WEATHER

In May, temperatures in Edinburgh usually hover between 41°F -59°F (5°C - 15°C) .

In addition, the days start to last longer, the sun is much more visible and the gardens are especially in bloom in May in Edinburgh.

Scotland is known for having " four seasons in a day."

May is typically the driest month for Scotland, with the chance of rainy days being only about 9 days in the whole month.

With that said however, Scotland is still notorious for variable weather conditions that can change within a moments notice, which is why packing and wearing layers is advisable.

Also, it is advisable to pack a lightweight rain jacket that you might be able to bring around with you while exploring urban areas.

Umbrellas are not recommended, as the city has strong wind gusts, which will make their use difficult around town.

Finally, keep in mind that the city is very old and you will be doing lots of walking. We recommend packing comfortable walking or hiking shoes based on your activity choices.

KEEP IN MIND



The majority of places will accept contactless payments for a U.S credit card (or at least U.S credit cards), but it is always worth it to carry some British Pounds in cash.

If you are interested in setting up an established third party company to handle your international payments, we recommend looking into a Wise or PayPal. There is a transaction fee but it can be lower than certain credit cards.

WhatsApp is the best way to communicate while out of the country to avoid any international data fees.

GETTING TO KNOW THE CITY

Most of the action is in Old Town or New Town.

Old Town is made up of cobblestone streets and a classic Scottish feel. New Town has a modern metropolitan feel.

These places are linked by North Bridge, Waverley Bridge and The Mound. The main road that runs through Old Town is called Royal Mile. The main road that runs through New Town is called Princes Street.

CAR RENTALS, DRIVING & CITY TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS

Please keep in mind that city parking is very limited. Edinburgh roads are old and narrow and often don't allow for parking.

"Petrol" tends to be much more expensive than we are accustomed to in the U.S. Please check current rates prior to planning your trip.

In addition to this, most cars are not automatic! You will be driving on the opposite side of the road and please be ready for very difficult driving.

We recommend only renting a car if you plan on traveling out of the city to the highlands, as the public transit and taxi service in the city makes it easy.

Also Edinburgh has great public transit options.

There are two major bus companies Lothian Buses and First Bus. Fares are usually less than five pounds a day for an adult ticket.

These buses run all throughout the city and have a hop-on-hop-off system, making it really easy and inexpensive to get around if you don't want to walk.

You are more likely to use Lothian during your visit, as it has the more extensive network of routes throughout the city center.

Please note you must have exact change!

Bring Cash.

First Bus will allow you to explore greater Scotland without the worry of

driving.

Taxis are great for an evening out or to get around quick. You can hail down a black cab any time one passes so long as it has it's orange light illuminated, or queue for a lift at one of many taxi ranks dotted around the city center.

Central Taxis and Capital Cars are both reliable options too, and they often are cheaper. These companies allow you to prearrange car services if you would prefer to have a ride waiting.

You can finally use Uber or the European company called Bolt, but this tends to be pricer!

*If you do still plan to renting a car, and are saying at the Castle, there is plenty of parking on-site.

DINING

Most cafes start to get busy around 11am. If you plan to eat later, you might wait, but there are lots of to-go breakfast options.

Dinner is typically between 6pm-10pm and is mostly sit-down. Weekends will require reservations often.

"Chippies" & late-night kebab shops close by 1am

*Tipping is polite but not expected (10% for table or bar service)

DRINKS & NIGHTLIFE

Most pubs across Scotland tend to open at Noon and close around midnight. Most Clubs tend to close by 3am across the city.

*If you are out in the New Town; Dress Up. For the Old Town or Leith, stay casual.

SHOPPING

If you are planning on shopping while in Edinburgh, George Street is for designer names and Princes Street is affordable fashion. Old Town is known for artisanal goods and small shops.

Shop hours usually are 9am-6pm daily, but some have extended hours on Thursdays.

One of our personal favorite craftsman companies in the city is The Tartan Blanket Company, located in Leith. We own two of their handmade wool tartan throws (Mckenzie & Fraser) and we highly recommend them!

*Scotland charges 10p per plastic bag so pack a reusable shopping bag



ARTS & CULTURE

Lots of Scotland's museums and galleries are free!

However, some independent sites might have a small ticket fee.

Theatre tickets are also reasonable in price.

Check out our "Things to do & See" tab for lots of different highly recommend spots, ranging from museums, to castles to comedy clubs.

*dress code is pretty casual for the evening theatre