Edinburgh’s weather shapes your trip more than you might think. The city’s historic streets, dramatic skyline, and lively festivals all feel different depending on the conditions outside. Late spring through early summer is the best time to visit Edinburgh for weather, with mild temperatures, long daylight, and less rain than other seasons.
During these months, you can stroll the Royal Mile without heavy crowds. Hike up Arthur’s Seat under clear skies, or relax at outdoor cafés without needing a thick coat.
You get comfortable temperatures and bright days, which makes this period perfect for exploring the city and the countryside nearby.
Each season in Edinburgh feels unique. You might get crisp autumn air or enjoy the quieter, budget-friendly winter months. Your experience really depends on what you want from your trip and when you decide to go.
Knowing how the weather changes through the year helps you plan a trip that fits your style.
How Weather Shapes the Best Time to Visit Edinburgh
Edinburgh’s climate stays mild compared to much of Scotland, but it’s also famously unpredictable. Rain, temperature swings, and daylight hours all factor into whether your trip feels comfortable and fun.
Seasonal Weather Patterns
Edinburgh cycles through four seasons, and each one brings a different vibe. Winters are cold but rarely harsh, with temperatures usually just above freezing. Snow can happen, but it’s not the norm.
Spring brings longer days, blooming parks, and milder weather. By May, you’ll usually see daytime temperatures around 55–60°F (13–16°C).
Summer feels warmest, with highs in the mid-60s to low 70s°F (18–22°C). That’s when outdoor activities are at their best.
Autumn cools off quickly, with temperatures dropping back into the 50s°F (10–15°C). After the summer festival rush, the city feels calmer, but you’ll probably see more rain and shorter days.
How much warmth and daylight you like is the biggest factor in choosing your season.
Impact of Rain in Edinburgh
Rain falls often in Edinburgh, no matter the season. The city averages about 250 rainy days each year, but most showers are light or over quickly.
June and July usually bring less rain than August, which is one of the wettest months. Winter stays damp, with steady drizzle and cloudy skies.
You’ll get more use out of a waterproof jacket and sturdy shoes than an umbrella, honestly.
Rain changes how you plan your days. Schedule outdoor hikes, like Arthur’s Seat, in the morning—skies are often clearer then.
When it’s wet in the afternoon, museums, cafés, and historic sites make good backups. If you expect rain, you’ll probably enjoy the city more.
Daylight Hours and Temperature Ranges
Daylight in Edinburgh shifts a lot through the year. In mid-summer, you might get up to 17 hours of light, with sunset after 10 p.m. That gives you plenty of time to explore.
Winter flips the script, shrinking daylight to just 7 hours. By late afternoon, it’s already dark, which limits sightseeing but makes pubs and cafés feel extra cozy.
Temperatures also swing with the seasons. Summer averages around 65–70°F (18–21°C), while winter hovers near 35–40°F (2–5°C). Spring and autumn land somewhere in between, but damp winds can make them feel colder.
These changes in light and temperature really influence when many travelers pick their dates for Edinburgh.
Month-by-Month Guide to Visiting Edinburgh
Edinburgh’s weather changes fast, and every month brings different daylight, temperatures, and events. Some months offer long, sunny evenings, while others have short days and crisp air.
Your experience will depend a lot on the month you visit.
Edinburgh in February
February feels like one of Edinburgh’s coldest months. Average temperatures range from 2°C (36°F) at night to 7°C (45°F) during the day.
Snow isn’t common but can happen, and rain is frequent. Days are short, with sunset before 5 pm.
Tourism is slow, so you’ll find lower hotel rates and fewer crowds at attractions. You can wander the Old Town, check out museums, or enjoy cafés without long waits.
Events are limited, but you might catch winter activities like ice rinks near Princes Street or the Edinburgh Science Festival if it starts early. Pack warm layers, waterproof shoes, and a windproof jacket—the coastal winds can make it feel colder than it looks on paper.
Edinburgh in June
June kicks off summer, with average highs around 17°C (63°F) and daylight stretching up to 18 hours. Long days mean you can sightsee, hike, and take day trips with time to spare.
Rain showers still pop up, so keep an umbrella or rain jacket handy.
Crowds start to grow, but June isn’t as busy as August. You can climb Arthur’s Seat, walk up Calton Hill, or visit the Royal Botanic Garden in nice weather.
Outdoor dining gets popular, and locals love spending evenings in parks and beer gardens.
The Royal Highland Show happens in June, highlighting Scottish farming, food, and culture. You’ll see livestock displays and Scottish dancing—definitely worth checking out.
If you want milder weather and fewer crowds than peak summer, June is a solid pick.
Edinburgh in July
July brings some of the warmest weather, with average highs around 19°C (66°F). Temperatures feel nice, but rain still makes regular appearances, so expect both sunshine and showers.
Days stay long, with sunset near 10 pm.
This is peak tourist season. Major spots like Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile get crowded, and prices for hotels and tours jump. Booking ahead is a must.
Despite the crowds, the city buzzes with energy, which is great if you like a lively vibe.
July is perfect for day trips to the Scottish Highlands, Loch Ness, or Glencoe. The weather usually works for hiking and exploring.
Festivals start picking up, leading into August’s big events.
Edinburgh in September
September often stands out as one of the best months to visit. Temperatures range from 9°C (48°F) to 15°C (59°F). Rain happens, but the weather usually stays mild enough for comfortable walks.
Daylight hours get shorter but are still decent.
Summer crowds disappear, so you can explore popular sites without waiting in long lines. Hotel prices drop compared to July and August.
The city’s parks and gardens turn golden with autumn colors, making for beautiful photos.
September is also great for cultural experiences. Outdoor events still run, but with fewer tourists. Evenings get cooler, so bring a jacket.
You get manageable weather, lighter crowds, and gorgeous seasonal scenery.
Peak Tourist Seasons and Festivals
Edinburgh draws the biggest crowds in summer, when major festivals take over the city. These events mix world-class performances, cultural traditions, and outdoor celebrations, making summer the city’s busiest travel season.
Edinburgh International Festival
The Edinburgh International Festival started in 1947 and now ranks as one of the city’s most prestigious events. It spotlights classical music, opera, theater, and dance, attracting talent and audiences from all over.
You’ll find carefully selected performances at places like the Usher Hall, Festival Theatre, and Queen’s Hall. The focus is on high artistic standards, so tickets sell out fast.
August is the festival’s main month, and crowds reach their peak. If you want to go, book your accommodations months ahead.
Weather stays mild, which makes it easier to enjoy both indoor and outdoor shows.
Fringe Festival Highlights
The Edinburgh Festival Fringe is the world’s largest arts festival. It runs alongside the International Festival but feels totally different.
The Fringe is open-access, so anyone can perform—no curation here.
You’ll see comedy, theater, dance, spoken word, and street performances in hundreds of venues. Many shows happen in pubs, on temporary stages, or even out on the Royal Mile.
The Fringe creates a wild, crowded city atmosphere. Performances range from free to ticketed, so you can pick what fits your mood or budget.
Comedy and experimental acts are especially big at the Fringe.
Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo happens every August on the Esplanade of Edinburgh Castle. It’s one of the city’s most iconic events, blending military precision with music and cultural displays.
Military bands, pipers, and drummers from Scotland and beyond put on a show. The illuminated castle in the background makes evening performances extra dramatic.
Tickets are always in high demand, and seating is set up in grandstands around the castle. The event runs for several weeks, with nightly shows.
Evenings can be cool, so dress in layers.
Beltane Fire Festival
The Beltane Fire Festival lights up Calton Hill on April 30th every year. It celebrates the arrival of summer and draws from Celtic traditions.
Expect fire displays, drumming, acrobatics, and performers in costume. You’ll see symbolic rituals, including the lighting of a big bonfire.
Beltane is a one-night event, so it’s energetic but less crowded than August’s festivals. Since it’s outdoors at night, bring warm clothing.
This festival offers a different side of Edinburgh—more local culture and seasonal tradition than performance.
Cheapest Months and Budget Travel Tips
Travel costs in Edinburgh rise and fall with the seasons. You can save a lot by picking the right month.
Weather, crowds, and local events all influence prices for flights, hotels, and attractions.
Cheapest Month to Go to Edinburgh
January usually stands out as the cheapest time to visit. After the December holidays, tourism drops, and airlines and hotels cut rates to attract people.
You’ll have fewer crowds at main spots like Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile. Sightseeing feels easier and more relaxed.
Restaurants and shops are quieter, so you won’t have to wait around.
If you want slightly milder weather but still low costs, March and November are good bets. They’re outside the main tourist season, so you get reduced prices without the deep winter chill.
Weather Versus Travel Costs
Edinburgh’s weather can be unpredictable, but the coldest and wettest months usually mean the lowest travel costs.
Winter temperatures average between 1°C and 7°C, with short days and frequent rain. Fewer people visit, so flights and hotels get cheaper.
In summer, especially July and August, temperatures hover around 15°C to 19°C. This is the best time for outdoor activities and festivals, but it’s also the most expensive. Hotels fill up fast, and airfare climbs with demand.
If you want a middle ground between weather and price, try April, May, or October. These shoulder months offer moderate temperatures, lighter crowds, and better deals than peak summer.
Off-Peak Advantages
Going to Edinburgh during the off-peak season gives you more than just savings. You can explore top sites like Holyrood Palace or Arthur’s Seat without crowds.
Public transport feels less packed, and you’ll often find discounts on tours and tickets. Hotels might offer perks like free breakfast or upgrades to fill rooms.
You also get to see more of local life. Cafés, markets, and neighborhoods slow down, so you catch a more authentic side of the city.
What to Expect Each Season in Edinburgh
Edinburgh’s weather shifts a lot through the year, and every season changes how you’ll experience the city. Rain shows up in every month, but temperature, daylight, and local events all affect how you plan your visit.
Spring in Edinburgh
Spring finally brings longer daylight and milder weather after the dark winter months. Highs usually range from the low 50s °F (10–12°C) in March up to the low 60s °F (16–17°C) by May.
Rain showers often show up, but this is also when Edinburgh gets the most sun. Parks like Princes Street Gardens and the Meadows burst with blooming flowers, so they’re perfect for walks or picnics.
Arthur’s Seat gives you clear views now, with less haze than summer. Crowds stay lighter than in peak season, and you’ll often find lower hotel prices.
If you’re hoping to balance cost and weather, late April and May are especially good months.
Summer in Edinburgh
Summer is as warm and bright as it gets here, though by global standards, it’s still pretty modest. Highs usually sit in the mid to upper 60s °F (18–20°C), but evenings can feel cool.
Rain keeps showing up, though June is usually a bit drier than July or August. You’ll get daylight for up to 17 hours in June, which means you can squeeze in a lot of exploring.
Outdoor dining pops up everywhere, and you’ll find street performers and open-air events all over the city.
Festival season takes over, with the Royal Highland Show in June and the Jazz & Blues Festival in July. By August, the city feels packed during the Edinburgh Fringe, and hotel rates jump.
Autumn in Edinburgh
Autumn brings cooler weather, shorter days, and fewer visitors. September still feels mild, with highs in the upper 50s °F (14–15°C).
By November, temperatures drop closer to the mid-40s °F (7–8°C). Rainfall picks up, and winds can feel sharp, especially near the coast.
The city’s parks and Arthur’s Seat show off colorful foliage, so it’s a great season for walking tours. Attractions like the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle are quieter, giving you more space to explore.
Hotels tend to reduce prices after the summer rush, and restaurants get less crowded. If you don’t mind cooler weather, September and early October offer a nice balance of comfort and fewer crowds.
Winter in Edinburgh
Winters feel damp and chilly, but not as harsh as up north. Highs hover around the low 40s °F (5–6°C), and nights dip near freezing.
You might see snow, but honestly, rain is way more common. Daylight is short, with darkness arriving as early as 4 p.m. in December.
Even with the weather, the city stays lively. Holiday lights, Christmas markets, and Hogmanay (New Year celebrations) draw locals and visitors alike.
January and February are the quietest and cheapest months for hotels and flights. Indoor attractions like museums, galleries, and historic houses feel perfect in this season.
If you enjoy fewer crowds and lower costs, winter can be a surprisingly rewarding time to visit.
Essential Tips for Planning Your Edinburgh Visit
Edinburgh’s weather changes quickly, so you need to prepare for anything. Comfortable clothing, smart planning for outdoor attractions, and picking the right time for busy sites will make your trip smoother and way more enjoyable.
What to Pack for Edinburgh’s Weather
Edinburgh’s climate is unpredictable, with sunshine, rain, and wind often swapping places all day. Always bring a light waterproof jacket, a warm layer, and comfortable walking shoes.
Even in summer, evenings can feel chilly, while winter really calls for a padded coat, gloves, and a hat. A small umbrella might help, but honestly, strong winds usually make a hooded jacket more practical.
Try layering clothing so you can adjust as the day goes on.
Here’s a quick guide:
| Season | Essentials |
|---|---|
| Spring | Waterproof jacket, light sweater, walking shoes |
| Summer | Light layers, sunglasses, rainproof coat |
| Autumn | Warm jumper, waterproof boots, scarf |
| Winter | Heavy coat, gloves, hat, thermal base layer |
Packing with flexibility in mind helps you stay comfortable, whatever the forecast decides to do.
Sightseeing and Outdoor Activities
Edinburgh rewards anyone who plans around daylight and weather. In summer, you get long days with up to 17 hours of light, which means more time for walking tours, Arthur’s Seat hikes, and exploring the Royal Mile.
In winter, daylight is short, so focus on indoor attractions like museums and galleries. Rain showers are common, but they rarely last all day.
If you carry a waterproof layer, you can keep exploring without much interruption. Parks such as Princes Street Gardens or Holyrood Park are lovely in fair weather, while covered markets and historic closes offer shelter during wet spells.
Booking tickets for popular attractions in advance saves time, especially during festival season when crowds are heavy. Flexible planning lets you adjust activities depending on the day’s weather.
Visiting Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle draws more visitors than any other spot in the city. Weather really shapes how you’ll experience it.
The castle sits high on a windy, exposed hilltop. It usually feels colder and windier here than down in the city streets, so I’d say bring some warm layers. Sturdy shoes help a lot with the steep walk up.
Try to get there early if you can—queues get long, especially in summer. I’d honestly recommend buying tickets online since same-day entry often sells out during the busiest months.
Give yourself at least two hours to check out the Crown Jewels, the Great Hall, and the National War Museum. On clear days, you’ll get some pretty stunning views across the city and out to the Firth of Forth.
If the weather turns cloudy or rainy, just duck inside and focus on the exhibits.