The Scottish capital attracts people from across the globe with its world-class culture, food and entertainment Thanks to a large student population, there is a great selection of bars and restaurants in Edinburgh that will appeal to any backpackers or budget travellers passing through.
It’s also known as the Festival City, thanks to a huge variety of events that happen throughout the year, especially during the summer months, when the city hosts well-known events like the Fringe Festival and T in the Park during the summer months.
Most hostels in Edinburgh are close to the city centre thanks to it being one of the most compact cities in Europe. The city is divided into the Old Town and New Town, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage Site, and each of which has its own unique character.
Book a hostel in Edinburgh’s New Town (which was actually built in the mid-to-late 18th century) if you prefer Georgian townhouses, wide avenues and open squares.
It’s also home to independent coffee shops and artisan bars. If you prefer cobbled streets and medieval architecture, then the hostels in Edinburgh’s Old Town are for you,
which puts you within easy reach of all the best tourist attractions.
The Scottish are known for their good nature and hospitality, so don’t be shy about asking hostels owners and reception staff for recommendations. They can help you get out into the highlands and see some of the world’s most amazing landscapes, or give you a local perspective on Edinburgh.
Take a walk along the Royal Mile, which runs through the heart of Edinburgh and connects two Royal residence; Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood House. For those feeling fit, take a walk to the top of Arthur’s Seat, which takes about an hour, and admire the beautiful views of the city. If you prefer a more leisurely pace, there’s also Calton Hill, which only takes a few minutes to reach the top.
A few other notable sites include the National Museum of Scotland, the Royal Botanic Garden and St. Giles Cathedral. Once you’ve seen the sights, take some time to explore the city’s amazing food and drink scene, which features countless award-winning restaurants that pride themselves on top-quality ingredients and local produce. The Scotch Whiskey Experience is another great option.
Getting from the airport to the city centre couldn’t be simpler, thanks to a tram that only takes 35 minutes to reach the city centre. There’s also plenty of taxis and a 24-hour bus. Once you’ve settled into your accommodation, there’s a huge network of buses, trams and suburban rail routes to choose from, even though you should be able to reach the main sights and attractions on foot.
Top rated hostels in Edinburgh
