Edinburgh Travel Guide: Flights & Hotels

Edinburgh splits into the medieval Old Town, capped by its hilltop castle, and the elegant Georgian New Town, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites within walking distance of each other. It's also the natural gateway to the Scottish Highlands for a day trip or longer road trip.

August brings the huge Edinburgh Festival Fringe, when the city is at its liveliest but also its most crowded and expensive — book well ahead if that's the plan, or visit May-June/September for a quieter trip with decent weather. The Royal Mile connecting the castle to Holyrood Palace is the spine of most Old Town sightseeing.