Why go now?
German Christmas markets are popping up all over the UK and Ireland but none can match the Christmas cheer of Edinburgh’s markets. The city shines at Christmas time and it’s Winter Festival is ideally set in - between the old and new town with Edinburgh castle towering over it.
Walking around the markets is just like being in the markets in Germany. Many of the stall holders are from Frankfurt and the smell of cinnamon and cloves give the markets an authentic feel. The quaint wooden stalls sell hot food and drink, crafts and Christmas decorations. Even if you’re not into shopping it’s a great place to wander around and soak up the atmosphere.
Outdoor stalls lure the punters with hot drinks such as mulled wine and hot cherry beer to warm you in the cold air. Munch on bratwurst and fried potato cakes while listening to carol singers and it’s hard not to get that romantic Christmas feeling.
Just a stroll down the hill and in Princes Street Gardens are amusement rides and an open air ice rink. At night the area resembles a picture postcard Christmas scene with twinkling lights set against the dramatic Edinburgh’s skyline.
There are other events happening as a part of the Winter Festival. See www.edinburghsparkles.com for a full listing.
Attractions 
First time visitors usually gravitate to the Royal Mile in Edinburgh’s Old Town. This street stretches from the Place of Hollyroodhouse to Edinburgh Castle and is lined with restaurants, pubs and more than its fair share of woollen shops. Don’t be afraid to explore the many medieval cobbled alleyways off the main streets. Edinburgh is not that big so if you get lost you won’t be long finding your way back again.
The castle is a great reference point when finding your way around the city. It is also Scotland’s number one visitor attraction. Sitting on volcanic rock it presides over the city. The main attraction inside is the Scottish Crown Jewels.
Learn of Edinburgh’s literary past and how it got the title of UNESCO City of Literature on The Edinburgh Literary Pub Tour.
Another good walking tour is The Trainspotting Tour which celebrates the book and movie by visiting locations in the district of Leith.
Camera Obscura is a clever way to see the city and learn of its history. This 150 year old apparatus allows visitors to see 360 degree views of the city as it moves. From a Victorian rooftop chamber a mirror projects images on to a viewing table.
The Real Mary Kings Close tour allows visitors to walk through old streets and closes that are now underground and learn of 17th century life during the plague. A historically accurate interpretation of these times is brought to life by actors. Kids might enjoy The Edinburgh Dungeon tour which takes liberties with fact but brings to life the darkness of that era with special effects, a boat and amusement rides.
If the weather is nice take a stroll up the extinct volcano as far as 
Arthur’s Seat and get the best view of the city. The Royal Botanic Gardens has paths through a number of different settings; from redwoods to rock gardens.
A host of adventure activities such as mountain biking, surfing and rock climbing are within easy access of the city. Check http://adventure.visitscotland.com/
Retail Therapy
With the exchange rate being in our favour shopping in sterling can be value for money. Princes Street in the new town is the city’s most prestigious shopping street which has all the high street names such as Topshop and H&M. St. Andrew’s Square at the top of Princes Street is home to Harvey Nichols which has the designer names. The old town has some independent and vintage shopping such as Fav Hatrix, W M Armstrongs and Sons and Godiva. For souvenir hunting try the Royal Mile or Victoria St.
Food
Scottish food often doesn’t get the credit that it deserves. Fresh fish from the lochs, local lamb, haggis and Angus beef can be really tasty. The centre of Edinburgh’s dining scene is in the old docks area of Leith that’s in the north of the city.
Here there is a range of restaurants from the Michelin starred (Restaurant Martin Wishart) to more budget options. In the old town the Fruitmarket Gallery Cafe on Market Street is a good lunch stop that serves salads and homemade soup. It’s not hard to find a good eatery in the centre of the New Town. The Dogs on Hanover Street has a good value tasty menu in shabby chic surroundings. Across the road is one of a chain of stylish gastro pubs called All Bar One. If you’re looking for a chic Manhattan-style cocktail bar/ restaurant then Rick’s on Frederick Street is a good lively option for dinner.
Going Out
The George’s Street is area is the centre of Edinburgh’s night life
and the street is lined with bars and clubs, although not a patch on the clubs of neighbouring Glasgow. Bramble bar is a good choice place for cocktails before heading to the newly opened Lulu club where the fashion-conscious crowd hang out. Fingers Piano Bar is an unassuming late night haunt for the thirty somethings . Get in early as there can be long queues after midnight. A more alternative scene is harder to stumble across so it’s best to plan where you’re going. The Bongo Club and Voodoo Rooms are worth checking. Check the local event guide The List for full details on what’s going on where.
For a bit of a laugh The Stand Comedy Club is an Edinburgh institution that’s opened seven nights a week.
For information on visiting Edinburgh this Winter and accommodation offers, see www.visitscotland.com/whiteinvite or call the national booking and information line on 0845 22 55 121
Deirdre Mullins
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