Things To Do In Edinburgh In January

Edinburgh is a city full of history, culture and beauty. Located in Scotland in the UK, it is one of the most popular destinations in the world and January is a great time to visit the city. Whether it’s a weekend away or a week-long stay, Edinburgh has lots to offer the traveller who is looking for something a little different. Below are some of the best things to do in Edinburgh in January.

Visit Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, and a visit here is a must for any visitor to the city. The castle is perched atop an extinct volcano and offers stunning views of the city below. The castle is open all year round, and in January you can enjoy the sights without the larger crowds of the summer months. You can take a guided tour of the castle, which will take you to the historical points of interest and provide you with an informative insight into the castle’s history. There are also regular events held at the castle, such as the popular One o’Clock Gun which is fired daily at 1pm.

Explore the Old Town

The Old Town of Edinburgh is a must-see for any visitor to the city. This ancient part of the city is full of historical sights, buildings, and cobbled streets. Among the highlights of the Old Town are the Royal Mile, a street that runs from Edinburgh Castle down to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and Edinburgh’s famous Grassmarket, which is the site of a weekly market. The Old Town also boasts a range of independent shops, cafes and restaurants, as well as some of the city’s best nightlife.

Visit the National Museum of Scotland

The National Museum of Scotland is one of the city’s most popular attractions and is a great place to get a sense of Scotland’s history and culture. The museum is full of fascinating exhibits and displays, from archaeology to natural history and from art to science. There are also interactive displays and activities for children, making it a great place for families to explore. The museum is free to visit, and with its central location it’s easy to get to.

Visit Arthur’s Seat

Arthur’s Seat is a hill in the heart of the city and offers stunning views of Edinburgh and beyond. The hill is the tallest peak in the city and it can be reached by a short walk from the centre. The walk is fairly easy and not too strenuous, and provides some great views of the city. On a clear day you can even see as far as the Firth of Forth.

Go Shopping

Edinburgh is a great destination for shoppers, with a range of independent shops, boutiques and department stores. The city centre is home to some of the biggest names in the retail industry, including John Lewis, House of Fraser and Harvey Nichols. There are also a range of independent shops and boutiques, including Edinburgh’s famous Royal Mile, which is full of souvenir shops and craft stores. For those looking for something a bit different, there are also a range of vintage and antique shops in the city.

Take a Ghost Tour

Edinburgh is known for its rich history and culture, and one of the best ways to experience this is to take a ghost tour. These tours take you around some of the city’s spookiest sites, such as the underground vaults and the Edinburgh Vaults. The tours are led by experienced guides who tell the stories and legends of the city, and offer a unique insight into Edinburgh’s past.

Enjoy the Nightlife

Edinburgh is renowned for its vibrant and energetic nightlife. There are a range of pubs and clubs in the city, from traditional Scottish pubs to modern bars and clubs. The city centre is home to some of the biggest and best nightlife venues, including the famous Cabaret Voltaire and the legendary Whistlebinkies. There are also plenty of live music venues, from small intimate bars to larger venues, where you can enjoy a range of music from traditional Scottish music to modern indie.

See a Show

Edinburgh has long been a cultural hub, and the city has a great selection of shows and performances for visitors to enjoy. In January, the city hosts the popular Edinburgh International Festival, which features a range of international acts from theatre, music and comedy. There are also a range of smaller theatres and venues, such as the Traverse Theatre, which host a range of plays and performances throughout the year.

Visit Museums and Art Galleries

Edinburgh is home to a range of museums and art galleries, which are a great way to explore the city’s history and culture. The National Museum of Scotland is a must-see for visitors to the city and has a range of interesting exhibits and displays. The National Gallery of Scotland is another popular attraction and houses a huge collection of artwork from some of the world’s most renowned artists. There are also a range of smaller independent galleries and museums, which are a great opportunity to explore the city’s culture and history.

Explore Outdoors

Edinburgh is a great place to explore outdoors. The city is surrounded by countryside and forests, which are great for exploring on foot or on a bike. There are a number of trails throughout the city, including the popular Pentland Hills and the Water of Leith Walkway. There are also a number of parks in the city, such as Princes Street Gardens and the Meadows, which are great for a peaceful afternoon stroll.

Conclusion

Edinburgh is a city full of history, culture, and beauty, and January is a great time to explore the city. There are a range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy, from visiting historical landmarks to exploring the great outdoors. With its vibrant nightlife, a range of museums and galleries, and a great selection of shops, Edinburgh is a great destination for those looking for something a little different. Whether you’re looking for a weekend away or a week-long stay, Edinburgh has something for everyone.