Start with these decisions
Choose a place to stay, work out the route from Edinburgh Airport (EDI), and list the sights you actually want to see. Old Town is a practical base for keeping daily transfers short.
When to go
The comfortable windows are May-Sep. Look up local events, hotel prices, and any timed-entry requirements before you commit to dates.
Budget planning
Plan for about GBP 110-240/day at a mid-range level, flights excluded. The final number depends on your hotel, how you get around, and how many paid attractions you fit into a day.
Compare stay areas
Look at Old Town, New Town, Leith, Stockbridge. Test each against your airport route, the sights on your list, your evening plans, and the hotel price.
Frequently asked questions
How many days do I need in Edinburgh?
2-4 days is the practical range for a first visit. With less time, stay near Old Town. With more, add a quieter neighbourhood or a day trip.
Where should first-timers start looking in Edinburgh?
Start with Old Town, then confirm your hotel lines up with your airport route and the sights you plan to visit each day.
Sources
- Edinburgh
Edinburgh official pages; Locator: official-tourism coverage and practical travel guidance for Edinburgh. Verified 2026-08-23.
- Edinburgh Airport
Edinburgh Airport official pages; Locator: airport coverage and practical travel guidance for Edinburgh. Verified 2026-08-23.