day trip to edinburgh xmas market

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Edinburgh Christmas Markets and Winter Festivals

Edinburgh at Christmas time is truly magical! Each year Edinburgh's Christmas and Edinburgh's Hogmanay come up with an exciting array of events to get everyone in the mood for the holiday season. Scotland's capital is a fanastic place to visit at any time of year, but we think there's something extra special about the city during the festive season.

View of Edinburgh Castle and Edinburgh's Christmas from the Scott Monument

What's on this Christmas?

Edinburgh’s Christmas will see a whole host of events, festivities, markets and shows in 2024, bringing the city to life for the most wonderful time of the year.

Castle of Light

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

The Castle of Light

Taking place from late November to early January, The Castle of Light  returns to Scotland's most popular attraction to light up your winter nights and dazzle the whole family with extraordinary light displays across Edinburgh Castle’s walls.

Torchlight Procession

The much-loved Torchlight Procession returns for 2024, kickstarting the city’s renowned Hogmanay celebrations on 29 December. Beginning at the Meadows, the procession will weave its way through the historic Old Town where the streets will come to life with street theatre and fire performers, pipe bands, drummers and the Vikings from Shetland’s South Mainland Up Helly Aa’ Jarl Squad.

A couple browse the stalls at Edinburgh's Christmas markets

© VisitScotland / Peter Dibdin

East Princes Street Gardens Christmas Market

Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic city centre, with stunning views of Edinburgh Castle, the Scott Monument, and the city’s iconic skyline, East Princes Street Gardens hosts the free to enter traditional Christmas Market. Featuring around 70 stalls with some of the best local and international producers selling everything from handmade gifts, bespoke products, to tasty treats and delicious drinks. East Princes Street Gardens will also be home to the Big Wheel, Scotland’s largest ferris-wheel standing at 46m tall, offering a unique perspective of the city. The top of East Princes Street Gardens will also see the Forth 1 Big Wheel, Star Flyer, Helter Skelter and Techno Power.

Explore East Princes Street Gardens

West Princes Street Gardens Family Funfair

West Princes Street Gardens will be a free to enter family-friendly zone this year, complete with funfair rides and attractions, as well as festive food and drink stalls and numerous warming zones where you can cosy up with a delicious hot chocolate or seasonal mulled wine. You can also enjoy the Ross Bandstand which boasts a festive programme of family-friendly live events, including live choirs, ceilidhs, silent discos, Edinburgh Diwali: Festival of Light, Santa Paws and the Santa Fun Run. 

Visit West Princes Street Gardens

St Andrew Square Winter Garden

Santa Claus is back in town this Christmas! Santa and some very helpful elves will be tucked away in St Andrew Square ready to welcome the wee ones for a magical Christmas experience. Santa’s Stories is a magical storytelling experience where each child gets the opportunity to meet Santa, learn the importance of giving, as well as receiving a gift of their own. The spirit of giving continues with Social Bite’s Festival of Kindness, with the 10m tall Tree and Gift Donation point, dedicated to spreading goodwill to those who need it most. 

Enjoy St Andrew Square

George Street West & Castle Street

George Street will be home to the spectacular Edinburgh’s Christmas Ice Rink, a vital part of any Christmas visit. This year’s rink will be be undercover, allowing visitors to enjoy the majestic Georgian skyline of Edinburgh’s New Town from the ice. Once you've skated your way around the rink, warm up with a hot drink or treat from food stalls in the George Street warming zone. Why not hop on one of the traditional fairground rides, including a double carousel, or wander through the Artisan Christmas Market, or get those last minute christmas gift from Edinburgh’s shopping scene.

Explore George Street

Up Helly Aa Viking during Edinburgh's Torchlight Procession at Hogmanay

Edinburgh's Hogmanay Street Party

On the 31 December, the party begins at  Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Street Party . Get ready to dance the night away into the wee small hours at the  Concert in the Gardens  where you’ll see some of the biggest artists take centre-stage. Other artists and musicians will be announced soon, but previous stars have included PULP, Paolo Nutini, Pet Shop Boys, Biffy Clyro and Primal Scream. 

Plan a winter break to Edinburgh

Edinburgh Castle viewed from Salisbury Crags

Discover Edinburgh this Christmas

Whether you fancy a romantic winter getaway for two, a family holiday around all the best attractions and sites, or you're just looking to get in the Christmas spirit, there's plenty to keep everyone occupied.

Plan your winter break in Edinburgh with city-view accommodation, succulent fine dining experiences, quirky bars for a tipple or two, free attractions the kids will love, plenty of shopping opportunities and much more.

Need more winter holiday inspiration?

Fun Things to Do in Scotland in December

Explore VisitScotland's top tips on fun things to see and do in December.

9 Reasons to Choose Scotland For Your January Break

From stunning winter landscapes to amazing events and festivals, discover why Scotland is the perfect place for your January break!

9 Reasons to Choose Scotland for Your February Break

February is a month full of magic in Scotland, with romance around every corner, snow on the hills, and lots of fun things to do

5 Fantastic Christmas and Winter Break Ideas in Scotland

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Edinburgh Christmas Markets

Visit the Christmas markets in Edinburgh by luxury train

Take a luxury train journey to see Edinburgh's fabulous Christmas markets on the Northern Belle vintage train. Your journey will begin in true style as you are welcomed aboard this vintage train with a Champagne reception. Raise your glass to an enjoyable day ahead and take to your extremely comfortable armchair seat, ready for the first fantastic culinary experience of the day. Your stewards will begin to serve you a delicious three-course brunch along with teas and coffees as you watch the world pass by your window.

You shall arrive in the Scottish capital at approximately mid-day, you will have plenty of time to explore the Edinburgh Christmas markets, taste some of the treats on offer and view some of the crafted gifts. Whilst in Edinburgh at Christmas, you should also take the time to see the Winter Wonderland in the centre of the city, it's a super experience at this festive time of the year.

The Northern Belle will be waiting for you at the station ready to welcome you with a Champagne drinks reception. Then it's back to your armchair ready to enjoy the journey back. As your return journey gets underway, the Northern Belle stewards will serve you a delightful, four-course dinner, which will be accompanied by the sommelier's selected bottle of wine.

Included in the Northern Belle Edinburgh Christmas Market journey...

• Return journey aboard the Northern Belle vintage train
• Welcome champagne reception
• A fine dining three-course brunch on the outward journey
• Teas and coffee
• Time to explore Edinburgh Christmas markets* at your leisure
• Champagne reception back on board
• Sumptuous four-course dinner
• Bottle of wine per couple selected by the sommelier
• Coffee, tea and petits fours

*The dates of the Christmas markets have yet to be released, it may be the case that this journey will be too early to visit the Christmas Markets, please bear that in mind when booking.

The carriages are made up of tables of two and tables of four. The private tables for two are very popular and therefore sell out quickly. Please see the table configurations for bookings of two passengers below:

Choose your date & book:

Limited availability.

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34 Festive Things to Do in Edinburgh in Winter

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Bustling Edinburgh’s Christmas Market in Princes Street Gardens, George Street lights illuminate the midnight blue sky and The Dome’s towering tree of varying colours. Keep reading to find out the ultimate list of festive things to do in Edinburgh in winter for locals and tourists alike. Why don’t you stay a little longer and experience the world’s biggest New Year’s Eve party too? Edinburgh has three days of events celebrating Hogmanay.

Why trust us? I’m Gemma, a local. I love Edinburgh at Christmas. The smells, the skating, the shopping and the celebration!

You may also like our guides to the  best places to see decor and lights ,  festive menus and Christmas dinner , and  Christmas hotels in Edinburgh .

Edinburgh in Winter Activities and Events

1. edinburgh christmas market.

Start at the top of the world-famous (East) Princes Street Gardens and prepare for sensory overload – sounds, smells, and tastes from around Europe.

You can enter the market by The Royal Scottish Academy or the North Bridge.

Warm up with mulled wine, deluxe hot chocolate, and even hot toddies as you wander through the vendors.

Street food ranges from Scottish venison burgers to spiral potato fries on a stick.

Probably one of the most identifiable landmarks in the market is the Big Wheel.

Soar 60 metres in the air above the shops, trams, and Christmas huts.

For rides, you need to purchase tickets at the ticket huts before you wait in line.

Running from 17 November to 6 January, the market opens from 10 am to 10 pm every day.

If you can, avoid the weekends as the line goes as far back as Waverley Train Station and then some.

If you want to be close to the Christmas mayhem but not in it, head to the National Galleries cafe for the floor-to-ceiling views of the market.

2. Cocktails at Twenty Twenty

A wee hidden gem across from the Waverley Train Station, Twenty Twenty’s windows span the city!

Watch the Star Flyer while you sip on a Strawberries and Steam or classic cocktail.

3. The Dome Cocktails (George Street)

When The Dome winds its lights around its Graeco-Roman façade pillars, you know the festive period has started in Edinburgh. It is a tradition for many locals to grab a cocktail underneath the bar-to-ceiling tree.

The Dome also puts on a magical afternoon tea with seasonal sandwiches, warm scones, Christmas pies, and a selection of sweet treats.

Everyone talks about the Christmas scent that fills this institution! Good luck finding out what is in that magical potion. 

In previous years, George Street, where The Dome is located, has been partly closed off for festivities and light shows, and while parking is free in the evening, it is near impossible to find a space.

The Dome is featured in our guide to the best Christmas dinners in Edinburgh .

4. Christmas Lights Switch On

Kick off the festivities at Light Night as choir songs fill the air.

Previous locations include George Street and the Royal Mile.

5. Edinburgh Diwali: Festival of Light

Celebrate Diwali in Edinburgh this winter.

The event starts with a parade from St Andrew Square to Princes Street, then an afternoon packed with dance and music at the iconic Ross Bandstand.

Food will also be served, and the day ends with a fireworks display in the gardens.

6. Ice Skating at George Street

Get your hired skates on and fly through the New Town at the George Street ice rink.

Skates start from child size nine are available from the skate hire shop and included in the price of the ticket.

Book your skating time slot here .

7. Edinburgh Botanical Gardens Light Trail

Music, lasers, water reflections, and the tunnel of light, Royal Botanic Garden (Arboretum Pl).

This popular thing to do in Edinburgh in December gets busy. You can actually book your tickets now.

8. Edinburgh Castle at Christmas

Forget a Game of Thrones feast with horror and tragedy and enjoy an Edinburgh Castle Christmas afternoon tea instead!

Lunch is served in the opulent Queen Anne Room, fit for royalty.

9. Meet Santa in Edinburgh

Have you been a good kid this year?

Santa wants to meet you!

Book a breakfast, lunch, or just a meet and greet at one of the popular grottos.

Read the full guide on Santa grottos in Edinburgh .

10. Be Amazed by the Christmas Decor and Lights

Watch Rose Street, George Street, Cockburn Street, and alike twinkle as they are transformed from blank canvasses to free Christmas shows.

See Christmas colours at historic restaurants, modern bars, and busy shops.

We have a full guide on the best places to see deco and lights .

11. Stay in a Festive Hotel

Feel like you are on the set of a Hollywood classic movie at one of Edinburgh’s Christmas hotels where no money is spared for festivities.

12. Walk up Calton Hill

Ok, not very festive, but you do get magic views of the city all lit up.

The walk up Calton Hill is relatively easy and close to Princess Street.

You might just get some snow.

13. Hike Arthur’s Seat

A very popular Edinburgh activity throughout the year is the short hike up Arthur’s Seat.

It doesn’t matter that it is touristy because the views are worth it.

A great cobweb blower if you’ve had a bit too much the night ‘afore.

See also our guide to walks in Edinburgh .

14. Silent Disco Adventure Tour

I’ve now done the silent disco tour around Edinburgh twice. Once at Christmas and once for a fitness class.

It is such a laugh. You get given headsets that tune into the same frequency, and an enthusiastic guide coordinates a routine around Edinburgh’s landmarks.

Expect song battles, cheeky dance-offs to Mariah, and lots of public snap-shaming.

It is super popular (runs throughout the year and is always sold out during the Fringe), so book before it is too late.

15. Catch a Panto

He’s behind you! Oh no, he isn’t.

Pantomime shows are engrained in Scottish Christmas tradition.

Catch a show with the family at many of Edinburgh’s theatres and community centres. 

Expect goodies, baddies, talking animals, and a whole lot of crowd participation.

16. See a Christmas Show

If panto isn’t your thing, if you are child-free, I don’t blame you, then check out one of the festive shows running from November through to January. 

Musicals, ballet, and plays dominate the King’s Theatre, Edinburgh Playhouse, and The Festival Theatre.

17. Watch a Festive Film

Honestly, Edinburgh has two of the most charming film houses, the vintage Cameo on Home Street and Morningside’s Dominion.

You can even buy some alcoholic drinks with your snacks at the Dominion.

Chill with your partner on the comfortable seats, one of the romantic things to do in Edinburgh in December.

Giving the above a run for their money is the decadent Scotsman Picturehouse.

18. Watch a Festive Film in a Pub

Get comfy at the Brass Monkey film room, where you can lounge on thick mattresses while you sip on a beer and enjoy a seasonal movie.

Student discount is available, making this a perfect cheap thing to do this winter in Edinburgh for students before they go off on Christmas break.

19. Go Christmas Shopping in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is great for shopping any time of year, but especially at Christmas.

High street names can be found at St James Quarter, Princes Street, and Ocean Terminal in Leith .

At OT, check out The Leith Collective for gifts made by locals.

You can also find independent stores on Cockburn Street on the way to the Royal Mile and in Stockbridge and Bruntsfield.

Commercial shop sales often start just before Christmas if you are looking for some bargains at St. James Quarter.

Edinburgh’s Christmas market stalls actually sell some independent brands, so you can shop locally there too.

20. The Royal Boat Britannia at Christmas

Deck the deck with balls of holly…

Docked at Ocean Terminal, Her Majesty’s Yacht Britannia is the former royal yacht of the British monarch, Queen Elizabeth II, and damn those royals know how to decorate their sea home.

Read our guide to the RYB here .

21. Take That Insta Pic on Circus Lane

Circus Lane is cute every day of the year but super cute at Christmas.

The Insta-famous mews can be found in the New Town, wrapped up in green shrubbery with splashes of red bows.

22. Do the Santa Run

Make some space for the turkey and chocolates to come by running the 2.5K Santa Fun Run around West Princess Street Gardens.

This event is for charity; infants run free.

Did I mention you have to wear a Santa outfit?!

Remember to take your outfit home; there was an uproar about the mess left in previous years.

23. Eat a Traditional Turkey Meal

No, Scots don’t eat haggis at Christmas! Traditionally meals include turkey, sometimes ham, potatoes, vegetables, and everyone’s seasonal favourite, pigs in blankets. These wee cheeky fellas are sausages wrapped up in bacon. Delicious.

Christmas meals can be found at many of the Edinburgh hotels and restaurants .

24. Rooftop Rendezvous

Make it a date night or grab your pals for drinks at one of the many Edinburgh rooftop and beer garden bars , with heating, of course!

Drink with views of Edinburgh Castle at Cold Town House or Nor’ Loft.

25. Gorge on a Monster Marshmallow Hot Chocolate

The Marshmallow Lady makes crazy marshmallows and serves them in extravagant hot chocolate cups for takeout enjoyment.

Warm up with a toasted gourmet marshmallow the size of your palm plopped into a warm pool of hot chocolate.

There are also packs of marshmallows available at the shop in Bonnington (14 Rodney Street).

Highly recommend 10/10!

This is close to the Botanic Gardens, so you could combine a visit to their light show with a take-out hot chocolate.

26. Get a Buzz From a Hot Toddy

Even if you don’t like whisky, you might like a hot toddy.

It’s akin to a hug in a mug and is thought of as medicinal in many Scottish households!

Ingredients include hot water, whiskey, honey, and lemon.

Most whisky pubs have hot toddies on their menu by autumn when the temperatures drop or you can buy your own kits and make them at home.

Reading this abroad? Check out this hot toddy cocktail kit from Etsy.

Alternatively, go straight for the hard stuff and learn about Scotland’s national drink at the Scotch Whisky Experience .

27. Warm Up With Whisky

If this is your first visit to Scotland, you won’t want to miss an educational 4D tour of The Scotch Whisky Experience Tour and Tasting.

During the visit, you learn about the country’s whisky-producing regions, how the water of life is created, and a visit to the world’s largest collections of Scotch whisky.

See Edinburgh through new eyes after this whisky-tasting session, ha!

Reserve your ticket here .

28. The Johnnie Walker Whisky Experience

One of Edinburgh’s most popular attractions, The Johnnie Walker Whisky Experience, whisks you through the brand history using actors to tell its story, tests your personal preference using science and technology, and introduces you to whisky or high balls if you prefer some mixology.

This tour is not to be missed by first-time visitors; I don’t even like whisky but enjoyed it immensely.

29. Celebrate Hanukkah

Keep an eye on the Chabad of Edinburgh website for Festival of Lights updates in the city.

Special Mention: Jenner’s Christmas Tree

The Jenner’s tree, which was erected in-store by a team who harnessed the tree upright and then scaled the branches to put on the light and decorations, will be missed.

Here’s a video of what it looked like.

Edinburgh at Hogmanay

30. edinburgh torchlight procession.

Of course, the holiday season in Scotland only begins with Christmas.

The real partying starts in the run-up to New Year.

One experience loved by tourists is the Edinburgh Torchlight Procession on 29 December.

For the Procession, you purchase a fire and waxed-based torch with your ticket .

During the event, you walk with thousands of fellow torchbearers, pipers, drummers, and Vikings!

Regardless of how many times I hear the pipe band, the hairs of my neck still stand on end when the drums do their intro and the pipes whining kicks in.

The meeting point is The Meadows, and the lit parade walks through the Old Town.

I’m going to be honest here, I did the Procession, and I found that it was more waiting around than walking.

First of all, you wait in line to collect the torch; then, you wait to move on to the next section.

Once you are in place, you wait for your torch to be lit. Then you wait to walk.

Finally, the fun begins when you get to walk behind a local pipe band.

Glad I did it, don’t think I’d do it again.

Let us know your experience in the comments!

31. Night Afore

Filling the gap between the Torchlight Procession and Hogmanay, Night Afore events are scheduled throughout the city to keep folks entertained the night before!

Previous acts have included Paisley-born Paolo Nutini in the Princes Street Gardens.

This event is great for people who want to celebrate in Edinburgh this winter but can’t face the NYE crowds.

32. Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Street Party

Join Edinburgh for the world’s greatest street party! To really understand how to party Scottish style, get ready to ceilidh with strangers, party in the park, and make a new pal or two the bells. 

Beginning at 9pm, expect live acts in Princess Street Gardens, Scottish music and dance in the Tartan Zone, and some hilarious silent disco moves too.

As the bells welcome in the New Year, get ready for a firework display and belt out Auld Lang Syne!

33. Candlelit Concert at St. Giles’ Cathedral

For a more chilled yet still atmospheric Hogmanay, consider the city’s candlelit concert hosted by St. Giles’ Cathedral on the Royal Mile.

The event features a host of sopranos, tenors, and the St Giles’ Cathedral choir.

34. Loony Dook

On the 1st of January, visitors and some locals traditionally used to celebrate the new year by running into the Firth of Forth waters with the Forth Bridges as company.

The official event no longer runs, but there will be plenty of wild swimmers all over Scotland making a splash at the likes of Portobello (Edinburgh), Aberdour (Fife), and Gullane (East Lothian).

Check out our guide to Edinburgh beaches for more.

Weather in Edinburgh in Winter

Edinburgh’s weather in December and January is cold and sees dark mornings and evenings.

Sunset is around 4-4:30pm. While snow is unlikely, days can be damp and wet.

Pack accordingly because there is no such thing as bad weather in Scotland, just bad clothing!

If you are lucky, you will get to enjoy crisp mornings and glorious East Coast sunrises.

Expect temperatures as low as 1 degree Celsius and highs of a staggering 7!

Winters are getting milder, though, so it is not uncommon to see highs of 12 -degree Celsius on weather apps.

If you plan to travel out of Edinburgh to do a day trip or road trip , take the shorter days and seasonal opening times into consideration.

Edinburgh in Winter Packing List

• Layers such as cardigans and pullover sweaters or jumpers, as we call them in Scotland
• Tights with skirts and dresses
• Avoid denim if you can as it’s not pleasant when wet and takes an age to dry
• Waterproof coat\jacket and a padded warm coat
• Waterproof shoes or boots and trainers without air holes
• Hats, gloves, and scarf
• Umbrellas are a pain when windy
• Refillable water bottle – you can drink the water here
• Tote bags for shopping – bags are 5p in Scotland
• Camera! So much beauty to snap
• Anker battery packs for an extra charge on phones US / UK
• Hydration tablets for hangovers US / UK

Christmas Day in Edinburgh

The 25th (Christmas) and 26th (Boxing) of December and the 1st (New Year’s Day) and 2nd of January are official public holidays in Edinburgh which means there will be little to no activity around the city.

On Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, public buses run on a very limited timetable which you can access at the Lothian Buses website .

Trains do not run at all. Taxis will be difficult to find and will charge public holiday prices.

On Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, the main things that will be open will be:

• Hotels that serve Christmas lunch/dinner – reserve while booking a stay
• Chinese/Indian restaurants who do not celebrate Christmas
• Local convenience stores that do not celebrate Christmas
• Some pubs may be open on the 1st

Edinburgh attractions such as Edinburgh Castle, Botanics, Holyrood Palace, and museums will be closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day, re-opening on January 1st and 2nd.

Boxing Day used to be a big shopping day, it is less so now, but most major brands will open Sunday/holiday hours.

If staying in an apartment, get your grocery shop done before Christmas Day and enjoy the city to yourself!

Edinburgh Travel Information

Getting to edinburgh.

If you arrive by air, the airport is a short ride from the city centre. There are a few ways to get into Edinburgh, and it’s a good idea to have this planned before you arrive. 

• Edinburgh Airlink: This is a bus that offers free wifi and comfortable seating. Located just outside the terminal, you won’t have to look hard for it. Pre-book your ticket here .
• Private airport transfer. Take the worry out of waiting in cab lines and have a car pick you and your luggage up, taking you straight to your accommodation. Book here .
• Edinburgh tram: the tram runs from the airport to Princes Street.

Here’s our guide on the best ways to get to Edinburgh from the airport .

Getting Around Edinburgh

Edinburgh’s public transport includes the bus, train, and now tram. Lothian Buses have a useful trip planner on their site.

Buses run throughout the day and on a night timetable.

Edinburgh’s Airlink bus connects the city and the airport.

Edinburgh has three stations, Waverley is the most central (Princes Street 2 minute walk away/Royal Mile 10 minute walk away), Haymarket is in the west (closest to the West End and Murrayfield Stadium), and the Edinburgh Gateway connects users to the Gyle Shopping Centre and Edinburgh Airport.

Edinburgh Waverley has toilets (30p), showers, food places, and a bar.

Haymarket is smaller and has a coffee stall and M&S Food.

Trainline  is a great app/website for train journeys in the UK.

Edinburgh trams  run from Newhaven to Edinburgh Airport.

Purchase your ticket at the machine and validate at the machine before you board the tram.

Without a ticket? You will be charged £10 if caught. Day tickets are available.

The trams will be running for free after midnight on Hogmanay to get party-goers home safe.

We have Uber in Edinburgh (order through the app) as well as private taxi firms (order by calling) and black taxis, which you can hail down on the street or hire from a taxi rank.

Where to Stay in Edinburgh

We have a dreamy guide on the best Edinburgh Christmas hotels to stay at.

Alternatively, here is a snapshot of hotels to consider. I’ve personally stayed at all three.

• The Balmoral – Very close to Princes Street Gardens
• Ibis Hunter Square – Just off the Royal Mile
• Jurys Inn – Affordable option next to Waverley Train Station

Want more choices? Here’s our guide on where to stay in Edinburgh .

Final Words

Whether you are nipping to the capital for a weekend festive cocktail or choosing the city as your annual December trip, there are so many things to do during the Edinburgh Winter Festival. Tell us what you do in the comments below.

Our Christmas in Edinburgh Guides

• Festive Things to Do in Edinburgh in Winter
• Festive Santa’s Grottos In Edinburgh
• Hotels For A Wonderful Christmas Experience
• Restaurants Offering Christmas Dinner
• Magical Places to See Christmas Lights and Decor

Essential Edinburgh Information 

Food & drink in Edinburgh Best time to visit Edinburgh Things to do in Edinburgh How much does a trip to Edinburgh cost? Free 7-day Scotland itinerary

Everything Edinburgh

Everything Edinburgh is a friendly Edinburgh guide for visitors and locals. From food to festivals, itineraries to interests.

2 thoughts on “ 34 Festive Things to Do in Edinburgh in Winter ”

a little outdated now as Jenners is now closed and the waverley festival village, I don’t think is happening now either

Hi Nicki, thanks for your comment. I’m always updating our guides, just waiting on a personal visit up town and for official information to be released. I’m not sure what you are referring to re Jenners, the section says it is a special mention and it will be missed. Have a festive winter!

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The Ultimate Guide to Edinburgh Christmas Markets

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The festive season in Edinburgh is world-renowned and this year it will last from the 19th of November to the 3rd of January. There are numerous events and festivities you can enjoy in the city with the highlights being Edinburgh Christmas markets and Edinburgh’s Hogmanay.

In December, there are many activities to do in Edinburgh, including shopping at Christmas markets, ice skating, watching the holiday lights, taking the Star Flyer, and going to concerts. 

The breathtaking Christmas Market at East Princes Street Gardens has something for everyone, including vegan pigs in blankets, and handmade souvenirs and Christmas ornaments. Visiting Edinburgh at this time of the year is perfect for making memories.

Read More: 12 Things to do in Edinburgh in December [Holiday Vibes!]

Here is everything you can do during winter in Edinburgh:

Table of contents

1. watch christmas decorations from the rooftop, 2. visit edinburgh christmas markets in east princes street gardens, 3. immerse yourself in edinburgh’s winter wonderland at hopetoun house christmas shopping fair, 4. go on a hidden gems tour with a local guide, 5. shop at summerhall christmas market, 6. visit the sculpture garden turned into a christmas market, 7. taste the best delicacies at festive farmers’ markets, 8. observe the city from calton hill, 9. admire the christmas decorations at the dome, 10. take a photo at waverley festival village, 11. stay in a festive accommodation in edinburgh, torchlight procession (30th of december), hogmanay street party (31st of december), the loony dook (1st of january), 13. watch the fireballs parade in stonehaven, 14. celebrate st andrew’s day in edinburgh, 15. walk through the edinburgh botanical gardens light trail, more about edinburgh, pin edinburgh christmas markets.

Seeing Edinburgh at Christmas is a magical experience, and if you can observe all the Christmas lights from a rooftop it gets even better. Enjoy Edinburgh’s Christmas lights with a view from above at one of these incredible rooftop bars .

Being the primary Christmas market in Edinburgh this is the most iconic and picturesque location during winter in the city. Its stunning background includes well-known locations including Calton Hill, Edinburgh Castle, the Balmoral Hotel, and the Scott Monument, which are all located in the city’s centre. 

This is a European-style Christmas market with food and drinks and souvenirs sold on stalls. Although this market is often referred to as “German Christmas Market”, except for German and European food and drinks it features a variety of originally Scottish dishes and beverages.

Expect crowds since this is a large event that keeps growing. However, you can also anticipate a lively scene and a variety of vendors offering anything from locally produced whiskey to painted nutcrackers, hot chocolate, and vegan food.

In addition, this market has a ton of attractions, such as Santa Land, the Star Flyer, and the Christmas Wheel, making it ideal for families with young children. The ice rink is also just around the corner, on George Street.

Read More : 10 Edinburgh Markets You CAN’T Miss

This magnificent 6,500 acres estate is located in breathtaking natural scenery just outside of Edinburgh. It features a farm that works year-round, but at Christmas time it transforms into fairytale-like land perfect for families.

This market is definitely worth the little drive outside of town since it features holiday entertainment and more than 60 vendors selling presents that are a little more unique than the standard selection.

@voyagingherbivore Was it worth £8 a pint? 🍺 🎄 😅 #edinburghchristmasmarket #edinburghchristmas #edinburghchristmasmarket2021 #edinburgh ♬ original sound – Alysa

Spend an evening strolling around Edinburgh’s famous sights and lesser-known areas that locals like. The Old Town, the Princes Street Gardens, and much more will be visited. A local guide will give you an insider’s view of Edinburgh and show you where to discover the greatest holiday decorations. 

Hot chocolate or mulled wine are included, and conveniently, you may tailor your trip to suit your preferences. Select a location and time for your meeting that works for you. A customized tour of the Christmas Experience results in a more individualized day. 

The Summerhall area of central Edinburgh is a thriving cultural hub that hosts a variety of intriguing events, such as specialized film festivals and ceilidh clubs. They have a very special and unique Christmas market that distinguishes them from other options.

You can expect to find things like antique booths, independent, local goods, vegan cuisine, and holiday wreath-making classes at this well-attended one-day event, all set to carols performed by Summerhall’s community choir. 

Jupiter Artland is a place like no other in wintertime. In this modern sculpture park west of Edinburgh with five exhibition spaces spread across grassland and forest, you can see 35 sculptures. Enjoy the views and Christmas lights while walking among the art.

You may anticipate upscale craft and artisan vendors, live entertainment, and delectable handmade mulled wine. An elf workshop, Santa’s grotto, festive donkey rides, and a Christmas tree yard are just a few of the attractions at this Edinburgh Xmas market.

Read More: 11 Edinburgh Parks You Can NOT Miss

Every weekend, there are several fantastic farmer’s markets in Edinburgh, including locations in Stockbridge, Grassmarket, and Leith. At Christmas, these markets also sell seasonal food, sweets, and gifts you must try. You will have the opportunity to try vegan candy, chocolate, crepes, and so much more here.

The famous hill has been added to the UNESCO World Heritage List. You will see fantastic city views with beautiful Christmas lights and possibly snow on rooftops. 

There are other further monuments located here, such as the David Hume mausoleum and the observatory that resembles a Greek temple. The city’s unaltered volcanic origin, rocky topography, and rough surface give it a unique personality.

In Edinburgh New Town, there is a cocktail bar called The Dome. It has a massive façade made in the style of Greco-Roman architecture. Due to its amazing Christmas decorations, it becomes one of Edinburgh’s most popular destinations in the winter.

Read More: Christmas in Edinburgh – Top 10 Things to Do in December

To access the Waverley Festival Village’s assortment of pop-up bars, ascend the steps on the Princess Street side of the building. There are many festive photo ops here, and it is another Edinburgh Christmas market location. Cute seasonal sponsored food, roaring fireplaces, and all types of alcohol are available.

Many incredible accommodations in the city are fairly decorated during Christmas and have their own events and festivities you can enjoy. Choose the room with the best view of the city lights, or a Christmas market. These are some of our favourite hotels and hostels in Edinburgh.

12. Have the most memorable New Years celebration in Edinburgh

No other country in the world welcomes the New Year with as much enthusiasm as Scotland, so it should come as no surprise that the massive Hogmanay festival is renowned across the world.

The most important night for the Hogmanay celebrations is on December 31. Its beginnings can be traced to the Vikings’ wild festivities held in late December to celebrate the winter solstice. Edinburgh Hogmanay provides a warm welcome and more new friends than you ever knew you needed! 

Whether it’s the charming torchlight parade, the well-known Edinburgh Hogmanay street celebration, and stunning firework display, or a foot-tapping ceilidh and music in Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh nye is a stunning show that all the tourists and locals enjoy. The celebrations last for three days and it is important to book your tickets in advance as these are very popular.

Read More: Edinburgh Hogmanay: What You Need to Know

When thousands of torchbearers join Up Helly Aa’s Vikings, pipes, and drums, the New Year’s revelry in Scotland begins. Together, they form a river of light down the storied Royal Mile to Holyrood Park for the show’s climax and closing festivities. They march through the centre of Edinburgh carrying burning torches.

Party at the Bells, one of the world’s best events is welcomed by revellers on Princes Street. Dance the night away with Street Access or in the Gardens Concert, which has amazing live music , entertainment, DJs, huge screens, and outdoor bars, all against the magnificent background of Edinburgh Castle where at midnight you will see incredible fireworks.

Start the year with the yearly splash in the River Forth at South Queensferry. Participate in the Dookers Parade down the High Street before jumping into the chilly Forth against the backdrop of the famous Forth Bridges.

This Aberdeenshire fireballs procession, one of several winter fire celebrations exclusive to Scotland, is a striking sight to witness. Free Hogmanay festivities have been held there for almost a century, and they consistently draw sizable crowds. 

It was customarily a cleaning ceremony to extinguish any evil spirits from the previous year so that the New Year may start fresh and pure. In the ultimate display of daring for the ultimate Stonehaven Hogmanay, watch in astonishment as the piper leads the procession as they march down the street shortly before midnight while swinging fireballs above their heads.

St. Andrew’s Day is one of Scotland’s favourite holidays. The 30th of November marks this significant Scottish holiday, which celebrates the patron saint of the nation. You will witness many live events, music , dances, cultural and other performances all around the city. 

In winter, the Royal Botanic Garden transforms with music, lasers, water reflections, and the tunnel of light. This well-liked activity in Edinburgh fills up quickly in December, it is important to get your tickets in advance and secure your spot for this impressive walk. 

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Magical Christmas Activities in Edinburgh: Your Ultimate Guide

• Published on: October 21, 2023

The Christmas season is almost here, and holiday festivities will soon take place all over the world. If you're looking for a more unique time of the year to visit Edinburgh, this post is perfect for you. To make this Christmas truly special, there are many ways to experience Edinburgh's festive spirit in style and comfort.

Edinburgh is a beautiful city that is full of Christmas cheer. It’s the perfect setting to spend the holidays with your loved ones and enjoy some of the best things to do in Edinburgh at Christmas.

This year, we are bringing you a list of some of the best things to do in Edinburgh over Christmas. From festive walks and tours to festive markets and events, there’s plenty to keep you entertained during this festive time of year!

We hope this guide helps you plan your trip over the festive period and make sure you get the most out of it!

.Not sure which walking tours are the best? Check out this article too

• Get to and from the Airport:  Save on airport transfers with HolidayTaxis .  F rom only US$69.08
• Visit Edinburgh by train. Get Cheap Train Tickets from only $10
• The easiest way to  get around Edinburgh  is to use the City Sightseeing Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour. Get  Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour  tickets starting  at US$22.48 

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Table of Contents

Here we have listed 17 top places where you can enjoy an unforgettable holiday:, 1. winterfest at edinburgh christmas market.

If you want to get away from everything then why not try out the famous Edinburgh Christmas Market. Here are just a glimpse of things to do in Edinburgh at Christmas and what will happen from Friday 17 November 2023 to Saturday 6 January 2024.

• East Princes Street will host market stalls selling arts and crafts and f estive food and drinks  and the Christmas Market
• The top of East Princes Street Gardens will also be home to the Big Wheel and Helter Skelter
• West Princes Street host to the Festive Family Funfair will include Santa Land , featuring the magical Santa’s Grotto and family-friendly attractions.
• The West Gardens will also hold the Winter Windows Schools Art Project, Garden’s Cottage Lighting and festive illuminations
• Nativity Carol Concert 28 November in St Andrew Square at 3 pm.
• The ice rink on the famous George Street will be undercover, allowing visitors to enjoy the fun in any weather
• Castle Street will host the LocalMotive Castle Street Christmas Market from 18 November to 24 December.
• Santa Experience at St Andrew Square includes relaxed sessions designed for Children with additional needs, learning disabilities, sensory or communication disorders
• St Andrew Square also hosts Social Bite’s  Festival of Kindness , and Tree and Gift Donation point, dedicated to giving the gift of Christmas to those who need it most

Looking for a gift from Scotland? Check out our guides

A Scottish Christmas Gift Guide For All The Womankind Out There!

Luxury Gifts Made in Scotland

A Jolly Etsy Holiday Guide for Scotland Enthusiasts

2. light up your winter, winter lights are back this year – see what’s happening when it gets dark outside., christmas at botanic garden  .

Ever wonder what it would be like to live in a botanical world, immersed in the joy of Christmas?

Join Christmas Lights at The Botanics where you can experience all the festive cheer. Christmas Cathedral, Digital Rain, Laser Garden, Santa, there are just a few sparkling illuminations.

A delicious twist of tasty treats is also available. Toasted marshmallows for anyone?

Starting  16th November 2023 – 30th December 2023. Trail times start from 4:15 pm with the last entry at 8 pm. See the booking page for details

Castle of the Light: Magic and Mystery

The festive season is the perfect time to visit Edinburgh Castle . The castle, which has been at the very centre of Scottish history for over 1000 years, will be filled with state-of-the-art lighting installations.

It will illuminate the iconic landmark walls with holograms to make it even more enchanted.

Expect wonder, enchantment and a spectacle of colour this festive season as Edinburgh Castle, the defender of the nation, becomes an indoor winter wonderland.

Access night – Sunday 3 December

On Sunday 3 December Castle of Light for visitors with specific access needs ( BSL Tours with Interpreter – 5.15pm & 6.45pm

Autism accessible time slot – 7pm

24 & 25 November. 1-3, 8-10, 15-17, 21-23 & 27-30 December. 2 & 3 January

4.30pm to 9pm (last entry between 7.30pm & 7.45pm)

See the booking page for details

Check the price and available dates for the guided tours here!

3. christmas at the palace of holyroodhouse.

The must thing to do in Edinburgh at Christmas is to visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

The Great Gallery will display a 15 foot, glittering Christmas tree adorned with decorations of all sorts.

There will also be lights, making the entire palace seem to shine even brighter this time of year.

They will decorate apartments and the Royal Dining Room with flowers, wreaths and spires of faux candied sugared fruits.

Palace of Holyroodhouse will offer festive events for adults and children through November and December. You can find here the details of the events. 

Do not forget their gift shop offers a wide range of exclusive gifts inspired by the royal palaces and the works of art in the Royal Collection.

Insider tip : Complete your visit to the Palace of Holyroodhouse or The Queen’s Gallery with homemade cakes and tea.

Thursday, 23 Nov 2023 Every Monday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday (Thursday, 23 Nov 2023 – Monday, 1 Jan 2024) Excl dates: Monday, 25 Dec 2023, Tuesday, 26 Dec 2023, Wednesday, 27 Dec 2023

4. Edinburgh Afternoon Tea Experience

The best way to get around Edinburgh is by foot , but if you don’t have time or the Edinburgh weather is not what you like, then opt for a tour on the vintage 1966 Routemaster Bus.

We found what might be the coolest way to do afternoon tea in Edinburgh on a double-decker bus! So whilst you take in the stunning sights of Edinburgh , you can indulge in first-class traditional afternoon teas. 

Red Bus Tour Departing at 12 pm or 3 pm, Tuesday to Sunday 

Below, you can find the best ticket prices during your holiday

5. experience a night of glitz and glam at the dome's hogmanay masquerade ball..

This Instagram-worthy spot in Edinburgh is always bustling with tourists and couples trying to capture the perfect picture against the stunning backdrop.

During Christmas, it becomes one of the most photographed places in the city. This place is not just popular for its award-winning restaurant and bar , but all year round it’s a special treat. But during Christmas time, it just gets even more magical!

The Dome boasts a jaw-dropping grill hall, a fancy Georgian tearoom, and an absolutely stunning club room. Located in New Town, this place is the ultimate spot to indulge in delicious food and drinks.

This year, The Dome has prepared something very special. If you’d like to have a night to remember, be sure to join the Dome’s Hogmanay Masquerade Ball on George Street! It’s going to be something really special and you definitely don’t want to miss it. 

There’s so much excitement waiting! Let’s start with the dress code: Black Tie or Masquerade Fancy Dress is required for the night.

In addition to prosecco and canapés, you can take the party upstairs to the luxurious Georgian Tea Room for some lively Ceilidh fun.

And if you’re feeling lucky, you can try your hand at the deluxe in-house casino in the Club Room.

• A red carpet welcome
• An arrival drink
• Magic from Edinburgh’s favourite magician Elliot Bibby
• Casino in Club Room
• Ceilidh in Georgian Tea Room
• A selection of Canapes
• A glass of bubbly to welcome the bells

6. Guided tour and whisky tasting

Winter is perfect for enjoying a dram or two of the finest whisky. This guided tour will introduce you to the aromas of the drink while walking you through the production stages.

A ride in a whisky barrel? Oh man, you can’t wait to see the World’s biggest collection of Scotch whisky!

7. Chocolatarium Tour, Tasting & Chocolate Making

Edinburgh’s winter visit could not be completed without tasting and making chocolate.

This tour is one of the best things to do in Edinburgh at Christmas. 

This unique tour allows you to make your chocolates using various chocolate moulds.

In the Chocolate Kitchen, you can choose your bar design, select your favourite flavours and create your personalized bar.

The entire experience is very interactive for both children and adults, whilst you learn a lot about the history of chocolate from the Aztecs to the first chocolate bar and the newest inventions.

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8. royal attractions with hop on hop off.

Have a limited time in Edinburgh? Then the Royal Edinburgh ticket is a perfect solution. For the 48h, you can use all three City Tours (Edinburgh Tour, Majestic Tour and CitySightseeing Edinburgh) plus entry to Edinburgh Castle , Palace of Holyroodhouse and The Royal Yacht Britannia .

9. Hogmanay New Year's Eve Fireworks

Oh, New Year’s Eve celebrations – the event takes place every year on December 31st and has become something of a symbol for the city.

You get to enjoy spectacular fireworks displays over the castle and other historic venues in town. It doesn’t get more exciting than this! 

Check the info here

You can watch the fireworks for free (they are visible all over the city) but if you like to join the street party you need to buy the tickets

Friday 29 Dec 2023 – New Year’s Day 2024

10. Torchlight Procession

Get ready for an awesome time at the rebooted event – it’s gonna be a carnival extravaganza!

Get ready to soak up the lively atmosphere with tons of live Street Theatre performances, mesmerizing Fire Performers, energetic Pipe Bands, and talented Drummers.

Before the procession, the Vikings from Shetland’s South Mainland Up Helly Aa’ Jarl Squad create a magnificent river of fire through the Old Town of the capital.

Fri 29 Dec 2023 6pm – 8.30pm

The Meadows to City Centre (New start location!)

Buy your tickets here

Check the prices and available dates for the guided tours in Edinburgh!

11. see scottish opera & ballet.

Enjoying opera and ballet performances during the holidays is something everyone should do once in their lifetime. And what better way than watching them live from the magnificent stage of the Usher Hall?

Check available shows and tickets here

12. The Snow Queen at Royal Lyceum Theatre

Get ready for a magical and winter wonderland extravaganza! We’re tagging along with Gerda, a brave young soul, on her mission to rescue her brother from the wicked grip of the evil Queen.

Brace yourself for a breathtaking spectacle filled with snow, ice palaces, and thrilling adventures like never before!

23rd Nov 2023 to 1st Jan 2024

13. JK Rowling's Edinburgh and the Writing of Harry Potter Tour

This tour is not like the others. You get to see areas tucked away from main tourist areas and items relevant to Harry Potter . The guide is a ‘Harry Potter’ fan who shares fascinating details about the wizarding world in Edinburgh .

It takes 4 h of listening and walking, so come prepared for 5 km of up-and-down walking through Edinburgh’s hilly old town. You’ll see the inspiration for many locations in the Wizarding World, including Old College and Greyfriars Kirkyard.

14. Candlelit Concert at St. Giles’ Cathedral

Sun 31 Dec 20 6.30pm – 8pm

A festive celebration seeing in the New Year in the candlelit atmosphere of St Giles’ Cathedral as it celebrates its 900 th anniversary in 2024.

This year’s concert marks the festive season with the first three cantatas from J.S.Bach’s  Christmas Oratorio : Bach at his most exuberant.

15. THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride Edinburgh

How about you and your fam hop aboard The Polar Express for an awesome immersive theatrical event? It’s the perfect experience for everyone, from the little ones to Granny and Grandpa. Get ready to feel what it’d be like to embark on this magical journey together! You’re gonna love the characters in this story, like the chefs, the Conductor, and maybe even the ghost on the train.

Waverley station 30 November 2023 to 22 December 2023

16. Edinburgh International Magic Festival

“The best magicians in the world, in the world’s most magical city.”

The Europe’s biggest festival of innovative and cutting-edge magic that promotes magic as an art form and celebrates the limitless possibilities of human imagination. 

Get ready to have your mind blown with an amazing lineup of shows, events, and workshops that will bring so much wonder and fun to the holiday season

20-31 December 2023

17. Markets and Fairs

• Edinburgh Farmers Market, Castle Terrace, every Saturday
• Leith Market, Dock Place, every Saturday
• Stockbridge Market , Saunders Street, every Sunday
• Christmas Craft Fair , Assembly rooms, 2-3 December
• Christmas Fair at Jupiter Artland , 9-10 December
• Christmas Shopping Fair at Hopetoun House   Friday 24th, Saturday 25th & Sunday 26th November 2023

Where to stay in Edinburgh this Christmas

As mentioned earlier, it doesn’t matter what your budget is; whether you’re looking for a romantic escape or simply want to enjoy a few days off work, Edinburgh offers everything that makes a holiday memorable. For a taste of home away from home, book now one of Edinburgh hotels with the best festive decorations.

• 5*Balmoral Hotel   – An iconic, luxury hotel located at the most prestigious address in the city centre
• 5*Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh – The Caledonian an imposing hotel with views of Edinburgh Castle
• 4* InterContinental Edinburgh the George, an IHG Hotel combines five Georgian houses welcoming guests since 1881
• Cheval The Edinburgh Grand is a collection of prestigious serviced apartments in a very grand location
• 4*The Rutland Hotel   glamorous and stylish  has bedrooms and serviced apartments
• 5* The Witchery by the Castle luxury in a Gothic style property with a range of opulent suites
• 4* Hilton Edinburgh Carlton is an  impressive Victorian building with an excellent location in the heart of the Old Town
• 4* Nira Caledonia luxury boutique hotel in the heart of elegant New Town

Below, you can find the best prices during your holiday

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THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO CHRISTMAS IN EDINBURGH

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. We may receive a small commission when you make a purchase using our link.

There is nowhere in the world that does Christmas quite like Edinburgh. Whilst most people’s yuletide vacation fantasies have them floating down the streets of New York amidst crowds of excited shoppers, Scotland’s capital is often sadly overlooked.

At any point of the year, Edinburgh is undeniably fantastical, magic seeming to ooze from the unique landscape and the dark, winding streets; but it’s at Christmas that the city really comes to life. From snug pubs with their roaring fires to the sparkling lights of its renowned Christmas Market, a few days in Edinburgh during December is enough to get you truly into the Christmas spirit.

Read on for our ultimate guide to Edinburgh at Christmas time, from the best places to eat and drink to the most jaw-dropping Christmas trees.

Edinburgh’s Christmas Market

Princes Street Gardens East, Edinburgh EH2 2EJ, United Kingdom

It wouldn’t be right to kick off this guide with anything other than Edinburgh’s beloved Christmas Markets : a 6-week long winter extravaganza, located beneath the looming castle.

Aside from its incredible setting, this market is renowned country-wide for its winding rows of stalls and rides, which begins by the Balmoral Hotel and ends at the esplanade of the National Gallery . With guaranteed Christmas music blaring at all hours, and its endless, glittering lights, it’s almost impossible not to feel Christmassy here.

Try out some of their Bailey’s Hot Chocolate or their Mulled Wine from their Johnny Walker Bothy Bar . A renovated shipping container sitting in the centre of the market, this bar will provide arguably the best view across the market, and boasts a cosy chalet-esque interior.

If you get hungry, there are a number of stalls across the market serving both sweet and savoury treats, such as Eastern European “Kürtőskalács” (or Chimney Cake).

Thrill-seekers should make sure to jump onto the Star Flyer : a 60-metre-tall ride which spins its passengers around at inconceivable speeds. If you dare to open your eyes, you’ll see the city as you’ve never seen it before. Tickets for this ride are £8.50.

At the bottom of the hill, there is a children’s winter wonderland, with rides, games and even a Christmas tree maze (which definitely isn’t just for children!). Families with young kids will love spending an entire afternoon here.

Entry to the markets is free, and admission prices vary for each ride.

Subscribe to get our FREE eBook with tips on saving money when you travel!

14 George St, Edinburgh EH2 2PF, United Kingdom

An Edinburgh landmark thanks to its regal, decadent architecture, The Dome is a restaurant and bar located on George Street: one of the city’s most refined areas. When it switches on its infamous, looping lights, which wrap around the marble pillars of the building’s exterior, Edinburgh residents know that Christmas is truly on its way.

Inside its grand entrance sits a huge Christmas tree, whose lights bounce off the chandeliers suspended from the ceiling. If you fancy feeling a little extravagant, then splash out on a festive cocktail in their ornate Grill Room.

Ice Skating @ St Andrews Square

St Andrew Square, Edinburgh, EH2 2AD, United Kingdom

It wouldn’t be Christmas without an ice-skating session: and the rink at St Andrew Square is particularly picturesque.

Wrapped around the square’s imposing Melville Monument, this doughnut-shaped ice rink is suitable for people of all ages and is surrounded by twinkling lights. In the centre of the rink is a wooden bar, which serves a number of hot drinks and alcoholic beverages. So grab a mulled wine for some Dutch courage before getting out onto the ice!

Ticket prices range from £9 – £12.50 per person for a half-hour slot.

Royal Botanic Gardens

Arboretum Pl, Edinburgh EH3 5NZ, United Kingdom

Edinburgh’s Royal Botanic Garden is a lush green space in the centre of the city, which is home to a number of rotating exhibitions, as well as beautifully-curated gardens and flowerbeds. Whilst a visit to these gardens in the summer will leave you gawping at its pretty colours and abundant wildlife, it is arguably even more magical during the winter. This is due to their infamous light show, “Christmas at the Botanics”.

Loaded with a million twinkling lights, the show incorporates a number of separate installations, such as their Cathedral of Light, which stretches for 70 metres and includes more than 100,000 pea lights. There is also a Santa Show for children, as well as food and drink to enjoy as you marvel at the decorations around you.

Make sure to book your time slot early so as not to be disappointed. An advance adult ticket will cost £17 while paying on the day will cost £19.

The Nutcracker Christmas Shop

52 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1TB, United Kingdom

Although this shop is open 365 days a year, it is – unsurprisingly – most popular in December. Located in the centre of the Royal Mile, this festive boutique will please even the biggest of Grinches out there.

Filled with colour, light, and festive music, this is the perfect place to shop for decorations. With everything from traditional manger scenes and fake snow to gingerbread men and candy canes, The Nutcracker will have you decking the halls in no time.

Jenners Department Store

47/48 Princes Street, Edinburgh, EH2 2YJ, United Kingdom

The city’s most famous department store, Jenners , has lived in its exact location on Princes Street since 1838. The elegant stonework of the outside stretches also into the store’s interior, with a grand hall framed by balconies, and a glass ceiling stretching out above you.

During the winter season, this hall is home to one of Edinburgh’s biggest Christmas trees, with twinkling streams of lights dangling from the wooden beams bordering it. This is the perfect spot to do any Christmas shopping, with departments covering all interests and tastes!

Afternoon Tea @ The Caledonian 

Princes St, Edinburgh EH1 2AB, United Kingdom

A Waldorf Astoria hotel, the Caledonian is an Edinburgh landmark, which signals the beginning of the city’s charming West End.

Its rusty, red-brick exterior stretches all the way down onto Lothian Road, with one side of the building looking over the castle. Stepping inside the hotel will leave you breathless; you are greeted by a palace-like marble staircase, which wouldn’t look out-of-place in a Disney Princess movie.

At Christmas, the Caledonian doesn’t take its decorations lightly, known in the past to have erected giant candy canes and a life-sized gingerbread house in its lobby lounge. It seems like the perfect location, then, to have a traditional Afternoon Tea, complete with scones, pastries, and sandwiches.

The cost of this Afternoon Tea is £49 per person, or £59 if you’d like to include a festive Christmas cocktail. Or you can book a room at the hotel!

Carol Service @ St Giles

High St, Edinburgh EH1 1RE, United Kingdom

Edinburgh’s St Giles Cathedral is arguably one of the most impressive buildings in the city. With its unique skeletal tower and its impressively high archways, tourists from all over flock to experience this astounding piece of architecture.

In December, St Giles is home to a series of carol services and Christmas concerts: most notably their Evening Concert Series. A full run-down of events and ticket prices can be found on the St Giles Cathedral website, with admission fees varying for each event. Attending one of their candlelit concerts will leave you feeling peaceful and inexplicably filled with magic.

Christmas Dinner @ Howie’s

10-14 Victoria St, Edinburgh EH1 2HG, United Kingdom / 29 Waterloo Pl, Edinburgh EH1 3BQ, United Kingdom

A small, family-run Scottish restaurant chain, Howie’s has two locations in central Edinburgh: one in Old Town, and one in New Town.

Known for its modern take on Scottish cuisine, and its locally-sourced fish and meat dishes. Their flagship restaurant, at the foot of Calton Hill, manages to marry traditional with modern, its interior framed by exposed stone walls and dotted with sleek wooden furnishings.

At Christmas, Howie’s offer a special festive menu, for both small celebrations and huge, hundred-person parties. Their Christmas Day menu includes the classic roast turkey, as well as vegetarian and fish options for anyone looking for something a little different.

Old College @ Edinburgh University 

South Bridge, Edinburgh EH8 9YL, United Kingdom

Although not an obvious choice for visitors to the city, this ancient building houses Edinburgh University’s law school, and is recognised mainly by its turquoise dome and typical dark stone walls.

At Christmas, an enormous, glittering tree sits in the college’s ample courtyard. In November, when the lights are switched on, there are performances from the University Choir and the Edinburgh Salvation Army Band, getting everyone into the Christmas spirit a little early.

Where To Stay In Edinburgh During Christmas

The budget option: kick-ass greyfriar’s hostel.

37-39 Cowgate, Edinburgh EH1 1JR, United Kingdom

Starting from roughly £18 per night, the Kick Ass Hostel is located in the depths of Edinburgh’s Old Town. The perfect place for young people to stay, the hostel is found near some of the city’s best bars, pubs and nightclubs, and offers a pretty spectacular view of the castle.

The Mid-Range Option: Apex Hotel Grassmarket

31-35 Grassmarket, Edinburgh EH1 2HS, United Kingdom

Grassmarket is one of Edinburgh’s most well-loved streets; at Christmas, it is illuminated by row upon row of glinting lights. The Apex Hotel is located at the centre of this street, looking up towards the castle. A modern building with a cosy indoor pool and a restaurant with unbeatable castle views, a night at this hotel will cost you only around £90.

The Luxury Option: Old Town Chambers

Roxburgh’s Court, 323 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1LW, United Kingdom

Tucked into a dark stone alley, branching away from the Royal Mile, lies Edinburgh’s Old Town Chambers : a boutique collection of serviced apartments.

Its shiny, modern décor contrasts that of the ancient buildings which surround it, making you feel as if you’ve been dropped straight into a JK Rowling novel. Some rooms boast a view out across Princes Street and, of course, the Christmas Market, with others looking out across Calton Hill.

A one-bedroom apartment in December will cost you around £205 per night.

What To Know For Visiting Scotland

Scotland visas.

Scotland is part of the United Kingdom , which typically provides a free stay of up to 180 days in the entire UK to visitors from many countries. This means you can enter Scotland and stay for up to 6 months on each entry.

However, as of publication Brexit may change the visa policy. Be sure to check the official United Kingdom Immigration Website for the latest information.

The currency used in Scotland is the Great British Pound (GBP) . The current exchange rate is approximately 1 GBP to 1.30 USD. You can check the latest EUR exchange rate on Google .

While traveling, our number one tip is to use a free Charles Schwab Debit Card which gives unlimited worldwide ATM Fee Refunds and the true exchange rate.

Best Tours In Edinburgh

Some of the best tours and things to do in Edinburgh are:

• Harry Potter Magical Guided Walking Tour
• Loch Ness, Glencoe & the Highlands Tour
• The Scotch Whisky Experience: Guided Tour and Whisky Tasting

Where To Stay In Edinburgh

We recommend booking your hotels on Booking.com to get the best rate and many hotels offer free cancellation in case your plans change.

Some of our favorite hotels in Edinburgh are:

• The Bonham : Situated in Edinburgh’s West End, this hotel is a beautiful converted Victorian House.
• The Edinburgh Grand : Modern Aparthotel with luxury apartments, including their own kitchens.
• Kimpton – Charlotte Square : 5 Star hotel very close to old town and Princes Street.

AirBnB is also a great option in Edinburgh (and you can save $44 using that link to sign up!).

Best Time To Visit Scotland

The best time to visit Scotland depends on if you are looking to embrace the winter or get outside for the summer. If you are going for Hogmanay and the Christmas Markets (like we recommend!) then plan to visit any time in December .

If you are more interested in being outside in nice weather, then plan to visit between April and September when the weather begins to get warmer and drier.

Best Books About Scotland

Read more about Scotland before you go! Some of the best books about Scotland are:

• The Crow Road
• Girl Meets Boy
• A Last Wild Place

What Power Adapters Do You Need

Scotland uses  3 prong Type G adapters also commonly used in England.

You can buy a universal adapter that will work in any country and has extra ports for USB cables to charge your phone and other devices.

We also always travel with a portable battery pack which is great to keep your phone charged on long journies.

Transportation In Scotland

• Public Transportation: Scotland has good public transportation, with both local buses and trains. Google Maps works well to find the best routes depending on your location and time of day.
• Rental Cars : If you want flexibility, we recommend renting a car at the airport. Parking in Edinburgh can be expensive but it is available.
• Uber: Uber is readily available in Edinburgh. You should not have to wait long for a ride from Uber as long as you are near the center of Edinburgh.

Travel Insurance

Our top recommended travel insurance companies for Scotland are:

• World Nomads : Comprehensive coverage for medical, travel delays, and electronics.
• SafetyWing : Cheaper monthly coverage primarily for medical, starting at $37 for 4 weeks of coverage.

More Articles About Scotland

• The Ultimate Guide To Christmas In Edinburgh
• 7 Reasons Why Inverness, Scotland Is A Great Family Getaway Destination
• Hiking The Pap Of Glencoe In The Scottish Highlands
• 6 Amazing Places To Visit In Scotland
• A Scottish Highland Adventure

 Edinburgh is a wonderful city, and visiting during Christmas even makes the experience more memorable! 

We hope that this article has helped inspire you to visit Edinburgh over Christmas. If you have any questions about the destination or have your own travel tips to share please leave these in the comments below.

Want to share your own travel tips by guest writing for We Are Travel Girls? Go to our Contribute page for guidelines and to submit your article.

Subscribe to get access to our FREE eBook with tips for saving money when you travel!

We Are Travel Girls Contributor Abi Prowse  of AbisPassport.com Connect with Abi   Instagram  | Pinterest

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December 16, 2019 at 10:32 am

Great minds think alike! I’ve got a guide too! My home city is sparkling at this time of year, really great suggestions in here. Can’t wait to go home and enjoy the Christmas markets next week!

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Edinburgh Christmas Markets – our guide

The Edinburgh Christmas Markets make for a fantastic fun-filled day or night out! Let our handy blog tell you more about what’s on offer in the vibrant Scottish capital this Christmas, and how to get there by train.

When are the Edinburgh Christmas Markets?

The Edinburgh Christmas Markets are part of the Edinburgh Winter Festival . The Christmas markets themselves will run from November 25th to January 4th. Each day, the markets will be open from 10am to 10pm.

Of course, the markets will take a break on Christmas Day. There are also a few other days where you’ll find that the opening hours have been tweaked:

• 26 December: 12pm – 8pm
• 31 December: 10am – 6pm
• 1 January: 12pm – 8pm.

What will I find at the Edinburgh Christmas Markets?

You’ll find a wide variety of stalls filled with Artisanal festive products and delicious food and drink. Whether you’re after something to pop on the Christmas tree, a mug of mulled wine or a warming hot chocolate, there’s something for everyone.

The Edinburgh Christmas Markets are also playing host to the Forth 1 Big Wheel . You can hop inside and enjoy beautiful panoramic views of the Edinburgh skyline. There’s also a selection of thrilling rides for those who want a little more of an adrenaline rush!

Don’t forget the indoor  ice skating rink  on George Street, either. It’s well-covered, so you don’t need to worry if the weather turns a bit  driech . Meanwhile, in St Andrew’s Square, your little ones can enjoy some of Santa’s Stories   and take part in the Festival of Kindness .

Where will the Edinburgh Christmas Markets be?

This year, the Edinburgh Christmas Markets are a little more spread out. Here’s where you can expect to find everything:

• East Princes Street Gardens  is home to the traditional market with over 70 stalls, the Big Wheel and Funfair rides
• West Princes Street Gardens  is hosting the Family Funfair
• You can get your skates on in George Street ! That’s where you’ll find the indoor ice rink
• Don’t forget Santa’s Stories and the Festival of Kindness in  St Andrew’s Square
• Looking to explore? Don’t forget the  Festive Trails   situated around the  Old Town .

What’s the Edinburgh Christmas Markets’ nearest train station?

That’s simple! It’s Edinburgh Waverley. Take a look at the map below for all of the different Christmas Market areas and where they are in relation to the station.

If you’re looking to visit the main attractions, then you’ll want to use the exits towards Princes Street or the Waverley Bridge. Going to the Old Town? Head towards Platforms 8 and 9  and use the exit there.

Are there any tips for getting cheap train tickets?

We’re here to help you travel smarter on your next visit to the Edinburgh Christmas Markets. Coming from London via the East Coast? We’ve compared LNER  and Lumo  so you can decide on the best option for you. We’ve even taken a deeper look at  cheap train tickets from London .

Looking at making a Newcastle to Edinburgh   journey? It’s the ideal festive day trip and you have four different train companies to choose from. We’re here to show you what they’re all like.

Don’t forget that until March 2024, Off-Peak fares apply  all day  in Scotland. We’ve written more information about  ScotRail Off-Peak fares   and what they mean for you.

Is there anything else I should know?

Ready to book your journey to the markets and experience the wonders of Edinburgh during the festive season? Grab your tickets for the train on the Railsmartr website. We don’t charge any fees, so you won’t be charged extra if you change your mind. If your ticket is refundable, then we’ll refund the whole amount. No extra fees, no fuss.

• christmas markets

Savvy Travel Advice

15 Ways to Celebrate Christmas in Edinburgh Scotland

Last updated: December 21, 2023 - Written by Jessica Norah 53 Comments

After spending many winters in Edinburgh, we are sharing our favorite ways to celebrate Christmas in Edinburgh Scotland. There are loads of things to do in Edinburgh during December, which include browsing traditional Christmas markets, ice skating, Christmas shopping, enjoying the holiday lights, riding the Star Flyer, and attending concerts. We cover all things associated with Christmas in Edinburgh from amusement rides to church services, and everything in between.

Whether you are a visitor or a local, we give you advice to help you find the best shopping hotspots, Edinburgh Christmas markets, festive afternoon teas, Edinburgh Christmas events, Christmas meals, light displays, and Christmas decorations in Edinburgh. We also share a brief history of Christmas in Scotland and some of the common holiday traditions. So let’s delve into our guide to things to do in Edinburgh during Christmas!

Note that our Christmas guide has been updated for Edinburgh Christmas 2023. The main 2023 Edinburgh’s Christmas events are taking place from November 17th to January 6th. I will continue to update this guide as dates and events are announced.

Table of Contents:

Although Christianity in Scotland dates back to the Roman Occupation of Britain, Christmas has not always been a popular holiday in Scotland. Prior to the Scottish Reformation , Christmas was celebrated in a manner similar to the rest of Western Europe. However, after Scotland broke ties with the Catholic Church  Christmas celebrations in Scotland were banned as they were seen as Catholic feasts and rituals by the Church of Scotland.

Even after the bans were lessened, Christmas celebrations continued to be suppressed and discouraged by the church. Hogmanay (celebration of the New Year) became the most celebrated Scottish holiday, and Christmas was generally afforded only a quiet acknowledgment and celebration.

Believe it or not, Christmas has only been an official holiday in Scotland since 1958 and it wasn’t until the 1980’s that it was widely publicly celebrated. The increased influence is likely due to a lessening of influence by the Church of Scotland, the influence of popular Christmas customs from countries like Germany, England, Ireland, and the United States, and the demonstrated economic benefits of Christmas markets and celebrations.

Today both Christmas and Hogmanay are widely celebrated in Scotland and considered important holidays. So now there are twice as many fun celebrations!

There are a lot of ways to enjoy the holidays in Edinburgh and there are loads of special Christmas events throughout the city. Head to the official Edinburgh’s Christmas  website to see what events are scheduled during your visit. The official events this year are being held from November 17th, 2023 to January 6th 2024 . 

Although the specific events change each year, our list should give you a good idea of what the city can offer and help you plan your Christmas in Edinburgh. Here is our list of the top 15 things to do in Edinburgh during Christmas!

** A Special Note for Residents of Edinburgh & Vicinity : If you have an EH postcode, you are likely eligible for discounts on Edinburgh rides, attractions, and shows. For instance this year, residents can receive 20% off on most tickets for Edinburgh’s Christmas. Be sure to check when purchasing your ticket, whether online or in person. You’ll need to show proof (e.g., driver’s license or bank statement) to receive the discount.**

Browse the Edinburgh Christmas Markets

The main Christmas Market is held each year in the Princes Street Gardens. It seems to get bigger each year with several lanes filled with little shops and kiosks selling crafts, art, gifts, food, and more. It also now is spread out into part of George Street as well where you find even more booths, rides, and attractions so be sure to head there as well.

Typically, the market at the Princes Street Gardens features traditional European Christmas stalls and is often referred to as the “German Christmas Market”, and the George Street section features Scottish products and is often referred to as the “Scottish Christmas Market”.

You can find a bit of everything at the Christmas markets and some things we saw there this year were painted nutcrackers, scarfs, carved nativity scenes, leather wallets and purses, flavored coffee beans, candles, personalized engraved gifts, Christmas ornaments, stuffed animals, and chocolates.

Although many of the food stands feature German food such as German sausages, there are a number of options which include hamburgers, salmon filets, pulled pork, crepes, and churros.

There are also stands selling hot drinks such as hot chocolate and coffee, and alcoholic options like hot cider, mulled wine (often advertised using German word  Glühwein) , and hot toddies. There is also usually one stall selling Glayva drinks, Glayva is a local whisky that has a spicy taste and is good on its own or paired with coffee or hot apple juice. 

Seek out Holiday Lights

Seeking out festive twinkling light displays is a great way to get into the Christmas spirit in Edinburgh! I am a bit spoiled as I’ve been to some amazing over-the-top light displays in the United States, and have found the ones here in Scotland to be a bit more subdued and fewer people decorate their homes. However, you can still find some great lights here.

Our favorite find so far is the evening light trail at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh . Each evening from November 16th to December 30th, they have illuminated trails that include lots of lights, music, and illuminations. It is a really well done display and great for families. You can also buy hot chocolate or mulled wine to enjoy along the trail. There is an entrance fee and you just need to book tickets online in advance. Entries are timed to ensure that the trail doesn’t get too crowded. 

Although not exactly Christmas lights, Edinburgh Castle is having illuminations evenings as part of their Castle of Light programming throughout the Christmas season. There are also special Christmas packages for visitors.

In previous years there has been a Light Night. This is a festive event each year (normally in mid November) where the city’s holiday lights are officially switched on for the first time. There are also typically music performances, the lighting of the Christmas Tree on the Mound, and fireworks. Light Night is a free event, however the last one was held in 2019 and there has not been one scheduled since then as far as we are aware.

In terms of streets, the best street to walk along for lights and decorations is George Street as there is normally a large light installation here. The Dome on George Street is well-known for its lights as each year it places fairy lights and huge Christmas wreaths around its Corinthian columns. It is one of the most Instagrammed Edinburgh Christmas spots each year. 

You’ll find more light displays around the city and these change each year, so be on the look out!

Go Ice Skating

For over 20 years, there has been an outdoor ice skating rink in central Edinburgh as part of the Christmas celebration. Originally at Princes Street Garden and then in St. Andrews Square. This has long been a very popular attraction for both locals and tourists.

In 2023 the ice-skating rink will be on George Street. The rink is open to kids, adults, and wheelchair users! You can book tickets that include a skate rental or bring your own skates.

If you want a larger ice skating rink, check out the Murrayfield Ice Rink , an indoor skating rink located about a 15 minute drive from central Edinburgh. This offer general public skating sessions each day.

Enjoy a Festive Afternoon Tea 

A holiday afternoon tea is a great way to sit down, warm up, and enjoy a break from all the other festivities. There are a number of places in Edinburgh that offer special Christmas time afternoon teas with the best known being The Do me .

T he Dome is known for going over the top with its holiday decorations with lots of lights, garlands, and decorations filling its interior. Time slots for afternoon tea in the Georgian Room at The Dome normally fill up several days in advance during the holiday season, so making a reservation is strongly recommended. If you are not into afternoon tea, The Dome also serves lunch, drinks, and dinner in its bars and restaurants if you’d still like to come enjoy the holiday decorations.

Other spots that normally serve Christmas afternoon teas in Edinburgh (as well as normal afternoon tea service the rest of the year) are The Si gnet Library , Prestonfield ,  Hilton Edinburgh Carlton Hotel , The Balmoral , Mercure Edinburgh , Sheraton Edinburgh , and The Caledonian . Reservations are strongly recommended (or required) for these afternoon teas to ensure you get a table. 

Many of the city’s big attractions also serve afternoon tea, including the tea room at the Royal Yacht Britannia , café at Holyrood Palace (admission tickets here ), and the tea room at Edinburgh Castle . These attractions often have a special festive afternoon tea on offer during December, and can be special places to enjoy a more casual tea experience while out sightseeing.

See the Nativity & Attend the Nativity Carol Concert

In 2023, a new nativity scene for Edinburgh was created by sculpture Thomas Hildenbrand in Germany. The life-size is an image of Joseph and Mary and can be found on the Mound.

A celebration, such as a concert featuring traditional caroling, is normally held each year around the nativity. The Nativity Concert for 2023 will be held on December 3 at the Ross Bandstand.

Note that in prior years (2003 to 2020), the main nativity scene in Edinburgh was Tim Chalk ‘s life-size sculpture which was often found in St. Andrew’s Square garden. It was retired in 2021.

Admire the Holiday Decorations at Edinburgh’s Top Attractions

December is a great time of the year to visit some of the big attractions as many of them will have special holiday decorations out. Many also offer special holiday themed tours, workshops, caroling, holiday meals, or after-hour tours.

Some popular Edinburgh attractions that usually have good Christmas decorations and/or events include Edinburgh Castle, Royal Yacht Britannia, Edinburgh Royal Botanic Gardens, Palace of Holyroodhouse, St. Giles’ Cathedral, Georgian House, and the Edinburgh Zoo.

Check the attraction’s website to see the latest news and what holiday events are happening during your visit.

Go Christmas Shopping

If you haven’t finished your holiday shopping, Edinburgh is not a bad place to be as there are a lot of stores in Edinburgh!

An obvious place to begin is at the Christmas markets on Princes Street gardens and along George Street, but there are plenty of other places to go Christmas shopping. Princes Street and George Street are home to some of the city’s oldest flagship department stores as well as a number of UK and international fashion, fragrance, and accessory stores.

Multrees Walk is the place to head for luxury stores like Louis Vuitton, Michael Kors, Coach, and Tesla. Independent shops are easy to find in the Grassmarket area, Stockbridge, The Arches , Thistle Street, and the West End. Good places to find local arts and crafts products are at the  weekly markets that take place in several locations throughout the city including Stockbridge and Grassmarket.

If you are a Harry Potter fan (or are shopping for one), you can check out our Harry Potter Edinburgh guide which includes a list of stores selling Harry Potter items.

If you are looking for high-quality Scottish items, such as bagpipes, whisky, cashmere, quaichs, tweed, or kilts, do a little research online beforehand to find the best stores that specialize in that product.

There are a lot of stores selling these items and the quality can vary substantially in the main tourist areas, although you’ll find gems even on the Royal Mile if you know where to go.   Take your time to compare quality and prices before making a purchase. 

Visit Santa Claus 

There are usually at least two places you can find Santa in Edinburgh from the 1st of December to Christmas Eve. The main location is at Santa’s Grotto which is part of the large Edinburgh’s Christmas celebration. A visit includes a bit of storytelling by Santa in a group, an individual chat for each child with Santa, and a small gift from Santa’s elves.

The Santa’s Grotto has moved around a bit over the last several years. Last year (2022) it was located on the lower level of West Princes Street Gardens in Santa Land. In 2023 Santa will be in St. Andrew Square.

If you want to see this popular Santa, I’d book a ticket online with a timed entrance as lines can get long and time slots can get fully booked on busy days. 

In 2023, the Edinburgh Zoo will also have a Santa’s Grotto (need to book Grotto ticket in addition to Christmas Nights trail entry ticket) as part of their Christmas Nights program. These are pretty pricey.

Another place you can usually find Santa is at the   Ocean Terminal shopping center in Leith but do check in advance. Other department stores, attractions, and charity organizations often have Santa visits as well so you may want to check online or a local newspaper for other opportunities.

Sadly, Jenners , Scotland’s oldest independent department store, closed in January 2021. This had been a great place to bring kids to see Santa. We also loved their magnificent Christmas trees.

Attend a Religious Service

Christmas has become a fairly secular and commercial time of year, but at its core it is a Christian religious holiday designed to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. The word literally means Christ’s Mass or Mass of Christ.

If you are looking to spend Christmas in Edinburgh and want to attend a religious service, you’ll have lots of options with many churches offering services on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. In addition to worship services, many churches also offer candlelit concerts and services, caroling, and charity events during the holidays.

The largest religious denomination in Scotland is Presbyterian so you’ll find a number of Presbyterian churches in Edinburgh such as St. Giles’ Cathedral (principal church of the Church of Scotland ), St Cuthbert’s Church, and Grace Church. We’d particularly recommend checking out the December concert events for St. Giles’.

There are also a number of Roman Catholic (e.g., St. Mary’s RC Cathedral, Catholic Church of the Sacred Heart) and  Scottish Episcopal  (Anglican) churches (e.g., St Mary’s Episcopal Cathedra, St John’s Episcopal Church) in Edinburgh. But there are also churches offering other Christian services such as Carrubbers Christian Centre (independent evangelical church), Quaker Meeting House, City of Edinburgh Methodist Church, and Abbeyhill Baptist Church.

If you are looking for a more informal nondenominational service, check out the services offered by The Salvation Army .

Enjoy the Music and Theater Performances

Each year there is a special Edinburgh Christmas events program which includes music, theatre productions, and other evening events. Shows range from family friendly sing-alongs to silent discos to adult-only oriented shows. They usually have a couple of shows that were popular from the Edinburgh Fringe .

If you are looking for caroling, there is an outdoor Nativity Concert (see earlier section about Nativity Concert), caroling performances at some of the city’s churches and cathedrals, and the Carol Service concert put on by The University of Edinburgh’s Chaplaincy service. 

There is also normally an annual Scottish Norwegian Advent Concert held at St. Giles’ Cathedral. St. Giles’ also has other Christmas concerts scheduled for November and December. You can see their program of events here .

For holiday concerts, theater, and dance performances, check out this site which lists productions held at a number of performance venues around the city such as Festival Theatre, The Usher Hall, the Royal Lyceum Theatre, King’s Theatre, and Edinburgh Playhouse.

If you are into comedy and  variety shows check out the schedule at The Stand w hich usually offers some special Christmas performances.

Check out the Christmas Trees

Each year there is a large lighting ceremony of a Christmas tree that signifies the kickoff of the Christmas season in Edinburgh. This free annual event, called Light Night, is family-friendly and huge crowds gather to watch the tree being lit for the first time of the year and to hear choir performances and music. The tree lighting ceremony usually takes place in mid-November on the Mound off George Street.

The tree that is lit is a gift from the Hordaland Country Council in Norway. The tradition of Norway gifting a tree to the people of Edinburgh is a gesture of thanks for the support Scotland gave the Norwegians during World War 2. The tree used to be sent from Norway, but is now sourced in Scotland.

Other places to find decorated trees in Edinburgh which usually also have a special lighting ceremony include the University of Edinburgh’s tree in the Old College Quad, the Christmas tree in the Grassmarket Square in Old Town, and the Christmas tree in Jenners department store. Some other places you can usually find beautifully decorated Christmas trees are in Edinburgh’s Christmas Santa Land, The Dome, Palace of Holyroodhouse, prominent hotels such as the Balmoral, department stores, and at the Edinburgh Royal Botanic Garden.

Take Part in a Fun Charity Event

There are a number of fundraising and charity events that take place during the holiday season in Edinburgh. These include performances, lunches, comedy nights, charity walks and runs, charity auctions, concerts, and more! Some are raising money for a number of charities, and some are specific to one type of charity. These are mostly local events, but if you are a visitor to the city you can also buy tickets to participate in many of these and help fund a good cause.

To help find the latest local charity and fundraising events, check out the What’s On Edinburgh website , The List , and local newspapers.

There are always at least a couple of holiday themed charity walks and runs in Edinburgh each December. Most have fun holiday related themes and many participants wear a Santa suit or reindeer antlers during the event. There is even an Edinburgh  Christmas Charity Festival that hosts a series of events (walks, runs, parade, live entertainment) to help raise money for a number of charities. 

One of the longer running charity Christmas events is the Edinburgh Santa Run & Walk each December where adults and children don provided Santa suits and run or walk to help raise money for When You Wish Upon a Star , a UK foundation which helps fulfill the wishes of children with life-threatening illnesses. In 2023, the Edinburgh Santa Fun Run is scheduled for December 10th.

If you will also be celebrating Hogmanay in Edinburgh (Scottish New Year’s celebration) and have a bit of a crazy streak, you might want to consider participating in Loony Dook. On New Year’s Day, Loony Dook “dookers” participate in a fancy dress parade and then take a cold dip into the freezing River Forth in South Queensferry, just north of Edinburgh. You need to register for  Loony Dook well in advance as it always sells out, and some of the money raised from the event goes to local charities.

Head to the Special Edinburgh Christmas Events

Each year, there are usually a few new or special events that are part of Edinburgh’s Christmas programming , many are free to the public.

For example in 2015 and 2016 there was the Street of Light, a walk through light and sound installation. In 2017 there was Ice Adventure, a walk-through indoor ice and snow sculpture installation, and the Giant Advent Calendar, a daily evening light-and-sound show. In both 2018 and 2019 were outdoor evening silent discos set to synchronized lights. In 2019, there was also a phone-guided night walk and 2 community-focused events.

Each year there is also usually at least one free art-related event. The Winter Windows program has been displayed at Edinburgh’s Christmas for the last several years for example.

The Winter Windows program is a collaborative enterprise between Edinburgh’s primary schools and local businesses and each year a different theme is chosen. The best artwork entries from students around the city are chosen to be displayed in several areas in and around the city throughout the winter season.  

Eat a Tasty Christmas Dinner

If you’re in Edinburgh during Christmas, you might want to have a special Christmas lunch or dinner. Traditional Scottish Christmas meals vary widely but usually feature a roasted meat, ham, or fish (turkey is one of the most common), gravy, cranberry sauce, roasted vegetables (potatoes, carrots, parsnips), stuffing, a green vegetable (e.g., peas, Brussels sprouts, broccoli), and kilted chipolta (sausage wrapped in bacon).

The traditional dessert is Christmas pudding (dense suet, molasses, dried fruit, alcohol, and spiced cake), but other common options are clootie dumpling (a Scottish version of Christmas pudding), a Scottish trifle, or cranachan (whipped cream, whisky, honey, and raspberries). Although not typically part of the Christmas Day meal, mince pies are very common snacks or desserts during the Christmas season throughout the UK.

You’ll find dozens of local restaurants offering special holiday menus in Edinburgh throughout December, and reservations are recommended at most restaurants. Some places to consider for a special Christmas meal are The Witchery, Ghillie Dhu, The Printing Press, Howies, Tower Restaurant, Hotel du Vin, The Balmoral, The Dome, Monteith’s, The Caledonian, Browns, and Prestonfield House. Some popular Edinburgh attractions such as the Edinburgh Castle also have special holiday meals. 

Many restaurants are closed on Christmas Day (so do be sure to confirm opening dates and times), but a number are open, especially those connected to a hotel, and offer special Christmas Day meals. So just be aware that most of the nicer restaurants will be serving special fixed menus on Christmas (as well as on Hogmanay), which are generally more expensive than their regular holiday menus.

For Christmas, a few of the restaurants that are normally open on Christmas Day (December 25th) include The Printing Press , Browns , Number One (at the Balmoral Hotel), Ghillie Dhu , and Howies . Each typically offers a special Christmas Day menu. Be sure to book well in advance.

If you are celebrating Christmas in Edinburgh, there are some common Christmas traditions associated with Christmas Day and the Christmas meal in the UK. In the morning, some families may attend church services and most people exchange and open gifts. The main Christmas meal is often served in the late afternoon and accompanied by the pulling of  Christmas crackers and wearing paper crowns (usually found inside the cracker). The Advent calendar is taken down today.

Another common UK tradition is listening to the King’s Christmas Message  which is broadcast live on radio and TV on Christmas Day. Watching Christmas cartoons and films (a couple common ones that were new for me were Arthur Christmas and the animated The Snowman short film) and listening to Christmas music is common throughout December. Many of these are more common in England than Scotland, but are widely practiced throughout the UK.

Let your Inner Child Loose on the Amusement Rides

Each year a number of amusement rides are brought in for Edinburgh’s Christmas and set in Princes Street Gardens and along George Street. There are normally about a dozen rides geared towards children and families, and then several oriented to adults and thrill seekers.

Santa Land, where many of the children’s rides are, also normally features other attractions such as a Santa Train, carnival games, and a Christmas tree hedge maze.

Two popular local favorites are the Star Flyer (spinning swinging chairs that go up really high) and the Big Wheel (a large ferris wheel), both designed for those who don’t mind heights!

Tickets for rides can be booked online at the Edinburgh Christmas website (valid for the date you choose) or purchased in person at the Christmas market. If you are looking for the shortest lines, the best time to visit is near the opening times and on weekdays. The rides do typically get busy after 4pm and on weekends. 

Where to Stay in Edinburgh during Christmas

If you are planning to spend the night in Edinburgh around Christmas, you have a lot of options for  places to stay in the city  from hotels and apartments to B&B’s and hostels. If your main reason for coming is the Christmas and/or Hogmanay events, I’d recommend staying in a central location that is walkable to the Waverley train station and Princes Street gardens which is where the Christmas market is based.

We’d recommend booking in advance to get the best option as prices are higher around the holidays and finding good value options at the last minute can be difficult. Many places are fully booked in advance over Hogmanay.

Below are some centrally located options, from budget to luxury, that are all within walking distance of Edinburgh’s main Christmas Market.

Budget Lodging Options

• Royal Mile Backpackers   – Located along the Royal Mile, this centrally located hostel offers dormitory rooms in a central location. About a 9 minute walk to the Christmas markets.
• Castle Rock Hostel  – Well-rated hostel with a castle theme, offering both dormitory and private rooms. Adults only. Located within the Grassmarket area near Victoria Street and a 10 minute walk to the Edinburgh Christmas market.
• Stay Central Hotel   – A very nice budget hotel that is perfect for those traveling as a group. Hotel offers rooms that can sleep from 2 to 9 persons, so can be a great deal if you have people to split the cost of the stay. Located about a 10 minute walk to the Christmas markets.
• Vrbo apartments – If you are looking for an apartment, check out the local Vrbo offerings.

Mid-Range Accommodation Options

• Motel One   – A popular modern budget design hotel centrally located in Edinburgh’s Old Town. Located only a few minute walk from the Edinburgh Christmas markets.
• Travelodge Edinburgh Central  – A 3-star chain hotel located just a few minute walk from the Royal Mile and a 6 minute walk from the Christmas market.
• The Grassmarket Hotel  – This 3-star hotel is located within the Grassmarket area and about a 10 minute walk from the Christmas market. Hotel has a quirky and colorful modern decor.
• Holiday Inn Express  – This 3-star hotel offers well-prices rooms in the Old Town. Located near the Royal Mile and about a 12 minute walk from the Christmas market..

Luxury Hotels in Edinburgh

• The Balmoral  – This 5-star hotel opened in 1902 as a traditional railway hotel and has long been a landmark hotel in Edinburgh. This hotel is a mix of traditional and modern decor and has some beautiful suites. Located next to the Waverley train station and the Edinburgh Christmas market is just a 1 minute walk away. This is about close as you can get!
• Waldorf Astoria The Caledonian  – This 5-star luxury hotel was originally built in 1903 as part of Edinburgh train station. Today, it is one of the top luxury properties with a modern leisure club, spa, restaurants, and bars. Located less than a 10 minute walk to the Christmas market.
• The Principal Edinburgh  – This 5-star hotel consists of seven inter-connecting townhouses and sits in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town. A beautifully decorated hotel with a mix of modern decor and vintage travel touches. Across from Charlotte Square, it is about a 5 minute walk to the Christmas market.
• The Witchery  – This popular boutique luxury hotel & restaurant named after witches who were burned at Castlehill in the 16th and 17th centuries. The hotel has 9 different themed suites which are lavishly decorated with Gothic touches, large 4-poster oak beds, antiques, and flamboyant decorations. A 5 minute walk to Edinburgh Castle and a 9 minute walk to the Christmas market.

So there are our top 15 things to do to celebrate Christmas in Edinburgh! Of course, if you are visiting the city in December or January, there are plenty of other non-Christmas things you’ll likely want to do in the city. Check out our guide for what to do in Edinburgh in winter and our Hogmanay guide .

If you are going to be in Edinburgh later in the winter, check out our guide to Up Helly Aa, which are Viking-led fire-filled festivals that celebrate the end of the Yule season in Shetland.

If this is your first time in Edinburgh, we’d recommend checking our guide to  top things to do in Edinburgh  and if you’re returning we also have a guide to exploring   Edinburgh’s lesser known attractions . Also if you are looking for what there is to do nearby, check out our Edinburgh day trip guide .

If you have time to explore further afield in Scotland, check out our Scotland winter guide for lots of ideas from visiting the Isle of Skye to  Cairngorms in winter to skiing in Scotland .

Do you think you would enjoy spending Christmas in Edinburgh? Have you visited Edinburgh in December or for Christmas? If so, we’d love to hear about your favorites things to do during the holidays. If you are going to be visiting, feel free to ask us any questions below in the comments and we are happy to try to help. We love hearing from you!

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Kriti Tula Post author

October 29, 2023 at 6:41 am

Hi, I am in Edinburgh from 23rd to 26th dec. I was wondering if you have suggestions for nice tours/day trips that will still be open around christmas to explore from Edinburgh? Best, Kriti

Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author

October 29, 2023 at 7:28 am

Happy to try to help. So there will of course be all the Christmas celebrations in Edinburgh itself and most of the city’s popular attractions will be open for part of the time you are there (and closed over the actual holidays).

In terms of day tours or day trips, there won’t likely be much going on December 24, 25th, or 26th as those are Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and Boxing Day. A lot of major attractions are closed over the holidays and most people are going to want to be home with their families and most companies are not running any tours on those dates. So I would probably try to structure your trip so that you can do the day tour out on December 23rd or 27th if those are possibilities.

If you can do a day trip on the 23rd or 27th, then there are several day tours with Rabbie’s leaving on December 23rd and/or the 27th. These include visits to Rosslyn Chapel, whisky tasting, Highlands, Loch Lomond, Hadrian’s Walls, castles, St. Andrew’s, Loch Ness, etc. You can see the available tours here . These leave from central Edinburgh.

If you want to do a tour but can’t find one leaving during your dates, you can request to book a private tour and see if one is available but these tend to be pretty expensive, especially if you are traveling alone and are not sharing the cost with anyone.

If you want to head out on your own, an easy day trip without a car is to head over to Glasgow . You can take a train or a bus, and walk around the city and/or use public transit. There is also a sightseeing bus. Since it is a city, there will be more open and things to do than in the smaller towns where lots of places are likely closed. There is lots to do in Glasgow but I would check specific attractions in advance as many will be closed or have limited hours during the dates of your visit.

Or you can consider renting a car for the day and going to a place like Loch Lomond or the Cairngorms National Park if you want to see some natural sites and maybe do some walking or hiking, both parks are nice and most things don’t depend on opening hours. Just note the weather in December is not always the best for outdoor activities.

Hope that helps and just let us know if you have further questions as you plan your visit to Edinburgh!

Best, Jessica

Alice Post author

December 13, 2022 at 9:18 am

Edinburgh is super fun during christmas + all the Hogmanay festivities!

December 17, 2022 at 8:37 am

It is indeed, hope you have a great time exploring Edinburgh over the holidays!

Karen F Post author

November 23, 2019 at 9:30 pm

Hi, I may be in Edinburgh in Christmas Day and Boxing Day. Am I likely to find things open such as pubs to eat and things to do? Or does everything close down?

November 24, 2019 at 12:12 pm

Hi Karen, Edinburgh is a fairly large city and although many places will close (or have reduced hours) you’ll be able to find places to eat, including pubs and casual eateries. Although as noted in the article if you want a special holiday meal, we recommend booking it in advance.

Most attractions will be closed, especially on Christmas Day but you should find a few open on Boxing Day. Just be sure to check hours. For example, the National Museum of Scotland is open in the afternoon on Boxing Day this year. But you also have lots of outdoor stuff to consider such as the Christmas Market, Calton Hill, Arthur’s Seat, neighborhood walks, public parks etc.

Karen Post author

November 24, 2019 at 12:21 pm

Ah thank you Do the Christmas markets stay open after Christmas Day?

November 25, 2019 at 1:26 am

Yes, the Christmas market opened earlier in November and is open until January 4th. The Edinburgh Christmas Market is open on Christmas Eve and Boxing Day (opens at noon I believe) but not on Christmas Day itself. The amount of Christmas stalls and activities does decrease after Christmas Eve, but you’ll still find that most of the rides, food vendors, and market stall shops are open until the 4th.

Halley Post author

November 22, 2019 at 7:09 am

This is such an amazing article! Thank you for taking the time to collect all this information in one place. I am visiting Edinburgh with my family (age range 16-88) over Christmas and New Year’s this year. One thing I’ve noticed is that many places are closed on 24th and 25th but we want to make the most of our time there and do some sightseeing then as well. Do you have recommendations for fun things to do that aren’t closed on the holidays themselves?

November 24, 2019 at 10:54 am

I think you find that several attractions are open on Christmas Eve (although some have reduced hours) in Edinburgh such as Edinburgh Castle and National Museum of Scotland, but yes most of the main sights are going to be closed for Christmas Day and Hogmanay (New Year’s). Many also on Christmas Eve and Boxing Day (December 26th). But you, of course, you have the Christmas Market (open Christmas Eve and Boxing Day) and all the holiday events. These are also good days to consider free outdoor things like a walk along the Royal Mile, exploring Calton Hill, climbing Arthur’s Seat, visiting the city’s gardens and parks, wander around areas such as Stockbridge, Dean’s Village, or Leith, etc.

There will be places open to eat so you should not have an issue finding meals although some places will of course be closed over the holidays. If you are looking for a special meal on Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, or New Year’s Day, I’d book in advance as many places will have special holiday menus.

You might also consider a day trip, for example I don’t think Rabbie’s has any day tour available on Christmas Day or Boxing Day, but I think they do have some tours from Edinburgh available on December 24th such as this day trip to Sterling Castle, the Kelpies, and Loch Lomond National Park.

Hope that helps! Jessica

Amjad Post author

December 6, 2018 at 9:53 am

Thanks for sharing this amazing article, great tips and awesome photos. I just visited London and saw how beautiful its decorated and looking forward seeing Edinburgh’s tomorrow.

It’s my 4th time to visit Edinburgh but it’s the 1st in Dec. Original plan was to visit last Dec but unfortunately I couldnt make it. It’s about time now to be there and i cant wait to take a deep breathe once i step out the gates..gates of freedom

Thanks again Regards, Amjad

December 6, 2018 at 10:09 am

Hi Amjad, thanks for taking the time to comment. Glad you enjoyed seeing London at Christmas and I am sure you will enjoy Edinburgh as well. Recommend taking a lot of time to explore the Edinburgh Christmas market as there are a lot of stalls to see and it is across multiple levels as well as the lights and attractions along and around George Street. The Christmas Market is the least crowded in the mornings and weekdays so that is when I’d recommend visiting if you can.

There are also several shows and events happening over the next few days as well 😉 Enjoy!

anna Post author

December 3, 2018 at 6:42 pm

SCOTTISH NORWEGIAN ADVENT CONCERT – St Giles, High Street, Edinburgh on Monday 19 November at 7.00pm.

Hi is it happening then? do we need tickets?thanks

December 4, 2018 at 7:48 am

Hi Anna, Yes, the Scottish Norwegian Advent concert took place on November 19th but this date has passed so you have missed it unfortunately. But if you are planning to come next year (2019) the concert normally takes place every year. You do need tickets, but they are free, just book them online on the Edinburgh’s Christmas website. Best, Jessica

Louise Post author

November 29, 2018 at 6:03 am

The largest religious denomination in Scotland is actually the Catholic Church whose membership is more than double that of the Church of Scotland (Presbyterian.)

November 29, 2018 at 6:14 am

Hi Louise, Actually, according to the last Census (the best data available), the Church of Scotland is still definitely by far the largest religious group in Scotland – 32% identified as belonging to the Church of Scotland and 16% identified as Roman Catholic. The number of people belonging to the Church of Scotland though has fallen a lot over recent years. You can see those stats on the Scottish government website here . The next planned Census (2021) will provide some updated data. Best, Jessica

Louise Bradley Post author

November 29, 2018 at 2:58 pm

Hi Jessica, I am actually a member of the Church of Scotland and their own statistics put the membership at 398,389 which is 7.5% of the population. The Church itself goes by it’s own statistics because claiming one is a member (as in the census) and actually being a member are two different things.

November 30, 2018 at 12:49 am

Hi Louise, Interesting, that number is very different than the 2011 Census data (1.7 million). But I suppose that is probably true of all religions as there are a lot people who believe in something but who do not necessarily become members or go to worship services. I am guessing, based on your number, the 2021 Census will show another large decline for those who report belonging to the Church of Scotland. Best, Jessica

Bella Post author

November 27, 2018 at 2:27 am

Edinburgh, it is an appealing venue, after reading this article now I want to visit the city on Christmas! It sounds as magical as London on Christmas. Last time I had a party of Christmas at in the Party Clubs of London, it was super with a very attractive environment with amazing drinks. Going to try Edinburgh this year!

Uma Post author

November 21, 2018 at 3:36 pm

Hi Jessica,

Thanks for this write up! I am in a confusion whether to go to Scotland during Christmas. I am planning to fly with my husband and 4 yr old daughter from London to Edinburgh for the first time, on Xmas Eve. I heard there wont be any travels/public transport functional on 25th and 26th. I am still a little confused as what to do on these 2 days as we are planning only for a 4 night trip to Scotland. I heard Scotland is “Xmasy” than London and really beautiful, and worth going. Do you have any tips or advice please?

November 22, 2018 at 5:54 am

In terms of Christmas stuff (decorations, markets, shopping, shows), you’ll find more to see and do in London than Edinburgh. London is much larger than Edinburgh and has a much longer history of celebrating Christmas in a public manner. This article outlines the highlights of the Christmas celebration in Edinburgh, which is the city with the largest Christmas markets and attractions in Scotland. So it really depends on what you want to see and do.

In terms of public transport, I think that you were given incorrect information. While transport services will be more limited on Christmas and Boxing Day (December 26th), there will still be a number of buses running in Edinburgh, you can see that schedule here .

If you decide to go to Scotland and are wanting to see some of the Highlands and perhaps some snow, I’d consider heading up the Cairngorms and Highlands for a day or two. You can join an overnight tour like this one , which includes your transport from Edinburgh, a driver/guide, and accommodation.

I hope this helps. There is no right answer, London is a great city and Scotland is beautiful. I’d base it on your time and what you specifically want to do.

November 22, 2018 at 2:26 pm

Thank you so much Jessica. It really helps and a special thanks for the bus time table.. I read that the tours/travels would not take kids below 5 yr old. Do yo u know what are the other reasonable means of travelling to highlands from Edinburgh?

November 23, 2018 at 3:25 am

You’re welcome 😉

Oh, yes, I forgot that on the scheduled tours the bus companies are unable to take kids under age 5. A guided tour or driving yourself are the easiest way to travel around the Highlands, but your options also include bus and train. You can also contact a tour company about a private tour as they may be able to accommodate children on those.

Buses can get you to all the cities and most of the larger towns and villages in Scotland. For bus, you can check out the Stagecoach and National Express bus schedules. Just note any holiday timetables.

Train travel is more limited in the Scottish Highlands . But you can travel to places like Fort William, Carrbridge, Aviemore, and Inverness. You can then take a bus or taxi from these places to visit spots further afield.

But if you are looking to just explore another Scottish city, in the Highlands or not, it is easy to get a train from Edinburgh to Glasgow , Aberdeen , or Inverness.

But if you only have 4 days, you can easily find plenty to do in Edinburgh and surrounds as well.

Katie Dougal Post author

November 16, 2018 at 1:26 am

I want to visit Edinburgh on the weekend of 4-6th Jan 2019 – will all the christmas stuff still be up that weekend?

November 16, 2018 at 6:53 am

While a few things will no longer be operating (e.g., Santa’s Grotto, Silent Night), the Christmas Market and most of the rides will still be going until January 5th, so you will still be able to visit and see the main Christmas stuff in Edinburgh. I would recommend visiting on that Friday if you can as weekdays tend to be less busy than weekends.

Some of the shows, like La Clique Noel and Kinky Boots, will also still have shows until January 5th so you can also get tickets to those for that weekend as well.

Elsewhere in Edinburgh, some of the other holiday lights and decorations will likely still be up until that weekend as well, but many places tend to take them down after Hogmanay.

Theresa Farrugia Post author

November 15, 2018 at 2:46 am

hi I will be visiting Edinburgh in December from the 20th to the 27th December. i will be traveling alone, and was wondering if any of the restaurants take bookings for one person only ?? also i would like to know if its safe to go out in the evening/and late evenings alone, or maybe go to a pub or restaurants ? how safe is it? i will be in a hotel in St. Andrews square. thanks

November 15, 2018 at 4:59 am

Hi Theresa,

Yes, I think most of restaurants in Edinburgh will take bookings for one person. Around the holidays though many places are closed or have limited hours for certain dates (e.g., Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day [Dec. 26th], NYE/Hogmanay) or only offer set menus on certain dates. So I would recommend starting to make reservations now since you know when you’ll be in the city.

I have never felt unsafe walking around central Edinburgh, alone or with others, so I think you will be OK with taking just normal safety precautions as you would in any other city. Crime does happen here of course, as it does everywhere, but it is not super common and I think most people feel safe walking around central Edinburgh at night. Your hotel is in located in the New Town area which is generally fairly quiet at night.

Of course, if you feel uncomfortable walking to your hotel after a night at the pub or something, you can easily book an Uber or taxi to take you there directly.

Hope that helps! Do let us know if you have any further questions as you plan your visit to Edinburgh for Christmas.

Brooke Post author

November 8, 2018 at 1:38 pm

Found this post because I have a trip booked for Scotland this December! Thanks for the great tips! I can’t wait to see the Christmas decorations/markets, as it will be our first Christmas in Europe this year.

November 9, 2018 at 2:06 am

Hi Brooke, Thanks so much for taking the time to leave us a comment, and wishing you a great time in Edinburgh in December. The Christmas markets are definitely a must-see if you are in Edinburgh around Christmas. The lights are also nice, we really enjoyed the ones at the Botanic Garden last year. Best, Jessica

Elin Post author

October 20, 2018 at 12:54 am

Dear Jessica and Laurence,

Hello! I’ll be coming to Edinburgh for Christmas day, still searching for a good Christmas day lunch or dinner for the 25th of December. Do you have any restaurants recommendation which are within friendly budget range? Maybe around less than 80 pounds per person? Your recommendations are a bit on the expensive side, would love to see if there’s any cheaper options.

Thank you. 🙂

Regards, Edellin

October 20, 2018 at 10:06 am

So glad you are going to be spending time in Edinburgh in and around Christmas 😉 Yes, Edinburgh prices in general are higher than the rest of Scotland, and the set holidays menus tend to be higher than normal, especially those on Christmas Day as many restaurants are closed.

You’ll find lots of holiday meal options and better prices on any other day in December as many close so their staff can celebrate the holiday at home. If you could shift your holiday meal to Christmas Eve or the 26th, you’ll have a lot more options within your budget.

Here is a list from doing a bit of searching. It is unclear if some of these are open Christmas Day or not, so you’ll need to double check, but here some more options:

– The Voodoo Rooms is offering 3-course lunch and dinner Christmas set menus for £24 to £29 (at least 2 persons). – The Ghillie Dhu has menus starting at £24 per person but it looks like their Christmas menus is £69 per adult. – Howie’s – this place normally has good value menus (2 course dinner menu for £15) – but their 4-course Christmas Day menus is £80 per person. This one clearly states it is open Christmas day. – Monteith’s has a Christmas menu for £39 per person – not sure if open Christmas Day. – The Tigerlily has holiday menus starting at £30 – The Grain Store has 2-course Christmas menus starting at £22 per person – The Printing Press has a Christmas Day menu for £85 per person (definitely open on the 25th) but have much less expensive festive menus offered on every day but the 25th

There are not a lot of restaurants open on Christmas Day, so once you find a menu that suits, I’d make reservations as many places will be fully booked.

Hope this helps, and I’d love to hear where you choose to eat on Christmas Day!

October 22, 2018 at 8:08 am

Dear Jessica,

Yes, we’re very excited since it’s our first time coming to Scotland and the Christmas timing couldn’t be more perfect, I hope it’s going to be fantastic! Unfortunately we have other plans on 24th and 26th, so we decided to have Christmas feast on the 25th. Anyway thank you so much for your recommendations, those are great options with friendly budget.

I’m going to check the restaurants and book the suitable one for me very soon.

Thank you for being very helpful, have a great day! 🙂

Regards, Elin

October 22, 2018 at 11:55 am

You’re very welcome and I hope you find a great restaurant for Christmas lunch or dinner in Edinburgh. We are actually going to the Ghillie Dhu for a Christmas Eve lunch and ceilidh this year 😉 Best, Jessica

Sharon.vaughan Post author

September 8, 2018 at 4:00 am

How do you apply the Edinburgh residents discount code when booking Hogmanay tickets on line?

September 8, 2018 at 4:14 am

I am not sure if there are any current discounts available for Hogmanay tickets, but there definitely are for the Edinburgh Christmas events. But if more discounted tickets go on sale for locals, it will work the same way (the events are run by the same company).

If you book online, you will be asked at the very end of the checkout process for your tickets for your mailing address. If you are an Edinburgh area resident and your postcard begins with EH then you should automatically get the 20% off discount applied to your order. If you purchase online, you should just be sure to bring proof of your address to show when collecting your tickets/entering the venue (e.g., driver’s license or bank statement or Young Scot ID).

If you book in person, you just need to bring proof of address to get the discount on the Edinburgh Christmas tickets.

Hope that helps!!

Jennifer Newell Post author

April 3, 2018 at 8:03 pm

What a fantastic article! I am planning to visit Edinburgh in December 2018. My fourth visit to Scotland, but first time in December! Can’t wait!!

April 4, 2018 at 5:29 am

Hi Jennifer, Glad you enjoyed our article and wishing you have a wonderful time in Edinburgh in December! If you have mainly been only in summer, it is definitely a different experience to be in Scotland in the winter. Jessica

Aileen Post author

January 4, 2018 at 11:32 pm

I live in Edinburgh and this is an amazing list of things to do in Edinburgh in December and for Christmas. I like the variety of your suggestions as I think there is something for everyone here, good for locals and travelers. I also like that you included the religious services and the meaning (literally!) of Christmas. We attend a Christmas mass each year and I am sure many Christian visitors may be looking for one as well in our city. Our family’s favorite thing is probably to just wander around the Christmas markets and then the rides for the wee ones, but only on weekdays (and early on in the season) when it is not so crowded!

January 5, 2018 at 3:49 pm

Thanks Aileen, always good to hear that a local found one of our Edinburgh articles useful and sound 😉 There is such a variety of things to do from the rides to afternoon teas to Christmas mass. We agree with you about visiting the Edinburgh Christmas Markets and rides on weekdays if you can, we also tend to visit in the mornings/afternoons, as evenings and weekends can be really busy. The days around Hogmanay are also very crowded and it can feel a but claustrophobic in the market area. Jessica

Hilary Post author

December 12, 2017 at 9:57 pm

I’ve always wanted to visit Edinburgh at Christmas! Your photos are stunning and are making me wish this was our year… It’s definitely happening! I had no idea that celebrating modern Christmas is a somewhat recent happening in Scotland. Happy Holidays!

December 13, 2017 at 2:29 am

Hi Hilary, Maybe you can make it to Edinburgh for Christmas next year?! Yes, the history of Christmas is really interesting in different countries. Jessica

Seana Turner Post author

December 11, 2017 at 4:22 pm

I’m so glad you posted this. I’ve never actually thought about going abroad at Christmas. I’ve always thought of Christmas of a “stay at home” time. But I have to say, this looks super fun! I think I would love being here. Maybe I could swing a trip earlier in the month and still be back for the 25th!

December 12, 2017 at 3:23 am

Hi Seana, Definitely! Many of the Edinburgh’s Christmas events begin at the end of November and are all in full swing starting on December 1st. You could definitely visit Edinburgh (or other European Christmas markets) in early to mid December and be home for Christmas with the family. A lot of people do river cruises as well on the Rhine or Danube around this time to see Christmas markets in different European cities, especially Germany. Wishing you a merry Christmas! Best, Jessica

Rob+Ann Post author

December 10, 2017 at 10:11 pm

So many pretty sights and, as always, great photos. You’ve got us eager to visit Scotland for the holidays now! (Granted, we’d love to visit Scotland pretty much any time. 😉 Thanks for sharing with us and Merry Christmas to you both!

December 11, 2017 at 8:10 am

Hi Rob & Ann, Hope you get a chance to visit Scotland during the holidays some time soon (maybe next year??). Wishing you a Merry Christmas as well! Best, Jessica

Anda Post author

December 8, 2017 at 9:37 pm

Your beautiful post took me back to the time when I lived in Europe. Christmas time was so charming and there was indeed so much to see and do at this time of year. But not here, in California, where there are about 28ºC right now. The city is beautifully decorated, and so are the stores and people’s houses, but there is no Christmas atmosphere in this heat. I’d love to visit Edinburgh sometimes in December. It looks so charming!

December 9, 2017 at 11:10 am

Hi Anda, I definitely understand what you mean from my five years in California. Most of California just doesn’t feel very “Christmasy” sometimes despite the decorations and festivities. We headed to Yosemite one year for the Bracebridge Dinner and that did feel like Christmas with the snow, mountains, winter activities, and decorated hotels. But on the other hand, it is has been cold and rainy here in the UK with the recent storms, so easy to envy the warm weather you are having there! Best, Jessica

Anisa Post author

December 8, 2017 at 1:12 pm

I would love to spend Christmas in Edinburgh! I went to the Dome restaurant when I was there last year and I loved it. Christmas tea there sounds like a great idea. I would also love to visit the Christmas markets, they look lovely. Thanks for sharing on TheWeeklyPostcard.

December 9, 2017 at 11:06 am

Hi Anisa, The Dome is really an over-the-top Christmas spot, it is quite “overdecorated” in terms of Edinburgh, but reminds me of places in the U.S. around Christmas. We are excited to go to The Dome for afternoon tea this year, we are going a few days before Christmas 😉 I hope you have a wonderful Christmas in Norwich and hope you get a chance in the future to come explore the Edinburgh Christmas markets! Best, Jessica

Ursula Post author

December 8, 2017 at 2:03 am

Thanks for sharing this article with the wonderful photos, it definitely makes me want to visit Edinburgh one day at Christmas time. I had to pin it so that I don’t lose it. I wish you a wonderful Christmas time!

December 8, 2017 at 9:02 am

Hi Ursula, Glad you enjoyed the post and hope you get a chance to have Christmas in Edinburgh in the future. Wishing you a wonderful Christmas and holiday season as well! Best, Jessica

Tanja Post author

December 7, 2017 at 10:16 am

Edinburgh looks magical in Christmas season! I’ve visited it a few years ago and loved it! I need to come again:)

December 8, 2017 at 9:01 am

Hi Tanja, Yes, December is a great time to visit Edinburgh and there are a lot of events and activities going on throughout the Christmas season. Early December is a nice time to visit Edinburgh as it is less crowded, but if you are looking for more people and liveliness, visit in late December and stay for Hogmanay! Best, Jessica

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Ultimate Christmas Markets

A Guide to Europe and Beyond

Edinburgh Christmas Market 2024 Dates and Tickets

Last Updated: 30 April 2024 31 Comments

Edinburgh’s winter festivals combine Christmas and Hogmanay from November to January. It’s one of the best times for visiting the city as you can pick and choose from many events and things to do.

Edinburgh Christmas Market is one of the most popular events, and in this guide, I list the dates for 2024 with opening times and locations.

Edinburgh Christmas Market

Dates – unconfirmed.

Edinburgh Christmas Market dates: 16th November 2024 to 6th January 2025 (unconfirmed). Hogmanay dates: 29th December 2024 to New Year’s Day 2025 (confirmed).

Expected Update: Last year’s dates were announced in October . Check back around that time for confirmed dates, or sign up for our newsletter to get notified as soon as they’re available.

Location and Times

Travel and accommodation, dietary options, accessibility, convenient hotels, recommended tours, location map, about the market, food specialties, gifts and souvenirs, personal insights, travel information, official website, sustainability, plan your visit.

Locations: East Princes Street Gardens: This is the traditional European-style market with 70 stalls. You’ll also find the Big Wheel, Starflyer and Helter Skelter in this location. West Princes Street Gardens: This is the family children’s market where you’ll find funfair rides and family-friendly attractions. Opening dates are from the 17th November (unconfirmed). George Street: The location of the Scottish Christmas Fair, the Ice Rink and vintage funfair rides. George Street opens on the 17th November (unconfirmed). St Andrew Square: This is where you’ll find Santa and the Santa’s Stories group sessions. Opening times: 10am to 10pm. Christmas Eve: 10am to 8pm. Christmas Day: Closed. Boxing Day: 12pm to 8pm. New Year’s Eve: 10am to 6pm. New Year’s Day: 12pm to 8pm. Christmas lights: Yes, from 16th November 2024 (unconfirmed).

Recommended tour: Take Edinburgh’s most popular tour, a ghost tour of Edinburgh’s vaults . Public transport: Edinburgh Waverley train station or St Andrew Square tram stop. Parking: Please take public transport to help limit congestion. Travel tip: Hogmanay is a 3-day event that includes Party at the Bells and the Torchlight Procession for which you must book tickets in advance. Book Hogmanay tickets here . Where to stay: Market Street Hotel is highy-rated hotel located in the Mound Precinct.

Tickets and Attractions

Admission: Free. Tickets: Tickets are only required for rides and attractions. Purchase online in advance or at the event. Click here to book . Payment: Ticket purchases are cashless. Ice rink: Yes. Take your own skates or get them at the rink at George Street. Big Wheel: Book tickets online or at the event at East Princes Street. Santa: Yes. Santa Stories require ticket online or at the event at St Andrew Square.

Vegetarian: Yes, plenty of options as is typical in Edinburgh. Vegan: Yes, plenty of options. Gluten free: Yes, but limited. Ask before ordering.

Accessible: Yes. Pet-friendly: It’s advised to keep dogs at home.

The Mound Precinct is the central area where you’ll most likely want to stay to be near the main sights and attractions.

I suggest staying at Market Street Hotel as it’s a 6-minute walk to both East Princes Street Gardens and George Street.

You might also like to stay in one of Edinburgh’s cool neighbourhoods, such as Stockbridge, Dean Village, or even Leith on the waterfront.

If you’d prefer to stay elsewhere, my guide to hotels near Edinburgh Christmas Market lists several well-located hotels covering all budgets.

This ghost tour of Edinburgh’s vaults is one of the most popular things to do in Edinburgh.

If you’d prefer a regular walking tour, this Old Town history tour is the way to go.

Alternatively, you could consider a food tour to learn about the local Scottish culture through their cuisine.

Most of Edinburgh’s food tours are alcohol-based, but I prefer this tour , which is all about the food.

Extend you Christmas holiday this year by adding another destination to your trip. This Christmas markets 2024 UK guide could help you choose where to go. If you’d like to stay in the region, this list of Scotland Christmas Markets has plenty of places to go.

Captured a moment that embodies the holiday season? Tag your photos with #UltimateChristmasMarkets — we can’t wait to see your festive finds!

What to Expect

Experiencing Christmas in Edinburgh is undoubtedly an end-of-year highlight.

You’ll find classic mulled wine, roasting chestnuts, festive lights, live music, ice skating, rides, and Santa Stories; there is something for everyone to enjoy.

The markets have traditional snacks, interesting gifts and stocking fillers, and unique souvenirs that are perfect for those looking to do some shopping.

Haggis: The traditional Scottish dish with sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs mixed with onions, oatmeal, and spices, served with neeps (turnips) and tatties (potatoes).

Cranachan: A Scottish dessert made with whipped cream, honey, toasted oatmeal, raspberries, and a dash of whisky, a sweet and indulgent treat.

Mince pies: Bite-sized pies filled with dried fruits and spices, often served warm with a dollop of whipped cream or brandy butter.

Shortbread: The classic buttery and crumbly Scottish biscuit made with sugar, flour, and butter, often served as a snack or with tea.

Food and Drink Stalls

Hot toddy: A warm and soothing drink made with whisky, honey and lemon, often served in a glass mug, a Scottish classic perfect for sipping while chatting with friends.

Irn-Bru fudge: It’s a sweet and creamy fudge infused with the unique flavour of Scottish Irn-Bru.

Scottish tablet: A traditional Scottish confectionery similar to fudge but with a harder and crumbly texture.

German-style bratwurst: A grilled sausage served on a fresh bread roll, often topped with onions and mustard, a classic market street food.

Crepes: French-style pancakes filled with sweet or savoury toppings, such as Nutella, bananas or ham and cheese. They’re made to order at the markets.

Roasted chestnuts: A classic winter snack, roasted chestnuts are sold in paper cones.

Mulled wine: Hot red wine infused with cinnamon, cloves, and citrus peel is a popular German specialty.

Tartan accessories: Scotland is famous for its tartan patterns, and you can find a range of tartan scarves, hats, gloves, and bags at the market. These make great souvenirs or gifts for friends and family, even if they’re a bit of a cliché gift.

Whisky and gin: Scotland is also known for its spirits, and you can find a variety of locally produced bottles at the market.

Edinburgh Gin baubles: A unique gift, these Christmas baubles are filled with Edinburgh Gin and come in flavours that include rhubarb and ginger, pomegranate and rose, and classic gin.

Scottish knitwear: Another traditional Scottish item, you can find cosy knitwear at some stalls, including jumpers, cardigans, and hats.

On my first visit to Edinburgh, travel was quite a new experience, making everything seem particularly exciting.

Wandering around Edinburgh Castle, exploring the cultural experiences at the museums, and indulging in the amazing food were highlights for me. There’s just so much to do.

I’ve been amazed at how vibrant and busy the city is in winter. Of course, the weather can be a bit gloomy during this time of year, but that’s to be expected and doesn’t detract from the city’s appeal.

Edinburgh always has something new happening, making every visit a unique experience.

Here are some more details on some of the top things to do in Edinburgh in winter:

Edinburgh Castle is a must-visit attraction all year round, and winter is no exception. The castle has stunning city views, and you can explore its history with a skip-the-line tour . This is by far the most famous sight in the city.

Ice skating at the George Street ice rink is a popular winter activity. Festive decorations surround the rink, and special events, such as ice discos, are often held there.

The Christmas Tree Maze at West Princes Street Gardens is a fun and festive activity for all ages. You can navigate through the maze and take in the pretty decorations along the way.

Santa’s Grotto is also located at West Princes Street Gardens and is perfect for families with young children. Meet Santa and his elves and take a few photos.

The Festive Light Trail is a unique way to explore. The trail runs throughout the city and features unique light displays and installations.

Winter Village at Edinburgh Zoo also has some exciting winter-specific events, including its own Christmas market, ice rink, Santa’s Grotto and Breakfast with the Clauses. Book online before you go . Dates: 1st December to 6th January 2025 (unconfirmed).

Finally, the Royal Botanic Garden is a beautiful escape from the city and a great way to connect with nature. The garden is a living museum of plants, and special events are often held, such as Christmas at the Botanics . Dates: 15th November to 30th December 2024 (unconfirmed).

Visit Scotland , the tourist office’s official website has information regarding events, where to go and the best ways to experience Edinburgh at Christmas and attend Hogmanay.

For the most up-to-date information, including any changes to dates or times, visitors should consult the market’s official website or contact the tourist office. Click here for more info .

Here’s how you can tread lightly during your visit.

Eco-friendly Stays : Hotels in Edinburgh often provide information on their sustainability practices. Book a place powered by renewable energy sources like wind power, which is relatively common in Scotland.

Minimising Food Waste : The markets in Edinburgh are a feast for the senses. Instead of overbuying, try sharing portions. Many stalls provide small-sized servings, making it easy to sample various dishes without wasting food.

Mindful Spending : Be selective with what you buy. Prioritise items that are both local and made from sustainable materials.

Plant-based Options : Edinburgh has an increasing number of vegan and vegetarian eateries, which generally have a lower environmental impact.

Sustainable Transport : Edinburgh has an extensive and efficient public transport network, including buses and trams. Walking is also an excellent option since many Christmas events happen around the city centre.

If you have visited Edinburgh in winter or want to leave a review, please comment below. This will help others interested in visiting and trying to plan their holiday.

Recommendations are independently chosen based on personal travel experiences and extensive research. While we make every effort to provide accurate information, the dates and details listed here should not be relied upon. Please consult the official website before booking your trip or planning a visit.

Plan Your Winter Holiday

Reader interactions.

December 18, 2023 at 3:03 pm

This will be my 3rd visit to the Edinburgh Market. Beautiful and magical time! Can you tell me what day Ginger Day is this year (2023)?

February 14, 2024 at 9:35 am

I don’t know sorry, hopefully a reader can help.

November 20, 2023 at 3:19 am

Contradictory answers here, some people asking about tickets, some are told they dont need a ticket, others agreeing to let them know. Christmas markets themselves are free to enter.

November 22, 2023 at 5:11 am

The organiser initially said tickets (free) would be required but later changed their policy. It’s free to enter and no tickets are required.

October 8, 2023 at 8:58 pm

Hello! Would you be able to email me when tickets have been released please 🙏🏻

March 23, 2024 at 4:45 am

The article was updated in October. This year I’ll be starting a newsletter so I can easily update people with dates. Sorry I wasn’t able to personally notify everyone last year.

October 6, 2023 at 10:56 am

Hi Andrea, Please could you also e-mail me when the Christmas market tickets are made available? I keep checking, and as I have already booked trains for myself and two friends to attend the Christmas market, I would be devastated if I couldn’t get three tickets. Thank you x

October 7, 2023 at 2:06 am

Sure, no problem.

October 5, 2023 at 8:43 pm

Is there a way to be notified when tickets are made available? I would love if you could email me!

October 6, 2023 at 3:42 am

I can email you when I know.

October 3, 2023 at 2:01 pm

Live in Deal Kent Never been to christmarketEdinburgh Stay in York and come to Edinburgh on 22 November 23 for the day. Desperate to get ticket for that day. When can I book for that day. Please let me know as I am 84 years old Henk Luppers

October 4, 2023 at 1:16 am

Hi Henk, Updating here to say that tickets are not required to enter, only for attractions like the Big Wheel and the Ice Rink.

October 3, 2023 at 8:43 am

Will the market be back to its original size on a 2 tier level? last time i went it was all on the top level and was very crowded.

October 4, 2023 at 1:17 am

They are spreading it out a lot more this year due to issues with overcrowding. Hopefully it’ll be better this year with the new organiser.

October 2, 2023 at 6:05 pm

Hi, When will xmas tickets be available to book?

October 2, 2023 at 10:27 pm

The organiser said the tickets will be available in the coming weeks. It shouldn’t be long now. I’ll update here as soon as I know.

September 19, 2023 at 6:24 am

How do I book 3 tickets for the 9 dec please Christmas market

September 20, 2023 at 12:23 am

Tickets aren’t available until closer to the opening date. Please check back in a couple of weeks.

May 11, 2023 at 3:10 pm

Have been to Edinburgh christmas market for the last 4 year but last year 2022 the market was very poor & alot smaller than other years is this year going to be as before

May 17, 2023 at 5:07 am

Sorry to hear that. Hopefully this isn’t a trend and it’ll be better this year.

November 22, 2023 at 3:41 pm

I also reckon and keeping in mind since it was covid, the travel industry was affected, causing lack of people and smaller environment like previous years. Hopefully, this year we shouldn’t have a problem.

December 15, 2022 at 2:23 pm

I bought a dried citrus wreath and ornaments at the market and it was amazing smell. I really want their aroma oil… any one have any idea where there store is…?

November 16, 2022 at 4:54 pm

Booked my stay according to the early release dates for 19th November so really disappointed the markets are not open until the 25th.

November 17, 2022 at 1:16 am

Sorry to hear that.

November 15, 2022 at 11:31 am

Is it going to be possible to book the Ice-skating this year?

November 16, 2022 at 12:47 am

Yes, you can book online or at the event.

November 9, 2022 at 3:29 am

Unfortunately, the other websites are incorrect. The Christmas markets start on the 25th November in 2022. You can find the confirmed dates at the official website here and at Visit Scotland .

November 3, 2022 at 9:22 pm

Hi, do you have to book tickets to enter the Christmas market or can you just book accommodation and go there? Many thanks

November 4, 2022 at 9:43 am

There are no tickets and it’s free to enter.

October 5, 2022 at 1:29 pm

Cant wait to get back to lovely Edinburgh for annual Christmas visit. Visited the Botanical Gardens for the first time last year, hoping to take my granddaughter this year

October 5, 2022 at 10:07 pm

That’s great to hear!

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Ultimate Christmas Markets A guide to Christmas in Europe and beyond.

Written by Andrea Anastasakis PO Box 205 Fremantle WA 6959

Email:  [email protected]

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Savvino-storozhevsky monastery and museum.

Zvenigorod's most famous sight is the Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery, which was founded in 1398 by the monk Savva from the Troitse-Sergieva Lavra, at the invitation and with the support of Prince Yury Dmitrievich of Zvenigorod. Savva was later canonised as St Sabbas (Savva) of Storozhev. The monastery late flourished under the reign of Tsar Alexis, who chose the monastery as his family church and often went on pilgrimage there and made lots of donations to it. Most of the monastery’s buildings date from this time. The monastery is heavily fortified with thick walls and six towers, the most impressive of which is the Krasny Tower which also serves as the eastern entrance. The monastery was closed in 1918 and only reopened in 1995. In 1998 Patriarch Alexius II took part in a service to return the relics of St Sabbas to the monastery. Today the monastery has the status of a stauropegic monastery, which is second in status to a lavra. In addition to being a working monastery, it also holds the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum.

Belfry and Neighbouring Churches

Located near the main entrance is the monastery's belfry which is perhaps the calling card of the monastery due to its uniqueness. It was built in the 1650s and the St Sergius of Radonezh’s Church was opened on the middle tier in the mid-17th century, although it was originally dedicated to the Trinity. The belfry's 35-tonne Great Bladgovestny Bell fell in 1941 and was only restored and returned in 2003. Attached to the belfry is a large refectory and the Transfiguration Church, both of which were built on the orders of Tsar Alexis in the 1650s.  

To the left of the belfry is another, smaller, refectory which is attached to the Trinity Gate-Church, which was also constructed in the 1650s on the orders of Tsar Alexis who made it his own family church. The church is elaborately decorated with colourful trims and underneath the archway is a beautiful 19th century fresco.

Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral

The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is the oldest building in the monastery and among the oldest buildings in the Moscow Region. It was built between 1404 and 1405 during the lifetime of St Sabbas and using the funds of Prince Yury of Zvenigorod. The white-stone cathedral is a standard four-pillar design with a single golden dome. After the death of St Sabbas he was interred in the cathedral and a new altar dedicated to him was added.

Under the reign of Tsar Alexis the cathedral was decorated with frescoes by Stepan Ryazanets, some of which remain today. Tsar Alexis also presented the cathedral with a five-tier iconostasis, the top row of icons have been preserved.

Tsaritsa's Chambers

The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is located between the Tsaritsa's Chambers of the left and the Palace of Tsar Alexis on the right. The Tsaritsa's Chambers were built in the mid-17th century for the wife of Tsar Alexey - Tsaritsa Maria Ilinichna Miloskavskaya. The design of the building is influenced by the ancient Russian architectural style. Is prettier than the Tsar's chambers opposite, being red in colour with elaborately decorated window frames and entrance.

At present the Tsaritsa's Chambers houses the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum. Among its displays is an accurate recreation of the interior of a noble lady's chambers including furniture, decorations and a decorated tiled oven, and an exhibition on the history of Zvenigorod and the monastery.

Palace of Tsar Alexis

The Palace of Tsar Alexis was built in the 1650s and is now one of the best surviving examples of non-religious architecture of that era. It was built especially for Tsar Alexis who often visited the monastery on religious pilgrimages. Its most striking feature is its pretty row of nine chimney spouts which resemble towers.

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