For first-timers, stay in the Old Town (Royal Mile) for historic sights or the New Town for Georgian elegance, shopping, and dining, with the vibrant Stockbridge and trendy Leith being great alternatives for local cool, while the West End offers budget-friendly central options.
The best area to stay in Edinburgh depends on your priorities: Old Town is ideal for historic sights and nightlife (Castle, Royal Mile), while the Georgian New Town offers upscale shopping, bars, and elegant architecture near Princes Street. For a quieter, picturesque vibe, consider Stockbridge, Dean Village, or Bruntsfield/Morningside, while the vibrant port area of Leith provides excellent independent dining.
For most tourists, the best place to stay is often Old Town. Old Town is the city's historical heart and has a wide range of sights and attractions within walking distance. You'll find Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, St. Giles' Cathedral, the National Museum of Scotland, and many other exciting places to explore.
For a solid introduction to Edinburgh's highlights, 2-3 days are usually enough to see the Castle, Royal Mile, and Calton Hill, but 3-5 days allow for deeper exploration of neighborhoods like Leith, museums, Arthur's Seat, and day trips, providing a much richer experience without feeling rushed. A week or more lets you truly savor the city, explore hidden gems, and even venture further afield for Scottish culture.
Yes, Haymarket, Edinburgh, is generally considered a nice, vibrant, and extremely convenient area, blending historic architecture with modern amenities, excellent transport links (train, tram, bus), and a lively mix of shops, pubs, and restaurants, though it's a busy transport hub, so it can feel bustling and has some quieter spots further from the station.
What is the difference between Edinburgh Old Town and New Town?
Edinburgh has been the Scottish capital since the 15th century. It has two distinct areas: the Old Town, dominated by a medieval fortress; and the neoclassical New Town, whose development from the 18th century onwards had a far-reaching influence on European urban planning.
Some of the safest areas in Edinburgh include Morningside, Marchmont, Bruntsfield, Stockbridge, and Dean Village, all known for low crime rates, strong community presence, and student-friendly environments.
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. There's also the renowned Fringe Festival held every August, which attracts thousands of people from all over the world.
The 7 Best Neighborhoods in Edinburgh for Tourists
Old Town. On a hill above New Town and centered on the Royal Mile – Edinburgh's most famous historic street – Old Town is the most atmospheric part of the city. ...
The Royal Mile has been the main street of Edinburgh for centuries, and definitely shouldn't be missed. Its name comes from the two royal residences located at either end of the street, Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace, and its length, which is approximately one Scottish mile.
Is Edinburgh a walkable city? Yes, Edinburgh is very walkable, especially the Old Town and Royal Mile. Many of the city's top attractions, including Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse, are within walking distance of each other.
For budget-minded travelers, it costs around £45-£90 per day to visit Edinburgh. These prices are based on what you'll need to visit the city comfortably as a budget traveler. If you want to upgrade your accommodations, add another £60-£85 per night depending on your hotel choice.
The "nicest" part of Edinburgh depends on what you're looking for, but popular choices include Stockbridge for its village feel and artisan shops, Leith for trendy waterfront dining and creative vibes, the elegant Georgian New Town for shopping, and the historic Old Town for iconic landmarks, with affluent residential areas like The Grange and Bruntsfield offering quiet charm.
Edinburgh's extensive bus routes cover the entire city and its outskirts, and are well regarded by residents and visitors alike. Most festival venues are either on or nearby at least one main bus route, and the Night Bus services will help you get to your accommodation even in the wee small hours.
Unfortunately less than half of the £42,000 required was raised in a public appeal, and only 12 columns were finished, leading to the monument's nickname a 'National Disgrace'.
