This is an all year wonderland

Edinburgh, Scotland

AuthorAuthor

Bob DePasquale & Trisha DePasquale
October 20, 2025

Happy Monday traveler!

There’s no place quite like Edinburgh, Scotland during the crisp, festive months of November and December. We can’t wait to share all about this city that captured our hearts.

Victoria Street

đŸŒïž What’s Going on In the Travel World?

A message from Passport Inspiration

Looking to plan an inspiring adventure right now?

Planning an international trip can be overwhelming but it doesn’t have to be.

How?

You just need a plan for your plan.

It’s important to prepare with enough time for things like:

  • Visas

  • Dining

  • Lodging

  • Passports

  • Excursions

  • Travel Arrangements

    If you want a head start planning, we can help you prepare for an amazing trip.

đŸ™ŒđŸŒThis Week’s Inspiration

Edinburgh is full of winter charm, from its cobbled streets steeped in history to twinkling Christmas lights and cozy cafés.

It is famously known as the birthplace of Harry Potter, where J.K. Rowling wrote much of the series. Fans can visit the original Elephant House Café, which is where she penned early chapters.

The origninal cafe was ruined in a fire, but the desk she once used was recovered and is now on display at the new Elephant House Cafe a few blocks away. There is a guest book where fans can write messages to her.

Wander through Greyfriars Kirkyard, where tombstones inspired character names like Tom Riddle, or visit the elegant Balmoral Hotel, where Rowling finished The Deathly Hallows.

The desk JK Rowling used with a guestbook for fans

There is so much more beyond the wizarding world. No visit to Edinburgh is complete without exploring its most iconic streets.

Start with the Royal Mile, a historic stretch running from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace, which was the Queen’s official Scottish residence.

While you’re at Holyrood Palace, hike up to Arthur’s Seat for stunning views of Edinburgh.

The view from Arthur’s Seat with Holyrood Palace on the left

The Royal Mile is lined with charming shops, old-world pubs, and hidden alleyways just waiting to be discovered.

Just off the Royal Mile, you’ll find Victoria Street, said to be the inspiration for Diagon Alley, with its colorful facades, quirky boutiques, and enchanting bookstores.

Nearby, Grassmarket offers stunning views of the castle and a vibrant atmosphere full of history and local flavor. Whether you're shopping for tartan scarves or simply soaking in the architecture, these areas showcase the heart and soul of Edinburgh.

Edinburgh Castle is one of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks, perched dramatically atop Castle Rock and offering panoramic views of the city below. With a history spanning over a thousand years, the castle has served as a royal residence, military stronghold, and symbol of Scottish heritage.

Fun fact - Unicorns are the official animal and mascot of Scotland. They represent purity, power, and untamed freedom.

Edinburgh at Christmastime

Edinburgh transforms into a true winter wonderland during the holiday season. The city’s Winter Festival features sparkling Christmas markets, outdoor ice skating, and festive rides.

Warm up with mulled wine or hot cider as you browse local crafts and treats. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or with fellow Potterheads, there’s something magical in the air.

Make sure to check out the Christmas Tree Maze in St. Andrews. This is a fun activity for people of all ages.

The Christmas Tree Maze

How to Get to Edinburgh:

Getting to Edinburgh is easy. The city is well-connected by air with direct flights from major cities across Europe and the U.S. Edinburgh Airport is just a 30-minute tram ride to the city center.

If you're coming from elsewhere in the UK, scenic train rides from London, Manchester, or Glasgow bring you straight into Waverley Station, right in the heart of the city.

Once you're there, Edinburgh is best explored on foot, though local buses and trams make getting around simple and efficient. It’s also a great base to begin a Scottish adventure, with easy access to the Highlands, Loch Ness, or the Isle of Skye.

Where to Stay:

The Balmoral Hotel - Room 552 is known as the “J.K. Rowlings Suite” and is where she finished writing Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.

The Witchery - perfect for a romantic stay for couples

The Bonham Hotel - known for its location near the city center

Wilde Aparthotels - we stayed here and enjoyed having a kitchenette for cooking meals

What to Eat:

Edinburgh offers comforting Scottish fare perfect for the colder months.

Be sure to try haggis, neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes), a hearty Cullen skink (smoky fish chowder), and sweet treats like shortbread and sticky toffee pudding.

Local pubs also serve up warming dishes alongside Scottish whiskies and ales to keep the chill at bay.

For a quick bite, grab a Scotch pie or a traditional sausage roll from one of the many bakeries around town.

What to Pack:

For your winter trip, pack warm layers. You will want thermal tops, sweaters, and a waterproof coat, as Scottish weather can be unpredictable.

Comfortable walking shoes or boots are essential for navigating cobbled streets and hills.

Don’t forget a hat, gloves, and a scarf to stay cozy during your outdoor adventures. And of course, bring a camera because Edinburgh is truly picture-perfect.

👋 Have an Inspiring Week

Here are a few of our affiliate links to help you when in Edinburgh. It’s no extra cost to you and helps us keep this email free for everyone. 😀

See you next week,

Trisha & Bob

đŸ€” What do you think of the newsletter?

Login or Subscribe to participate in polls.