United Kingdom, Europe
Edinburgh in October
Fall color in the parks and quieter streets. Good for ghost tours as the nights draw in.
The straight answer
October is a good month to visit Edinburgh. Fall color in the parks and quieter streets. Good for ghost tours as the nights draw in.
- Weather
- Cool, highs near 55F (13C), more rain
- Crowds
- 2 of 5
- Prices
- 2 of 5
What October is like in Edinburgh
October brings fall color to the parks and quieter streets. Highs near 55F (13C) come with more rain. Prices ease, and the nights draw in, which makes it a good time for ghost tours in the Old Town. The Royal Botanic Garden and the Meadows are lovely in autumn, and the castle is far calmer than in summer.
This month suits couples, families on fall break, and anyone who enjoys cozy, atmospheric travel. Pack for rain and plan indoor backups like the National Museum. If you want long days and mild weather, choose May or September.
Make the most of October
What is especially good about Edinburgh this month.
Fall color
Parks and gardens turn gold and red, especially the Botanic Garden.
Ghost tours
Darker evenings make the Old Town's ghost tours extra atmospheric.
Quiet museums
The National Museum and other sights are calm on weekdays.
What to pack for October
- A waterproof jacket
- Warm layers
- Waterproof shoes
- An umbrella
Our timing tip
Book an evening ghost tour for the start of your trip, when you are least tired.
Book Edinburgh for October.
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- Hotels for October
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in EdinburghOpens a hotel search for Edinburgh in October, 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 October. 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 October, quick answers
Is October a good time to visit Edinburgh?
October is a good month to visit Edinburgh. Fall color in the parks and quieter streets. Good for ghost tours as the nights draw in.
What is the weather like in Edinburgh in October?
Cool, highs near 55F (13C), more rain.
Is Edinburgh crowded in October?
October is one of the quieter months in Edinburgh; most sights can be done without long waits.
Keep planning Edinburgh.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in October
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