United Kingdom, Europe
Edinburgh in November
Gray and damp until the Christmas market opens mid to late month.
The straight answer
November is a quiet, good-value month to visit Edinburgh. Gray and damp until the Christmas market opens mid to late month.
- Weather
- Cold and wet, highs near 48F (9C)
- Crowds
- 2 of 5
- Prices
- 2 of 5
What November is like in Edinburgh
November is gray, cold, and wet, with highs near 48F (9C). It stays quiet until the Christmas market opens in Princes Street Gardens in mid to late November. Prices are low, and the city is local and calm. Days are short, so plan sights carefully.
This month suits budget travelers and couples who like a cozy city break. Families may prefer late November, when the market and lights arrive. Plan a museum or pub for each afternoon, since it gets dark early. If you want mild weather, come back in spring.
Make the most of November
What is especially good about Edinburgh this month.
Christmas market opens
From mid to late November, the market brings rides and mulled wine to Princes Street Gardens.
Cozy museums
The National Museum and Camera Obscura are great escapes from the rain.
Low prices
Hotels are at some of their lowest rates of the year before December.
What to pack for November
- A waterproof coat
- Warm layers
- Waterproof boots
- A hat and gloves
Our timing tip
Travel in the last week of November to catch the Christmas market before December prices rise.
Book Edinburgh for November.
Sponsored links to Expedia and Vrbo. We may earn a commission; it never changes a verdict.
- Hotels for November
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in EdinburghOpens a hotel search for Edinburgh in November, 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 November. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
What's on in November
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 November, quick answers
Is November a good time to visit Edinburgh?
November is a quiet, good-value month to visit Edinburgh. Gray and damp until the Christmas market opens mid to late month.
What is the weather like in Edinburgh in November?
Cold and wet, highs near 48F (9C).
Is Edinburgh crowded in November?
November is one of the quieter months in Edinburgh; most sights can be done without long waits.
What is happening in Edinburgh in November?
Christmas markets (mid to late november through early january).
Keep planning Edinburgh.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in November
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