We all know that New Year in Edinburgh is the ultimate way to celebrate. The Torchlight Procession beautifully lights up the streets, the Concert in the Gardens is set to bring 90s band Pulp to the capital, and who could forget the world-famous Street Party?
But the fun doesn’t end there. Edinburgh is fantastic throughout the year, and there’s a whole host of newness coming in 2024.
A trip to Edinburgh isn’t too far to go for a great break away. The train from London gets you straight into the city centre and you can travel by bus too. In a matter of hours, you could be checking into a new, glamorous hotel in the capital and treating yourself and the ones you love to the newest, tastiest dishes and shopping in the best shops in the country.
Edinburgh has it all. With every visit, you’ll find new places to stay, eat and explore. Wander around the cobbled streets like you’re walking through history. Edinburgh celebrates its 900th anniversary as a city in 2024, and it’s not the only one celebrating a big birthday.
Experience the beauty of Edinburgh and all it has to offer.
In 2024, St Giles’ Cathedral marks its 900th anniversary, a historic marvel founded in 1124 by King David I. This iconic structure, where Bonnie Prince Charlie’s arrival was announced in 1745, is known for both its rich history and breathtaking beauty. Admire the stained-glass window dedicated to Robert Burns and immerse yourself in the majestic organ’s music during events.
St Giles’ provides a ramp going into the building, and one inside the building when you enter, which is the main walkway all visitors will use. Don’t miss the captivating organ concerts and daily tours that run throughout the year.
While the city dates back to 8500BC, there’s always something new to discover in Edinburgh. And with lots of awards under its belt, Edinburgh, the Scottish capital, makes a perfect city break destination.
Are you planning a visit in January? The beautiful sounds of Rabbie Burns are alive and well in Edinburgh. Open your ears and experience the beauty of his words.
Burns and Beyond kicks off from January 25-28, 2024, with a packed programme of free and ticketed events throughout the city centre to celebrate the life and legacy of Robert Burns, the national poet of Scotland.
Highlights include the Assembly Rooms Festival Club with a programme of spectacular artists including Mercury Prize nominee Nadine Shah. Plus there’s some Burns Night fun including Museum Lates: Big Burns Ceilidh at the National Museum of Scotland.
And who could forget the one and only Taylor Swift who’ll be performing in Edinburgh in 2024? Those lucky enough to secure tickets will be counting down the minutes.
Taylor not your thing? Take a tour around Edinburgh’s Live Music Map to find the act for you at the huge range of venues in Edinburgh.
Award-winning city
Edinburgh recently came third in Conde Nast Traveller’s best cities in the UK: 2023 Readers’ Choice Awards. The city is championed on the list thanks to its festivals, architecture and foodie hotspots that spread over the city.
You might not have realised that Edinburgh is a green city, named as the local authority in Scotland with the highest number of quality parks and green spaces, with 38. And of course, the city has won an accolade that champions its planet-friendly nature.
The World Travel Awards 2023 named Edinburgh Europe’s most sustainable tourism destination. The city has plenty of green spaces such as Princes St Gardens, Arthur’s Seat and Holyrood Park, and the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, and was the first in the world to sign the Tourism Declares a Climate Emergency initiative.
And if that wasn’t enough, Time Out crowned Edinburgh its best city in the world for 2022.
Surely you don’t need any more convincing to book your trip up north?
Getting around
Edinburgh’s public transport is accessible 24/7. Lothian Buses offer accessible services with trained drivers and media screens for ‘Next Stop’ info.
Wheelchair-accessible trams connect the airport to Newhaven, with 15 stops, including key locations like Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium, Haymarket, Princes Street, Leith Walk, Ocean Terminal, and Leith Shore. Trams feature low entrances throughout and high-visibility handrails.
Affordable ticket options make exploring the city budget-friendly, with adult day tickets at £5, and three-day options at £10. For journeys from the airport, prices may vary.
Make the most of Edinburgh’s public transport to see and do more during your stay.
As well as the public transport being top-notch, getting around the city is easy on foot too if you’re in the mood for walking.
Bruntsfield and Morningside offer a wide range of artisan treats, family-run cafes, and independent shops, all within a 30-minute walk, 10-minute cycle, or 15-20-minute bus ride from the city centre.
Stockbridge beckons with independent retailers and second-hand shops, Sunday Farmers’ markets, and is a 20-minute walk (5-10 minute cycle) from Princes Street.
Southside, located at one end of the Meadows, has the oldest university, fascinating museums, cosy coffee shops and leafy spaces, just 30 minutes on foot or less than 10 minutes by bike from Princes Street.
Dalry is a five-minute walk from Haymarket Station and tram stop and is part of Edinburgh’s emerging food scene.
The city’s neighbourhoods have so much to offer. Visit Edinburgh’s charming neighbourhoods, all within a close distance of the city centre.
You can see a lot of the city on foot in a day, so whether you decide to investigate Grassmarket, the Old Town or Leith, pull on your walking shoes and look up at the incredible sights and sounds.
Speaking of Leith, the new tram extension means you can explore the area more easily. Leith has its very own festival running June 8-16, 2024, showcasing theatre, music, arts, history and song. You can indulge in Michelin-starred food at The Kitchin, and pick up a few treats from Mimi’s Bakehouse too.
Find out more about getting around Edinburgh.
Things to see and do
Edinburgh is bursting with attractions and experiences to fill your time when you visit.
The city is a year-round destination so if you did miss the Hogmanay celebrations, you won’t have to feel like you’ve missed out.
Did you know, Edinburgh is home to 10 official festivals that take place year-round? And that seven of Scotland’s top 10 attractions are located in Edinburgh? There’s Edinburgh Castle, of course, and Greyfriars Kirkyard to name only two.
Edinburgh Science Festival is the UK’s largest science festival and for two weeks each spring, you can take part in a range of amazing events, workshops, performances, screenings and discussions between some of the world’s foremost scientific minds. It’s great for all ages and a third of the experiences are free to access.
Have you visited the city during the Edinburgh International Book Festival? Taking place August 10-25, authors and readers descend on the city for readings, interviews, shows and discussions. The programme launches in June so be sure you get your tickets to meet some of the world’s best writers.
And if stories are your thing, the Scottish International Storytelling Festival returns to Edinburgh on October 11-27. Storytellers from around the globe descend on the city to showcase traditional folktales and contemporary narratives to audiences around the city. There are interactive workshops to take part in too whether you’re a pro or novice.
For those who enjoy a tipple, the new Edinburgh Gin Distillery on Market Street is set to open in the summer promising an extraordinary journey filled with wonder and gin-infused excitement.
Port of Leith Distillery opened in October 2023 and offers a 90-minute tour where you can fill your own miniature bottle of their New Make Spirit. It’s a vertical distillery that offers panoramic views over the Firth of Forth all the way round to Calton Hill in the city centre.
The Scotch Whisky Experience on the Royal Mile launched a new tour experience in 2023 that’s a must on the list of those seeking a wee dram. It takes guests on a journey through the world of Scotch whisky and is a five-star attraction. It’s also home to one of the world’s best whisky collections.
For an exhilarating experience, the Lost Shore Surf Resort is opening in September 2024, boasting Europe’s largest inland surfing destination. There’s a trip that’ll blow away the cobwebs.
Flight Club at St James Quarter opened in November 2023 and combines the thrill of Social Darts with a beautiful bar. It’s an ideal location for a bit of healthy competition.
Music lovers will be drawn to Summer Sessions, which moves to the Royal Highland Centre for 2024, and the Dunard Centre, a 1000-seater music venue, will be opening in the heart of Edinburgh soon. So far Becky Hill has been announced for Summer Sessions, but watch this space for more names.
Take in some history at the National Galleries of Scotland with four Scottish galleries to choose from that’ll appeal to everyone in your group. It has just undergone a multi-million pounds renovation and is an accessible venue with blue badge parking, ramp entrances and highly trained staff who can help with any additional needs.
There are four galleries to peruse: National, Modern One, Modern Two and Portrait, and 2024’s exhibits include a major solo show by the Belfast-born, ‘Glasgow Boy’, Sir John Lavery, Turner in January and a celebration of 100 years since the birth of Scottish pop artist Eduardo Paolozzi.
And while you’re in Edinburgh, you may as well take a trip to some of the new shops. Gucci is opening on Multrees Walk and UNIQLO will be setting up shop at 64 Princes Street.
And who could forget the Edinburgh Festival Fringe? Expected to deliver a fresh and surprising programme throughout August, you can grab tickets for comedy shows, and stumble upon street performances, free events and concerts. There’ll be acts travelling from all over the world to perform. Definitely an exciting time to travel to the city.
Whichever events you decide to venture to, each is accessible with lowered and ramped entrances, tickets at shows for wheelchair users and accessible bathrooms to ensure everyone can have the best break in Edinburgh.
Find out more about things to see and do in Edinburgh.
Food and drink experiences
Celebrated for its diverse food scene, Edinburgh welcomes many exciting additions to its food and drink scene.
The Pitt Market, launching in spring 2024, promises award-winning street food, craft beer, and more. SUSHISAMBA, a US favourite, debuts on the 10th floor of the W Hotel, offering a unique blend of Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian cuisine.
Miju, a new immersive Japanese restaurant on Dalry Road, opened in September 2023. Other notable newcomers include Kitchen Table, Toast Tea, Pinčiukas, and Puffin Rooms.
Discover Edinburgh’s vibrant food and drink scene this year.
Edinburgh Playhouse:
- Shrek the Musical in January 2024
- Wizard of Oz in February 2024
- Madagascar the Musical in April 2024
Festival Theatre:
- Hamilton UK Tour from February to April 2024
- Bonnie & Clyde – The Musical in July 2024
Royal Lyceum Theatre:
- Jekyll & Hyde in January 2024
- Macbeth (an undoing) in May 2024
To find out what other shows are playing during your stay, visit edinburgh.org/event.
- The Printmaker’s Art | Rembrandt to Rego – Royal Scottish Academy – 2 Dec 2023 – 25 Feb 2024
- Turner in January – Royal Scottish Academy – 1 Jan – 31 Jan 2024
- Paolozzi at 100 – Modern Two – 27 Jan – 21 Apr 2024
- Do Ho Suh | Tracing Time – Modern One – 17 Feb – 1 Sep 2024
- Deep Rooted – City Art Centre – 18 Nov 2023 – 25 Feb 2024
- Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2024 – NMS – 20 Jan – 6 May 2024
Where to stay
As well as lots of new restaurants and theatre experiences to discover, Edinburgh has a range of fabulous places to stay that have recently opened their doors.
100 Princes Street by Red Carnations Hotel opens in spring 2024, combining Scottish heritage and deluxe comforts finished to a superior standard. Overlooking Princes Street Gardens and Edinburgh Castle, it’s inspired by the adventures of Scottish explorers who stayed in the building while they were away from home, 100 Princes Street is set within the historic former Overseas League.
W Edinburgh opened in November 2023. The hotel boasts unique rooms and suites with breathtaking panoramic views of Edinburgh’s iconic skyline. Guests can indulge in unparalleled dining and speciality bars, including suites with private bars. The W Lounge, a unique rooftop deck, offers 360-degree views of Edinburgh and beyond.
Resident Hotels are also set to open their first Edinburgh location in 2024. Just off Charlotte Square, there’ll be a 166-bedroom hotel that’s due to open ahead of the summer. Resident Hotels are known for their luxurious rooms and excellent service so you’ll be in for a treat when you book a room after the grand opening.
The Scott Hotel, a brand new high-end boutique hotel opened recently. An 18th-century baronial house, the hotel boasts elite interiors and indulgent Ishga products in the bathrooms.
Read more about where to stay in Edinburgh.
Plan your visit to Edinburgh in 2024
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Experience the beauty of Edinburgh in 2024. Plan your visit with Forever Edinburgh – The Official Guide to Edinburgh: www.edinburgh.org/experiencethebeauty
