost Shore Surf Resort
Come and visit Europe’s largest inland surfing destination, open now. Both novice and expert surfers will love it.
Port of Leith Distillery
Learn more about Port of Leith Distillery, a modern landmark bringing Edinburgh's whisky heritage back to live.
Inspiring routes, trails & itineraries
Make the most of your trip to Edinburgh with our handy itineraries and ideas on gentle walks, scenic cycle routes and urban hiking trails to follow. Find magical locations for Harry Potter fans, climb Arthur's Seat, the city's extinct volcano, or take in idyllic spots along the Water of Leith Walkway.
A shop on Victoria Street, Edinburgh
© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam
Follow a route
Explore ideas on short family strolls, more challenging hill walks, and discover many excellent routes and trails that suit a variety of interests and levels of fitness.
See what's on in Edinburgh
Edinburgh is a world-renowned festival city, with an exceptional blend of events throughout the year. Soak up the city's incredible atmosphere with a range of classical, modern, literary and music festivals, including the vibrant Edinburgh summer festivals – make memories that will last a lifetime.
Dancers performing at the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam
Events
From big international acts to local talent – whether theatre, exhibition, comedy, circus, literature or history is your thing, there truly is something for everyone to enjoy.
Map of Edinburgh
Explore Edinburgh
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How to travel to and around Edinburgh
Edinburgh is linked to by an extensive network of roads, rail services and flights, which makes travel to the city possible from every corner of the world. For a well-planned and stress-free holiday, make sure to book the essential elements of your holiday in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure the greatest deals and availability.
Getting to
Bus and coach
There are many frequent and affordable bus services that travel from various main cities to Edinburgh daily. Most buses to Edinburgh arrive at the Edinburgh Bus Station that is located on St Andrew Square in the city centre.
Tram
Edinburgh Airport is directly linked through the west of the city, into the city centre and north and east down to Leith and Newhaven via a quick and convenient tram network.
Pre-book your tram ticket online via the Edinburgh Tram Ticket website so you’re ready to go as soon as you arrive. You can access lots of offers and money saving discounts by showing your Edinburgh Ticket at a range of attractions too.
Train
There are fast and frequent services to Edinburgh from major UK cities. LNER trains run along the east coast from London, York and Newcastle, while Avanti West Coast run along the west coast from London, Birmingham, Milton Keynes and Carlisle. Transpennine Express run from Manchester to Edinburgh.
There are two stations - Edinburgh Haymarket to the west of the city centre, and Edinburgh Waverley sits at the east end of Princes Street.
Book with Transpennine Express
Travel overnight on the Caledonian Sleeper
ScotRail provides an express rail service direct to Edinburgh from many major Scottish cities.
Flying
Edinburgh Airport is situated only 5 miles (8 km) to the west of Edinburgh. You can travel from the airport to the city centre in around 30 minutes by bus, tram, taxi or car.
Driving
Edinburgh is well linked to the rest of Scotland and UK through an extensive road network, making access to the capital easy by car.
- From Newcastle - 2.5 hours
- From Manchester - 4 hours
- From Birmingham - 6 hours
Getting around
Walking
Edinburgh is easily explored on foot with most key attractions within walking distance of each other. Attractions beyond the city centre can be reached cost effectively by public transport and again explored further by foot.
Bus and coach
Lothian Buses run a service across the city 24 hours a day, while First Buses connect Edinburgh with towns and villages in the Lothians.
Tram
Trams run from Newhaven through Leith to York Place in the city centre and onto Edinburgh Airport which takes just under an hour.
Find ticket prices and plan your journey with Edinburgh Trams
Tours
Want to relax and let someone else drive?
Book a tour and hear from a knowledgeable local tour guide as they highlight points of interest, stop off at the best hidden gems and visit the iconic landmarks you’ve heard all about.
Taxi
There are over 1,000 cabs circulating around the city. You can hail one in the street or pick it up from one of the taxi ranks within the city centre.
Cycling
Explore Edinburgh on two wheels by hiring an e-Bike from Voi. With 24 hour access 7 days a week and an app with options for everyone, it's a great choice!
Carberry Tower
© Iris Art Photography
Places to stay in Edinburgh
Whether you’re looking for an elegant hotel, a quirky B&B, a self-catering apartment or a budget friendly hostel, there are lots of accommodation options throughout Edinburgh.
Fish tacos and mussels at Bonnie & Wild’s Scottish Marketplace
© Bonnie & Wild
Places to eat in Edinburgh
From Michelin-star meals to incredible independent eateries, Edinburgh offers an amazing selection of places to eat. It's no wonder it's been named the Most Exciting Food Destination in The Good Food Guide Awards 2025!
A family on Calton Hill
© VisitScotland / Peter Dibdin
Find information on accessible trips
Whether you’re travelling with kids, need a mobility scooter or you’re a wheelchair user, you’ll find that many parts of Edinburgh are easily accessible.
Explore nearby
Edinburgh is surrounded by other fascinating cities and regions to explore. Extend your trip and take the chance to slow down and really connect with Scotland. Head to the coastal towns of Fife, soak up the colourful history of the Scottish Borders, or enjoy the scenery around Loch Lomond & The Trossachs.
Fife
Discover the region of Fife, including holiday ideas, accommodation, travel information and maps, insider tips & fantastic things to see & do.
The Scottish Borders
Discover the Scottish Borders region, including holiday ideas, accommodation, travel information and insider tips.
Edinburgh & The Lothians
Discover the Lothians region and the city of Edinburgh, with holiday ideas, accommodation, travel information and maps & fantastic things to see & do.
Other things you might like
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Glasgow
The Scottish Highlands
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