Christmas in July Series: Edinburgh, Scotland

Dreaming of a Christmas Vacation in Europe? Discover Edinburgh, Scotland!

Edinburgh, Scotland, is a fantastic destination for an easy festive trip. From beautiful markets to ice skating rinks and cozy pubs, there is no shortage of holiday wonder in Edinburgh during the winter season.

This is part three of the series where we explore some festive vacations with accompanying itineraries to inspire your Christmas getaway!

Christmas Markets

Edinburgh is home to many charming Christmas markets. One of the most notable is the East Princes Street Gardens Christmas Market. This traditional market features around 70 stalls. Here, vendors sell everything from handmade gifts to delicious food and drinks, perfect for the holiday season. Imagine sipping hot cocoa while enjoying a stunning view of Edinburgh Castle and the skyline!

Another delightful market is the George Street West & Castle Street Christmas Market. This market includes a beautiful ice rink, food stalls, and fairground rides, featuring around 20 vendor stalls. It’s a lovely place to enjoy a winter evening, do some last-minute Christmas shopping, and spend time with your loved ones!

Historical Sites

If you are interested in experiencing the history of Edinburgh during your visit, take a tour of Edinburgh Castle. Here, you can learn about its exciting history and get a glimpse into the past.

You can also explore Edinburgh’s Old Town and walk down the Royal Mile. The Royal Mile connects Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Walking along this historic street, you will find St. Giles Cathedral, souvenir shops, pubs, restaurants, and so much more!

If you love museums, the National Portrait Gallery is a must-see. This neo-Gothic palace tells visitors about Scottish history through paintings, sculptures, and stunning architecture.

More Festivity

During the Christmas season, the Edinburgh Royal Botanical Garden showcases spectacular light installations. Wander through the gardens as they light up with Christmas cheer. Enjoy a cozy hot chocolate and toasted marshmallows as you soak in the festive atmosphere.

Many restaurants and hotels in Edinburgh go all out with Christmas decorations during the holiday season. One standout is The Dome, known for its elaborate Christmas display. During Christmastime, The Dome houses a massive Christmas tree, accompanied by dazzling lights, garlands, and floral arrangements throughout the restaurant.

Unique Experiences

Edinburgh offers unique experiences that enhance your holiday visit. Consider taking a ghost tour through the city’s haunted streets. These tours provide a thrilling glimpse into Edinburgh's darker history.

You might also enjoy a traditional Scottish meal at a local pub. Try haggis, neeps, and tatties, a classic dish that warms you up on a chilly winter evening. Pair your meal with a fine Scotch whisky for a truly authentic experience.

Shopping and Souvenirs

While in Edinburgh, don’t miss the chance to shop for unique souvenirs. The city is filled with independent shops and boutiques. Look for handmade crafts, Scottish wool products, and local artwork. These items make perfect gifts for friends and family back home.

Conclusion

If you are looking for a festive Christmas vacation in Europe, Edinburgh is a great city to visit. From enchanting Christmas markets to stunning light displays and gorgeous festive decorations, the city has it all. While visiting, make sure to check out some of their impressive historical sites to learn more about the city and get a glimpse back in time.

Whether you are wandering through the markets or enjoying a meal in a cozy pub, Edinburgh will surely fill your holiday season with joy and wonder.

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Kathleen in Rome

Kathleen McNamara is a Senior and an Honors Student at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte studying English. Her favorite parts of travel are visiting museums and trying different cuisines. She looks forward to her graduation trip to Greece in 2026!