Edinburgh is a great city for a staycation all year round, but autumn and spring are the best times to visit. They’re less crowded and you’ll save on hotel prices.
Family-friendly accommodations can be found all over the city, but Old Town and New Town are particularly good choices.
Nightlife
If you are looking for a staycation filled with good food, drinks, and a buzzing nightlife, Edinburgh city has you covered. With a range of pubs and clubs to suit everyone’s taste, you will never be short of options in this city.
Students specifically love this city’s nightlife, with lively weeknights and weekends close to Universities and hotels. A good recommendation is Freddy’s Edin that has club nights for everyone to enjoy.
Compact City
With a small grid layout and a robust public transportation system, Edinburgh is an easily walkable city. Expats can avoid a car rental and instead rely on the subway, tram, and bus to get around. They can also explore the many local attractions and shops that are located in the heart of the city.
One of the best places to start is with the Royal Mile. This area is home to the top sights, including Holyrood Palace, St Giles’ Cathedral, and the Scottish Parliament Building. You can also enjoy a picnic in the nearby Princes Street Gardens or climb up Arthur’s Seat for a scenic sunset view.
Easy To Get Around
With most of Edinburgh’s top attractions huddled together in Old Town and New Town, walking is the best way to get around. Plus, the streets are narrow and winding, making them easy to navigate.
Alternatively, you can take a bus or tram to get anywhere in the city. Public transportation is affordable and easy to use. Plus, buses and trams are usually quite clean. If you prefer to rent a car, be sure to check out the traffic laws of Scotland and remember that they drive on the left.
Family-Friendly
Whether you’re looking for a five-star hotel in the center of town, or budget travel lodges near Edinburgh Airport, there are plenty of family-friendly accommodation options in the city. Families with children will find a range of hotels that have amenities such as baby cribs, high chairs and kids-eat-free deals.
The Royal Mile features street performers that entertain the whole family. Listen to bagpipe players and watch performers float above the sidewalks. Don’t forget to visit St. Giles Cathedral, the best-known church in Edinburgh. Admire the ribbed vaulting and detail in this 14th-century house of worship.
Affordability
The city’s huge festivals and events – especially in August for the Fringe – can see accommodation prices skyrocket. But away from those months and into the winter build-up to Hogmanay, Edinburgh is an affordable destination.
Tucked into a picturesque corner of the West End just off Union Canal is this boutique aparthotel. The rooms have funky decor, oversized chairs and a terrace bar that’s ideal for a glass of wine. The location is a real sweet spot too; a short walk to a host of terrific cafes and bars but without the hordes of tourists.