How Safe is Edinburgh for Travellers?

Edinburgh is known for being a safe and vibrant city, enticing travellers from all over. It manages to be a great destination for both locals and tourists alike, although is it really as safe as people think? Here we will examine the safety of Edinburgh for travellers, so that those visiting can be fully informed and prepared for their trip.

Crime Rates

It’s fair to say that the crime rate in Edinburgh is quite low, both in comparison to the rest of Scotland, and to similar cities of similar sizes in the UK. According to the most recent information released by the Scottish Government, the total number of crimes in Edinburgh was 41,951 recorded in 2019 – a 10% reduction from 2018.

When compared to other areas such as Glasgow (which had a total of 107,702 recorded crimes in 2019) and Dundee (23,517 recorded crimes in 2019) this puts Edinburgh on the lower end of the scale when it comes to crime rates. Although there is a much greater level of urbanisation in Edinburgh than some other Scottish cities such as Inverness, Fife or Aberdeen, the most dangerous areas tend to reside more in the outskirts away from the centre. That said, certain precautions should still always be taken.

Personal Safety

Edinburgh is relatively safe during the day and there is no need for concern if exploring the bustling city centre during daylight hours – there is a heavy police presence and CCTV cameras throughout to combat any potentially dangerous activity.

At night however, it is highly recommended that travellers take extra precautions. The Old Town area of the city should be avoided in particular if travelling late at night as you may come across those engaging in illegal activities such as drug use or drinking — although rare. It’s advisable that any valuables are not taken here at night, and always be sure to only use reputable taxi services, or walk large groups if travelling around late at night.

We suggest travelling in groups, as this can be a great way to ensure you are not easily targeted by troublemakers. It is also advised that visitors do not wear expensive jewellery or other items that may attract unwanted attention.

Overall, Edinburgh should be considered a generally safe place to travel to and the people of Edinburgh are friendly and welcoming — although certain areas should be avoided at certain times of the day. We do however recommend increase vigilance and taking proactive steps against potential risks to ensure a safe trip throughout your stay.

An Insider’s Guide to Safe Travel in Edinburgh

Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland, is a great tourism destination for its World Heritage Site architecture, museums, cultural festivals, and fine dining experiences. Visitors can indulge in traditional Scottish cuisine, learn about the rich history of the city, or just enjoy the natural beauty of the city. However, like any major tourist destination, safety is an important concern for travellers visiting Edinburgh.

Understanding Safety in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a safe city with low crime rates, making it one of the safest cities in the U.K. However, like all major cities, it is necessary to stay alert when walking around at night. The Royal Mile is a popular area, and pickpocket incidents have been reported, so it’s essential to be watchful of handbags and pockets.

Main Tourist Attractions

Edinburgh Castle is undoubtedly the main tourist attraction of the city, perched on a hill offering fantastic views across the city. Visitors can take guided tours to learn more about the castle’s rich history. There are also many other famous landmarks, including St Giles’ Cathedral, The Palace of Holyroodhouse or Arthur’s Seat, the volcanic hill located just east of the city’s centre.

Dining Spots

Edinburgh has a diverse culinary scene, and there are many great restaurants to choose from with a variety of dishes. Visitors can indulge in traditional Scottish cuisine at restaurants like The Kitchin, Rhubarb, or The Tower, or go for a more contemporary dining experience at locations such as The Scran and Scallie or Castle Terrasse.

Cultural Experiences

Edinburgh is famously known as the Festival City, with year-round festivals for every interest from dance, literature, and theatre to music and comedy. Moreover, The Scottish Parliament and the National Museum of Scotland are also must-visits for those who want to learn more about the cultural and political history of Edinburgh and the country as a whole.

Local History

Edinburgh’s history dates back to the Bronze Age, with evidence of human settlements dating back to 8500 BC. Visitors can learn more about this rich history by visiting Edinburgh’s Old Town, where they can get a peek into the city’s medieval past with must-see locations like the Grassmarket, the Hunterian Museum, and the Greyfriars Kirkyard.

Off-the-Beaten Path Suggestions

For visitors looking to venture off-the-beaten-track, exploring the Calton Hill or Dean Village, both of which offer stunning views of the city’s skyline, is a good idea. Walking along the Water of Leith walkway towards Stockbridge is also a unique experience. Additionally, for a feel of an old-time Scotland, the village of Cramond has a rich history that’s worth exploring.

In conclusion, Edinburgh is a fantastic travel destination with plenty to offer visitors in terms of amazing experiences. By keeping safety measures in mind, you can ensure that your stay in the city is safe and enjoyable. With such an intricate mix of history, architecture and culture, Edinburgh should definitely be on every savvy traveler’s list!