My Christmas Trip to Edinburgh: An Unforgettable Experience in the Scottish Capital

For Christmas I decided to escape from the routine of Aberdeen to explore Edinburgh and its Christmas market for 3 days. What began as a spontaneous idea became a very beautiful trip. The cobblestone streets, its medieval architecture, the Christmas decorations and its vibrant culture, Edinburgh captivated me from the first moment.

To get from Aberdeen to Edinburgh I had two main options: train and bus. After comparing prices and schedules, I opted for the train, which turned out to be an excellent decision. The journey lasted approximately 3 hours, and the cost of the round-trip ticket was £45 with the rail card (a card that gives you discounts on train tickets). The bus alternative would have been more economical (around £25 round trip), but with a duration of almost 4 hours, I preferred the comfort and speed of the train.
 

Accommodation: Finding a Place to Rest

One of my biggest concerns was the cost of accommodation, since Edinburgh has a reputation for being one of the most expensive cities in the United Kingdom. After searching various options, I found a hostel in the historic center for £53 per night in a shared room. For those who prefer more privacy, hotels located in the historic center in the new part of the city ranged between £85-£120 per night, while hotel chains further from the center offered rates from £60.

I decided to stay at the Kick Ass hostel, located just five minutes' walk from Edinburgh Castle. Although the facilities were basic, the location was unbeatable and the atmosphere was very welcoming, with tourists from all over the world sharing experiences in the common room.
 

Main Tourist Attractions

Among the main attractions I visited, my first stop was the iconic Edinburgh Castle. The entrance cost £19.50, but it was worth every penny. Walking through its ancient walls transported me centuries back. The panoramic view of the city from the ramparts is simply spectacular, especially at sunset when the city lights began to shine.

My second stop was the famous Victoria Street, known worldwide as the inspiration for Diagon Alley from Harry Potter. Walking down this cobblestone and winding street was like entering a magical world. The colorful shops with their medieval facades and boutique stores created a unique atmosphere. I spent more than an hour exploring the shops, especially those dedicated to Harry Potter items and Scottish souvenirs.

After that I walked the famous Royal Mile. This historic street, which connects the castle with the Palace of Holyroodhouse, is full of souvenir shops and traditional pubs, which offer an excellent opportunity to experience the Scottish atmosphere.

The Christmas market was undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places of the trip. This market, considered one of the best in the United Kingdom, extended like a labyrinth of small wooden houses decorated with bright lights and Christmas decorations. The aroma of spiced mulled wine, roasted chestnuts and traditional Scottish sweets could be felt in every corner. I spent hours exploring the stalls, where I found everything from local crafts to culinary delights. I tried the famous Scottish shortbread, bought some unique handmade gifts and enjoyed a cup of mulled wine that helped me combat the winter cold.

Dean Village also turned out to be one of the most pleasant surprises of my trip. This small historic village, located just a few minutes from the city center, seems taken directly from a medieval movie. You can see several stone houses that are located next to a river which makes the landscape look more beautiful.
 

Final Reflections

Edinburgh exceeded all my expectations. The Christmas atmosphere and Scottish hospitality were felt in every corner of the city. This trip reminded me why I love living in Scotland. Having access to gems like Edinburgh just a train ride away is a privilege I don't take for granted.

Edinburgh is not just a city to visit; it's an experience to live, a history lesson walking through its streets, and a reminder of the rich cultural heritage that characterizes Scotland.

- Paola