Edinburgh Holidays

Things to do in Edinburgh

Edinburgh offers a vibrant mix of culture and family-friendly activities, making it an ideal vacation spot. You can explore characterful pubs, enjoy the city's lively theatre scene, and indulge in shopping while discovering the rich educational heritage. Don't miss the chance to attend various events and immerse yourself in the local culture as you visit iconic sights and explore the stunning landscapes of Scotland.

Shopping

For a fantastic shopping experience in Edinburgh, visit Livingston Designer Outlet for designer brands at discounted prices. Explore The Hub for unique gifts and souvenirs, and don't miss Scottish Gems for exquisite local jewellery, all set in a vibrant city atmosphere perfect for families and visitors alike.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Murrayfield Stadium, where you can immerse yourself in the excitement of live sports. For a tranquil day outdoors, Muirfield Golf Course offers beautiful landscapes and fresh air. Enjoy a cultural retreat at Queen's Hall, featuring captivating music performances in a stunning venue.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of Skirmish Edinburgh Paintball, where you can engage in exhilarating combat scenarios. For climbing enthusiasts, the Edinburgh International Climbing Arena Ratho offers a range of indoor and outdoor walls. Alternatively, embrace winter sports at the Midlothian Snowsports Centre, perfect for skiing and snowboarding adventures.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Edinburgh by catching a show at the Edinburgh Playhouse Theatre, where culture and entertainment collide. For a lively adventure, visit Camera Obscura and World of Illusions, or enjoy a drink with romantic vibes at Greyfriar's Bobby, a charming local pub.

Find the best attractions in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a delightful destination for tourists seeking culture and family-friendly experiences. Highlights include the majestic Edinburgh Castle, charming streets, and scenic beaches. Visitors can immerse themselves in the city's rich history and explore top attractions that offer a blend of outdoor adventures and cultural insights. Don't miss the chance to discover historic Edinburgh, where every corner tells a story, making it a memorable getaway.

• Edinburgh Castle: Perched atop Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle offers breathtaking views and a rich history. Explore its ancient stone walls, discover the Crown Jewels, and immerse yourself in the romance and culture of Scotland's past.
• Princes Street: This bustling main thoroughfare is the heartbeat of Edinburgh, lined with shops, cafes, and gardens. Experience the vibrant city vibes as you stroll along, taking in the stunning views of the Castle and the nearby Scott Monument.
• University of Edinburgh: One of the oldest universities in the English-speaking world, its historic architecture and lush green spaces create a cultured atmosphere. Wander through the grounds and soak in the scholarly ambiance that has inspired countless thinkers.

Best time to go to Edinburgh

The best time to visit Edinburgh can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Edinburgh falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Edinburgh falls in January, 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

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Edinburgh

Edinburgh offers numerous ways to save money while exploring the city. Enjoy free attractions like Princes Street, the Royal Mile, and George Street. For transport, consider using buses and trams, which are cost-effective options. The best time to visit for lower prices is from January to March, with Tuesdays being the cheapest nights to stay. Book your accommodation about a month in advance or look for last-minute deals on platforms like Expedia, where you can combine flights and hotels for better rates. Always utilise price filters to find the best offers tailored to your budget.

• 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: Booking a hotel in Edinburgh about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
• 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 customise your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you prefer. To discover the most affordable options and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save some money by combining your hotel accommodation in Edinburgh with your flights and activities by booking an Expedia package.