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For us, Edinburgh is one of the most surprising cities for a city break in Europe. Not only is it the most photogenic and fairytale-like city, there is also an awful lot to do. All of downtown Edinburgh looks like it's straight out of the Middle Ages, and just when you think it can't get any more beautiful, you end up on yet another gorgeous side street. Edinburgh has been the setting of several world-famous books, movies and series, such as The Da Vinci Code and Harry Potter, for good reason. But with so much to do and experience, how do you make the most of your city break? We tell you all about what to see and do in Edinburgh!
Good to know: to enter the United Kingdom, you need a valid ETA as a Dutch traveler. You can use your ETA apply online in no time. Usually you will have the ETA in your pocket within a few days.
How do I get to Edinburgh?
There are several ways to travel to Edinburgh from the Netherlands. For example, several airlines fly directly from Rotterdam and Amsterdam to Edinburgh (Transavia, KLM and easyJet). The flight takes only about 1.5 hours. See the offer of flights from Transavia to Edinburgh. You can also choose a full package trip Edinburgh with hotel through TUI.
Are you considering a road trip through Scotland in addition to a city trip Edinburgh? Then traveling by car from the Netherlands is also an option (by boat). There is no boat directly from the Netherlands to Scotland. You can only go to Scotland via England. In the Netherlands, you can do so from IJmuiden, Rotterdam and Hoek van Holland. Also keep in mind that you have to drive on the left in Scotland.
Where do I stay in Edinburgh?
There are several nice neighborhoods to stay in Edinburgh during a city break. If you want to stay in the historic heart of the city, choose accommodation in The Old Town. Also, if you stay in New Town, you'll be close to the sights. Other nice neighborhoods include Leith, Stockbridge, Morningside and Bruntsfield.
Leith is a bustling harbor district with a rich history and many restaurants and bars. The charming Stockbridge neighborhood is known for its trendy boutiques, cozy cafes and beautiful Victorian houses. It is the ideal place for a relaxing stay. The residential areas of Morningside and Bruntsfield are quietly located in the south of the city. Here you will find many local boutiques, trendy coffee shops and parks with lots of greenery. Both neighborhoods are well connected to the city center via public transportation. Walking to the center is also doable (about 20 minutes). We stayed at the Bruntsfield Hotel in the neighborhood of the same name. A very nice hotel with spacious rooms and pleasant beds.
Edinburgh in a nutshell: Old Town vs. New Town
The city of Edinburgh is divided into "The Old Town" and "The New Town," both of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Every little street you walk through is therefore enchantingly beautiful. However, Edinburgh's old and new centers are two completely different parts of the city, with different historical and architectural features. So we definitely recommend visiting both during your city break Edinburgh!
1. Edinburgh's Old Town
Edinburgh's Old Town is located on the east side of the city and encompasses the medieval and Renaissance architecture of the Old Town. It includes the Royal Mile - the heart of Edinburgh's Old Town - and many famous landmarks such as Edinburgh Castle. Walking through Edinburgh's Old Town almost feels like a fairy tale. The streets are narrow and winding, with many alleys and hidden squares.
2. Edinburgh's New Town
Located on the west side of the city, Edinburgh's new center was built in the 18th century during the Age of Enlightenment. You'll find some of the city's largest and most impressive Georgian buildings here. The most popular streets in Edinburgh's new Town are Princes Street and George Street, with many stores and hotspots. On Princes Street is the beautiful city park Princes Street Gardens.
The best sights in Edinburgh
We've probably already convinced you that Edinburgh is a city bursting with history and culture. But which sights are really worth a visit? Here are the highlights you shouldn't miss:
1. Edinburgh Castle
The most famous landmark in Edinburgh is, of course, Edinburgh Castle. Located atop Castle Rock, the imposing castle is not to be missed. Edinburgh Castle is one of the oldest castles in Scotland, with a history dating back to the 12th century. What is particularly special about the castle is that it has been used for multiple purposes over the centuries. For example, it has been a royal palace, military base and prison. When visiting the castle you will therefore see a unique mix of architectural styles from different eras, including the Middle Ages, Renaissance and Victorian periods.
It is helpful to have a Skip the Line ticket to buy tickets for the castle. In fact, it can get incredibly crowded during the day.
We recommend visiting the castle, of course, but for beautiful pictures of Edinburgh Castle, it is best to go to the Princes Street Gardens. From this park you have a magnificent view of the castle. In addition, it also connects The Old Town with The New Town of Edinburgh. Within 10 minutes you can walk from the old to the new part of the city center.
2. Royal Mile
We mentioned it, but the Royal Mile is the heart of Edinburgh's old city center. The Royal Mile consists of five streets; Castle Hill, Lawnmarket, High Street, Canongate and Abbey Strand. The Royal Mile is special because of the rich history it represents, with medieval and Renaissance architecture and beautiful sights such as Edinburgh Castle and St. Giles' Cathedral.
3. Grassmarket
The Grassmarket, in the heart of the Old Town, is one of the most picturesque and lively parts of the city. In particular, you will find many cozy pubs in this square. One of them is very special, and that is The White Hart Inn. This is in fact the oldest pub in Edinburgh. It was opened in 1516 and still functions today as a pub under the same name. But also The Last Drop is a cozy pub at the Grassmarket, also one of our favorite pubs in Edinburgh where you can drink a delicious pint among the locals.
4. Victoria Street
Near the Grassmarket you will find Victoria Street. This is without a doubt one of the most photographed streets in Edinburgh. The colorful, historic buildings are a sight to behold. But what the street is really known for is Harry Potter. In fact, the streetscape of Victoria Street was one of the biggest sources of inspiration for J.K. Rowling and the idea of Harry Potter was born here. Victoria Street is home to a number of souvenir stores and cozy pubs. One of the most famous attractions for Harry Potter fans is the souvenir store The Boy Wizard.
5. Greyfriars Kirkyard & Greyfriars Bobby
It may be extraordinary that we mention a cemetery as one of the most beautiful sights in Edinburgh. But we'll tell you why! Greyfriars Kirkyard is an ancient cemetery in The Old Town and is special for several reasons. At first glance, it looks like a normal cemetery, until you look closely at the headstones. In fact, J.K. Rowling based several Harry Potter characters on random names on these tombstones. You will find familiar names such as Thomas Riddle (Lord Voldemort), William McGonagall and Elizabeth Moodie.
But there is another reason why Greyfriars Kirkyard is special and that is Greyfriars Bobby. The most famous breed of dog in Scotland is the Skye Terrier and the most talked about; that is Greyfriars Bobby. This little dog became famous because after his owner died, he spent the rest of his life watching over his owner's grave (for 14 years!). With this, Bobby was the inspiration for several books and movies. The statue can be found in front of the cemetery. And why Bobby's nose was damaged? Because it would bring good luck to rub his nose!
6. Dean Village
One place in Edinburgh that is becoming increasingly popular is Dean Village. This picturesque spot was an independent neighborhood in the shadow of Edinburgh until the 19th century. It was also known as The Water of Leith Village, since it is right on the River Leith. Dean Village has a rich history dating back to the 12th century. It was once an important industrial district, with several mills powered by the river. Many of the original buildings and architecture from this era can still be seen in the neighborhood. Therefore, the architecture is definitely worth admiring! The houses are built with local stone and have charming details such as stone arches and turrets. You can also take a nice walk along the waters of the River Leith.
Tips for atmospheric restaurants and pubs in Edinburgh
For us, a city break goes hand in hand with discovering hotspots, and Edinburgh does not disappoint either. From delicious spots where you can go in the morning for a nice cup of coffee, to fine dining restaurants and local cozy pubs. We have tried everything and collected our favorites for you. Below is a sneak peek to get you in the mood, but the real tips? Check out our article with Edinburgh's most delicious hotspots!
The best activities in Edinburgh
There are so many fun things to do in Edinburgh that it will be hard to combine them all in one trip, but that's a good reason to return. Maybe then you can combine Edinburgh and the Highlands directly into a cool road trip. Okay, back to Edinburgh: these are the best to do's for during a multi-day city break to Edinburgh!
1. Book an underground tour at Mary King's Close
That Edinburgh has a fascinating history we can surely agree, but where can you truly experience Edinburgh as it was in the 17e century? At Mary King's Close! Of course, you're not really going back to the 17e century - if only you could - but you will visit an ancient underground corridor system with ancient dwellings from this period. On this tour, you will get a very unique insight into the life of the city during the 17e century. As guides in costumes share exciting stories and anecdotes about the inhabitants, legends and the plague periods, you find yourself listening in amazement more than once. It is an impressive and sometimes even a little creepy experience that I can recommend to anyone who wants to learn more about Edinburgh's hidden past.
This is one of the most popular tours in Edinburgh, so if you want to be sure of a tour. Then book the Mary King's Close tour directly here!
2. Visit the Whisky Experience
What not to miss during a city break Edinburgh: a whisky tasting. We visited the Whisky Experience, located in a historic building near Edinburgh Castle. At the Scotch Whisky Experience, you will learn about the history of the Scotch whisky industry. There are many places in Edinburgh where you can learn more about whisky culture in Scotland, but this place is unique. In fact, you can witness the world's largest collection of Scotch whisky here. There is a collection of nearly 4,000 (!) bottles of whisky.
You can book several tours and tastings at the Whisky Experience. We went for The Gold Tour (£34.00) where you try 4 contrasting single malts from different Scottish regions. Even if you are not into whisky, the tour is great fun to do.
Be on time with reservations, as the tours (especially those combined with traditional snacks) fill up quickly. Book your Scotch Whisky Experience tour here!
3. Climb to the top of Arthur's Seat
Even if sunshine is predicted, in Edinburgh you never really know what the weather will be. Of course, that gives the city its charm, but it also makes the climb to the top of Arthur's Seat hard to plan. Should you have a chance to do so, the climb to the top is definitely recommended. Located in Holyrood Park, this iconic hill offers not only stunning views of the city, but also a piece of unspoiled nature in the midst of urban life. The hike to the top is doable, but make sure you have sturdy walking shoes on. After a climb of about 45 minutes, you will be rewarded with panoramic views stretching from the historic center to the coastline. Be sure to bring something to drink because it's great to enjoy the view here for a while.
4. Hike to the top of Calton Hill
From the top of Arthur's Seat you have an amazing panoramic view of the city, but if you are not up for this then Calton Hill is also recommended. The walk up is a short climb that rewards you in about 10-20 minutes with views of Princes Street, the Old Town and even as far as the Firth of Forth. At the top you will walk among a few iconic monuments, such as the National Monument (Edinburgh's ‘unfinished Parthenon’), the Nelson Monument and the photogenic Dugald Stewart Monument. The best time to hike to the top of Calton Hill? Go around sunset! That's when the city takes on that beautiful golden glow.
How many days are you going to Edinburgh on a city break?
Of course, it is personal for everyone at what pace you want to visit the sights of a city, but we would recommend spending at least 3 days in the city of Edinburgh. As you have read in this article, we have lots of tips for fun to do's in Edinburgh, as well as delicious hotspots to try out. It's actually a waste to be here for only 1 or 2 days. So if you ask us: plan a city break to Edinburgh for at least 3 days. And if you have the time, combining Edinburgh with a tour of Scotland!
Tip: did you know that TUI often has very interesting package deals for a city trip to Edinburgh? You directly book a flight and accommodation in one, very convenient. Discover here TUI's Edinburgh city break deals.
Tips for visiting Edinburgh in the Christmas month of ‘December’
Edinburgh is truly magical in December, with atmospheric lights everywhere and a festive atmosphere that immediately puts you in the Christmas spirit. The Christmas market in the Princess Street Gardens is incredibly fun to visit. Here you can taste the coziness, enjoy Scottish but also German and Dutch delicacies and you can skate with a view of the castle. For a fun night out, I recommend an evening walk in the Royal Botanic Garden, where you will walk past beautifully lit trees and art installations during the annual festival of lights. It's an enchanting walk that will delight young and old alike. Don't forget to drink hot chocolate at one of the cozy stalls and roast marshmallows over the fireplace.
On vacation to Scotland
Combine a city break Edinburgh with a road trip across the country? Good idea! A city trip to Edinburgh offers a unique cultural experience with wonderful sights, while a road trip through Scotland shows you the country's breathtaking natural beauty. By combining the two, you get a complete picture of Scotland, from its urban history to its wild and vast landscapes. Guaranteed to be an unforgettable travel experience in Europe.
Still not convinced that Scotland is a wonderful road trip destination? Let us convince you with these 5 reasons why you should book your trip to Scotland now!
Travander
At Travander, we’re all about exploring hidden gems, unique destinations, and off-the-beaten-path travel experiences. Our motto, “Let’s Travel and Wander,” reflects our passion for discovering both local treasures and faraway adventures. As experienced travel bloggers and travel consultants, we share insider tips, personal stories, and practical advice to help you make the most of every trip. From city breaks and weekend getaways to tailor-made travel itineraries, we guide you to the most beautiful and inspiring places. Explore the world with Travander and let us spark your next unforgettable adventure!
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