Visit Edinburgh May-September. August is Festival month (busy + expensive). Fly into EDI. Walking is best. Stay Old Town for atmosphere, New Town for elegance.
At a Glance
| Country | United Kingdom (Scotland) |
|---|---|
| Main airport | EDI |
| Currency | British Pound (GBP) |
| Language | English (Scottish Gaelic on signs) |
| Best time to visit | May–September |
| Visa for US citizens | US citizens need passport + UK ETA (~£10, valid 2 years). |
Top Things to Do in Edinburgh
- Edinburgh Castle
- Royal Mile walking tour
- Holyrood Palace + Park
- Arthur's Seat hike (in the city!)
- Underground Vaults tour
- Day trip to Loch Ness + Highlands
- Day trip to St Andrews + Stirling
- Scottish Parliament
- Calton Hill sunset
- Whisky tasting (Scotch Whisky Experience)
Best Neighborhoods to Stay In
- Old Town — Royal Mile, castle area
- New Town — Georgian, shopping
- Leith — port, restaurants
- Stockbridge — bohemian, market
- Bruntsfield — local
- Grassmarket — pubs, restaurants
Our recommendation: Old Town (in the heart), New Town (elegant + restaurants), Stockbridge (local).
What to Eat
- Haggis (Burns Night specialty)
- Fish and chips
- Cullen skink (smoked haddock soup)
- Scotch pies
- Tablet (Scottish fudge)
- Cranachan dessert
- Single malt whisky
- Irn-Bru ("Scotland's other national drink")
How to Get Around
Walking everywhere downtown. Lothian Buses + trams. Avoid driving — narrow streets. Day trips by train from Waverley Station.
How to Get There from the USA
Main airport: EDI.
👉 See our New York flight page.
👉 Call +1 (833) 546-3547 for live agent quotes.
👉 Or set a price watch and get an email when we see a matching fare.
Visa & Entry Requirements (US Citizens)
US citizens need passport + UK ETA (~£10, valid 2 years).
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best time of year to visit Edinburgh?
May–September.
Do US citizens need a visa for United Kingdom (Scotland)?
US citizens need passport + UK ETA (~£10, valid 2 years).
Where should I stay in Edinburgh?
Old Town (in the heart), New Town (elegant + restaurants), Stockbridge (local).
How do I book cheap flights to Edinburgh?
Call +1 (833) 546-3547 24/7.
Can you bundle the flight with a hotel?
Yes — full-service travel agency. Hotel booking.