Top 5 Travel Tips for Visiting Edinburgh’s Christmas Markets
By Travel Blogger Mr Plane Guy
Edinburgh is a magical place to be during the holiday season, with its streets transformed into a winter wonderland filled with lights, markets, and festive cheer. The Christmas markets in Edinburgh have something for everyone—from unique stalls and festive food to fun rides and breathtaking decorations. If you're planning to visit, here are my top 5 travel tips to make your Edinburgh Christmas market experience unforgettable!
1. Book The Dome in Advance, A Must-See Christmas Wonderland!
The Dome on George Street is a true showstopper during the Christmas season. With lavish decorations that turn this historic building into a holiday paradise, it's no wonder this place is on everyone’s must-visit list. But with popularity comes demand, so my top tip is to book in advance if you’re hoping to dine here.
The Dome’s main hall and bar areas are decked out with twinkling lights, enormous Christmas trees, and intricate garlands, creating a picture-perfect setting that’s ideal for those Instagram holiday photos. Whether you're looking to enjoy afternoon tea, a festive cocktail, or a holiday meal, this venue is an unforgettable experience. And remember: it fills up fast, so make those reservations as early as you can!
2. Stay at The Roseate Hotel for a Cozy, Festive Atmosphere
If you’re looking for a cozy, stylish place to stay, The Roseate is an excellent choice. This boutique hotel oozes charm and elegance, perfect for a Christmas getaway. The rooms are beautifully decorated, the staff is friendly, and the atmosphere feels festive yet relaxed, making it ideal for unwinding after a day of exploring the markets.
3. Don't Just Stick to Princess Street – Head Over to George Street for More Festive Fun
When people think of Edinburgh’s Christmas markets, they often picture Princess Street Gardens, which is absolutely iconic, with its bustling stalls, festive rides, and beautiful view of Edinburgh Castle. But many people miss out on another great spot: George Street.
George Street is a festive hub that’s just as charming as Princess Street, with its own set of stalls, rides, and holiday lights. The vibe is slightly different, and you’ll find unique stalls that offer everything from artisanal crafts to festive treats. Plus, George Street tends to be a little less crowded, so it’s an excellent option if you want to explore at a more relaxed pace.
From festive ice skating to traditional rides like the Ferris wheel and carousel, George Street offers a bit of everything. So, don’t limit yourself to Princess Street alone; make sure to explore all of the festive areas around the city!
4. Save Big on Travel with Flights from Trip.com – It’s Cheaper Than the Train!
One of the best travel hacks I’ve found for visiting Edinburgh is to look for flights rather than trains, especially if you’re coming from places like London. In fact, I scored a one-way flight for just £10 through Trip.com! The train can be much pricier, especially during the holiday season, so checking flights can be a great way to save money on your trip.
I also have a referral code on my page that’ll get you £10 off your booking—a little extra savings for some extra holiday treats!
5. Don’t Forget to Pack an Umbrella – Be Prepared for Unpredictable Weather
Edinburgh is known for its unpredictable weather, and this is especially true during the winter months. Rain showers can come out of nowhere, so it’s always a good idea to carry an umbrella. You don’t want a downpour to dampen your spirits (or your holiday photos!), and staying prepared will let you explore without worrying about getting soaked.
While there are occasional beautiful, crisp winter days in Edinburgh, having an umbrella on hand means you’re ready for anything.
Edinburgh’s Christmas markets are a magical experience, and with a little planning, you can make the most of your trip. Whether you’re marvelling at The Dome’s decorations, discovering the cozy charm of The Roseate, exploring the stalls on George Street, or snagging a budget flight through Trip.com, there’s so much to see and do.
Happy holidays, and enjoy the festive spirit of Edinburgh!
Hello I’m Paul a Travel and flight expert, I spent most of my career working in and around planes with 15 years providing top-notch service with a London-based airline. I became an expert in travel after soaring across the Atlantic up to 10 times a month!
I’m now, producing travel content, reaching millions of viewers monthly. Reporting on travel news, sharing travel tips, reviews, and deals with a sprinkle of humour and a whole lot of authenticity!
I hope you found Top 5 Travel Tips for Visiting Edinburgh’s Christmas Markets useful do let me know in the comments if you have any questions.
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