Edinburgh Holidays & City Breaks

Edinburgh, Scotland’s vibrant capital, sits on the country’s east coast, blending history, culture and stunning scenery into one incredible city. The landscape offers a blend of rolling hills and a bustling city dotted with medieval architecture. The weather is unpredictable, with a mix of sunshine, rain and a cool breeze, sometimes all in one day!

There's plenty for visitors to see and do in Edinburgh. Edinburgh Castle dominates the skyline, and is visible from many points throughout the city. It's packed with history, from the Crown Jewels to the Stone of Destiny, all of which are on display for visitors to marvel over. Guided tours and audio guides bring its dramatic past to life, covering everything from medieval battles to royal secrets. The Old Town’s winding streets lead to hidden courtyards, cosy pubs and eerie underground vaults. For nature lovers, Arthur’s seat, an ancient extinct volcano, offers a rewarding hike with panoramic views over the city.

Edinburgh has something for everyone. Nature enthusiasts are sure to appreciate the many opportunities this city offers to get out and explore the beautiful landscape, while history buffs can spend hours exploring the city's museums and points of historical significance. Families will love the zoo and interactive museums while couples can enjoy romantic walks up Calton Hill and cosy whiskey bars. Solo travellers can explore hidden gems in the Old Town, while groups of friends can dive into lively pubs ghost tours and festivals.

There are many flights from Ireland to Edinburgh every week, with a flight time of around 1 hour and 20 minutes.

To learn more about things to do in Edinburgh, the best time to go and local info see here.

Things to Do in Edinburgh

Attractions 

• Edinburgh Castle is a historic fortress perched on Castle Rock, home to the crown jewels and rich Scottish history.
• The Royal Mile is a vibrant street running through the Old Town, filled with shops, pubs and historic sites.
• Holyrood Place is the official Scottish residence of the King, featuring stunning architecture and royal history.
• Camera Obscura & World of Illusions is a fun, interactive museum with mind-bending optical illusions and city views.

Nightlife

The nightlife scene in Edinburgh is diverse and vibrant. The Old Town is full of cosy pubs with live folk music, while George Street has fancy cocktail bars and clubs. Other nightlife options include ghost tours, late-night comedy shows or a whiskey-tasting experience. Whether you want a relaxed evening or a big night out, Edinburgh has something for everyone.

Dining out

Edinburgh's dining scene offers everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to cosy pubs and international street foods. You can enjoy fresh Scottish seafood, traditional haggis, or modern fusion cuisine. The Old Town and New Town are packed with great eateries, while Leith is a hotspot for top-tier dining.

For Families 

Edinburgh has plenty of family-friendly activities that will be of interest to people of all ages. Explore Edinburgh Castle, where kids can discover knights and kings and their history, or visit the National Museum of Scotland for fun and interactive exhibits. Meet penguins and pandas at Edinburgh Zoo, or enjoy a magical storytelling experience at The Real Mary’s King Close. For outdoor fun, climb Arthur’s Seat or explore Princes Street Gardens for a picnic.

Shopping

Edinburgh offers fantastic shopping spots to suit all tastes! Princes Street has high-street favourites with stunning castle views, while George Street is home to luxury brands and stylish boutiques. For unique gifts and Scottish souvenirs, explore the Royal Mile or visit Victoria Street, which is said to have inspired Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley. If you love vintage and independent shops, head to the trendy Stockbridge area.

Best Time to Go 

The best time to visit Edinburgh depends on what you are looking for. Summer (June–August) is perfect for festivals like the Edinburgh Fringe, with long daylight hours and a buzzing atmosphere. Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer mild weather, fewer crowds, and beautiful scenery. Winter (November–December) brings seasonal charm with Christmas markets and cosy pubs where you can soak up the festive atmosphere.

Local Info

Currency 

The Great British Pound is used in Edinburgh.

Time Zone

There is no time difference between Ireland and Edinburgh.

Getting around 

Getting around Edinburgh is easy! The city centre is very walkable, with most attractions close together. For longer trips, the Lothian Bus network is reliable, with contactless payments accepted. The Edinburgh Trams run from the airport to the city centre and beyond. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are widely available, and if you fancy a scenic journey, hop on a bike or e-scooter!