Flights to Edinburgh

Edinburgh – the "Athens of the north" – is a breathtaking destination right on your doorstep. Book flights to Edinburgh with Airinme.com from airports all around the UK.

Scotland's compact but thrilling capital city is a paradise for travellers who love to explore on foot. Stumble upon surprises in Edinburgh's maze-like Old Town or sip on cocktails in its chic New Town bars. Families will love the bustling festival season, while the city's romantic hilltop views and rooftop restaurants are adored by couples. 

So whether it's a cosy weekend away or an action-packed adventure, book your Edinburgh city break with Airinme.com today.

Things to do in Edinburgh 

1. Start your Edinburgh city break by wandering the length of the Royal Mile. Located in the heart of the Old Town, this historic street is bookended by Edinburgh Castle – the city's most recognisable monument – and the Palace of Holyroodhouse, which is still a working Royal Palace.
2. Wander across the boundary of Princes Street and you'll find yourself in the Georgian New Town – a much neater and more orderly affair than the Gothic Old Town, but just as impressive.
3. Whether you're travelling with children or you're simply young at heart, be sure to visit Edinburgh Zoo, which is especially famous for its giant pandas and penguins.
4. Despite its beauty, Edinburgh has a dark side too. At attractions like the Edinburgh Dungeons, Greyfriar's Kirkyard and Mary King's Close, you'll learn more about the murkier episodes in its history.
5. If you're a book-lover, Edinburgh is a treasure trove of literary gems. Stop at the café where JK Rowling began writing the Harry Potter series or visit the Oxford Bar, a favourite with Ian Rankin's Detective Inspector Rebus. There's also the Scott Monument on Princes Street – the world's largest monument to a writer – and Robert Louis Stevenson's New Town home to see.
6. Every August, Edinburgh erupts into a swirl of arts festivals, from the enormous Edinburgh Festival Fringe to the peaceful Edinburgh International Book Festival. At the end of the year, the city comes alive for Hogmanay and the Edinburgh International Science Festival delights families every April.
7. Don't forget, Edinburgh is just a stone's throw from the sea: take a boat trip to Inchcolm Island or walk across to Cramond Island in low tide to explore its coastal attractions.
8. Want to find out more about Scotland's history and art heritage? Visit the free National Museum of Scotland and the National Galleries of Scotland to learn more.
9. For a break from sightseeing, the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is an oasis of calm in the city, replete with tranquil open spaces and great views.
10.  Edinburgh is surrounded by hills – climb up one of them for unforgettable views. To climb Arthur's Seat, the hill that dominates Edinburgh, allow a couple of hours and make sure you have walking boots on. For a shorter, gentler climb, take on Calton Hill at the east end of Princes Street.

Shopping in Edinburgh

There aren't many shopping centres in Edinburgh city centre – and why should there be? Shopping outdoors lets you appreciate its architectural grandeur all the more. 

Princes Street

On one side of this historic thoroughfare, you'll find the hallmark shops of the modern British high street. But the other, shop-free side opens up to beautiful views of Edinburgh Castle, the Old Town skyline and the enormous Princes Street Gardens.

Gourmet delights

Visit Edinburgh's Farmer's Market, held every Saturday morning at Castle Terrace, to buy the best local meat, groceries and cheeses. Italian institution Valvona & Crolla, established in 1934, is another essential stop for food-lovers.

Eating in Edinburgh 

Scotland's cuisine has an unjustly poor international reputation. The country's food culture is thriving and Edinburgh is home to some of its best restaurants. 

Haggis and whisky

For a taste of this traditional Scottish combination, visit one of the many pubs along the Royal Mile or the Grassmarket. Vegetarian haggis is also widely available and unexpectedly delicious. 

Seafood

Thanks to its prime coastal location, Edinburgh has some of the best seafood-specialist restaurants in Scotland. Head down to the regenerated port area of Leith to sample some of its best fish dishes – gastro-pub The Ship on the Shore and Michelin-starred The Kitchin are highly recommended. 

Deep-fried Mars bars

Often the butt of jokes, this national stereotype is worth trying. Look out for local chip shops that still serve these battered treats – but, unless you have a particularly sweet tooth, consider sharing one between a few people.

Insider's Tips 

The emergency services number in Scotland is 999, as in the rest of the UK. The local dialling code is 0131. 

Looking for tips on the best restaurants, delis and boutiques? Local rags The List and The Skinny offer comprehensive, up-to-date listings of what's going on around town. 

Don't miss seeing one of Scotland's greatest engineering marvels: the Forth Bridge. Take a short train ride to North Queensferry and walk the pedestrian path of the parallel road bridge, from where you'll have an excellent view of its majestic red companion.

Getting from Edinburgh Airport

By bus

The Airlink bus runs between the airport and Waverley Railway Station in the city-centre 24 hours a day (the N22 service runs between midnight and 4am). The journey takes just 30 minutes.

The number 35 bus also runs to the city centre, stopping along the Royal Mile, but takes much longer. For more information, see Lothian Buses.

Passengers travelling outside Edinburgh can also take the Jet 747 bus service to Fife or catch the non-stop coach to Glasgow.

By road

Taxis can be pre-booked or picked up from the airport's taxi rank. Alternatively, a range of car hire services are also available. 

From May 2014, trams are expected to run between the airport and Edinburgh city-centre. 

For more information on how to get to Edinburgh, see Edinburgh Airport's tips on transport and directions