Let’s agree that each season has its own highlights and unique experiences. With “Spring Edition,” we’ll focus specifically on the best aspects of visiting Edinburgh during the spring season.
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Spring (March-May):
Weather: If you’re visiting Edinburgh in March or early April, expect chilly temperatures, often feeling like winter. For example, on April 8, 2024, temperatures were around 6°C.
By May, the weather starts to warm up slightly, with average temperatures ranging between 10–13°C. While sunny spells are common in April and May, heavy rain showers can happen unexpectedly – so pack accordingly!
Wondering what to pack for your Edinburgh trip? You’re not alone! Many travellers have asked, so I’ve put together a handy Packing Guide and checklist to help you stay organized, even with Edinburgh’s unpredictable weather. Grab your free download here.
Flowers: Despite the chilly weather, you can still enjoy blooming trees and flowers, with cherry blossoms in Apr – beginning of May!
Crowds: Fewer tourists compared to summer.
Costs: More affordable accommodation than peak season.
Note: April can be tricky. Schools in Scotland have a two-week break over Easter, so prices rise (Easter 2025 is on Sunday, April 20). I suggest visiting outside of Easter for better deals and fewer crowds!
Top 5 Places to Enjoy Cherry Blossom in Edinburgh: Princes Street Gardens, The Meadows, Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, St. Andrew Square, Canongate Kirk.
Be sure to check out this article for even more places to enjoy cherry blossoms in Edinburgh!
Spring in Edinburgh is pure magic – longer days, cherry blossoms in full bloom, and an exciting lineup of festivals and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or a local looking for fresh ideas, here are some of the best things to do in Edinburgh this season:
Experience the Beltane Fire Festival (April 30, 2025)
If you’re in Edinburgh at the end of April, don’t miss the Beltane Fire Festival on Calton Hill. This electrifying event welcomes summer with a dramatic display of fire performances, drumming, and mythical storytelling – an unforgettable way to witness Scotland’s ancient traditions come to life.
Explore the Edinburgh Science Festival (April 5–20, 2025)
Perfect for families, science lovers, and the curious-minded, the Edinburgh Science Festival brings interactive exhibits, fascinating talks, and hands-on experiments to the city. With events for all ages, it’s a fantastic way to learn and have fun at the same time.
Enjoy Cherry Blossoms in The Meadows (April–May)
One of the most stunning sights in Edinburgh during spring is the explosion of pink and white cherry blossoms. Head to The Meadows for a leisurely stroll, a picnic under the trees, or a dreamy photoshoot. Bonus tip: Visit early in the morning for fewer crowds and the softest light for photos!
Wander Through the Royal Botanic Garden
Spring is the best time to visit the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, with flowers blooming in every shade and the glasshouses full of exotic plants. Take a peaceful walk, enjoy the fresh air, and soak in the beauty of nature waking up after winter.
Discover Dean Village & Walk the Water of Leith
Dean Village feels like stepping into a fairytale, with its charming old houses and riverside paths. Take a relaxing walk along the Water of Leith, stopping at hidden gems like St Bernard’s Well and Stockbridge Market (on Sundays) for a true local experience.
More Ways to Make the Most of Your Trip to Edinburg: Ever left Edinburgh wishing you’d discovered more? You’re not alone! That’s why I created the Edinburgh Explorer Bundle – a curated guide with hidden gems, local secrets, and top travel tips to help you explore the city like a pro. Download the Edinburgh Explorer Bundle here.
What to pack for Edinburgh in spring:
While Edinburgh may experience colder temperatures similar to winter in April, it’s important to pack for varying conditions.
Here are a few essential things to pack: An umbrella – but you’ll only be able to use it if it’s not too windy; A waterproof jacket; Comfortable, waterproof walking shoes; Lots of layers. For more inspiration, check out my free packing guide and checklist here.
Do You Need to Rent a Car in Edinburgh?
No, you don’t need a car to explore Edinburgh! The city is compact, highly walkable, and has an excellent public transport system, including buses and trams that can take you almost anywhere you need to go. In fact, driving in Edinburgh can be more of a hassle due to limited parking, one-way streets, and traffic restrictions in the city centre.
How Do Tourists Get Around Edinburgh Without a Car?
If you prefer not to drive, here are the best ways to get around:
Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours – A great option if you want to cover major sights quickly.
Walking – Most of Edinburgh’s attractions, from the Royal Mile to Dean Village, are easily accessible on foot.
Buses & Trams – The Lothian Buses network and the Edinburgh Trams offer reliable and affordable transport. A DAY ticket gives you unlimited rides for just £5!
Taxis & Ride-Sharing – Uber and black cabs are available for short trips.
When Should You Rent a Car in Edinburgh, Scotland?
While you don’t need a car in Edinburgh, renting one is a great option if you’re planning to explore beyond the city – whether it’s the stunning Highlands, charming coastal villages, or scenic drives like the North Coast 500.
💡 Looking for the best car rental deals? I recommend DiscoverCars, an award-winning car rental comparison site that helps you find the best rates from trusted providers worldwide (including Edinburgh).
If you’re renting a car, you’ll have the freedom to explore at your own pace. But if not, don’t worry! There are plenty of small group and private day tours from Edinburgh that take you to the Highlands, distilleries, coastal gems, and even Outlander filming spots. Here are my top picks!
For an easy and flexible way to see the city, consider getting the Royal Edinburgh Ticket (Hop-On Hop-Off and Attraction Admissions).
This ticket includes a 48 hour hop-on hop-off bus pass, allowing you to explore Edinburgh at your own pace. It also provides admission to top attractions, such as Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the Royal Yacht Britannia. This convenient option makes it simple to enjoy all that Edinburgh has to offer without the hassle of planning each visit separately! Get your ticket here!
More Things to Do in Edinburgh This Spring:
Candlelight: Hans Zimmer’s Best Works
📅 Date: 14th March, 11th April
📍 Location: St Mary’s Cathedral, Edinburgh
👉 Visit the event website here.
GIMME! GIMME! GIMME! ABBA Inspired Drag Boozy Brunch
📅 Date: 22nd March 2025
📍 Location: Yotel, 68-73 Queen Street, Edinburgh
👉 Visit the event website here.
Moonlight Sonata by Candlelight at St Giles’ Cathedral
📅 Date: 1st March, 29th March, 25th April, 31st May
📍 Location: St Giles’ Cathedral, Edinburgh
👉 Visit the event website here.
A Night at The Opera by Candlelight (feat. Nessun Dorma)
📅 Date: 28th March
📍 Location: St Giles’ Cathedral, Edinburgh
👉 Visit the event website here.
Candlelight: Tribute to ABBA
📅 Date: 28th March
📍 Location: St Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral, Edinburgh
👉 Visit the event website here.
Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons by Candlelight
📅 Date: 5th April
📍 Location: St Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral, Edinburgh
👉 Visit the event website here.
Eat Out Edinburgh is back for March 2025!
This year’s festival is the biggest yet, with over 50 top restaurants offering incredible dining deals.
With new restaurant openings across the city, this is the perfect chance to discover fresh flavours and unmissable experiences. More details here.
And if you need a safe place to store your luggage while you explore, Stasher has you covered! You can safely leave your bags at 6,300+ locations worldwide, including Edinburgh (from £2.99 per day!). Check it out here!
Looking for things to do with kids in Edinburgh? Check out my latest blog post with over 20 family-friendly activities, complete with age restrictions, to make your Edinburgh adventure unforgettable!
If you want a perfect place to stay in Edinburgh’s Old Town, in this blog post I review 14 of the best hotels: from luxurious five-star retreats to budget-friendly gems, with options right on the Royal Mile or just a short stroll away. Read here!
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Recommended Travel Resources: Hotels: Booking.com Transport: Discovercars.com Trips & Tours: GetYourGuide eSIM: Airalo.com
- Best Time To Visit Edinburgh: Summer
- Best Edinburgh Hotels with Castle View
- 14 Best Hotels in Old Town Edinburgh
- Best Places To See Cherry Blossoms in Edinburgh
- Best Photography Locations in Edinburgh
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