Scotland's cultured capital has an array of events and attractions that make it a popular year-round destination. From the Fringe Festival in the summer to Hogmanay in winter, you can always enjoy the historic castle and Holyrood Palace, which bookend the Royal Mile in the charming Old Town. A spur-of-the-moment getaway in Edinburgh is both fun and easy with our selection of self-catering cottages in and near the city.
Reasons to Holiday in Edinburgh
Family-friendly Edinburgh
A day at Edinburgh Castle makes seeing the Crown Jewels of Scotland, the Stone of Destiny and the National War Museum of Scotland all in days work for history lovers, while youngsters will love the crash and bang of the gun salutes on selected days and times.
A hike to the top of Arthur's Seat is great way to burn off some energy, with the panoramic view of Edinburgh from the top making it well worth the effort. Though if you want to sit down and see the city at the same time then the Hop-on-Hop-off tour bus is the best way, especially from the open-top, weather permitting.
Activities to do with friends
Edinburgh is famous for whisky and there are tours all over the city. From general Scotch appreciation tours to individual distilleries, brush up on your whisky knowledge. Explore the reportedly haunted vaults under Edinburgh's Old Town with an expert guide and discover the dark and gruesome side of the City's history. Literary pub tours with professional actors are popular in Edinburgh, allowing you to be enlightened, entertained and increasingly inebriated all at the same time should you wish.
Where to stay in Edinburgh
Areas of Edinburgh
Edinburgh is a city filled with smaller, almost mini towns, each very different from the next and with a great mix of things to do in each area, there is sure to be a neighbourhood for you.
Areas to stay in Edinburgh
New Town is a gorgeous Georgian area of town with parks and incredible architecture.
Stockbridge is north of New Town, filled with delicious restaurants, homely bakeries, and fashionable bars.
Old Town is just south of New Town and is peppered with restaurants and bars. Edinburgh Castle is its main attraction.
Leith is Edinburgh's buzzy port district. With young tourists and locals mixing, it's a vibrant place dotted with seafood restaurants and classic pubs.