Edinburgh, Scotland
Nicknamed "Athens of the North" in the 1700s as it gained a reputation for philosophy, economics, and medicine, Edinburgh remains the cultural center of Scotland today. Visitors flock here from around the globe to walk through historic castles, play world-class golf courses, and attend one of the many annual festivals.
Sitting on the iconic Princes Street, Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh – The Caledonian offers a five-star experience close to many of the main attractions.
With a rich history dating back to the 11th century, this Scottish capital holds two UNESCO designations and attracts millions of visitors every year. Sitting on the Firth of Forth's southern shore, the beautiful Princes Street Gardens separates Old Town (Auld Town) from Georgian New Town. Filled with natural beauty, the city offers plenty of spaces for hiking, exploring, or just relaxing. The game of golf was first developed in Scotland and there are more than 20 world-class courses near Edinburgh, including Muirfield, one of the oldest golf courses in the world. The Scots are also known for their whisky, and no trip to Edinburgh is complete without sitting down for a tasting.
Quick Facts
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Suggested Airport
Edinburgh Airport (EDI) -
Currency
Pound Sterling -
Language
English, Scots, and Scottish Gaelic -
Time Zone
5 hours ahead of New York -
Peak season
Mid-May through mid-September, Christmas and New Year’s
Destination Highlights
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Edinburgh Castle
Once a royal residence and military base, the castle is now the most popular attraction in the city. Built atop Castle Rock, the site houses the Honours of Scotland, the oldest crown jewels in Britain. Ships once set their clocks by the One O'Clock Gun, and it still goes off every day at 1 p.m.
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Royal Mile
Take a walk down the Royal Mile from Edinburgh Castle to Holyroodhouse Palace, the official Scottish residence of the royal family. Shops, pubs, and restaurants line this central thoroughfare and popular attractions include Camera Obscura, the Scottish Parliament, and the Scottish Whisky Experience.
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Holyrood Park
Home to St Anthony’s Chapel and a 2,000-year-old fort, Holyrood Park is rich in history. Arthur's Seat offers sweeping views of the city and the freshwater Duddingston Loch attracts an abundance of birds. The park has been designated a site of Special Scientific Interest due to its diverse flora and geology.
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Weather
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Forecasting Your Edinburgh Vacation
Weather in Edinburgh is cool and moist year-round and you should expect precipitation anytime. Highs range from the low-40s in the winter to the mid-60s in the summer. Lows are typically in the 30s in the winter and low-50s in the summer.