Edinburgh

Scotland·Europe

Currency

GBP

Language

English

Timezone

London

Continent

Europe

Our guide

Discover Edinburgh

Edinburgh is built on volcanic hills and the castle takes the steepest — a rock that commands the whole city. From it the Royal Mile runs down to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, a royal residence. Arthur's Seat, an extinct volcano of 250 metres, is an hour's climb from the centre and gives the best urban view in Scotland.

When to go

May to September. August is the Fringe, the largest performing arts festival in the world: the city is electric and completely full — book months ahead or avoid. Winter is dark and windy, but Hogmanay, the Scottish new year, is an institution.

Getting around

The centre walks, if you accept the hills and the stairs — Edinburgh is vertical. The tram links the airport to the centre. The Old Town and New Town, both World Heritage sites, are seen on foot.

Where to eat

Haggis is worth trying once, and the modern restaurant versions are gentler than the reputation. Scotland is whisky country too, and tastings in town are plentiful. Only three halal addresses are listed — few, and worth planning around.

Good to know

Book the castle online. Bring layers: the weather turns several times a day, and the wind on Calton Hill or Arthur's Seat is markedly colder than at street level.

Smart Planning