Scotland’s capital and a World Heritage city
Edinburgh has been Scotland’s capital since the 15th century. Its Old and New Towns together form a UNESCO World Heritage property, inscribed in 1995.
Scotland · city guide
Edinburgh guide
Start with these provider-published pages, and check current details directly with the organisation responsible. External organisations operate the listed services; Strawbarter does not provide or guarantee them.
Quick facts
Key sights
Start at the castle and explore the Old Town
Edinburgh Castle stands on Castle Rock, and the Royal Mile runs through the Old Town between the castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Check each attraction’s visitor information before you go.
Free activities
Visit the museum and botanic garden
The National Museum of Scotland offers free general entry, though some special exhibitions charge. Entry to the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is free; check both organisations’ current visitor information for closures or access changes.
Food and drink
Browse Edinburgh food and drink
Forever Edinburgh’s visitor directory lets you browse Scottish food, cafés and coffee shops, pubs and bars, bakeries, and vegetarian or vegan options. This guide does not endorse individual venues; check with each venue for menus, prices and opening details.
Accommodation
Compare places to stay
The official visitor directory lists hotels, hostels, B&Bs and guest houses, as well as serviced apartments and self-catering stays. Compare options there, then confirm dates, rates, facilities and access directly with providers.
Day trips
Explore nearby regions
Forever Edinburgh’s day-trip guide features East Lothian, West Lothian, Midlothian, Fife and the Scottish Borders. Check transport operators for current routes, timetables, fares and access information before setting out.
Annual events
Check festival programmes with organisers
Edinburgh’s recurring festival calendar includes the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Edinburgh International Festival and Edinburgh’s Hogmanay. Use the city calendar and each organiser’s website for current programmes, dates and tickets, as details can change.
Local tip
Plan for the castle’s steep, cobbled route
Edinburgh Castle’s access guide describes steep routes and uneven cobbles. Read its current guidance before visiting and wear footwear suited to sloping, uneven surfaces.
Reuse, donate and repair
Find local ways to borrow, donate, repair or exchange
The City of Edinburgh Council’s Reuse Tool is a directory of local charity shops and workshops for reuse, donation and repair. Its reduce-and-reuse guidance also points to toy and tool libraries and local exchange schemes such as Edinburgh Freegle. Check each organisation directly for accepted items, availability and arrangements before making a journey.