Is Edinburgh walkable?

Split into two distinct halves, Edinburgh is one of the most walkable cities around. Start your walk at the city's highest point, the Castle. It's a fascinating start to your tour with The Scottish Crown Jewels and the huge 16th century cannon, 'Mons Meg', on display.

Is Edinburgh easy to walk around?

We all want to put our best foot forward, and in Edinburgh it's easy. With one dormant volcano, seven hills, clusters of cobbled streets and tantalising vistas waiting around every bend, the capital is a fabulous place for a wander.

Is Edinburgh pedestrian friendly?

According to research from Workthere, Edinburgh is one of the UK's most pedestrian-friendly cities with one in six workers commuting to work on foot. On average, Edinburgh's residents are just 308m from the nearest green space and the city has much better air quality than London.

How long does it take to walk across Edinburgh?

Edinburgh is a very manageable city

Apart from the suburbs in the outer parts of the city, you can walk from one end of Edinburgh to another in less than an hour.

How many days do you need in Edinburgh?

For first time visitors, we recommend spending at least two or three days in Edinburgh, which will give you enough time to explore the city centre and see the main sites.

EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND (2023) | 10 BEST Things To Do In Edinburgh

Is visiting Edinburgh expensive?

Edinburgh Castle is not known for its cheap entry. While Edinburgh is one of the most expensive places to live in the UK, especially on your own, tourists also have to pay up when visiting. From Airbnb prices to visiting landmarks, the cost of a wee getaway can quickly add up.

Is 4 days too long in Edinburgh?

Walking around, you'll feel like you're in Harry Potter, or any type of fairytale, as everywhere you turn, you run into a new, enchanting street. As the city is very walkable and easy to get around, you'll be able to experience the best of Edinburgh in just 4 days!

Can you walk around Edinburgh Castle for free?

No, you cannot walk around Edinburgh Castle freely without paying anything. Edinburgh Castle is a popular tourist attraction and visitors must pay an entrance fee to access the castle and its grounds.

What is the most walkable area of Edinburgh?

How hard is the walk up to Edinburgh Castle?

As a historical site, the castle complex can be difficult to access and navigate, especially for those with mobility difficulties - the whole site is on a steep hill, rising to a summit, and there are staircases around both the interior and exterior spaces, with uneven surfaces throughout.

Is it safe to go out at night in Edinburgh?

Safety at nightSafe. Edinburgh is generally considered safe for solo female travelers, even at night. Though certain areas might be more bustling during the day, the city center and tourist-heavy areas remain quite active and safe into the evening.

How do tourists get around in Edinburgh?

Edinburgh is an easy city to get around in; most places in the city centre are within walking distance of each other, there is a good public transport system, and cycling is an easy and popular means of getting around.

What to wear when walking around Edinburgh?

Practical clothing

Even in the summer months, Edinburgh can experience multiple seasons in one day and can rain year-round. As such, it's a good idea to pack lots of layers as well as a light raincoat in the summer months, and a thick jacket if you are visiting during winter.

Is Edinburgh hilly or flat?

Just a little helpful hint: most of Edinburgh's streets are hilly and made of old cobblestone. While that's what gives the city its old-world charm, it's also what makes walking a little bit more challenging. Wear comfy shoes and rest up at night!

Can you do Edinburgh in 1 day?

Within Edinburgh's medieval Old Town and neoclassical New Town, there's so much to experience. If you only have a day in the city, don't despair: The city is big enough to keep you entertained but compact enough that you can explore almost everything on foot.

Why is Edinburgh so touristy?

If you're looking for historic sites, Scottish culture, and “touristy” things to do, Edinburgh hands down—there's not even a comparison. Edinburgh is a significantly more charming city with beautiful gothic architecture, and has a lot of history to it. Which city is more beautiful: London or Edinburgh/Glasgow?

What is the nicest street in Edinburgh?

The Prettiest Edinburgh Street

Not only is Victoria Street visually striking, but it also has a rich history that adds to its allure. Built between 1829 and 1834 by architect Thomas Hamilton, the street was intended to improve access to the Old Town, replacing a series of narrow, winding alleys.

Where is the famous street in Edinburgh?

The Royal Mile runs through the length of the Old Town, from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace, following the slope of the hill. From Princes Street, you can walk up The Mound, Cockburn Street, or North Bridge, which intersect with The Royal Mile.

What is the famous pretty street in Edinburgh?

Victoria Street, a picturesque and winding cobblestone lane, is one of Edinburgh's most iconic thoroughfares. Named after Queen Victoria, it exudes a timeless charm that resonates with both locals and visitors.

Are Edinburgh trams free?

If you have a Scottish National Entitlement Card (also known as a Saltire card) issued by the City of Edinburgh Council, you are entitled to free travel on the tram. The same applies to cards from any local authority indicating visual impairment.

Is it worth going inside the Edinburgh Castle?

The castle is so well signposted that it is great to just wander around. The attractions are great for all ages from the military elements to the Crown jewels etc. Make sure to book in advance tho. Rich History, Must Visit Place in Edinburgh.

Can you visit Holyrood Palace for free?

To visit the Abbey you must pay the entrance fee to the Palace of Holyroodhouse (this includes Historic Scotland Members and Explorer Pass holders). 20% discount for Historic Scotland members on production of your membership card. Not a Member? Join now to start enjoying the benefits.

What is the busiest month in Edinburgh?

July and August are the peak months. It then gets increasingly less busy between September and November.

Is Edinburgh big or small?

Home to just under 500,000 people, Edinburgh is Scotland's capital city. However, don't let its small size deceive you, Edinburgh's population swells to more than double this when people come from all over the world for the summer festivals.

What months are best for Edinburgh?

The best time to visit Edinburgh is during the summer (June to August) when the weather is warmer, there's less rain (although this is Scotland, so don't bank on it!), and the days are longer.