United Kingdom, Europe
Edinburgh in January
The cheapest, quietest month after New Year. Museums and whisky bars shine.
The straight answer
January is a quiet, good-value month to visit Edinburgh. The cheapest, quietest month after New Year. Museums and whisky bars shine.
- Weather
- Cold and damp, highs near 44F (7C), about 7 to 8 hours of daylight
- Crowds
- 1 of 5
- Prices
- 1 of 5
What January is like in Edinburgh
January is Edinburgh's cheapest, quietest month once New Year is over. Highs sit near 44F (7C), the air is damp, and you get only about 7 to 8 hours of daylight. Hogmanay wraps up on January 1, and the Christmas market in Princes Street Gardens runs into early January. After that, the city belongs to locals. Museums and cozy whisky bars shine, and winter hours may be a little shorter.
This month suits couples, museum lovers, and budget travelers who like a moody, low-key city. It is less fun for families who want long days outdoors. If you want the same low prices with more daylight, try March, and if you want mild weather, aim for May or September.
Make the most of January
What is especially good about Edinburgh this month.
Hogmanay's final day
New Year's Day wraps up the celebrations, including the locally run Loony Dook swim at South Queensferry for the brave.
The National Museum on a gray day
Free entry, hours of exhibits, and a rooftop terrace view make it the perfect winter refuge.
Castle without the queues
Edinburgh Castle is calm in January, so you can see the Crown Jewels without a line.
What to pack for January
- A warm, waterproof coat
- Waterproof boots with good grip for slick cobbles
- A hat, scarf, and gloves
- Thermal layers for windy hills
Our timing tip
Plan outdoor walks for the late morning and early afternoon, since it gets dark around 4pm.
Book Edinburgh for January.
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- Hotels for January
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in EdinburghOpens a hotel search for Edinburgh in January, 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 January. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
What's on in January
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 January, quick answers
Is January a good time to visit Edinburgh?
January is a quiet, good-value month to visit Edinburgh. The cheapest, quietest month after New Year. Museums and whisky bars shine.
What is the weather like in Edinburgh in January?
Cold and damp, highs near 44F (7C), about 7 to 8 hours of daylight.
Is Edinburgh crowded in January?
January is one of the quieter months in Edinburgh; most sights can be done without long waits.
What is happening in Edinburgh in January?
Hogmanay (december 29 or 30 through january 1).
Keep planning Edinburgh.
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Before you book.
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