United Kingdom, Europe
Edinburgh in December
Christmas markets, lights, and Hogmanay at the end of the month. The New Year period is expensive.
The straight answer
December is a good month to visit Edinburgh. Christmas markets, lights, and Hogmanay at the end of the month. The New Year period is expensive.
- Weather
- Cold, highs near 44F (7C), dark by 4pm
- Crowds
- 4 of 5
- Prices
- 4 of 5
What December is like in Edinburgh
December is cold, with highs near 44F (7C), and it is dark by 4pm. Christmas markets and lights fill Princes Street Gardens, and the city feels festive. Hogmanay begins at the end of the month, with a torchlight procession, the street party, and fireworks over the castle. The New Year period is expensive and street party areas need tickets.
This month suits families who love holiday markets and couples who want a festive trip. Book early for Hogmanay. If you want lower prices, early December is quieter than the holiday weeks.
Make the most of December
What is especially good about Edinburgh this month.
Christmas markets
Rides, stalls, and mulled wine under the castle in Princes Street Gardens.
Hogmanay
A multi-day New Year celebration with a torchlight procession, the street party, and fireworks over the castle.
Winter lights
The city is decorated and bright even on the darkest afternoons.
What to pack for December
- A warm winter coat
- Waterproof boots
- A hat, scarf, and gloves
- Hand warmers for outdoor events
Our timing tip
Buy Hogmanay street party tickets early, since the center closes to general traffic on New Year's Eve.
Book Edinburgh for December.
Sponsored links to Expedia and Vrbo. We may earn a commission; it never changes a verdict.
- Hotels for December
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in EdinburghOpens a hotel search for Edinburgh in December, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
- Rentals on Vrbo
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in EdinburghWhole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
- Tours and tickets
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in EdinburghTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Edinburgh for December. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
What's on in December
Christmas markets
Mid to late November through early January
In the Princes Street Gardens under the castle, with rides and mulled wine.
Hogmanay
December 29 or 30 through January 1
A multi-day New Year's celebration with a torchlight procession, the street party, fireworks over the castle, plus the separate, locally run Loony Dook swim at South Queensferry on New Year's Day.
Things to do in Edinburgh
Edinburgh Castle
Book a timed ticket online, especially in summer. Arrive at opening to see the Crown Jewels before lines build.
National Museum of Scotland
Free, with an excellent rooftop terrace view. A perfect rainy-day stop.
Arthur's Seat and Holyrood Park
A 1 to 2 hour hike to the summit. Go at sunrise or early evening for the best light and fewer people.
Royal Mile and the Old Town closes
Wander the narrow closes off the Royal Mile. Early morning is quiet; the afternoon is packed in summer.
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
Free entry to the gardens, with glasshouses and views of the skyline.
Royal Yacht Britannia
The late Queen's former yacht, moored at Leith. A surprisingly engaging visit.
Beat the crowds
- Visit the castle at opening or in the last two hours. Book online to skip the ticket line entirely.
- For August, book accommodation six months to a year ahead, or stay in Leith or outside the center and use the tram and buses.
- Explore Stockbridge, Leith, and Dean Village for a calmer side of the city.
- Climb Arthur's Seat early in the morning; the summit gets crowded by late morning on sunny weekends.
Know before you go
- The Palace of Holyroodhouse closes during royal visits, including a week in late June or early July in some years. Check dates before planning around it.
- In August, some streets and venues are dedicated to festival events and access to parts of the castle esplanade is restricted by the Tattoo stands.
- Most museums and sights stay open year-round, though winter hours may be shorter.
- Hogmanay street party areas require tickets, and parts of the city center close to general traffic on New Year's Eve.
Edinburgh in December, quick answers
Is December a good time to visit Edinburgh?
December is a good month to visit Edinburgh. Christmas markets, lights, and Hogmanay at the end of the month. The New Year period is expensive.
What is the weather like in Edinburgh in December?
Cold, highs near 44F (7C), dark by 4pm.
Is Edinburgh crowded in December?
Edinburgh is busy in December, though mornings and late afternoons stay workable.
What is happening in Edinburgh in December?
Christmas markets (mid to late november through early january); Hogmanay (december 29 or 30 through january 1).
Keep planning Edinburgh.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in December
Best in Dec
Prague
Czech Republic
Cold, highs near 37F (3C), festive lights everywhere
Best in Dec
Dubai
United Arab Emirates
Ideal, highs near 79F (26C)
Best in Dec
Egypt
Africa
Cool and clear, Cairo highs near 68F (20C), Luxor near 75F (24C)
Best in Dec
Thailand
Asia
Dry, sunny, the year's most comfortable air, highs near 88F (31C)
Before you book.
Sort these two things first.
Sponsored links. We may earn a commission; it never changes a verdict.
- Visit Faye
Travel insurance.
FayeA missed connection, a bag that never turns up, a hospital abroad: far cheaper to cover before departure than to argue about after.
- Visit Saily
eSIM data.
SailySet up an eSIM before you fly so your phone has data the moment you land, without roaming charges.
Our top-rated travel gear
Whatever you decide, this is the gear we actually travel with: verified, priced, and ranked. Live price check on each.
As an Amazon Associate we may earn from qualifying purchases, at no cost to you.