Best Time to Visit

Late spring and summer's longer days and warmer temperatures make these periods the best time to visit Edinburgh. It's important to note that Edinburgh's weather can be unpredictable, with rain showers occurring throughout the year. Therefore, it's advisable to pack layers and be prepared for changing weather conditions regardless of the season you choose to visit.

Passport & Visa

Starting from January 8, 2025, the United Kingdom has introduced an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) requirement for visa-exempt travellers. Initially, this applies to citizens from countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, Japan, and others. From April 2, 2025, this requirement will extend to European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) citizens, including those from Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. The ETA permits short-term visits of up to six months for tourism. Travellers must apply for the ETA online or via a mobile app before their trip. The process involves providing personal details, passport information, and answering a series of questions. The ETA costs £10 and is valid for two years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. Most applications are processed within three working days, but it's advisable to apply well in advance of travel. However, travellers planning to work or study in the UK for more than six months will need to obtain the appropriate visa. It is essential to consult the UK Government's official website to understand the specific requirements and ensure a smooth journey. Please note that the ETA does not guarantee entry into the UK. Border officials retain the authority to grant or deny admission upon arrival.

• Web:

  www.gov.uk/uk-border-control

Edinburgh Airport (EDI)

Edinburgh Airport (EDI) is located 11 kilometres west of the city, and connections to the city centre usually take between 25-30 minutes regardless of whether you go by bus, taxi, or rented car. The Airlink 100 and Skylink 200 and 400 services provide fantastic connections across the city of Edinburgh. Tickets can be bought in advance online, at the bus stop, or from the driver. If you arrive by night, take the night bus N22 (from stop D). This bus runs from the airport via South Gyle to the city centre and to the Ocean Terminal in Leith between 12:45 am and 4:15 am seven nights a week. It departs every 30 minutes. There is also the bus service 35 (from stop F) that runs to the city centre and to the Ocean Terminal. It departs every 15 minutes Monday to Saturday daytime and every 30 minutes in the evenings and Sundays. Taxis are located on the first floor of the multi-storey car park opposite the main terminal building. Edinburgh Airport has a car hire centre where you can find all the major car hire companies. It is conveniently located with direct access to the terminal and easy to book in advance via the airport website.

• Web:

  www.edinburghairport.com

• Address:

  Edinburgh Airport, Edinburgh

• Phone:

  +44 131 357 6337

Public Transport

There are various bus companies operating in Edinburgh. The largest are First Bus and Lothian Buses, you can use both to get around town or explore the surrounding coast and countryside. For both companies, you can purchase tickets on the bus, in shops, online, or in the mobile app. However, Edinburgh is a small and fairly compact city, and most destinations in the city are within walking distance.

• Web:

  www.firstbus.co.uk

Taxi

Unoccupied taxis are indicated with a light on the top. You can also book a taxi by contacting the following companies: City Cabs +44 131 228 1211 Central Taxis +44 131 229 2468

Electricity

The United Kingdom uses the Type G electric plug, which is one with three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern. And it operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz.