Holidaying in Historic Edinburgh
A small city layered with many illustrious tales and historical adventures, Edinburgh is a favorite destination for travelers with a good dose of curiosity. Whether traveling to reconnect with Scottish roots or simply ready to see what makes the Scottish capital so attractive, holidaymakers are sure to find a treat in store.
Getting in
Edinburgh is served by one main airport, Edinburgh Turnhouse. Edinburgh Airport is just 20 minutes from the city centre by bus or taxi, so getting to and from the airport is relatively easy. It is possible to fly to some of the other nearby airports, Glasgow International or even Glasgow Prestwick although this is generally only worth it if your ticket is considerably cheaper.
Top Attractions
Edinburgh’s most well-known attraction has to be its castle Set atop an extinct volcano and with a strategic overview of the entire city Edinburgh Castle is a powerful national symbol and an attraction well worth touring.
Be sure to also take a walk along Princes Street to visit high street shops and if your feet get tired, simply grab a bench or space on the grass of the beautiful Princes Street Gardens, located right in the heart of the city. Or stretch your legs and take some great pictures by walking up Arthur’s Seat, another extinct volcano and a wonderful place to relax.
When to visit
Travel during the summer months to experience the fun and frolics of Edinburgh’s festival season. From the International Film Festival in July to everything from the Fringe, Book and Comedy festivals of August there’s something to suit all cultural pursuits. Of course travel during the peak seasons is always going to be more expensive and you’re likely to find that flights to Edinburgh are considerably more expensive during the months of August and December.
On the other hand, visit during the festive season to enjoy Edinburgh’s Christmas Markets, many parties and unforgettable New Year street party. Expect to be kissed and welcomed in a uniquely Scottish style if you choose to celebrate Hogmany with the Scots.
Getting round Edinburgh
Edinburgh is a relatively small city, and you can explore much of the central Old Town on foot. If you’d like to take in it’s suburbs, pay a visit to out of the town shopping centers – at Straiton, Ocean Terminal and the Gyle – you may want to consider hiring a car.
There are also some nice day trips that can be explored from Edinburgh, such as the beaches at Portobello and Mussleburgh or some of the sweet villages of Fife.
How to save
Edinburgh isn’t the cheapest city to visit, although it’s prices are very reasonable when compared with some of the world’s capitals. However, you can reduce your holiday bills in several ways, such as buying an Edinburgh Pass which will allow you to enjoy some of the city’s top attractions for less.
Booking early or in the off season is another way to save, be sure to make use of comparison sites to find cheap flights and hotels and get ready to fall in love with Edinburgh.
James writes for Skyscanner.net, a cheap flights comparison engine based in Scotland. For more information about Skyscanner, check out the Skyscanner profile on Crunchbase.
Published in Tourism