Travelling in Scotland is an immensely pleasurable experience. Whether you’re looking to live it up in the city, or fancy rambling through the undergrowth of the Highlands, Scotland is full of unforgettable treasures to behold.
Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland is a bustling place packed with culture and entertainment. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re a theatre fan, museum fanatic or a culinary enthusiast.
If you need some helpful inspiration for making your travel time in Edinburgh as efficient as possible, here are our top five tips and tricks for your stay.
1. Sort Your Accommodation as Early As Possible
Edinburgh is a tourism hotspot for many visiting Scotland, and as a result, it can be difficult to find last minute accommodation.
If you’re visiting Edinburgh in a motorhome, you may find it easier and cheaper to stay overnight in its many caravan parks than to rent a hotel.
Additionally under Scotland’s Land Reform Act of 2003, you are able to camp anywhere provided it is in a responsible location (not blocking access, away from roads and not near historic features). You must also respect the landscape and leave no evidence that you were there. This includes removing any litter, and burying excrement in the ground away from water supplies.
If you are camping in Scotland, ensure that you have the means to purify your drinking water, and forage responsibly.
If you want to stay in a hotel or AirBnb, you’ll want to make sure you book them early. At particularly busy times of the year, Edinburgh can become extremely busy. Using booking websites like Expedia can help you find the best value deals as they become available.
2. Take a Tour of Edinburgh’s Star Attractions
For those who are looking to enjoy some sightseeing, Edinburgh is full of attractions that will appeal to every visitor.
One of the most scenic places to tour is Arthur’s Seat. Made famous recently in Netflix’s series One Day, Arthur’s Seat is a spectacular feature of Edinburgh that looks over the whole city. Historically, it’s an extinct volcano that offers wondrous panoramic views over the surrounding area, and is popular for keen hillwalkers.
You can also tour Edinburgh Castle, which has a rich and important history that dates back to the Middle Ages and beyond. Built onto a volcanic plug, the castle has stood for hundreds of years and is the important site of many wars and key events in Scottish history.
3. Master Public Transport Methods
If you want to travel in the most efficient way around Edinburgh, you’ll need to master the public transport system.
Edinburgh is a very compact city, so it is possible to get around by walking, however you’ll need to be very fit – Edinburgh is a very hilly city!
If you’re not a fan of walking, you can also get around via the buses and tram system, and purchasing a day pass can help you save some money whilst you travel around the city.
Additionally, as with most large cities in the UK, there are plenty of taxis around to hail for your next journey. You can use apps like Uber to find a cashless solution, or simply hail a black cab, although these tend to charge a premium.
4. Be Prepared for the Weather
Scotland is famous for its unpredictable (and often cold) weather, so layering up is essential, no matter what time of the year you visit.
Travelling prepared with a waterproof coat or umbrella and good sturdy shoes can save you from the inconvenience of needing to take sudden shelter in the case of a downpour.
If you visit in the winter, be prepared for sudden heavy snow and ice, especially if you’re travelling with a car or motorhome. Being aware of emergency numbers and packing de-icer and shovels can be useful in times of extreme weather.
It may also be helpful to make alternative arrangements just in case the weather prevents you from conforming to your original plans.
5. Educate Yourself Whilst You Travel
Studying a distance learning degree from providers like Signum Magnum College means you can travel all over Scotland and study simultaneously in your spare time, without affecting your leisure activities.
Whether you’re local to the UK, or travelling from overseas, Signum Magnum College offers internationally recognised qualifications so you can build your career whilst having the time of your life!
Do you have any tips for travelling around Edinburgh more efficiently? Share your thoughts in the comments section below!
