Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom? If you're planning to go to Edinburgh, here is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom

Based on the climate and weather in Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom, the best time to go is July. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Edinburgh, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom by month

January

January in Edinburgh can be very chilly. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 30s F (single digits C) to 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Edinburgh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Check that you pick the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to the Museum of Flight, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

February in Edinburgh is brisk. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Edinburgh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Check that you get the necessary type. A lot of adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to the Museum of Flight, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

March in Edinburgh can be brisk. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 40s F (single digits C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Edinburgh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be sure to choose the right kind. Most adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.

If you go to the Museum of Flight, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

April here can be brisk. Temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day. There is frost once in a while. It rains occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Edinburgh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Make sure to pick the necessary kind. A lot of adapters available are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you go to the Museum of Flight, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

May in Edinburgh is chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s F (single digits C), with a few days below 32 F (single digits C). It tends to rain a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Edinburgh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. It's important that you pick the right kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to the Museum of Flight, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

If you vacation in Edinburgh during June, you may find that it is cool. Temperatures tend to hover around the 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 40s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Edinburgh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. It's important that you get the necessary type. The majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

If you go to the Museum of Flight, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

Traveling to Edinburgh in July, you will notice that it is mild. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the high 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Edinburgh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be careful to get the necessary kind. Many adapters available online are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you go to the Museum of Flight, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

If you vacation in Edinburgh during August, you will probably see that it is mild. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 60s F (high 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (low 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Edinburgh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Make sure to get the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you go to the Museum of Flight, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

September in Edinburgh is cool. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Edinburgh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Check that you find the necessary type. A lot of adapters available are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

If you go to the Museum of Flight, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

October in Edinburgh is cool. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C), although night temperatures can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Edinburgh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to get the correct type. Most adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to the Museum of Flight, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

If you are traveling to Edinburgh in November, you will notice that it is brisk. Expect it to rain about a third of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the high 40s F (single digits C). There is frost about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Edinburgh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be careful to find the correct type. Many adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you go to the Museum of Flight, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

If you visit Edinburgh during December, you may find that it is cold. Temperatures tend to hover around the 40s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 30s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about a third of the time. There is frost about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Edinburgh. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be careful to find the right kind. A lot of adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you go to the Museum of Flight, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom

Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland, is a vibrant and cultural city that attracts millions of visitors each year. Edinburgh is known for its hilly terrain, Royal roots, and historic buildings. There are many top tourist attractions in Edinburgh and we have made a list of the top ones for you.

1. Edinburgh Castle:

Located on a hilltop, Edinburgh Castle is a historical fortress that looks over the city. It has been in place since the 12th century and has played a significant role in Scottish history. You can take a guided tour and explore the castle's many features such as the Great Hall, the Royal Palace, and the Scottish National War Museum.

2. The Royal Mile:

The Royal Mile is a famous street that is located in the heart of Edinburgh's Old Town. The mile-long street connects Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. The Royal Mile is famous for its many and varied shops, restaurants, and historical buildings. You can take a guided tour of the Royal mile and learn about its rich history.

3. Holyroodhouse Palace:

Holyroodhouse Palace is located at the end of the Royal Mile and is the official residence of the Queen when she visits Scotland. The Palace has been in place since the 16th century and played a significant role in Scotland's history. You can take a tour of the Palace and explore its many rooms and corridors.

4. St Giles Cathedral:

St Giles Cathedral is a beautiful medieval church that is located on the Royal Mile. The Cathedral has a rich history and is a popular attraction for tourists. You can take a guided tour of the Cathedral and learn about its unique architecture.

5. The National Museum of Scotland:

The National Museum of Scotland is one of the most popular attractions in the city. It is located in the heart of the city and has a vast collection of historical artifacts, exhibitions, and interactive displays. You can spend hours exploring the Museum and learn about the history of Scotland.

6. Arthur's Seat:

For those who enjoy a recreational climb, Arthur's Seat is the perfect place to visit. It is a hill located in Holyrood Park, and it offers stunning views of the city. The climb to the top of Arthur's Seat is a moderate one, and it is a very popular tourist attraction.

7. Edinburgh Dungeon:

Edinburgh Dungeon is an exciting attraction that offers a glimpse into the city's darker side. The Dungeon provides an immersive experience where you can see, hear, and feel the darker history of Edinburgh. It is recommended to book your tickets ahead of time as the Dungeon is a very popular attraction.

8. The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh:

The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is a beautiful location that is perfect for those who love plants and nature. The garden has a vast collection of plants from around the world, and visitors can explore the gardens on foot. The Garden is free to enter and is an excellent attraction for families.

In conclusion, Edinburgh is a beautiful city that offers a wide range of attractions for tourists. Whether you want to explore the city's history, enjoy its natural beauty or learn about Scottish culture, Edinburgh has something for everyone. Ensure that you add these top tourist attractions to your itinerary when you visit Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Toyama, Japan, Saariselkä, Finland, Wauchula, Florida, United States of America, Kharagpur, India, Bombinhas, Santa Catarina, Brazil, Williamsburg, Kentucky, United States of America, Leivathos, Greece, Viruveedu, India, Jilin, China, Khasan, Russia, and Davenport, Iowa, United States of America.