Top Tips For Planning an Edinburgh Staycation
Who’s thinking ahead to summer holidays? We are! And it’s very likely you’ll be thinking about planning a trip. Hopefully you are considering a trip to Scotland, and maybe a visit to Edinburgh. With a rich history, colourful festivals, vibrant restaurants and bars, lots of open green spaces and a Castle - all within walking distance - Edinburgh should definitely be on your staycation list for a visit in 2021.
And we’re here to help. Here are our top tips for planning a staycation in Scotland’s capital city, Edinburgh.
Where to stay
You’re spoilt for choice with boutique and budget hotels, airbnb, hostels and apartments. Staycity Aparthotels in the Grassmarket and St Giles Apartments on the Royal Mile, are in the heart of the action, offering self-catering and a home-from-home experience. If hotels are more your thing check out Raddison Collection or Apex Hotels both offering views up to Edinburgh Castle. The exceptional Hotel du Vin, only a 10min walk to Camera Obscura, is offering all our visitors 10% off accomodation. Check out our Discount Partners page to find out more.
Getting here
Edinburgh Waverley Train Station is directly in the centre of town and welcomes trains from destinations all over the UK. Edinburgh Bus Station is also within walking distance of many hotels, shops and restaurants, making it easy to plan your stay. Though it might not look like it to the naked eye, a lot of Edinburgh hotels and accommodation do offer parking, so make sure to ask when booking if this is your preferred method of travel. At Camera Obscura we offer visitors discounted parking with our nearest NCP Car Park, a 10-minute walk away from the attraction. Check out our Getting Here page with more information.
Thirsty and Hungry?
Of course you are! Exploring and having fun or relaxing and having a well earned break all builds an appetite.
Edinburgh has small independent coffee shops on every corner, meaning you can pop in for a quick take-away Earl Grey and croissant or sit-down for something more substantial. Evening meals are likely to need a reservation but with an abundance of choice, we don’t think you’ll have any problem getting your favourite burger at Byron or a plate of wings at Nando’s. And if you’re more on the thirsty side, enjoy a relaxing glass of wine at Ecco Vino or a craft beer at Cold Town House, each with stunning views of historic Edinburgh streets, the perfect spots for people watching and catching-up with friends.
Things to do
You may think you know Edinburgh, or if you’re local think that the city is just for tourists. Not so! This is the perfect time to explore what’s on your doorstep. This summer could be the first time you can see Dolly the Sheep at the National Museum of Scotland up-close or see the firing of the One O’clock Gun from Edinburgh Castle.
There are many hidden gems, such as a walking tour with Mercat Tours, which will lead you down closes and vennels you’ve never even noticed before on your daily commute and visit to Greyfriars Kirk to hear the real stories of Church’s past.
And of course, we’d love you to come and visit us at Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, Edinburgh’s oldest purpose built visitor attraction, if you didn’t know (see, and you thought you knew Edinburgh!).
