Book the best 5 Star Luxury Hotels in Edinburgh

If you're looking for a truly unique and unforgettable European city, you need to head to Scotland's capital, Edinburgh. This city has a charm, with narrow alleyways and cobbled streets known as 'closes' in Scots. You won't regret paying a visit to this one-of-a-kind destination.

The town's beautiful gardens, fascinating museums (which are free to visit), and especially its kind locals make it a favorite among visitors.

Moreover, Edinburgh's dreary weather might not sound appealing at first, but it's actually what gives the city its unique charm. The rainy, windy days create a mysterious and melancholy atmosphere that you won't find anywhere else.

History of Edinburgh

In the 7th century, the English captured this part of Scotland, and they called it Eiden's burgh, with burgh being an old word for fort. The Scots took back the area in the 10th century, and in the late 11th century, King Malcolm III erected a castle on Castle Rock. A small town emerged close by, and by the early 12th century, the city became a thriving community.

Edinburgh was starting to blow up in the early 18th century. Things were getting pretty cramped by mid-century, so the Lord Provost decided it was time to build a new town on some land north of Edinburgh. They then held a contest to see who could develop the best plan for the new city. James Craig, a young architect, won the competition.

Edinburgh was still a city of bankers in the 20th century. There were also insurance brokers and other services. The city's floral clock came about in 1903, much to the joy of the locals. Additionally, the Edinburgh zoo opened in 1913, giving the people a place to gawk at animals instead of one another for a change.

Next, Usher Hall came on the scene in 1914 and quickly became the go-to place for local music lovers. Finally, the Scottish National War Memorial came into existence in 1927, providing a place for folks to remember the fallen.

Best Time to Visit

June through August is the best time to visit. However, this is also when the city is most crowded with tourists, so be prepared for large crowds if you're planning on visiting during one of the many festivals in August.

Then winter is another good time to visit. Again, you'll find the best deals from November to March, except for Hogmanay – the city's New Year's celebration. Just make sure to bundle up, as it can get cold from November through March.

Additionally, spring and early fall are fair times to travel. You'll find deals on hotels and airfare, and there won't be as many people around.

Places to Visit and Things to Do in Edinburgh

This beautiful city is home to many tourist attractions, including the Edinburgh Castle, the Clock Tower, Carlton Hill, the Royal Mile, and the Scottish National Gallery. There are also plenty of activities to keep you busy, such as hiking, biking, and kayaking.

Whatever your interests, you're sure to find something to do in Edinburgh. Here are some top places to visit and things to do.

The Royal Mile

The Royal Mile is the perfect place to take a stroll and soak up all that Edinburgh offers. This charming thoroughfare is lined with historic landmarks, gorgeous townhouses, and fascinating churches. You'll also find plenty of great shops, cafes, inns, and restaurants.

The Royal Botanic Garden

The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (RBGE) is one of Britain's oldest and largest gardens, boasting an impressive 13,200 different plant species. Founded back in 1670, the RBGE is a must-visit for all plant lovers.

Summer Festival

Summertime in Edinburgh means one thing: the Edinburgh Fringe Festival! This massive three-week celebration of the arts attracts performers and entertainers from worldwide. So if you're looking for a fun time, this is the place!

A Ghost Tour

Explore the city's dark history on one of the many ghost tours. Many different tours can take you to some of the city's most eerie locations, like underground tunnels and graveyards. And if you don't believe in ghosts, these tours are still a great way to see some of Edinburgh's older and more exciting parts.

St. Giles' Cathedral

For a breathtaking cathedral in the heart of Edinburgh, visit St. Giles' Cathedral. Also known as the High Kirk, this is your perfect spot. This incredible building dates back to the 12th century, though the current structure is from the 14th century.

Fun fact: St. Giles' was originally a Roman Catholic cathedral before becoming part of the Church of Scotland. No matter your religious affiliation, this stunning place will take your breath away!

The Scottish National Portrait Gallery

To get a glimpse of some of Scotland's most famous faces from throughout history, check out the Scottish National Portrait Gallery. It's worth a visit with canvas creations of Scotland's most noteworthy historical figures from the 16th century to present-day icons.

Culture and Customs

Scots speak with a Sean Connery-esque brogue, so it might be hard to understand them. The brogue might make it sound like they're saying 'aye' all the time, but they're just speaking Scots.

Don't be afraid to ask Scottish people to repeat themselves; they won't be offended. However, be warned that locals are proud of their city, so don't exalt Glasgow over Edinburgh unless you're up for a heated argument about it.

Additionally, make sure you bring enough pounds sterling to cover your expenses. And watch the exchange rate before you go - it's constantly fluctuating. Finally, as long as you have a significant credit card, you should be able to use it at most restaurants and shops.

What to Eat

Haggis is a Scottish dish made with sheep's heart, lungs, and liver that are minced together with seasonings, onions, and oatmeal. They generally serve it with mashed potatoes and turnips.

There are also plenty of great international cuisine options, whether you're in the mood for Thai, Italian, or something else entirely. And if you're looking for a classic pub meal, you'll find plenty of those here, too - fish and chips, burgers, and more.

Furthermore, plenty of restaurants serve up delicious sausages, vegetarian haggis, lamb shank, and mashed potatoes on the side. Just take your pick from the many eateries around Princes Street in New Town or Edinburgh's Royal Mile in Old Town.

Where to Stay in Edinburgh

When planning a trip to Edinburgh, you'll need to make one of the first decisions about choosing where to stay. There are so many significant areas to choose from, each with its unique atmosphere. Do you want to be in the heart of the action, or would you prefer a more peaceful setting? Here's a quick guide to help you decide which area is right for you.

Leith

Leith is the perfect neighborhood to get some delicious food. This historic neighborhood offers an unbeatable selection of traditional British fare, plus plenty of cafes and bars to enjoy.

Leith has you covered with Michelin-star restaurants like The Kitchin and Martin Wishart. Or, if you're looking for something more casual, there are plenty of cute cafes and eateries to choose from.

Stockbridge

There's no shortage of incredible places to stay in Edinburgh, but Stockbridge is the perfect spot if you're looking for somewhere that's a little bit off the beaten path. This charming neighborhood is located just a short walk from the city centre, and it's full of great restaurants, shops, and cafes. Plus, it's the perfect base for exploring the rest of the city.

The Old Town

This historic area is full of character, and you'll be within walking distance of all the best attractions. With its quaint cobbled streets and medieval architecture, the Old Town with its boutique hotels is like stepping back. There are plenty of great pubs and restaurants to keep you entertained.

Grassmarket Area

This area is teeming with character, and you'll be right in the heart of the city's action. The Grassmarket has it all, from world-class shopping and dining to lively nightlife and entertainment. Plus, there are plenty of hotels and Airbnbs to choose from to find the perfect place to stay.

New Town

The New Town is a vibrant and historic neighborhood. It is the perfect place to call home during your time in the city. With its convenient location and abundance of amenities, the New Town is the ideal place to stay whether you're in town for business or pleasure.

Edinburgh has a lot of upscale hotels, so you'll find the perfect accommodation to suit your needs. And with so much to see and do in the area, you'll never find yourself bored.

Development of Luxury Tourism in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a renowned tourist destination for its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture. However, the city is also increasingly becoming a luxury tourism destination, with a growing number of high-end hotels, restaurants, and shops.

 Luxury tourism is a growing trend in Europe, and Edinburgh is poised to become a leading destination for affluent travelers. With its charming streets, picturesque views, and world-class amenities, Edinburgh has everything luxury tourists are looking for.

It's a city with a population of just over half a million people, and like many cities around the world, it's growing rapidly. In the past decade, Edinburgh's population grew 12%, and it is projected to grow to over 600,000 by 2041. 

Edinburgh is a city with so much character and charm that visitors can't help but fall in love with it! The stunning heritage is just one of the many aspects that make Edinburgh unique. In a few years, the St. James Quarter will be completed, and it will transform the city center. As a result, people will be able to move around more easily and experience the city in a whole new way.

Overall, it is evident that Edinburgh has a lot to offer in terms of luxury tourism experiences. The city has a rich history and culture and a beautiful landscape. Therefore, Edinburgh could become a leading luxury tourism destination with the proper planning and development.

How to Get Around

Edinburgh is a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. However, it can be challenging to get around if you don't know your way. Here are some tips on how to get around Edinburgh:

The best way to explore the city is on foot! This hilly terrain may leave you a little out of breath at specific points, but while walking, you can take in all the sights and sounds of Edinburg! However, if you're walking, stick to the main streets. Edinburgh is full of narrow alleyways and hidden courtyards, which can easily get lost in.

If you're taking public transport, the best way to get around is by bus. The bus system in Edinburgh is very efficient and will contact you to where you need to go. Also, you can save by taking the bus from Edinburgh Airport (EDI) to the city center instead of a cab. Plus, it'll only take you about the same amount of time. For a more leisurely experience, consider renting a bike. If you're hiring a car, be aware of the one-ways.

How to Stay Safe

This Scottish city is an incredible place full of history, culture, and natural beauty. But as with any big city, there are a few things you should keep in mind to stay safe during your visit. Here are a few tips:

Avoid walking alone at night. Additionally, if you must travel after dark, Edinburgh can be a ghost town, so it's best to stick to well-lit, busy areas.

Also, keep your belongings close and be aware of your surroundings. Pickpockets are unfortunately common in tourist areas, so keep your valuables close and be mindful of your surroundings.