In need of a kilt, a cuddly panda or Mongolian food? Then Edinburgh is the place to be – travel with us and you’ll get there in no time at all. Trains to Edinburgh take just under 3 and a half hours from Manchester, arriving at Edinburgh Waverley station: your gateway to the unique city. Scotland’s bustling capital, Edinburgh is bursting with history, culture and more than a few unforgettable things to do with family or friends.
For unlimited bus travel around the city, buy an Edinburgh Plusbus ticket with your train ticket for £3.80 (£2.50 with a Railcard), or catch one of Edinburgh’s open top bus tours or airport buses that all call at the train station.
There’s 24-hour parking close by, and taxis are always waiting to greet new arrivals to the city. For the more active, bicycles can be hired in the city and are a great way to view all of Edinburgh's attractions.
The city’s most famous landmark, Edinburgh Castle is rightly placed on a pedestal, or at least a hill. Be there at 1 o’clock when, save for Sundays, the castle gun is fired. Hopefully not loud enough to wake up the pandas of Edinburgh Zoo, these famous bears are the only ones you’ll find in Britain. For those of more refined tastes, congratulate yourself on picking the best train service to Edinburgh by enjoying a tipple of whiskey at the Scotch Whiskey Experience. Positioned close to Edinburgh Waverley station, this attraction also makes for the perfect way to toast the city a fond farewell.
For those who have worked up an appetite in the capital, The Witchery is an unrivalled dining experience. Beautifully designed spaces, impeccable food and a heady dose of history create something truly unique. Prefer to go elegant in Edinburgh? Hadrian’s Brasserie at The Balmoral Hotel is headed by a Michelin-starred chef.
Places to stay in Edinburgh cater to any style or budget. Leave the train and fall into the lap of luxury with the Balmoral Hotel, the ultimate in Edinburgh hospitality. Prefer to stay in the heart of history? Try The Glasshouse, a 160-year-old church converted into a timelessly chic boutique hotel. Do your bit for society at The Royal College of Surgeons-owned Ten Hill Place, where all profits help train the surgeons of tomorrow, or check-in at the Euro Hostel where rooms start from as little as £19.
Arrive in the summer and you’ll be greeted by the world-famous Edinburgh festival and a city alive with culture. Enjoy some retail therapy at the premier Edinburgh shopping locations - Princes Street and George Street are full of big brands and designer names, all against the city’s uniquely gorgeous architecture. In need of a souvenir? Royal Mile has whisky, tartan and tweed galore, as well as some of Edinburgh’s best restaurants. The Royal Botanic Garden is where the green-fingered visitor can sate their appetite for nature and enjoy a tranquil haven.
Head over to New Town’s Princes Street and George Street where you can find all the big brands and designer shops. Edinburgh’s West End is home to stylish boutiques and artsy gifts shops for the seriously chic shopper. The Grassmarket is full of historical character, lively pubs and unique shops, or stroll over to the Royal Mile where you’ll find arts and craft, Scottish whiskey and tasty treats. Don't forget to visit Edinburgh's farmers’ market every Saturday on Castle Terrace in the city centre, which boasts a fantastic mix of local produce, gifts and food to go.
For more ideas on what to do in Edinburgh, visit This Is Edinburgh.
Go behind the screens of famous TV shows and films that were filmed in Edinburgh
Don’t miss out
Get the latest offers, news & travel inspiration