Edinburgh is a vibrant city known for its medieval Old Town, the Royal Mile, and its influence on the Harry Potter series. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. Whether you're exploring the museums, enjoying the nightlife, or taking in the beauty, we'll help you plan the ideal trip to Edinburgh that stays within your budget.
How much does it cost to travel to Edinburgh?
You should plan to spend around $209 (£171) per day on your vacation in Edinburgh. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $83 (£68) on meals
- $21 (£17) on local transportation
- $181 (£148) on hotels
A one week trip to Edinburgh for two people costs, on average, $2,922 (£2,394). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$1,461
£1,197
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$2,922
£2,394
-
One Month
Per person
$6,262
£5,130
-
One Week
For a couple
$2,922
£2,394
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$5,845
£4,788
-
One Month
For a couple
$12,525
£10,260
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Edinburgh cost?
A one week trip to Edinburgh usually costs around $1,461 (£1,197) for one person and $2,922 (£2,394) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Edinburgh on average costs around $2,922 (£2,394) for one person and $5,845 (£4,788) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Edinburgh will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Edinburgh on average costs around $6,262 (£5,130) for one person and $12,525 (£10,260) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Edinburgh expensive to visit?
Edinburgh is a popular city that draws numerous visitors, each showcasing different travel styles and spending habits. You'll find a wide array of accommodation options, such as luxury hotels, mid-range places, or budget-friendly hostels.
Edinburgh has the potential to be expensive, but you can manage your budget by taking public transit and exploring on foot.
On average, budget travelers spend $92 (£73) per day, mid-range travelers spend $215 (£171) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $546 (£434) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Edinburgh.
Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Edinburgh is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Verona or Leipzig.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Edinburgh Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Edinburgh?
The average Edinburgh trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Edinburgh travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Edinburgh cost?
Edinburgh on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$35
(£29)
|
$91
(£74)
|
$234
(£192)
|
|
Local Transportation 1
|
$8
(£6.79)
|
$21
(£17)
|
$49
(£41)
|
|
Food 2
|
$31
(£26)
|
$83
(£68)
|
$230
(£188)
|
|
Entertainment 1
|
$10
(£8.19)
|
$24
(£20)
|
$56
(£46)
|
|
Alcohol 2
|
$4-11
(£3-9)
|
$9-28
(£8-23)
|
$23-69
(£19-56)
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
It's important to set realistic expectations for your travel budget in Edinburgh. While many think they can cut costs for many things, the reality is that most people won't enjoy such a low-budget experience. Consider your preferences and travel style. Do you like resorts, hotels, vacation rentals, or hostels? Are activities and dining out a big part of your travel plans? Your answers will shape your budget and itinerary.
What Defines a Budget Traveler?
While you might think you're a budget traveler, without giving up many of your usual comforts, you'll likely need to spend more than the $92 per day that backpackers often spend.
Backpackers often work within this tight budget by staying in hostel dorms, eating fast food or street food, using public transit, and mainly visiting free attractions.
Fortunately, there are plenty of hostels available in Edinburgh, such as Castle Rock Hostel, Edinburgh Backpackers, and St Christopher's Edinburgh Original. In these hostels, you can discover cheap dorm accommodations and a great social atmosphere, though amenities may be few.
So, are you average?
If you're a couple or a family on a fun getaway, you might want to choose a mid-range hotel, enjoy meals at well-liked restaurants, and visit the key museums and attractions that come with entry fees. Most travelers to Edinburgh will be eager to explore the key attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. Most activities are not free, after all. Therefore, it's realistic to plan on a daily budget of about $215 per person, per day.
There's a wide selection of hotels and vacation rentals in Edinburgh. If you're traveling with others, sharing a hotel room with a partner, friend, or kids will help split costs and save money. When traveling as a family, look for hotels and restaurants that welcome children. The Raeburn is a great choice for kids, and Hotel Ceilidh-Donia is another wonderful option. For more family and couple-friendly places to stay, check out our Edinburgh hotel costs guide.
Want to Escape the Daily Grind in Style?
If your ideal trip includes every luxury and top-tier service, be ready to budget around $546 per day. A stay at nicer hotels, meals at prestigious restaurants, fancy excursions, and getting around the city with taxis or private drivers will cost you more. Also, higher-end tours are common with luxury travelers, such as Edinburgh Private Walking Tour - offered by Viator.
Accommodation Budget in Edinburgh
Hotel prices in Edinburgh can vary significantly. Some hotels charge much higher rates but also offer more luxury and better amenities. During peak season, these prices rise even more. In the off-season, the average room costs around $129, while in peak summer season it jumps to an average of $241. Budget accommodations range from $73 to $450, but hostels are usually cheaper, especially in dorm rooms. Save money by traveling during the low or shoulder seasons, or by booking in advance and watching for deals.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Edinburgh for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $181 (£148). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $91 (£74) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Edinburgh? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Edinburgh include:
- The Raeburn starting at $165
- The Rutland Hotel Edinburgh starting at $146
- The Edinburgh Residence starting at $134
- The Dunstane Houses starting at $171
- 24 Royal Terrace starting at $119
Edinburgh's great public transit offers the flexibility to stay farther from the city, but be mindful that your transportation costs may increase, and it could be a time drain.
Edinburgh is a very family-friendly place, and when traveling with children, it's important to find accommodations with extra space.
With many visitors spending a week in Edinburgh, it could be useful to book a vacation rental with a kitchen if you're staying longer, so you can cook your meals.
If you avoid summer and go during the low or shoulder season, you'll find better hotel deals and fewer tourists.
Many visitors prefer to discover Edinburgh by walking, so it's best to find accommodations in a central location. However, this convenience may come with a higher cost.
The city's captivating old town is a big magnet for tourists. While accommodations in this area can be more expensive, they often have a unique charm and easy access to everything you need.
Transportation Budget in Edinburgh
Edinburgh has a decent public transportation system that reaches several top attractions. Buses are the best way to get into town from the outer edges if you don't have a car. For an affordable and quick way to get around, public transit works well, depending on your location. Taxis and rideshares are also an option if needed.
If you're someone who enjoys discovering a place on foot, you'll love it in Edinburgh. The Old Town in particular is fun to walk around
Public Transit: 
(good)
Walkability: (excellent)
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $21 (£17) per person, per day, on local transportation in Edinburgh. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Edinburgh is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$21
£17
If you're planning to drive, ensure that your hotel offers convenient parking.
Some of the standard transportation options and hotel transfers include:
- Edinburgh Airport Transfer to or Anywhere in Uk for $83 details
- Private luxury transfer from Edinburgh Airport to Edinburgh for $50 details
- Private Arrival Transfer: Edinburgh Airport to City Hotel for $99 details
How much does it cost to go to Edinburgh? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Edinburgh will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Some typical prices for transportation in Edinburgh are shown below. These are actual costs from previous travelers, and are representative of the amount you'll likely spend on transportation in Edinburgh. Don't forget that your individual costs will vary based on how you get around, because hired cars such as taxis are often much more expensive than local public transportation.
Food Budget in Edinburgh
The food scene in Edinburgh isn't very expansive, and the quality isn't stellar. Consider saving your money for more rewarding activities rather than dining out. The city has some unique but famous dishes to try including haggis and black pudding. For slightly less intimidating options, check out the cullen skink, porridge, or smoked salmon. There are many fish and chips shops to choose from as well as a diversity of ethnic restaurants including Indian, Thai, and Ethiopian.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Edinburgh can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Edinburgh is $83 (£68) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$83
£68
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Edinburgh is around $85 (£68) per person, with previous travelers spending from $32 to $237. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Edinburgh are as follows:
- Breakfast: $8 to $25
- Lunch: $13 to $34
- Dinner: $25 to $59
- Coffee: $7
- Fast Food or Street Food: $13
Restaurants in Edinburgh are quite good and international. Like most cities, it's best to avoid eating in the touristy areas, particularly around the castle, but if you head into the local neighborhoods you'll be pleasantly surprised with your selection. In addition to eating in the city center, you can also head to Leith and the West End for some good restaurants. There's a pedestrian area along Rose Street that runs parallel to Princes Street that also has some good pubs.
Drinking in Edinburgh is part of the experience. There's truly a pub culture in this city, and it's something you really want to experience while you're in town. As with restaurants, it's best to avoid the tourist traps, but there are some great pubs around town, particularly in the university area.
When you're dining out with kids, seek out restaurants that offer a kids' menu. This can help you save quite a bit since these meals are usually more affordable. Keep in mind that some restaurants might not showcase their kids' options, so be sure to ask your server before placing your order.
Lots of hotels throw breakfast into the room rate, but some will charge for it. The quality and price can differ by hotel. Understanding this in advance can help you figure out if you'll need to spend extra money. It may be worth splurging on the hotel buffet, or you could find a less expensive option at a nearby bakery or cafe.
By making a picnic, you can save money and take in the views. Locate a nearby grocery store or market, pick up some fresh food, and find a charming park or scenic location for your meal.
Opt for a water bottle instead of constantly buying drinks. It's not only convenient but also eco-friendly.
Before booking a tour, make a point of knowing which meals are part of the package. You may be responsible for some of your food costs, which can increase your overall budget.
Taking a food tour or cooking class is a great way to experience the culture in Edinburgh. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:
- Edinburgh Traditional Food Tour for $118 details
- PRIVATE Edinburgh Food Tours - Old Town, Leith for $218 details
- Edinburgh Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours for $118 details
Typical prices for food in Edinburgh are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the food prices in Edinburgh. However, your individual costs will vary based on your travel style, selected restaurants, and the items that you order.
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Edinburgh
People come to Edinburgh in droves for museums and attractions, music, historical sights, and budget-friendly accommodations.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Edinburgh typically cost an average of $24 (£20) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$24
£20
The main sight and iconic structure in Edinburgh is the Edinburgh Castle. It's situated dramatically on the highest point in the city and remains in excellent condition despite its continuous use for the past 1000 years. Also worth visiting is St Giles' Cathedral, Gladstone's Land, and the Royal Botanic Garden. Most sights are concentrated in the Old Town and New Town areas. There are also many museums and art galleries that are worth checking out.
There is almost a constant stream of festivals in the city for anything from comedy, to jazz, to literature. There's actually a festival season in Edinburgh which begins with Hogmanay, or the Scottish New Year. The peak festival season is during the summer when weather is at its best, the crowds are the highest, and the festivals are quite popular.
Nightlife is also a huge draw in Edinburgh. For modern and trendy clubs, head to Cowgate and Lothian Road. George IV Bridge in the Old Town area also offers some trendy clubs. While there's some big name clubs that many people want to hit while they're in Edinburgh, you may actually have your best night if you pop into a little known corner pub and make yourself at home. This is how you truly get to know a city.
Because of the weather, visiting Edinburgh can often be a wet experience. But the city offers plenty of indoor activities. For more ideas, check out this guide to visiting Edinburgh in the rain. Then, you can have plenty of things to do no matter when you arrive.
If you're in Old Town, don't forget to check out a ghost tour of Edinburgh in the evening before you head out to the restaurants and bars.
Museums and Attractions:
Edinburgh's museums and landmarks are must-sees for any visitor. The most famous sights include the Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the National Museum of Scotland. There are also kid-friendly museums like Camera Obscura.
Theatre Productions:
The theater scene is something you absolutely must experience. It's fun to see a live performance or attend one of the festivals in town.
Music:
The music scene in Edinburgh is energetic and gathers a devoted following. In addition to a wide range of live music venues, there are also a number of music festivals held in town.
Historical Sights:
The historic old town attracts a large number of visitors. The city's Old Town attracts international visitors who come to see the Edinburgh Castle, the quaint streets, and the many shops and cafes. The Royal Mile is a popular area with pubs and souvenir shops. It connects the castle to the Scottish Parliament.
Shopping:
Shopping in this area is a must-do experience. Head to Princes Street in the New Town to visit department stores and other name brand shops. Nearby George Street has more boutique style shops and less crowds. In the Old Town, Victoria Street is filled with Harry Potter shops and tourist stores where you can pick up a kilt or Edinburgh sweatshirt.
A nice way to explore destinations in Edinburgh is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- 'A Wee Pedal's' Award-Winning Circular Cycle Tour of Edinburgh! For $104 details
- Private Greyfriars Kirkyard tour - 'Meet' the dead of Old Edinburgh! For $112 details
- Glenfinnan Viaduct, Glencoe and Loch Shiel 1 Day Tour - Edinburgh for $82 details
Listed below are some typical prices for attractions, activities, and entry fees in Edinburgh, sourced from actual travelers. These costs give you an idea of how much you might spend. However, your personal expenses will depend on the activities you choose, the museums or landmarks you visit, and how frequently you opt for free or low-cost options.
Nightlife Budget in Edinburgh
The nightlife in Edinburgh is vibrant and lively, with visitors reveling in evenings spent at local bars, clubs, and parties. With so many students, the nightlife stays very active. There are a wide range of bars and clubs to choose from as well as some of the country's oldest pubs. Tourists tend to frequent the Old Town area, but you'll find more locals if you head to the student and university areas.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $19 (£15) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Edinburgh per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$19
£15
Enjoying the nightlife is exciting, but if you want to save money, drinking less is an easy way to do it.
When you're out at night and drinking, be aware of what's going on around you. You could become a target for pickpockets or other crimes, so it's safest to stay in groups.
Nightlife activities and tasting tours are popular in Edinburgh. A few favorites from other travelers include:
- Holyrood Distillery Gin Tasting and Cocktail Making Experience for $36 details
- From Glenkinchie Distillery & Whisky Experience for $68 details
- Stirling, Highlands & Distillery in Spanish for $81 details
Listed below are typical prices for alcohol and nightlife in Edinburgh, as reported by real travelers. These figures should give you an idea of what drinks cost. However, your actual expenses will depend on your nightlife activities and dining choices, how frequently you consume alcohol, and the quantity you order. If you're looking to save on your trip, reducing your alcohol consumption is one of the easiest ways to cut down on your budget.
Travel cost data last updated: Dec 1, 2024
Traveling in Edinburgh
Edinburgh
Edinburgh is the moderately sized capital of Scotland. It is a medieval city that has managed to perfect the combination of Georgian architecture and medieval relics with a cosmopolitan population and avant-garde atmosphere. The city's population is quite young, in large part because of the University of Edinburgh. This youthful vibe gives this city a lot of vitality. There's a thriving nightlife, many restaurants, theatres, galleries and museums.
Edinburgh's climate is most enjoyable between the months of May and September. Throughout the year, the weather is prone to sudden changes and you can expect both sunshine and rain at any given time. Rainstorms often come with wind, so it can be chilly, damp, and generally unpleasant all at once. During the summer months, when tourist crowds are at their peak, daylight hours are long and the temperature is comfortable. During the winter months days are short and the weather is bitter cold, but snow is rare. It's best to spend time enjoying Edinburgh's many indoor activities during the winter months.
Neighborhoods & Around
Most tourists spend the majority of their time in Old Town. This is the medieval heart of the city and it runs from the Castle to Holyrood Palace. New Town is also in the city center and it dates back to the late 18th century. This is where you want to go for the city's best shopping opportunities. There's also some interesting shopping to the north of New Town in Stockbridge and Canonmills. This is also where you'll find the Royal Botanic Garden. Leith is the port area and the beach district is to the east of the city. To the south you will find a high concentration of students and plenty of places to eat and drink. In the west is the zoo and Murrayfield rugby stadium.
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We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.
We caught a tour of the Scottish Highlands from Edinburgh. It's the cheapest and most affordable way to see the area if you don't have your own car.