Planning ahead and getting around Edinburgh this summer

Whether you’re visiting for the world-famous festivals, a city break or simply enjoying a day out in Scotland’s capital city, we’ve put together some suggestions to help keep Edinburgh enjoyable and sustainable for everyone.

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Overnight accommodation

• If staying overnight, ensure you book accommodation in advance. Both Forever Edinburgh and VisitScotland have information on hotels, B&Bs and self-catering apartments both within and close to Edinburgh. 

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Transport

The city is well served by public transport, although it is likely to be busier than normal, so allow for additional journey time. For full details on transport options see public transport in Edinburgh.

• Buses – Lothian Buses operate multiple routes across Edinburgh. Plan your journey and follow travel with their app. Payment can either be made by contactless, by cash (exact amount only) or via the app. You can also use your NEC travel pass. It is recommended you use the same payment card or phone throughout the day in order to receive the cheapest rate available. All of Lothian Buses have at least one wheelchair accessible space. Buses have push bells which are tactile and embossed with braille and handrails in high contrasting colours for the best possible visibility. All drivers receive disability awareness training that includes a wide range of conditions including autism, visual and hearing impairments, dementia and epilepsy.
• Trams – Edinburgh Trams run every 7 minutes from Edinburgh Airport to Newhaven. Tickets must be purchased before boarding. Simply hold your card or payment device against one of the platform validators before boarding the tram, and again when you reach your destination. This will charge you a standard single fare. Failure to Tap Off will result in a full airport fare of £7.50. Please note, the same card or device should be used when tapping on and off. Failure to do so will prevent the system from calculating and applying the cheapest daily or weekly cap. You can also use your NEC travel pass (no tap off required). Paper tickets can also be purchased from ticket machines located at each tram stop. All trams are equipped with high visibility handrails, passenger alert buttons signposted in Braille, dedicated disabled priority seats and low entrances throughout. All tram stops are accessed via gently sloping ramps or lifts.
• Taxis – There are two licensed black cab taxi companies in Edinburgh: Central Taxis and City Cabs. All vehicles are accessible, but as wheelchairs come in many shapes and sizes, it is recommended to prebook in advance to ensure passengers receive the correct vehicle for them.
• On foot – The city is also extremely walkable, with several city centre attractions within a short distance of each other. Please note, some parts of the city can be hilly, or have cobblestones – the latter of which can be slippy when wet.
• Cycling – Edinburgh has many cycling routes, allowing the city to be enjoyed from two wheels. There are also several cycling tour companies that offer city excursions, with all equipment provided.
• Driving – If driving in the city, please follow the UK Highway Code. More details on parking, EV charging and traffic laws within the city can be found on driving in Edinburgh.

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Road closures and restrictions

• In order to support the city’s events and festivals, and to help everyone get around safely and comfortably during the busy summer period, some city centre streets are set to close to vehicles or have restrictions in place. This may affect normal bus routes. These restrictions will be in place on various dates between 24 July and 07 September 2025.

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Weather

• The weather in Edinburgh can be unpredictable, with the city often seeing four seasons in one day. Check the weather forecast in advance and dress accordingly. Comfortable shoes and layers of clothing are recommended. 

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Food and drink

• Edinburgh offers an excellent range of cafés, restaurants and bars for all tastes and budgets. To avoid disappointment, book in advance.

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Public toilets

• While most food and drink venues and visitor attractions have customer toilets, there are several free to use public toilets located throughout the city.

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Luggage storage

• If you need somewhere to keep your luggage while you explore the city, Edinburgh has lots of storage options, ranging from one hour to one week.

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Responsible visitor choices

• We love our Old and New Towns and are very proud of our UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Please help us look after them by disposing of all rubbish responsibly, using the bins provided.
• Please be considerate of local residents who are getting around Edinburgh as part of their daily lives.
• While the city centre attractions are no doubt worth visiting, Edinburgh is also home to many different neighbourhoods, all unique from each other. Spend a day at the seaside at Portobello, marvel at the Forth Bridges at South Queensferry, or go further afield and spend the day at East Lothian, West Lothian, Midlothian, Fife or the Scottish Borders.

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And finally, enjoy the unrivalled atmosphere of Edinburgh during summertime. Share you experiences with us #ForeverEdinburgh For more information on enjoying all that Edinburgh has to offer, go to Forever Edinburgh, The Official Guide to Edinburgh.

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