Wherever you're coming from, however you choose to travel, getting to Edinburgh is easier than you might think. Whether you choose to take a train, plane, car, coach or boat to the city, Scotland's capital is within your reach.

Why choose Edinburgh for a Short Break?
Choose Edinburgh because Scotland's Capital City, known as the 'Athens of the North', has one of the most beautiful cityscapes in the world dominated by Scotland's most famous castle. It offers plenty to see and do both traditional and contemporary with its world-class museums and galleries, world famous festivals, top class restaurants & bars, and fabulous shopping. You can even take an open top bus tour or visit the city zoo.

The world heritage site at the heart of the city encompasses both the romantic atmosphere of the medieval Old Town and the elegance and grandeur of the Georgian New Town. The Grassmarket, in the heart of the Old Town, is one of the most vibrant and picturesque areas of the city, bursting with some of the best shopping and restaurants, the most vibrant and eclectic bars, known throughout the world for their exciting, dark history and some of the best traditional food, ales and music in the city.

Soak up Scotland's history in its National Museums, visit its National Galleries, which showcase some of the best Scottish and International art in the world, enjoy Edinburgh's world renowned festivals, relax in one if its 144 parks, or venture a short distance outside the city and its bustle and find yourself in the heart of the glorious rolling countryside. When the sun goes down, this city gets its second wind, perfect for those who want to sample the cultured nightlife.

Shopping Edinburgh truly is a shopper's paradise. From the traditional Scottish goods of The Royal Mile, to the upmarket designer names of St Andrews Square and Multrees Walk, the boutiques of Thistle Street, the slightly cheaper but stylish George Street and the high street stores of Princes Street. Not to mention the antiques of Grassmarket, West Bow, Dundas Street and The Causeway, the small art galleries of Stockbridge, the Farmer's Market, the alternative atmosphere of Cockburn Street, the department stores of Jenners and Harvey Nichols or the shopping centres.

Eating Out From cosy pubs to fabulous restaurants, options for eating and drinking in Edinburgh are second to none. The city is said to have the largest number of restaurants per head of population in the UK and all tastes and budgets are catered for. Inexpensive cafés and bistros can be found in Newington and University Quarter around Bistro Square, but there's no shortage of upmarket establishments located across the both Old and New Towns and down by the Shore in Leith.

Nightlife Edinburgh is famous for its entertainment and nightlife and takes it very seriously, favouring cultural good times rather than purely hedonistic pursuits. There are Jazz clubs and sophisticated nightclubs or a more grungy feel can be found in the old town and West End areas. There is no one set area, with George Street in the New Town, the High Street are of the Old Town, the University sector and the Grassmarket all popular haunts. For film lovers, Edinburgh also has its fair share of cinemas and specialist film venues.

Getting around in Edinburgh is very simple as Edinburgh is a compact city and therefore easy to get around on foot and city centre attractions are within walking distance of each other. However local bus services cover the majority of the city and train and services cover the wider Lothian Region.

By Bicycle: If you don't mind the hills, then Edinburgh is a cycle-friendly city.

By Bus: Lothian Buses cover the city centre while First Edinburgh offer commuter links to the outskirts. Main bus stations are at St Andrew Square and Waverley Bridge. The latter has airport services and tourist buses. Buses are reliable, comprehensive and good-value if you invest in a day ticket which can be purchased onboard.

By Car: Edinburgh's narrow, one-way streets and limited/expensive parking make city-centre driving frustrating for all but locals. Car-hire is recommended for excursions out of the city.

By Taxi: Black cabs can be hailed on the street or at taxi ranks. A 10% tip is normal practice.