Best Time To Visit Edinburgh: Spring

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.

Spring (March-May):

Weather: If you’re visiting Edinburgh in March or April, the weather can still be quite cold, sometimes resembling winter, with temperatures around +6°C (April 8, 2024). May tends to be a little warmer, with an average temperature of +10-13C. While sunny spells are common in April and May, be prepared for some heavy rain, too.

By the way, if you’ve ever been confused about what to pack for your Edinburgh trip… you’re not alone! Many travellers have asked this question in the comments and DMs on Instagram and Facebook, and I’ve even sent pictures of what I wear daily to give a clearer idea. To make it easier for all of you, I’ve put together a helpful Packing guide and checklist that’ll remove the guesswork and help you stay organized. While Edinburgh’s weather can be unpredictable, I’ve done my best to make this guide as useful as possible. Click here for a free download,

Looking for the 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!

Edinburgh in spring, cherry blossom in edinburgh, things to do on Royal Mile

Flowers: Despite the chilly weather, you can still enjoy blooming trees and flowers, with cherry blossoms in Apr-May!

Crowds: Fewer tourists compared to summer.

Costs: More affordable accommodation than peak season.

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!

Things to do in Edinburgh in Spring:

Beltane Fire Festival 202 5, 30th April 2025, Calton Hill, Edinburgh;
Edinburgh Science Festival, immerse yourself in a two-week extravaganza from Saturday 5 – Sunday 20 April 2025;
Cherry Blossom Photography or picnics in The Meadows (April-May);
Explore the beauty of Botanic Gardens in Spring;
Explore Dean Village and walk along The Water of Leith.

More things to do in Edinburgh: Ever returned from a trip to Edinburgh wishing you had more ideas for things to do and places to explore? You’re not alone! Many travellers feel like they’ve missed out on hidden gems and unique experiences. While I always recommend doing your research before you visit, I know many travelers don’t have the time to prepare fully. That’s where my Edinburgh Explorer Bundle comes in!

Created from the questions I’ve received from readers like you and my 470k+ followers across platforms, this bundle is packed with activities and insights into Edinburgh’s main areas, making your visit even more memorable. Don’t let your adventure end with just the popular sights – let’s uncover the true essence of Edinburgh together! Download my Edinburgh Explore Bundle here!

Edinburgh in spring, cherry blossom in edinburgh

What to pack for Edinburgh in spring:
While Edinburgh may experience colder temperatures similar to winter this week (April 2024), it’s important to pack for varying conditions.

Here are a few essential things to pack:
A waterproof jacket
Comfortable waterproof walking shoes
Lots of layers

Find more packing ideas in my Packing Guide and Checklist. Free Download here.

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!

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