Do you need tickets for Edinburgh Christmas market 2023?

Entry to the main 2023 Edinburgh Christmas Market in East Princes Street Gardens is free and does not require a ticket. You can walk in, though it may be busy at peak times. Tickets are only required for specific rides and attractions like the Big Wheel, Ice Rink, and Santa’s Stories.

Do I need cash for the Edinburgh Christmas Market?

You can use both cash and card at the Edinburgh Christmas Market, but cards (especially contactless/phone payments) are widely accepted and often preferred, though it's wise to carry some cash for smaller stalls, emergencies, or patchy Wi-Fi/signal issues. Most major stalls and attractions take cards, but some smaller vendors might be cash-only or have minimum card spends. 

How many stalls does the Edinburgh Christmas Market have?

Edinburgh Christmas Market, East Princes Street Gardens

Free to enter, shoppers can browse around 70 stalls featuring everything from clothing and jewellery to handmade gifts for the home. And when hunger calls, the tempting aromas from the various local and international food and drink stalls are sure to tempt you.

How much is a ride at Edinburgh Christmas Market?

Prices for a spin on the Big Wheel are £12 for and adult and £9.60 for concessions, while a family ticket - with a maximum of two adults - costs £38.40 - again card payments only. And it costs from £13.50 per person for a ride on the 80 metres high Starflyer.

Do you have to pay to get into the distillery Christmas market?

General admission is $15 plus HST and admin fee during select peak periods between Nov. 21 and Dec. 31, with free entry at other times and for children nine and under. Organizers say ticket revenue funds more than 700 seasonal staff and covers operational costs, including security and paid duty officers.

Edinburgh Christmas 2023 | Everything You Need To Know Before Visiting

What time of day does Edinburgh Christmas Market open?

Times (2024)

10am - 10pm daily, except: 24 December: 10am - 6pm. 25 December: Closed.

How far is Edinburgh Christmas Market from train station?

By Rail. The nearest railway station to Edinburgh's Christmas is Edinburgh Waverley which is approximately a 2-minute walk from the entrance to East Princes Street Gardens. The most direct route is via the Waverley Bridge exit, which is also step-free.

What can I buy at Edinburgh Christmas Market?

You can't visit the Edinburgh Christmas market without sampling some of its key specialties. Of course, Edinburgh's festive foods are a must, such as rich minced pies, succulent bratwurst, earthy haggis, and buttery Scottish shortbread.

Which is the best Christmas market in Edinburgh?

Edinburgh's 5 Best Christmas Markets In 2026

• East Princes Street Christmas Market. Location: Princes Street, EH2 2HG. ...
• Edinburgh Farmer's Market. Location: Castle Terrace, EH1 2EN. ...
• Hopetoun House Christmas Shopping Fair. ...
• Summerhall Christmas Market. ...
• Jupiter Artland's Christmas Fair.

What to wear to Edinburgh Christmas Markets?

Dressing in layers, including a warm coat, hat, gloves and scarf, will keep you comfortable. What should I wear when visiting Edinburgh in winter? Layering is essential. Start with a thermal base layer or long-sleeved top, add a warm jumper or fleece and finish with a waterproof, windproof coat.

Can you keep the mugs at German Christmas Markets?

Basically, you're going to give three or four extra euro for the mug and if you bring it back, they give the three or four euro back to you and if you don't bring it back, then, you keep your mug. There are a lot of people that want to come to Christmas markets and collect the mugs which I think is amazing.

Are there toilets at Edinburgh Christmas Market?

We recommend speaking to a member of security or staff who can direct you nearest accessible entrance. Accessible Toilet is available on site near the Big Wheel - Please speak to security or our Front of House Team if unsure of directions and contact security for the key.

Do you have to book Edinburgh Fringe?

You have a show in a venue in Edinburgh. It's either free, in which case people just turn up and pay by donation at the end, or it's in a paid venue, in which case people have to book and pay for tickets in advance either at the Fringe Box office, online, on phone, or at venue.

How much does ice skating cost in Edinburgh?

Adult: from £18.70. Child (3–12): from £11.50. Family tickets: available. ✔️ Skate hire is included in the ticket price.

How much does it cost to go to Edinburgh Christmas market?

Entry to the Edinburgh Christmas Markets themselves is free, but you pay for individual attractions like the Big Wheel, Starflyer, ice rink, and Santa's Stories, with prices around £10-£15 per ride/session, and tickets often bought on the day or pre-booked. All sites are cashless, accepting card payments only, and local residents (EH postcode) can get a 20% discount on some tickets. 

What is unique to buy in Edinburgh?

If you're wondering what to buy in Edinburgh Scotland, here are some ideas that locals and returning visitors often recommend.

• Harris Tweed Products. ...
• Scotland Whisky. ...
• Art Prints of Edinburgh Scenes. ...
• Scottish Made Ceramics and Pottery. ...
• Greyfriars Bobby Souvenirs. ...
• Traditional Scottish Food Gifts. ...
• University of Edinburgh Gifts.

Where is the most Christmassy place in Scotland?

Edinburgh is widely considered Scotland's most Christmassy place, transforming into a magical winter wonderland with its famous Christmas Market in Princes Street Gardens, ice rink, giant wheel, festive lights on the Royal Mile, and numerous events. Other top contenders for festive cheer include the Cairngorms for its reindeer and snowy landscapes, Oban for its community-focused Winter Festival, and charming local streets like Lavender Drive in Newton Mearns known for spectacular lights.
 

Do you need cash for the Edinburgh Christmas Market?

You can use both cash and card at the Edinburgh Christmas Market, but cards (especially contactless/phone payments) are widely accepted and often preferred, though it's wise to carry some cash for smaller stalls, emergencies, or patchy Wi-Fi/signal issues. Most major stalls and attractions take cards, but some smaller vendors might be cash-only or have minimum card spends. 

How much is a taxi from Waverley station to Edinburgh Castle?

The fastest way to get from Edinburgh Waverley Station to Edinburgh Castle is to taxi which takes 3 min and costs £7 - £10. Is there a direct bus between Edinburgh Waverley Station and Edinburgh Castle? Yes, there is a direct bus departing from Princes Street and arriving at Princes Street.

Is one hour enough for Edinburgh Castle?

An hour at Edinburgh Castle is an hour well spent. You can squeeze in many of its highlights – and make a list of others to see in future.

What to expect at Edinburgh Christmas Market?

Traditional Christmas Market at East Princes Street Gardens, with charming wooden stalls offering everything from handmade ornaments to indulgent hot chocolate and bratwurst. Over three-quarters of vendors are expected to be local or Scottish businesses, showcasing the best of artisan food, crafts, and festive treats.

Where is the entrance to Edinburgh Christmas Market?

East Princes Street Gardens is fully accessible from both Princes Street and Waverley Bridge. Accessible entrances are available at the gate between the galleries on the mound and the Waverley Bridge entrance gate. The Market Street entrance grants accessible entry to the South-side attractions.