United Kingdom, Europe
Edinburgh in July
Summer crowds build, and the city starts to fill up for the festivals by late month.
The straight answer
July is a good month to visit Edinburgh. Summer crowds build, and the city starts to fill up for the festivals by late month.
- Weather
- Mild, highs near 66F (19C), some rain
- Crowds
- 4 of 5
- Prices
- 4 of 5
What July is like in Edinburgh
July is mild, with highs near 66F (19C) and some rain. Summer crowds build, and by late July the city starts filling up for the August festivals. Prices climb. The Palace of Holyroodhouse may close for a royal visit in early July. Long days and green parks make it pleasant for walking.
This month suits families on summer break and travelers who want mild summer weather. Book accommodation early, especially for the end of the month. If you want the festivals, wait for August, and if you want calmer streets, try September.
Make the most of July
What is especially good about Edinburgh this month.
Summer before the festivals
Early July has the warmth of summer without August's crowds.
Edinburgh Zoo
A short bus ride west, with a big penguin enclosure and a hillside view over the city.
Long evening walks
Stroll the Old Town closes or climb Calton Hill in the late evening light.
What to pack for July
- A light rain jacket
- Layers
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunscreen
Our timing tip
Go in early July for summer weather before festival prices start to climb.
Book Edinburgh for July.
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- Hotels for July
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in EdinburghOpens a hotel search for Edinburgh in July, 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 July. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
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 July, quick answers
Is July a good time to visit Edinburgh?
July is a good month to visit Edinburgh. Summer crowds build, and the city starts to fill up for the festivals by late month.
What is the weather like in Edinburgh in July?
Mild, highs near 66F (19C), some rain.
Is Edinburgh crowded in July?
Edinburgh is busy in July, though mornings and late afternoons stay workable.
Keep planning Edinburgh.
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