19 Tips I Wish I Knew Before Visiting Edinburgh

These 19 tips to know before visiting Edinburgh are what I wish I knew before my trip to Edinburgh, Scotland.
Hopefully these travel tips will help you from making some of my mistakes when traveling through Edinburgh!
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DISCLAIMER: I only express my opinion based on my experience. Your experience may be different.Links above may include affiliate commission or referrals. I'm part of an affiliate network and I receive compensation from partnering websites. This video is accurate as of the posting date but may not be accurate in the future.

[@camdendavid]

If you want a weekly travel tip and an update from where I am, feel free to follow my newsletter: bit.ly/TheTuesdayTravelTip

[@johngilmore697]

In Glasgow, in a chip shop, I ordered a cheeseburger. Instead, they put a frozen slab of meat in a deep-fat fryer and served it to me in a tissue. I refused to pay. An argument ensued, and I said some very racist things about how fat a lot of Scotch were. That's why this mist is here. Revenge. I have to face them.

[@davidkelly790]

Great video. It's always nice to see people who visit Edinburgh have such kinds words to say. As someone who has lived there all their life it's easy to forget all that it has to offer. A few additional tips for visitors: The National Museum of Scotland on Chamber St (About 2 minutes walk from the Royal Mile) is well worth a visit, especially if you get some bad weather and need to get away from the rain! You can easily spend a few hours there. Botanic Gardens - Again, not far away from the town centre (You can walk downhill in 15 minutes from Princes St, but the walk back up is a tough one so maybe catch a bus back up). To expand on the water of leith, the walkway goes all the way from the shore up to Balerno. If you hire a bike it's well worth a cycle. I think it's about 12 miles long and a lot of the route is beautiful and very peaceful. Avoid: the bus tours, they are a con. You can just use Lothian Buses (that go all over the city) and get a day saver for a fraction of the price. A day saver lets you hop on and off all Lothian Buses for that day. If you go anywhere to eat on the Royal Mile you'll pay more for your meal, if you look about a bit you can get better meals for a more reasonable price.

[@camdendavid]

Thanks so much for taking the time to share all this. Much appreciated. Looking forward to checking out some of those spots during my next visit. Cheers!

[@luisalacerda5318]

Thank you!!! I definitly want to try check out the Water or Leith

[@johngilmore697]

I heard they dropped an atomic bomb on Swindon! About 15 quid's worth of damage!

[@JustBrowsing8ro]

As an Edinburgh-based, but globally mobile (business and pleasure) person, this channel is right in my wheelhouse. Subscribed - and I hope to work through most of your videos in due course. One of the few channels to also highlight how under-appreciated the Water of Leith is. Although I would add that while most of the walk is quite wonderful in its own right, it also allows for several pit stops into the less touristy but pleasant parts of the city that also have quite good bars, cafes, and minor (but not swamped) attractions. I’ve actually noticed in recent years and months more visitors - particularly Americans - venturing into the increasingly trendy parts of Leith itself.

[@camdendavid]

Welcome to the channel! Really appreciate the support and you taking the time to share your perspective. Cheers

[@em4888]

Went to London and Edinburgh a couple of years ago. London is so pretty but Edinburgh was the best surprise ever! I cannot wait to go back!

[@camdendavid]

Totally get that!

[@moiraedwards57]

Don’t miss Portobello beach as a place to visit! People never think that would be in a City.

[@camdendavid]

Thanks for the tip! Looking forward to checking it out during my next visit :)

[@MrCherryJuice]

And the Shore down in Leith. With the tram it is now easier than than ever for visitors to find their way there.

[@heartsineurope]

​@@MrCherryJuiceOr just head towards the stale smell of pish 😂

[@MrCherryJuice]

@@shaaa6434 As a former resident and someone who visits annually (my daughter lives there) I can confirm that Edinburgh is safe, welcomes foreigners (there are many living there and/or attending university) and it is fine for women. If your accommodation is away from the city centre there are buses and a tram line. It is a very walkable city, so you might want to consider staying close to the city centre. If you are considering a place to stay, check it out using Google Maps and Google Street View. The latter in particular will let you see the building and the area. And you can move through the streets to get an idea of the setting and what you would be walking through. Overall, once away from the Old Town and the shopping area in the New Town the city, aside from the main streets is surprisingly quiet.

[@Code-on-TRIPapp]

😊Also, I suggest getting a railcard from TrainPal for extra savings!

[@AMEENHAI]

The "shoes Notice" is very important, you need a good and water proof shoes, actually the shoes were my only problem in Edinburgh, the main problem was walking uphil and downhill

[@sweater0115]

Speaking of hikes in Scotland, Pentlands is a (45ish? minute) bus ride away from Princes St, and the hike near the William Wallace monument in Stirling is a 30ish minute bus ride away.

[@camdendavid]

I'll give them a visit during my next trip :)

[@aldo34]

Great overview. Dean Village / Water of Leith are great spots but quite hidden away. Mary's Milk Bar...tick. And also Mellis's cheese shop is OUTSTANDING!!!!

[@camdendavid]

I appreciate the support!

[@colindee5677]

Lots of good tips! The transport system in the City is indeed excellent, which makes staying in the suburbs and traveling in cheaper and not inconvenient. We stay in Corstorphine (near the zoo) and that’s just a 30 minute bus trip. Also bus prices are capped at around £4.40 per day so you can ride to your hearts content knowing you’re not racking up a huge bill. However, all that said, if you want to see the countryside and villages beyond Edinburgh, hiring a car would be sensible and well worth it.

[@Dreznik88]

The scenery alone speaks volumes

[@PRAVINRAAJRAAJ]

Scotland is a very beautiful magical marvellous country.

[@camdendavid]

Couldn't agree more :)

[@PRAVINRAAJRAAJ]

Please chase humza yousaf immediately 🙏

[@theidk9567]

Sure, take train that is 4 times as much as a flight, no thanks. But that's all the trains in the UK - swiss prices, average experience. But good vid, thanks for the tips. Edinburgh is a beautiful city and I'm happy I visited.

[@camdendavid]

Thanks for watching :)

[@JordanTourist]

Edinburgh, Scotland's capital, blends historic charm with vibrant culture and stunning landscapes. One of the most beautiful cities in the world!

[@camdendavid]

Absolutely!

[@jerrytracey6602]

What a great review. I live nearby, going into Edinburgh frequently, and you have hit the mark on all counts. Edinburgh is definitely walkable, but there are quite a lot of long staircases up and down either side of the ridge that forms the Royal Mile and you'll need to pace yourself if you are anything less than 100% fit. Another recommended place for good food at a reasonable price is Grassmarket. During the Festival you also get some good street entertainment if you want to avoid the grind of the High Street end of the Royal Mile

[@jaymartin3992]

I would second your suggestion to plan on spending significant time in Edinburgh. . . . .and Glasgow, and maybe points nearby. London is a quality destination and easier to get a trans-Atlantic flight to and from. But if I had it to do over I would go straight to Scotland and save London for another time. I would also agree that public intercity transportation is better and easier than in the U.S. and a car is not necessary. I've got friends that rent away and have no trouble. But I would be stressed remembering to drive on the wrong side of the road.

[@camdendavid]

That first time driving on the other side of the road is certainly an interesting experience haha. Thanks for sharing all this

[@ducatiman1309]

Thankyou for your tips and advice !! I agree - visit Edinburgh !!

[@camdendavid]

Thanks for watching :)

[@theron169]

I spent 17 years living in Edinburgh and yes it's fantastic but it's also great to get out of the city too and explore the countryside, locally there's the Pentland hills just outside and easily assessable by a cycle ride along the Waters of Leith with is a 12 -13 mile walkway/cycleway from Balerno all the way through Edinburgh to Leith (although I'd have a pint in Spylaw Tavern in Colinton on the way). Out of Edinburgh there the famous NC500, Skye and the other islands, The Cairngorms (my favourite), Glen Coe and much more.

[@camdendavid]

Thanks for this! Looking forward to my next visit to explore more :)

[@sophietalbot4578]

I’ve just firmed uni of Edinburgh and when we visited we went to Mary kings close it was so good kind of like the London dungeons!

[@barbarawillis5187]

Very helpful. Thank you.

[@camdendavid]

You're welcome :)

[@pciochetto]

Hey bro. Loved the video. Great energy. Compact info . Efficient. Were from NY heading to Scotland in August. 3days Edinburgh. 3Days Glascow, and a random as of now still unplanned 6 days in the Highlands. Cheers!

[@camdendavid]

Sounds like you've got a great trip planned -- Hope you have a great time and I appreciate the support!

[@cyprienmaccamley126]

It's pronounced Glaz-go not glass cow

[@steveelrickster]

Brilliant summary. Thank you for such a lovely tribute to the city

[@camdendavid]

Much appreciated :)

[@kieran420peanut]

If you want more of a challenge and also have bus links from the city center to the Pentland Hills for a nice little hike just on tbe outskirts of the citys southside. Bus only takes less than 30 min.

[@camdendavid]

Thanks! I'll check this out during my next visit :)

[@Code-on-TRIPapp]

😊 Also, I suggest getting a railcard from TrainPal for extra savings!

[@samtan4729]

Your biggest mistake is not exploring the Highlands and Isle of Skye. Which is the most common mistake most visitors to Scotland make.

[@camdendavid]

Agree 10000%

[@sco0tpa]

I like the efficiency of these videos

[@camdendavid]

Glad to hear it. I'll keep making them :)

[@ريانة-و7ط]

Useful tips. thank you so much!

[@Andrew-cg2zl]

another banging video! great

[@camdendavid]

Glad you enjoyed!

[@Code-on-TRIPapp]

Awesome video! Also, I suggest getting a railcard from TrainPal for extra savings!

[@JoDora]

Wonderful video. Thank you for your great tips. I loved the way you explained. Fast, short, and to the point. 5*. Subscribed. 🥳🥰👏

[@camdendavid]

Much appreciated! Hope to see you in the comment section in the future :)

[@MoRa-br4yf]

Now, I am ready for Edinburgh! Thank you! :-)

[@camdendavid]

You got it!

[@kathleenirvine8360]

Love Edinburgh great buildings and history 😊

[@camdendavid]

It’s a special place 😃

[@chichipotter4487]

Subscribed~~ Brilliant recommendations. I am going there in Aug 2024 and thought five days might be too much. I think not! This is exactly the sort of advice I need. (Very admirable of you to not film the graveyard.) Thank you ~!!

[@camdendavid]

Welcome to the community :) Hope you have a great time in August!

[@Machaggis67]

All the stuff in the video is good. It will be hooching (Scottish term for ultra busy) in August so if you are wanting to chill a bit the Botanic Gardens are good for that. Lovely walks, views and exhibits. Free entrance - good cafe

[@myselfasevan]

thanks bud

[@TheCaptain7190]

It's actually syllables, Ed-in-bur-ugh

[@jayeshotts5473]

Thank you for the tips! Going to Edinburgh end of the month !

[@camdendavid]

Have a great trip!

[@saieshyasalgaocar6568]

Could you recommend any accommodation?

[@camdendavid]

I used Airbnb and was able to find a spot much cheaper than local hotels :)

[@yourdoulabrandie1853]

Does the train from Edinburgh to London provide a beautiful scenery, our is it cut straight through the cities?

[@camdendavid]

I found it to be pretty scenic :)

[@sarahpalmisano9080]

7 at least, 8 on a good day 🫡

[@JoseMartins-nr3jv]

Canada Nova Scotia Halifax 🇨🇦 And United Kingdom Scotland Edinburgh 🇬🇧

[@NicholasEV1986]

Get that flag away, it's this 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@JoseMartins-nr3jv]

@@NicholasEV1986 Mr @Nicky86Min The Nova Scotia And Scotland The Two Neighbors

[@autoblipper3546]

​@NicholasEV1986 its actually 🇬🇧 aswell.

[@yanleonardo5434]

Where can I find the train tickets? I'm going to edinburg from London but I'm kind of lost about it

[@camdendavid]

This is the site I used and I believe it's an official platform (not a 3rd party vendor): www.lner.co.uk/

[@joyfullearning-k2s]

You mentioned that you stayed about 10 mins walk from the city centre. May I know where was it. The link please

[@AllenCarey-x1r]

Flying is so much cheaper than the train from London!

[@camdendavid]

Definitely can be! But I'd take the train experience 10/10 times

[@AllenCarey-x1r]

@@camdendavid I flew with my wife from Luton for £67 return for the both of us when I look at train tickets they were around the £250 so decided against that but maybe in the future for the experience mate👍

[@camdendavid]

@@AllenCarey-x1r Makes sense! Glad you were able to get a great deal and some some cash

[@OlimpiaKustosz]

But how can i get good train ticket offer? Aren't flights far cheaper than trains?

[@camdendavid]

They definitely can be cheaper. I find the flights are about the same price after adding the cost of getting to/from the airports + baggage fees. Also think the trains are a bit easier and provide a better experience but it totally depends on the traveler. Highly recommend booking train tickets in advance to keep the costs lower. Hope all that makes sense :)

[@mackstro]

Where you ate the charcuterie are you allowed to drink wine in public?

[@camdendavid]

Yes, I believe you're allowed to drink up there and I saw many doing it. Should be just fine as long as you aren't causing any issues

[@Linda9.12]

Yes, you can drink alcohol in public places in Edinburgh (but if being a pest then police could ask you to stop). You cannot drink in public places in Glasgow 🍷

[@jameso8711]

Which area did you specifically stay in?

[@camdendavid]

I was over near Comely Bank

[@hello3251]

Trains are like, 2x more expensive than some flights 😂

[@camdendavid]

Some for sure. But flights also have more costs with baggage + transportation to and from the airports. I'd also say the train is a much better experience overall but probably best to check both options :)

[@PAWS0810-]

august 18-24!

[@camdendavid]

Have a great time!

[@theotherjohnfleming]

Royale Mile???

[@camdendavid]

What about it haha?

[@robinrother1799]

@@camdendavid It's "Royal."

[@u-1372]

what is that place called @ 5:10

[@camdendavid]

It's called Assembly Hall

[@u-1372]

@@camdendavid thank you very much!

[@grahamsneddon9196]

Fur locals it's mair like EMBRA

[@58Malt]

Do not touch or fondle any part of any statue for "luck". No matter what a brain-dead "tour guide" tells you, it's hideously unlucky for those of us who live here and have to pay to have things like Greyfriars Bobby's nose re-patinated.

[@co3980]

Ed-In-Bu-Ra

[@samantha1054]

Camden I am flying in to Edinburgh next week. Renting a car because my hotel is in Glasgow. Parking is terrible, but is it feasible to drive to the outskirts of Edinburgh , park and catch public transport in …Thanks

[@camdendavid]

I don’t have experience with that but I’ve heard that’s a great approach! Hope you have a great visit 😄

[@violetflores4980]

What was the name of the restaurants you would like to try with reservations and the name of the cheese place for the board??? 7/2024 😊

[@camdendavid]

I was hoping to try Dishoom but it was fully booked. And the cheese came from I.J. Mellis Cheesemongers Stockbridge :)

[@kchoog]

Nope. Not going to a graveyard. Too many energies coming to get me 😂

[@camdendavid]

But it's soooooo beautiful

[@Linda9.12]

It’s not just a graveyard. It’s a beautiful church. This local got married there many years ago ♥️

[@jonathancampbell5231]

"Ed-in-burr-a" is more accurate. "Ed-in-Bruh" is quicker and easier and Scots just like to speak fast.

[@Berbipedia]

Who rents a car in European cities?

[@Nag17353]

First point: the pronunciation is wrong. “Ed” “in” “burrrrugh”

[@MrAshbash2011]

I feel you didn’t go to the right places. London is an amazing food city. From Michelin starred places to street vendors. I live up north and Manchester is a fab food city, as well as Birmingham, Leeds, Liverpool. You seem like the kinda guy who enjoys more ‘local culture’ - honestly the best I’ve had in the UK, have been in those places you wouldn’t expect. I’ve recently been to Japan where I expected an amazing array of various dishes. The food was good, but perhaps not as good as we could have had. Turns out family mart and 7eleven is their ‘go to’. Keep an open mind as superficial first glances doesn’t sum up a countries cuisine or our offering.

[@camdendavid]

I appreciate you sharing this. If you have any specific restaurant recommendations, let me know!

[@sheevpapapalpatine6617]

Don't listen to him. Get a flight. 10x cheaper and 7x faster

[@camdendavid]

Definitely an option but I'd still prefer the train. Might end up being cheaper for travelers with lots of bags or traveling as a family. Most of those cheap flights on low cost carriers charge an arm and a leg for bags. Train also cuts out the time commuting to and from the airport, checking bags, security, etc. But you're right -- a flight might be the better option for some folks

[@laks2804]

​@camdendavid true broda, considering as a tall person in a budget airline with small seats and costs extra for checked in bag, is almost equivalent to train and also the hassle of boarding the flight is tiresome than that of train, plus the views u get on train is also another amazing experience, I'm planning to take overnight trains on some parts while doing a 10 day itenary to UK next month since could save hotel cost too!! Anyways everyone wherever u r travelling, just be safe and careful and enjoy the experience 😊

[@robg4729]

So a return flight is less than £25 from London to Edinburgh? and takes 38 minutes in total to arrive at the airport 90- 120 minutes before your flight, check in, go through security, fly for 70 minutes, off board, pick up your bags then travel into London from Stansted/Gatwick/Luton or Heathrow? That's amazing.

[@nickedinburgh34]

Bollocks to being faster. Centre to centre it's the same time. But FAR more pleasant to relax and watch the scenery than the end-to-end pain of airports etc. Any why care about saving the planet if you can save yourself a few quid, huh? .

[@em4888]

Maybe the time you’re actually in the air but when you add all the airport stuff… kind of equals out… and the landscape is so pretty

[@sheilah4525]

Tricks for visiting ALL foreign nations: wear subdued clothes, neat, trim and no identifiers on shirts, jackets, hats. Speak softly around locals and smile inanely. To all their barbed political nonsense, again smile inanely, say “ Let me think about that and I’ll get back to you” then don’t. Expect poor service, and smile because you won’t be leaving a USA level tip. Remember they all want to rob you so wear your money pouch around your neck and under a shirt, no bulge! Again, speak little as well as softly. You won’t please these people most of the time anyway, so take my advice and don’t worry about anything else. One more thing: when you spend all that extra time AND MONEY just to expose yourself to their picky crap, TRULY ASK YOURSELF if you really need to go there because of something SO SPECIFIC, you couldn’t just see it CLOSER TO HOME and AVOID all this pomposity and whining. If you HAVE TO SEE MONA AT THE LOUVRE, FINE. But if it’s something, like a beach or similar, STAY HOME, SAVE MONEY, SAVE THE BALOGNA!

[@albin2232]

No. The correct pronunciation is Edin-Bo-Row.

[@camdendavid]

I say we put it to a vote. Locals - please respond haha

[@stuneil4804]

@@camdendavid Your way, not his. Edinburgh native here.

[@heartsineurope]

Edinburgh native also, its "Edin-bruh"

[@duncancallum]

@@camdendavid Edinburra to me and 95% of the folks who live there, my sister who is 82 still calls it that way the same as i have said.

[@FioLolo-fi5jy]

@@heartsineurope NO IT ISN'T. EDIN-BUH-RUH. Not Edin-Bruh.

[@Chad973]

Bruh when I went to Scotland people were calling it Ed-in-burg not Ed-in-bruh

[@camdendavid]

Tons of folks make that mistake haha

[@Chad973]

@@camdendavid One guy called it Edinbur- so I don’t even know if it’s like the tomato situation or what

[@JoshMainka]

Nope..It's Ed-in.burra 😎