Lonely PlanetAug 9
20 things to know before visiting Edinburgh
Discover what you need to know to get more from a trip to Edinburgh, from the best times to go to the local etiquette.
Hike to the top for views; requires comfortable shoes.
25 things in this story
- St. Margaret's WellSightEvidence of freshwater springs in Holyrood Park.
- Holyrood ParkParkExplore this park, home to Arthur's Seat.
- Royal MileSightMain street of the Old Town, stretching from castle.
- PortobelloNeighborhoodA beach strip 3 miles east of the center.
- Edinburgh CastleSightTrain passengers arrive minutes from here.
- Royal Edinburgh Military TattooHostelBook tickets well in advance.
- Arthur's SeatTrailHike to the top for views; requires comfortable shoes.
- National Galleries of ScotlandGalleryComprises four art museums.
- Princes Street GardensSightValley separating Old and New Towns; formerly a loch.
- Edinburgh Festival FringeFestivalBook accommodation six months ahead for August.
- Edinburgh International FestivalFestivalWorld's biggest arts festival, takes over the city every August.
- Calton HillParkOffers good views during the day; avoid at night.
- Water of Leith WalkwayTrailFollow this walkway; requires comfortable shoes.
- Old TownTrain stationCobbles get slippery when wet or icy; wear waterproof shoes.
- LeithSuburbFormer port, now steadily gentrifying.
- HogmanayFestivalIt is normally followed by further celebration on the morning of New Year's Day and, in some cases, 2 January—a…
- Edinburgh City PassPlaceCovers attractions like Edinburgh Castle and Royal Yacht Britannia.
- West EndNeighborhoodA fairly smart neighborhood.
- SouthsideNeighborhoodA low-key and studenty neighborhood.
- Dr Neil's GardenGardenA less-seen sight discovered by walking.
- Central TaxisPlaceA taxi company option for getting around.
- CowgateNeighborhoodThe street is part of the lower level of Edinburgh's Old Town, which lies below the elevated streets of South Bridge…
- Rose StreetNeighborhoodIt is a narrow street running parallel between Princes Street and George Street.
- New TownSuburb
- Lothian RoadNeighborhood
