Edinburgh and Lothian holiday homes

Why visit Edinburgh and Lothian

• Historic Exploration: Discover centuries-old streets and majestic castles that tell the tale of Scotland's rich heritage.
• Cultural Immersion: Enjoy vibrant city life with historic churches, museums, and cultural festivals.
• Scenic Coastline: Experience the picturesque Lothian coastline with its charming seaside towns and breathtaking views.
• Outdoor Adventures: Engage in diverse activities from city strolls to exploring natural landscapes and parks.
• Heritage Walks: Wander through iconic cityscapes and heritage-rich neighbourhoods, capturing the essence of Edinburgh and Lothian.

Top attractions near Edinburgh and Lothian

Edinburgh and Lothian, Scotland, offers a rich blend of outdoor activities and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore captivating streets, historic churches, and majestic castles, immersing themselves in the city’s vibrant heritage. Whether you’re wandering through the iconic cityscape or enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding areas, there’s something for everyone. This region is perfect for those seeking an adventurous holiday filled with history and stunning landscapes.

• Grassmarket: A vibrant historic area, Grassmarket offers a lively atmosphere with charming outdoor cafés, local shops, and street performers, making it perfect for families and those seeking an outdoor experience.
• Rosslyn Chapel: Renowned for its intricate carvings and rich history, Rosslyn Chapel is a cultural gem that draws visitors interested in art, architecture, and the lore surrounding the Knights Templar.
• Arthur's Seat: This ancient volcano provides breathtaking panoramic views of Edinburgh, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and hikers looking to immerse themselves in stunning natural scenery.

Things to do recommended for couples

Discover the charm of Edinburgh with a romantic stroll along the Royal Mile, followed by a sunset picnic at Arthur's Seat. Enjoy a candlelit dinner in a cosy restaurant, or take a scenic drive through the picturesque Lothians for unforgettable views together.

Things to do recommended for families

Families visiting Edinburgh can explore the fascinating Edinburgh Zoo, home to adorable pandas, and enjoy a thrilling day at the Dynamic Earth, an interactive science centre that brings the planet's history to life with engaging exhibits for all ages.

Things to do recommended for groups

Explore the rich history of Edinburgh with a guided walking tour of the Old Town, or enjoy a whisky tasting experience at a local distillery. For a bit of adventure, consider a group hike up Arthur's Seat for stunning views of the city and beyond.

What do I need to keep in mind when booking a vacation around Edinburgh and Lothian

When planning your trip—whether you're travelling with a group, family, pets, or seeking longer stays—it's important to filter according to your specific needs. Here are some helpful Vrbo booking tips to guide you.

• Traveling to Edinburgh and Lothian with a group: Think about how many bedrooms you'll require, along with features like a complete kitchen or an alfresco area for group get-togethers. Luckily, you can narrow down your search for all these options, and more, on Vrbo.
• Traveling to Edinburgh and Lothian with young kids: Travelling with young children can be quite demanding. It's important to prioritise their comfort and safety, along with ensuring that there are suitable amenities, like a private swimming pool. Additionally, it's wise to think about how close you are to family-friendly attractions.
• Taking your pets with you to Edinburgh and Lothian: For some, a family holiday isn’t complete without their furry companion along for the ride. If that’s you, then have a look at Vrbo properties that welcome pets. Most of these pet-friendly options offer feeding bowls and beds to ensure everyone feels right at home.
• Planning for a long term stay visiting Edinburgh and Lothian: If you're in search of holiday rentals offering discounts for stays of a month or more, you've come to the perfect spot. By using the appropriate filters, you can effortlessly discover and save on monthly rentals. Don't forget to consider adding amenities like a parking space, a well-equipped kitchen, or a private pool to your search criteria as well.

Where to stay near Edinburgh and Lothian

Edinburgh and Lothian offer a unique blend of history and vibrant culture, perfect for your holiday. Explore the stunning Lothian coastline, where picturesque views meet charming seaside towns. The city itself boasts iconic landmarks, rich heritage, and a friendly atmosphere, making it ideal for city breaks. Whether you're strolling through historical streets or enjoying family-friendly attractions, you'll find an idyllic setting that perfectly captures the essence of Scotland's capital region.

• Edinburgh: Edinburgh is a bustling metropolis renowned for its rich cultural and family-friendly attractions. Situated 8km from the heart of Edinburgh and Lothian, this vibrant city offers a unique blend of urban excitement and historical charm. Visitors can immerse themselves in a variety of activities, from exploring well-known shopping areas and engaging in educational outings, to enjoying lively theatre performances. The city's proximity to significant landmarks, including an ancient historic site, a storied street, and a majestic castle, ensures an engaging travel experience for all.
• Old Town Edinburgh: Old Town Edinburgh is a historic neighbourhood that captures the essence of Edinburgh’s cultural heritage. Also located 8km from the central Edinburgh and Lothian area, it invites travellers to enjoy a city-themed, cultural, and family-oriented visit. Its streets are lined with treasured shopping areas, educational venues, and theatres, offering a rich tapestry of experiences. Prominent local attractions include a notable historic site, a charming street, and an event conference venue, each adding to the neighbourhood's captivating atmosphere.
• Bonnyrigg: Bonnyrigg, a welcoming city just 3km from Edinburgh and Lothian, provides a delightful mix of romantic, cultural, and family-friendly experiences. Its accessible attractions include popular shopping districts and well-regarded golf facilities, offering both leisure and sport. Notable landmarks such as an impressive castle, a symbolic landmark, and an event conference venue further enhance Bonnyrigg’s appeal, making it a charming destination for travellers seeking a well-rounded holiday experience.

Best time to go to Edinburgh and Lothian

If you're planning a trip to Edinburgh and Lothian, it's a good idea to check both the weather and property rates. The warmest month is July.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	38.5°F (3.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy
February	39.4°F (4.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy
March	41.5°F (5.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy
April	45.1°F (7.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Cloudy
May	50.0°F (10.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy
June	55.2°F (12.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy
July	58.1°F (14.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy
August	57.4°F (14.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy
September	54.3°F (12.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy
October	49.5°F (9.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy
November	43.5°F (6.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy
December	39.6°F (4.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy

Booking with Vrbo is simple

Looking to save on your next getaway? Consider being flexible with your travel dates since prices can fluctuate. Also, booking a longer stay can often secure you better savings. To help you find the ideal Vrbo property within your budget, make use of our filters to search by price, location, and type of holiday rental.

Vrbo Trips: Planning as easy as it gets

Vrbo's Trip Board offers a handy platform for you to create new trips, continue from where you last stopped, and manage your travel plans. You'll see your saved or booked properties neatly sorted into categories such as Potential, Upcoming, or Current Trips. To begin using Trip Boards, simply visit: https://www.bookabach.co.nz/trips.

**Based on Vrbo properties bookings.

The historical area of Edinburgh and Lothian awaits your stay

The area's history and museums are just some of the reasons to come on holiday to Edinburgh and Lothian. Well known for its local tours, shopping and restaurants, this welcoming city won't disappoint. Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle are just a couple of the must-see attractions. With a holiday rental, you get a home away from home – many rentals offer full kitchens and outdoor grills for some home cooking.

Activities and attractions in and around Edinburgh and Lothian

Do you want to discover top things to see and do in the area? Venture out of your cosy holiday rental and check out everything that Edinburgh and Lothian has to offer. These are some of the top attractions to explore, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city centre:

• Edinburgh Zoo (7 mi / 11.3 km)
• Dalmahoy Golf Course (10.3 mi / 16.5 km)
• Craigielaw Golf Course (11.7 mi / 18.8 km)
• Deep Sea World (13.2 mi / 21.3 km)
• Gullane Golf Course (13.6 mi / 21.9 km)
• Muirfield Golf Course (14.5 mi / 23.3 km)

Exploring the natural landscape of Edinburgh and Lothian

Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or just want to spend some time taking in the scenery, Edinburgh and Lothian is a great place to spend some time outside. These are some of the area's most stunning natural features, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city centre:

• Dalhousie Castle (3.2 mi / 5.1 km)
• Portobello Beach (3.5 mi / 5.6 km)
• Arthur's Seat (3.5 mi / 5.6 km)
• Hillend Country Park (4.2 mi / 6.8 km)
• The Meadows (4.2 mi / 6.8 km)
• Princes Street Gardens (4.8 mi / 7.7 km)

Transport to and around Edinburgh and Lothian

Fly into Edinburgh Airport (EDI), the closest airport, located 10.5 mi (16.9 km) from the city centre.

If you're travelling by train, Shawfair Station, Eskbank Station and Newcraighall Station are the main stations in the city. You can see more of Edinburgh and Lothian by jumping on the metro at St Andrew Square Tram Stop, Princes Street Tram Stop or Balfour Street Tram Stop.