Edinburgh Airport is located 11 km west of the city, and connections to the city take usually 25-30 minutes to get to the city regardless of whether you go by bus, taxi or rented car.Airlink express bus number 100 operates from the airport to Waverley Bridge (close to Princes Street and the main rail and bus stations). It departs every 10 minutes during the day and the journey takes  30 minutes. Tickets can be bought in advance online, at the bus stop, or from the driver. If you arrive by night, take the night bus N22 (from stop D). This bus runs from the airport via South Gyle to the city centre and tothe  Ocean Terminal in Leith between 00:45 and 04:15 seven nights a week. It departs every 30 minutes. There is also the bus service 35 (from stop F) that runs to the city centre and on to the Ocean Terminal. It departs every 15 minutes Monday to Saturday daytime and every 30 minutes in the evenings and Sundays. Taxi prices to and from the airport vary and many of the vehicles are adapted for disabled people. Taxis are located on the first floor of the multi-storey car park opposite the main terminal building. Edinburgh Airport has a car hire centre where you can find all the major car hire companies such as Hertz, AVIS, Europecar, Alamo, Budget and Sixt. It is conveniently located with direct access to the terminal and easy to book in advance via the airport website.

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Edinburgh Airport

Late spring and summer's longer days and warmer temperatures make these periods the best time to visit Edinburgh. However, rain can be expected at anytime in Edinburgh and throughout Scotland, even in summer.

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Best Time to Visit

Citizens from EEA countries or Switzerland then you must have either a valid passport or a national identity card issued by a EEA country, which is valid for the whole of your stay. Citizens from non-EEA countries must hold a valid passport before visiting Scotland and the UK. Depending on your country and/or stay duration, you might need a visa. Check out visa policies for the UK at https://www.gov.uk/browse/visas-immigration

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Passport / Visa

There are various bus companies operating in Edinburgh. The largest are First Edinburgh and Lothian Buses, you can use both to get around town or explore the surrounding coast and countryside. For both companies you can purchase tickets on the bus, in shops, online or in the mobile app.Edinburgh is a small and fairly compact city though, and most destinations in the city are within walking distance.For more information check the companies' websites.Lothian Buses: www.lothianbuses.com/index.php First Edinburgh www.firstgroup.com/ukbus/scotland_east/

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Public Transport

Unoccupied taxis have are indicated with a light on the top. You can also book a taxi by contacting the following companies:City Cabs+44 131 228 1211Central Radio Taxis+44 131 229 2468

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Taxi

Stamps are available from post offices and newsagents and you will find several post offices in the city centre, with the most central being the Tollcross Post Office, located in Home Street.

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Post

To find details on your nearest health services including pharmacies, dentists, doctors, and hospitals, visit the NHS24 website (www.nhs24.scot), or call 111 in case of emergency.Here are some major pharmacies: Royal Mile Pharmacy - Alphega Pharmacy 67 High St, Edinburgh+44 131 556 1971Edinburgh University Pharmacy 6 Bristo Pl, Edinburgh+44 131 668 2182Lindsay & Gilmour Pharmacy 257A Leith Walk, Edinburgh+44 131 554 6591

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Pharmacy

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Telephone

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Electricity

Scotland's enchanting capital of Edinburgh is a city of striking contrasts. Perched dramatically on an extinct volcano, the world-famous Edinburgh Castle is visible from almost any point in the city, a constant reminder of Edinburgh's long and fascinating history. As you explore the city's striking architecture, tranquil green spaces and exciting attractions, you will soon understand why it has served as inspiration for so many authors and poets.

The Old Town is Edinburgh's oldest neighbourhood and is filled with historic monuments, narrow streets, and lovely shops and pubs with tons of personality. Its charming architecture and its rich history will leave you in awe.

Historical architecture in the street of the Old Town in Edinburgh, Scotland

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Old Town

Sitting atop Castle Rock and towering majestically over Scotland's capital for more than a thousand years, the iconic Edinburgh Castle was once a military fortress and home to kings and queens. Now, it serves as a museum displaying historic and precious treasures such as the Scottish Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny, and the medieval bombard Mons Meg.Once you've been inside, be sure to take a walk along the cobbled promenades and winding stone steps and drink in stunning views over the city.

Looking up the hill at Edinburgh Castle. Edinburgh Castle

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Edinburgh Castle

Dive into Edinburgh's historic past and discover the city's acclaimed landmarks and hidden secrets on this Royal Mile guided walking tour.Follow your guide along Edinburgh's legendary Royal Mile as you gain a fascinating insight into the famous writers, poets, and inventors who have called the city home.Hear tales of Scotland's national bard—Robert Burns—and see top landmarks such as St. Giles' Cathedral and the National Galleries of Scotland.

View down the historic Royal Mile, Edinburgh, Scotland

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Royal Mile Guided Walking Tour

Discover the enigmatic Loch Ness and the sublime Scottish Highlands on this day trip from Edinburgh.See wooded lochs and tucked-away villages as you journey through spectacular scenery en route to Glencoe and Fort Augustus.Explore the famous Cairngorms National Park and soak up the stunning views of the Scottish Highlands, with an optional cruise for a chance to spot Nessie, the Loch Ness Monster.

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Loch Ness, Glencoe & the Highlands Day Tour from Edinburgh

For a mysterious journey through Scotland's myths and legends, head over to Rosslyn Chapel, a magnificient chapel feature in Dan Brown's "Da Vinci Code". Hear the intriguing tales behind Rosslyn’s beautiful ornate carvings before taking a peaceful walk along Roslin Glen Country Park.

The Green Man carving in Rosslyn Chapel - a medieval church near Edinburgh

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Rosslyn Chapel

The National Museum of Scotland offers a one-of-a-kind adventure for all history enthusiasts. In their galleries, you will come across ancient Egyptian mummies, the skeleton of a Tyrannosaurus Rex, and specimens collected by Charles Darwin. Keep an eye out on the temporary exhibitions as well.

The National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh is a modern red sandstone building opened in 1997 and dedicated to preserving and displaying the relics that tell the story of the Scottish past.

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National Museum of Scotland

Camera Obscura & World of Illusions features five floors of optical illusions that anyone can get immersed in. Get lost in a mirror room or challenge your balance in the vortex tunnel, you can take fun for granted.

Camera Obscura and World of Illusions is a major tourist attraction in the Old Town, Edinburgh

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Camera Obscura & World of Illusions

Explore the lives of over 1,000 animal species from all over the world. Watch giant pandas, big cats, penguins and other birds, or take part in some of interactive activities offered by this non-profit zoological park. Don't miss out on the Edinburgh Zoo gardens, a lush paradise with countless exotic flowers and plants.

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Edinburgh Zoo

The Scottish Parliament is located within the Holyrood area, overseen by the Royal Mile. The building has won awards for its striking architecture. It's the place to learn about Scotland's political history, watch live debates, and admire its unique architecture. If you want to watch the members of the Scottish Parliament in action, you need to book a free of charge ticket beforehand.

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Scottish Parliament Building

Escape the city and watch the beautiful Scottish scenery from a bike. You can start your trip from the Edinburgh city centre, and there are paths for all fitness levels with colour codes which are easy to follow. One of the best areas for off-road cycling is the Pentland Hills Regional Park, just outside Edinburgh.  If you don't have a bike with you, you can rent one in one of the many shops around the city.

Low angle view of cyclist riding mountain bike on rocky trail at sunrise

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Mountain Biking

With some parts built on the 16th century, this is truly a magnificent royal building. The official residence of the British monarch Queen Elizabeth II in Scotland, this is definitely a must-visit for any history enthusiast.

Palace of Holyroodhouse, official residence of the Queen in Scotland

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Palace of Holyroodhouse

Walk through the Scottish Seabird Centre and have a real wildlife experience. The knowledgeable staff will guide you and offer presentations while you admire the sea birds and mammals around you. Featuring plenty of kids attractions as well, no one will feel left behind.

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Scottish Seabird Centre

There are many beautiful parks and gardens in Edinburgh, but the Royal Botanic Garden stands out among all of them. With 70 acres of beautiful gardens, it is one of the world’s largest living collections of plants. Founded in 1670, it is truly an Edinburgh's landmark.

Glasshouse at the Royal Botanical Gardens in public park Edinburgh

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Royal Botanic Garden

Enter the Edinburgh Dungeon and experience 500 years of Scotland’s darkest history, presented with theatrical actors, storytelling, special effects, scenes and stages. The bravest ones can also hop on one of the two scary rides. Tours leave every 10 minutes.

Close Up of Shiny Gothic Skull in Ornate Metal Cage in front of Red Background with Copy Space

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The Edinburgh Dungeon

Along with the King's Theatre, the Festival Theatre is one of the top venues in Edinburgh for performing arts. You can simply admire its modern architecture, but coming in an or opera or a ballet show is well worth it.

Arts and entertainment in theatre with female classic dancer in tutu, jumping high on stage during performance

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Festival Theatre

Gilmerton Cove is Edinburgh's secret network of underground tunnels. Discover the hand-carved passage ways hidden under the streets of Gilmerton, an ex-mining village in southeastern Edinburgh. This place has remained a mystery to visitors and archaeologists alike for over 300 years.

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Gilmerton Cove

Right in the heart of Edinburgh, you will come across an enormous piece of nature, a spot for relaxation that offers some of the greatest sights over Edinburgh—the Princes Street Gardens. Head over to the gardens for a relaxing picnic during the afternoon or simply for a refreshing walk, you certainly won't regret it.

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Princes Street Gardens

Arthur's seat, is an ancient volcano which forms most of Holyrood Park. With its highest point standing at an elevation of 251 meters, it is a popular hiking spot for both tourists and locals alike, you will understand why as soon as you reach the summit—the panoramic views over the city are simply breathtaking.

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Arthur's Seat

Explore this fantastic floating museum docked in Edinburgh’s historic port of Leith. Get a glimpse at the life of the British Royal Family before enjoying a tea in the Royal Deck Tea Room, you will certainly have a royal experience.

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Best things to do in edinburgh

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