Planning a trip to Edinburgh? We are here to help you with what mistakes to avoid in Edinburgh. It’s truly an unforgettable city in Europe, one of my absolute favorites. With its captivating medieval atmosphere, stunning views, and welcoming pubs, Scotland’s capital has a certain magic about it.
Like any popular European destination, though, it’s easy to stumble into tourist traps, especially on your first visit. If Edinburgh is new to you, you might find our 2-day guide helpful. To help you make the most of your trip and navigate the city like a seasoned traveler, here are some common tourist mistakes to avoid and what to do instead that I have learned on my trips ( and what mistakes to avoid in Scotland!)
Planning A Trip To Edinburgh: 15 Big Mistakes To Avoid
Mistake #1: Not Booking Tickets in Advance
Don’t assume you can simply walk up to Edinburgh’s main attractions and purchase a ticket. Popular spots like Edinburgh Castle, The Real Mary King’s Close, ghost tours, Camera Obscura, the Royal Yacht Britannia, and the Scott Monument frequently sell out, particularly during the summer, Christmas, and the Fringe Festival.
Tip: Book your tickets well ahead of time, especially if you’re visiting during peak seasons like summer, weekends, and holidays, as walk-up tickets might not be available. Many attractions offer timed entry, and tickets often go quickly. Booking in advance will save you valuable time and prevent disappointment. And remember to double-check the opening hours!
Click here to book : Edinburgh Castle: Highlights Tour with Entry Ticket
Click here to book: Camera Obscura Tickets
Mistake #2: Not Understanding the Difference Between Old Town and New Town
Edinburgh is divided into two primary areas: the Old Town and the New Town. Choosing the wrong area to stay in for your travel style can significantly impact your experience! My key piece of advice for your Edinburgh trip is to research the different areas based on your preferences regarding travel style, budget, mobility, and your planned itinerary.
Tip – Old Town is centered around the Castle and the Royal Mile, and known for its historic charm. However, its central location and proximity to major attractions make it generally more expensive for accommodations.
New Town, is situated near Princes Street Gardens and the Scott Monument. And is typically a 10 to 15-minute walk from the main sites. This area tends to be quieter and offers more budget-friendly options, along with beautiful architecture and a more local vibe.
Mistake #3: Wearing the Wrong Shoes
You’ll likely find yourself walking much more than anticipated, often on cobblestone streets, steep hills, and stone staircases. Therefore, the worst footwear choices for Edinburgh would be sandals, open-toe shoes with slick soles, or heels!
Tip – Pack supportive, and if you can waterproof walking shoes. Edinburgh is a city best explored on foot, and your feet will thank you for the comfort. As an alternative to the hike up Arthur’s Seat, you can still enjoy a lovely sunset view with less effort and wind from Calton Hill!
Mistake #4: Bringing an Umbrella Instead of a Raincoat
Edinburgh’s weather is quite unpredictable, with rain showers appearing suddenly. Umbrellas often struggle in the wind and are useless in crowded streets!
Tip – Pack a lightweight, waterproof raincoat with a hood and dress in layers. Layering is essential, even in the summer, as the weather changes quickly. Using umbrellas is one of the things not to do in Edinburgh according to locals, and you are sure to stick out by using one!
Mistake #5: Not Taking Advantage of Free Museums and Galleries
Many visitors are unaware that Edinburgh boasts 18 FREE museums and galleries! These are perfect for enjoying on rainy afternoons or for budget-conscious travelers. These museums are rich in history and local culture and are well worth exploring.
Tip – Be sure to include visits to the National Museum of Scotland, Scottish National Portrait Gallery, the Writers’ Museum, Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, National War Museum of Scotland, and the Peoples Story Museum, among others, all without any entry fee!
For those interested in more comprehensive access, the Edinburgh City Pass can be a great value. It often includes the airport tram, hop-on-hop-off bus tours, and entry to numerous attractions and museums. Plus, for families, children under 5 are free with an adult ticket!
Mistake #6: Not Taking Advantage of Public Transport
Edinburgh has an excellent public transportation system, though it can seem a bit daunting at first. The tram provides a quick 30-minute connection between Edinburgh Airport and the city center. You can purchase tickets here.
Tip – Download the Lothian Buses app before your trip! Since 2025 you can use contactless “tap-to-pay” on both buses and trams. Or if you want to pay with cash on the bus, be sure to have the exact fare! Always purchase your tram ticket before boarding to avoid potential fines!
Mistake #7: Renting a Car in the City
Edinburgh’s historic streets were not designed for modern traffic, especially larger SUV’s. Narrow roads and limited parking make driving within the city challenging, and hotel parking can often be quite expensive.
Tip – It’s best to skip renting a car while you’re in Edinburgh. Walking and using public transport are the most efficient ways to get around. Consider renting a car only if you plan to explore the Scottish Highlands or more remote areas. On our last trip, we rented a car for a single day from the airport, avoiding overnight parking hassle of driving in the compact city!
Mistake #8: Visiting in August Without Planning for the Fringe Festival
August marks the Fringe Festival season, the world’s largest celebration of arts, theatre, comedy, and street performances. With over 3,000 events throughout the month and nearly 3 million tickets sold annually, it’s an incredible experience but also incredibly crowded.
Tip – If your visit falls in August, make sure to book your accommodation, show tickets, and castle entry well in advance, as the entire city becomes very busy. However, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the city early in the morning before the crowds really gather!
Mistake #9: Tipping Like You’re in the U.S
Scotland’s tipping culture differs from that in the U.S., where a 20% tip is commonly expected.
Tip – In Scotland, tipping around 10% at restaurants is considered polite but not mandatory. Some establishments may already include a “voluntary” 10% service charge, so it’s always a good idea to check your bill before adding an extra tip, especially in touristy areas! You can pay with both Scottish and UK money here!
Mistake #10: Touching Greyfriars Bobby’s Nose
While you might see other tourists rubbing the nose of the Greyfriars Bobby statue, please be respectful and DO NOT touch his nose! This constant touching has caused damage to the statue over time, evident in the overly shiny bronze nose.
Tip – Admire Bobby from a respectful distance and take the time to learn the true story of Edinburgh’s loyal dog, contributing to a more respectful visit.
Mistake #11: Not Learning a Few Local Phrases
Making a small effort to use local phrases can go a long way in showing respect and interest in the local culture.
Tip: Familiarize yourself with a few basic Scottish terms:
- Aye = Yes
- Wee = Little
- Ken = Know
- Cheers = Thanks
- Nae bother = No problem
Using these phrases will make your trip feel more personal, and the locals will appreciate you making an effort!
Mistake #12: Not Taking a Ghost or Underground Tour
Edinburgh has centuries of intriguing history and mysteries, and some of the most unique experiences can be found beneath the surface and down the city’s closes (narrow historic alleyways).
Tip – Consider booking a tour of The Real Mary King’s Close or a late-night ghost walk. These tours are entertaining, a bit spooky, and filled with historical insights you won’t find elsewhere, offering a glimpse into a side of the city many don’t see!
Mistake #13: Only Eating in Tourist Areas
Don’t limit your dining experiences to the castle and other tourist hotspots in the Old Town. Edinburgh has become a fantastic destination for food lovers in recent years, and knowing where to eat, especially on your first trip, can make a huge difference!
Tip: Venture into areas like New Town, Grassmarket, or Stockbridge for a more local culinary experience, complete with excellent food, cozy pubs, and the charming Circus Lane! If you’re looking for something truly unique, don’t hesitate to explore the smaller alleyways and closes to discover hidden pubs and local restaurants serving authentic Scottish cuisine (beyond just haggis!).
Here are a few of our favorite spots:
Breakfast:
- The City Cafe – American diner, all-day breakfast
- Hideout Cafe Oldtown – coffee and treats
- The Milkman – pastries and coffee
- The Edinburgh Larder – coffee shop with sandwiches and a taste of Scottish dishes
Lunch
- Mums Great Comfort Food – British diner fare
- Howie’s – family-run Scottish restaurant with a seasonal men
- Boozy Cow – for hamburgers
Dinner
- Devil’s Advocate Bar and Kitchen – seasonal dinner menu
- The Edinburgh Larder – featuring all Scottish seasonal products
- Makars Mash Bar – Scottish dishes served with mashed potatoes
- The Pipers Rest – locally sourced ingredients and live music
- Sora Lella – vegan options
- No 35 at Bonham – Offers great views.
- Monteiths – An upscale Scottish dining experience with a fantastic bar.
Pubs
- Rabble Taphouse
- Devils Advocate
- Pipers Rest: An upscale pub.
- Ecco Vino: A wine bar
Mistake #14: Not Exploring Outside Tourist Areas
While the Royal Mile is beautiful, it tends to be very crowded and can feel overly touristy, especially during peak season. Souvenirs there are generally expensive and not very unique.
Tip =-Take a 15-minute walk from Princes Street to Stockbridge for a change of scenery. Also, don’t Dean Village for those iconic photo opportunities. For more unique gifts, check out the independent shops on Victoria Street or the Stockbridge Market on Sundays. You might also enjoy a visit to the more vibrant area of Leith. And during the summer, Portobello Beach is a must!
Mistake #15: Not Planning Around the Seasons
Edinburgh’s seasons each offer a distinct experience, so planning your trip accordingly can make a big difference.
Tip –
- January and February -Expect very cold, rainy, and dark days, but you’ll find it’s the most budget-friendly time to visit.
- March to Early May (Spring): It’s still chilly and quiet with fewer crowds, and you’ll start to see flowers blooming.
- May to June (Early Summer): This is an ideal time with picturesque landscapes, sunny weather, and longer daylight hours. However, it’s also the start of the high season, so expect higher prices. ( Guide on what to wear!)
- August – If you’re visiting for the Fringe Festival, make your plans well in advance! Be prepared for expensive accommodations, large crowds, and fully booked restaurants and experiences.
- September to October (Fall): Enjoy beautiful autumn colors, cooler weather, and the fun of Halloween.
- December (Holiday Season): The city goes all out with Christmas markets and the Hogmanay celebrations!
Edinburgh is sure to charm visitors with its cobblestone alleyways, history, amazing landscapes and cozy pubs. Explore the castle, museumes, gardens I hope this Edinburgh vacation guide helps you avoid the common pitfalls, and mistakes I have made on my previous trips here. And know these Edinburgh travel tips will help you when planning your own trip and helping with your research on the amazing city of Edinburg!
15 Useful Things to Buy From Amazon Before Italy