5 things to know before visiting Edinburgh

You’re packed and ready to visit one of the most incredible cities in the world - we bet you are BUZZING with excitement to start your trip. BUT BEFORE YOU GO! Here are a few things to know before you visit so that you can make the absolute MOST of your trip here.

  1. Get out of town
    Not literally, but make some time to check out surrounding suburbs like Leith, Stockbridge, Bruntsfield, Haymarket and Morningside. The city is stunning, but we bet you’ve already got plenty of ‘must see’s’ on that list, check out some of these neighbouring suburbs for a more unique trip

  2. A canon goes off at 1pm every day

    Do not be afraid! It’s a tradition at Edinburgh Castle called the one o’clock gun that dates back to 1861. After living here for over 2 years we’re still not used to it and it gives us a shock every time!

  3. You can walk everywhere

    Edinburgh is such a walkable city and an enjoyable one to take a stroll through too! Just be wary when using google maps around Old Town as much of the citys roads are built on top of each other and you can think you’re walking in one direction but are actually on a bridge above the street you wanted to be on. (a bonus tip, if you want to take a cab, pick city cabs over Uber as they’re much more reliable)

  4. Don’t shop on the Royal Mile

    Whilst it’s an excellent road to peruse, most of the shops here are tacky and a rip off. If you’re after a more unique souvenir, check out local makers stores at places like An Independant Zebra, Cloud 9 and Raf Edinburgh

  5. There are 3 castles within 30 minutes of town

    Apart from Edinburgh Castle, you’re also not far from Craigmiller Castle, Midhope Castle and Carlowrie Castle - they’re definitely worth a visit if you’ve got a little extra time in the city

Are you ready for your epic trip to Edinburgh? We know you’re going to have an absolute blast!
If you’re wanting to check out some more quirky things to see in Edinburgh, why not read our blog post “3 Quirky things to do in Edinburgh” or grab yourself a copy of our Scottish Bucketlists which you can find here!

Thanks so much for reading!