City of Edinburgh Council
Living in Edinburgh
We’re rightly proud of our wonderful capital city. There’s so much on offer and it’s not too big – so you can walk everywhere, and it’s not too small – meaning there’s always something to do and see.
Getting around
Edinburgh’s an easy city to get around and has higher proportions of people who walk, cycle and take the bus to work than anywhere else in Scotland, plus the city’s airport is only 35 minutes away and is well served by trams and buses.
We have many lush, green spaces including Holyrood Park which is home to Arthur's Seat (our very own extinct volcano), The Meadows, Princes Street Gardens and Inverleith Park. And just a short drive out of the city centre we have stunning beaches, country parks, castles and stately homes to explore at the weekend.
Attractions and events
Food and drink
The city has lots of restaurants, bars and coffee shops to choose from and can offer something to suit everyone’s tastes, from traditional Scottish fayre to Michelin Star to street food. Walk down our famous Rose Street or Grassmarket and you’ll uncover not only wonderful historic architecture but craft beers, excellent food and live music.
Shopping
If shopping is more your bag, then we have all your high street favourites on Princes Street and George Street, and luxury shopping on Multrees Walk. Walk down any side street and you’ll come across wonderful designer boutiques, gift shops and art galleries.
Galleries and attractions
Just a short walk from the famous Royal Mile is the National Museum of Scotland which is one of the top 10 UK visitor attractions and is free to visit, as is The Scottish National Portrait Gallery. Situated close to Princes Street Gardens it’s a lovely spot to stop and take in the amazing views of Edinburgh Castle at lunchtime.
Edinburgh Festival and Hogmanay
A discussion on Edinburgh wouldn’t be complete without mentioning our world-famous festivals showcasing Film, Jazz & Blues, Art, Science, Books, and more. There’s something on the whole year round but August is a smorgasbord of music and drama with the International Festival and the Festival Fringe catering for all tastes and budgets.
Edinburgh’s Hogmanay or New Year celebrations are world renowned. With Edinburgh Castle as your backdrop, visitors take part in our street party and countdown to another year with live music and midnight firework display – just you and about 400,000 friends!