edinburgh

Hello, edinburgh

Edinburgh still breathes the spirit of its past, with its streets running through town like scars of bygone eras. Yet, amidst this tapestry of history, the city gracefully blends ancient heritage with vibrant modernity. Walk the historic Royal Mile, where centuries of stories unfold, explore the bustling Princes Street, and discover the allure of Edinburgh's world-renowned festivals like the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. With remarkable architecture, tranquil green spaces, and a wealth of exciting attractions, it's no wonder this city has ignited the imaginations of countless authors and poets throughout history.

City Information

Essential Information about the city

travellers at an international airport

Edinburgh Airport (EDI)

Edinburgh Airport (EDI) is located 11 kilometres west of the city, and connections to the city centre usually take between 25-30 minutes regardless of whether you go by bus, taxi, or rented car. The Airlink 100 and Skylink 200 and 400 services provide fantastic connections across the city of Edinburgh. 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 to the Ocean Terminal in Leith between 12:45 am and 4:15 am 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 to the Ocean Terminal. It departs every 15 minutes Monday to Saturday daytime and every 30 minutes in the evenings and Sundays. 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. It is conveniently located with direct access to the terminal and easy to book in advance via the airport website.

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Central Edinburgh as viewed from Calton Hill. Tower of the Balmoral Hotel foreground below Castle Hill.

Best Time to Visit

Late spring and summer's longer days and warmer temperatures make these periods the best time to visit Edinburgh. It's important to note that Edinburgh's weather can be unpredictable, with rain showers occurring throughout the year. Therefore, it's advisable to pack layers and be prepared for changing weather conditions regardless of the season you choose to visit.

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passport

Passport / Visa

Citizens of the European Union member-states, Norway, Liechtenstein, Iceland, Switzerland, and Overseas Countries and Territories (OCT) only require a valid passport to enter the UK. Residents of a further 10 countries do not require entry visas for stays under 6 months: the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, South Africa, Hong Kong, and Malaysia. Nationals of some further countries do not require a visa but need to hold an entry certificate. Use the UK Government website to check for specific requirements.

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inside a double-decker bus

Public Transport

There are various bus companies operating in Edinburgh. The largest are First Bus 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. However, Edinburgh is a small and fairly compact city, and most destinations in the city are within walking distance.

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british taxi sign

Taxi

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

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a collection of stamps from all over the world

Post

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

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pharmacy sign

Pharmacy

There are several major pharmacy chains in Edinburgh that provide a wide range of pharmaceutical products and services. These include Boots, LloydsPharmacy, Superdrug Pharmacy, and Well Pharmacy.

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person making a phone call on a black rotary phone

Telephone

Country code: +44 Area code: 131

British plug

Electricity

The United Kingdom uses the Type G electric plug, which is one with three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern. And it operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz.

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