Edinburgh

The city is defined by sharp elevation changes. You will walk up and down steep hills constantly, so pack shoes that handle cobblestones and inclines well. The air is often damp and chilly, even in the middle of summer.

Expect a city that feels compact yet vertical. The Old Town is a dense maze of narrow alleyways and high buildings. The New Town offers wide, orderly streets that contrast sharply with the medieval layout of the center.

May, June, and September offer the best balance of daylight and manageable crowds. The weather is unpredictable, but these months avoid the extreme pressure on local services found during the height of summer.

August is entirely different. The city becomes crowded with visitors for the arts festivals. While the energy is high, navigating the streets becomes difficult and the city feels overwhelmed.

Many visitors underestimate the cold. Even in June, the wind coming off the Firth of Forth can be biting. Bring a windproof layer, as a standard umbrella is often useless against the gusts.

People often assume they can walk everywhere easily. While the city is walkable, the geography is tiring. Use the buses if you plan on going between the shore and the higher points of the city.