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Things to do in Edinburgh

Things to do in Edinburgh

Past and the present intersect at Edinburgh, where the medieval architecture of the Old Town and the neoclassical style of the New Town seamlessly combine to create one of Europe’s most beautiful cities. Filled with a variety of attractions and experiences in and around the city, some hidden in the city’s nooks and crannies, one will never run out of things to do in Edinburgh! Check out our travel guide for the city to find out what Edinburgh has to offer.

The magnificent city of Edinburgh is one of the most beautiful cities in all of Scotland and the United Kingdom. It has an uncanny charm that exudes from the confluence of its quaint architecture ranging from medieval to neo-classical styles.

The marbled streets of its Old Town look like they are straight out of a gothic storybook; you’ll feel like you’ve traveled back into the medieval period. This section of the city is home to its important royal sites, like the Palace of Holyroodhouse and Edinburgh Castle, the latter being the home of Scotland’s Crown Jewels and the legendary Stone of Destiny. It also has an air of mystery permeating around it and it’s a wonderful place to explore at night while it’s lit up by sconced gas lamps.

On the other hand, its New Town is a stark example of careful urban planning. Here, you’ll be able to see exquisite Georgian townhouses and Neo-classical buildings, museums and galleries, bustling markets and shopping centers like Princes and George Streets, and the Calton Hill where you can see several monuments and enjoy panoramic views of the city.

Must-Have Apps for Tourists in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a city rich in history and culture, and having the right apps can significantly enhance your experience. Here are some essential apps to download before your trip:

Navigation and Transport
  • Google Maps: A classic for finding your way around, getting directions, and exploring the city.
  • Transport for Edinburgh: This app provides real-time information on buses and trams, making it easy to plan your journeys.
  • Citymapper: Another excellent option for public transport planning, with additional features like walking and cycling directions.
Exploring the City
  • Edinburgh Bus Tours: If you’re taking a hop-on hop-off bus tour, this app can provide information on stops, attractions, and audio guides.
  • Timeline Trip Edinburgh: This app offers a deep dive into Edinburgh’s history, with interactive maps and stories.
  • Edinburgh Audio Walking Guide: For a self-guided walking tour with expert commentary.
  • Historic Scotland Visitor App: If you’re interested in exploring Scotland’s historical sites, this app provides information and guides.

Practical Tools

  • RingGo: For easy parking payment.
  • Currency Converter: To keep track of your spending.
  • Translation App: While English is widely spoken, a translation app can be handy in certain situations.
  • Weather App: Check the forecast before heading out.
Food and Drink
  • TheFork: Find and book restaurants with ease.
  • Deliveroo, Uber Eats, Just Eat: For ordering food delivery.
Additional Tips
  • Offline Maps: Download maps of Edinburgh to your phone for use when you don’t have Wi-Fi.
  • Consider a City Pass: Some cities offer passes that provide discounts on attractions and transportation.
  • Check App Reviews: Before downloading, read reviews to ensure the app is reliable and user-friendly.

By downloading these apps, you’ll be well-prepared to explore Edinburgh and make the most of your trip.

When is the Best Time to Visit Edinburgh?

 

Edinburgh is often busiest during May-August when the weather is mild and warm with less risk of rain, as well as various festivals like the International Film Festival and the Edinburgh International Festival. From November-January, travelers can enjoy the city’s Christmas markets and festivities such as Burns Night.

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