Top 11 Things To Do in Edinburgh This Autumn That Are Good For Your Soul

Edinburgh, Scotland, , 84 Comments

Last Updated on the 7th of December, 2025

Anyone who has ever visited Edinburgh can easily agree that it is a beautiful city at any time of the year.

Yet there’s that extra dose of magic in the season of haar and mellow fruitfulness. 

After a blissful summer lull, the city quiets down. Wildlife scavenge before hibernation. The burns babble before they freeze.  Stormy skies add a dramatic flair to the already beautiful city.

And with colourful leaves framing its every corner, Edinburgh turns into an autumnal dreamland that feels like a world away from the rest of Europe.

Our return visit at the very end of September, when the crisp breeze rustled through the leaves and the memory of summer still lingered in the air, was meticulously planned and therefore allowed us to experience a burst of colours right before the trees shrugged their shoulders and cast their summer coat to the floor.

We had the fortune of arriving at dawn and thus eagerly grabbed a chance to walk around Edinburgh’s eerily silent streets just as the pre-dawn glow started to flood over the urban landscape.

It was equally beautiful, if not more, at dusk – strolling past golden glowing windows, peeking into dimly lit alleyways and seeing everything in person again gave me a rush; there is something magical about autumn in Edinburgh when the city is awash with hues of red and gold. 

Read More: What To See and Do In Edinburgh: 12 Amazing Ideas For First Time Visitors

Edinburgh in autumn is beautiful.

Weather in Edinburgh in Autumn: Is Autumn a Good Time to Visit Edinburgh?

Firstly, let me start by saying that there is never a bad time to visit Edinburgh. All seasons of the year have their pros and cons. And you can find beauty in the city in so many places, all year round.

While many people assume that summer is the best season to visit, autumn is actually better!

It’s when things get back to normal after a flurry of summer festivals, and it’s when the majority of tourists sort of trickle away. It’s also incredibly atmospheric as autumn brings more misty and cloudy days.

Also, autumn is for adventurous souls.

With the weather forecast being very inaccurate and unpredictable at this time of the year, you need to go with the flow. You need to embrace whatever the day brings you. And it often produces the most amazing memories!

Think cosy blankets, a burning fireplace, bookshops, a hot toddy, haggis, neeps & tatties… Autumn is cosy!

Read More: A Pocketguide To Help You Witness the Splendid Beauty Of Stirling Town In Scotland

City views from Calton Hill.

#1. Discover Edinburgh’s Museums 

You won’t be surprised to hear that it often rains during autumn, so it is best to have a few indoor ideas up your sleeve for when the rain showers come.

Don’t look down on touristy things and take advantage of one of many free museums in the city, and see Dolly the Sheep in the National Museum of Scotland, or find out what a million fake pounds look like in the Museum of the Mound.

Some of the lesser-known museums are located on the Royal Mile, and several of them are free to enter, too.

This includes the Museum of Childhood, Gladstone’s Land, the People’s Story and the Museum of Edinburgh – perfect for anyone visiting Edinburgh on a budget.

Read More: Some of The Best Things To See At The National Museum Of Scotland in Edinburgh

One of the rooms at Gladstone’s Land on the Royal Mile.

#2. Unwind in a Cosy Place

Autumn arrives in Edinburgh with plentiful rain and cold, delivering an easy excuse to wrap up in cosy knits and stay indoors by the roaring fire.

Although the best way to get into the spirit of autumn is to spend time outdoors, there’s nothing wrong with taking a break from exploring.  Pick one of many cafés scattered throughout the city to discover the comfort of a friendly space and find a quiet moment to write down your thoughts.

  • West End – Cairngorm Coffee, on the corner of Melville Place with large curved windows, is perfect for people watching over a delicious cup of freshly ground coffee.

  • Stockbridge – Artisan Roast have several cafes in Edinburgh, and their Stockbridge shop is a bright and spacious spin on Artisan cosy-chic.

If a coffee shop isn’t your thing, choose one of the friendly pubs on Rose Street, dubbed the ‘Amber Mile’.

You can also pop over to the Royal Mile, where most of the pubs are overflowing with character and charm, and you might even be able to catch a live traditional folk and acoustic session.

Read More: Your Guide To Some of Edinburgh’s Best Neighbourhoods

Black Medicine Coffee Shop in Edinburgh.

#3. Explore Hidden Corners and Alleyways on the Royal Mile

The Royal Mile has been the main street of Edinburgh for centuries and shouldn’t be missed.

Wander around Edinburgh’s Old Town’s cobbled streets and quiet corners where houses are stacked on each other to venture down one of the moody alleyways between them.

You will be fascinated by the unique architecture and almost feel like you’re stepping back in time.

  • Take Fleshmarket Close down to Cockburn Street, or use a shortcut through Advocates Close on the Royal Mile. Try the Playfair Steps instead of walking up the Mound.

  • Stop by Dunbar’s Close Garden, a wonderful garden with plenty of places to sit down and escape the hustle and bustle of the Royal Mile.

  • White Horse Close – Nip into this 17th-century close where much of the unusual architecture has been maintained, giving visitors a glimpse into the sights once bestowed upon travellers to Edinburgh’s Old Town.

Read More: 8 Amazing Reasons Why You Should Visit Edinburgh At Least Once

Looking through Sugarhouse Close on the Royal Mile.

#4. Be Fascinated by Autumn Colours 

On the day that we arrived, the soft light slipping through the shielding canopy in Princes Street Gardens created beautiful patterns. The gentle breeze and golden yellow colours only added more magic to the early autumn morning.

Princes Street Gardens, The Meadows, and the Botanic Gardens are all great places to see the beautiful autumn leaves. Other places worth visiting to see the splashes of autumn colours are:

  • Liberton Kirk | Hop on a Lothian Bus and travel to Liberton Kirk church to gauge the ivy-covered facade. Although the church is situated slightly outside of the city, it is worth a small detour.
  • Rothesay Terrace | On the corner of Rothesay Terrace and Rothesay Mews in the West End of Edinburgh is a beautiful building with ivy crawling all over it.
  • Carlowrie Castle | Over on the west of Edinburgh, near Edinburgh Airport, is Carlowrie Castle, a 19th-century mansion house that has since been converted into a luxury venue for weddings and other celebrations.

Read More: A Short Guide to the Best Attractions Along The Royal Mile In Edinburgh, Scotland

Colourful leaves scattered around city parks are a joy to photograph.

#5. Browse Through Its Bookstores

If you are a book lover, dodge Edinburgh’s city centre once the bustle starts to climb and find a state of peace and quiet only bookshops can provide.

In Edinburgh, you can discover some of the world’s most beautiful stores that can easily gratify even the fussiest bibliophiles’ fantasies.

If you consider yourself a book lover who is eager to refresh reading shelves, then be prepared to gasp out loud in excitement because this is your scene in Edinburgh; Cabaret Antiques, Curios & Books where you can browse more than you can dream of, Southside Books for a cheap read and an absolute bookworms dream – Old Town Bookshop with beautiful editions dating back to the 1600s.

And then there’s even more:

  • Golden Hare Books | This charming bookstore located in Stockbridge features children’s books, novels, signed editions and fiction. Address: 68 St Stephen’s Street, Edinburgh

  • Edinburgh Books | Stocking a wide range of second-hand books, this bookshop lets you wander through a maze of literary gems and is just perfect for the voracious reader. Address: 145-147 West Port, Edinburgh

  • Tills Bookshop | An independent second-hand bookshop situated close to the Meadows is a perfect place to spend a couple of hours browsing shelves in search of unique treasures. Address: 1 Hope Park Crescent, Edinburgh

  • Armchair Books | Located just off Grassmarket, this beautiful shop with densely packed bookshelves full of old books on various subjects is perfect for reading addicts. Address: 72-74 West Port, Edinburgh

Read More: Your Essential Guide To Planning The Best Edinburgh Holiday in Scotland

#6. Chase the Golden Hour

Known to photographers as the ‘magic hours, the first and last hours of sunlight are the best moments to capture stunning photos.

In autumn, the soft, golden light of sunrise and sunset will really bring out the beautiful reds, oranges and browns in your photos.

With sunsets and sunrises not starting until 7 a.m./ p.m., photo enthusiasts get to take advantage of the not-so-early golden hour to capture shapeshifting light and incredible texture.

Waking up early and watching the dawn of a new day before anyone else arrives awards you a chance to feel like you are alone in the beautiful city.

Add to the already magical scene splashes of colours and the moodiness of an early autumn morning that comes with its own flurry of scents and sounds, and you’ve got yourself a moment to remember.

Read More: The Perfect Road Trip Itinerary For A Spellbinding 5 Days In Scotland

A wonderful autumn sunset takes over the city.

#7. Dive Into Doors Open Days

If you plan on visiting Edinburgh in September, planning your trip around when Doors Open Days take place would be a smart idea.

Celebrating Edinburgh’s heritage, culture and architecture, this event provides an opportunity to explore some of Edinburgh’s most amazing buildings that are usually closed to the public.

Yes, some of the buildings only open once in a lifetime. Not to mention the free entry.

Doors Open Day has taken place each year (pandemic excepted) since 1991 and over a whole weekend since 2009.

Coordinated in Scotland by the Scottish Civic Trust in conjunction with local area coordinators, the weekend features free tours, activities, exhibitions and/or talks that bring the history or everyday use of a building to life.

It just happened that Doors Open Days were taking place during my visit to Edinburgh, and I had a fantastic chance to deepen my knowledge and feast my eyes upon many architectural and historical wonders.

  • The best way to find out more about the program is to visit the official Doors Open Days website.

Read More: A Local’s Guide: Some Of The Best Things To See and Do In Edinburgh’s New Town

Entering the Playfair Library was a dream-come-true moment while visiting Edinburgh and attending Doors Open Days!

#8. Celebrate the Change of Season in Farmers’ Markets

The best way to celebrate the autumn season in a city like Edinburgh, where it arrives with piles of fresh produce waiting to be picked and tasted, is through food and the outdoors.

One of the best places to do just that is to seek out local markets. 

Head out to Castle Terrace, where the Edinburgh Farmers’ Market takes place every Saturday from 10 am-2 pm to browse the stalls stacked with juicy jams, fresh bread and organic chocolate.

  • Stockbridge Market is yet another place to satisfy your food cravings and rub shoulders with locals while shopping for handmade jewellery, aromatic soaps and artisan bread. Opened every Sunday from 10am to 5pm, Stockbridge Market can be found in Jubilee Gardens.

  • Check out the handcrafted goodies and homegrown produce at the farmers’ market located in the Grassmarket, which is only a short walk away from the Royal Mile. It’s a nice place to stop and sample a bit of everything before you continue exploring Edinburgh. It is open every Saturday from 10am to 5pm.

Read More: The Isle Of Skye Guide: 5 Amazing Places You Should Visit On The Trotternish Loop

Stockbridge Market, Edinburgh.

#9. Take Part in the Samhuinn Fire Festival

If you love all things spooky and if Halloween gets you excited, then you are in for a treat because no one does Halloween like Edinburgh.

Forget cutely carved pumpkins and fancy Dracula outfits, although there are plenty of those, too!

Celebrating Halloween in Scotland involves participating in the Samhuinn Fire Festival and embracing it in the old pagan way with beating drums, acrobats, and fire on display.

The Celtic people regarded it as their New Year, but they also knew that the approaching darkness meant the veil between their world and the next was at its thinnest.

Expecting visits from spirits, gods, and the souls of the dead led the Celts to set extra places at their huge feasts, to disguise themselves in costume to confuse Death from taking them, and to light huge bonfires to ward off evil.

Every year, the Beltane Fire Society pays tribute to the Celtic sabbath or Samhuinn with fiery celebrations on top of Calton Hill.

Keep in mind that the celebration takes place at the end of October,  in the dark, with hundreds of other spectators, so make sure you dress up warmly and act accordingly.

Read More: How To Visit Enchanting Stirling Castle & Gardens in Scotland: An Easy Guide

Samhuinn Fire Festival is a must when visiting Edinburgh in autumn.

#10. Endure Ghost Hunting Tours

When you see the sea mist drawing over the city, it becomes alive, and your imagination instantly wanders off.

It becomes so alive that you can almost envision Cannibal of the Canongate chasing after its victims and ghosts lingering in the spooky graveyard near Princess Street Gardens.

Known for its twisted and dark past, Scotland’s capital provides the perfect setting for tales about body snatchers and murderers. There are also creepy underground vaults and plenty of ghost stories to keep you awake for a while.

Auld Reekie Tours and City of the Dead Tours offer plenty of evening and late-night tours where you can explore the South Bridge vaults and Greyfriars Graveyard.

Read More: 11 Beautiful Hidden Gems in Edinburgh, Scotland Even Locals Don’t Know

The Flodden wall and archway inside Greyfriars Kirkyard

#11. Enjoy one of Many Autumn Events & Festivals

Don’t fear that by visiting in autumn, you’ll be missing out on the fun, as there are many fantastic festivals and events to look forward to.

Some of the most notable festivals in Edinburgh in autumn are:

  • Halloween is widely celebrated throughout the city with various spooky events and activities for the whole family. You can check out the Edinburgh Zoo Spooktacular, Halloween at Dalkeith Country Park, as well as many farms where you can pick your own pumpkins.
  • Samhuinn Fire Festival is an annual festival that takes place on the night of October 31st. It features fire performances, drumming, music, dance, and acrobatics to tell the story of the seasonal transition.
  • The Scottish International Storytelling Festival is a celebration of live storytelling in and around Edinburgh. Every October, as the leaves begin to turn and the long autumn nights close in, friends and families gather around the hearth for tales, songs and merriment.
  • Edinburgh Short Film Festival and Bonfire Night, known as Guy Fawkes Night, take place in the autumn, too.
  • Edinburgh Playhouse presents a varied programme of musicals and entertainment.  Bringing together Scottish and international storytellers and musicians, this year’s festival will take place from 13th to 29th October in various venues throughout Edinburgh.

Read More: 10 Unforgettable Edinburgh Day Trip Ideas From a Former Local

Edinburgh city at night.

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Now, over to you!

Have you been to Edinburgh? Let us know in the comments below!

Let us know if you are plotting a visit to Edinburgh and have travel-related questions!

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84 thoughts on “Top 11 Things To Do in Edinburgh This Autumn That Are Good For Your Soul”

  1. Phenomenal information and guide to this enchanting city! Great pics and narrative Aiva! Definitely this info is a must for visitors, especially first time visits. You are definitely the best travel book I’ve ever read! All the best!

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    1. Thanks so much, Francisco. I was delighted to explore Scotland and stop for two days in Edinburgh with my family last month. By day we admired artworks in galleries and treasured wonders in museums, and by night we enjoyed tours and hearty meals in one of the cousy pubs. Thanks for stopping by, and have a great day. The kids are off school this week, so we can sleep in and go slow as the days unfold. Aiva 🙂 xx

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  2. Edinburgh is truly stunning in any season, and this is a great guide of how to make the most of it in autumn. I especially love the bookstore recommendations – I often cozy down in autumn with a good book under my blanket, perfect 🙂

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    1. Edinburgh is a book lover’s dream! I was delighted to go back to Edinburgh for a few days and comb through its independent and second-hand bookstores! As we travelled by car, I didn’t have to worry about whether the books I bought would fit in my bag – I could purchase as many as my heart desired which was pure bliss. I even picked up a second (and a third) copy of something just because the cover was too pretty to walk away from. I struggle to resist beautiful books. Thanks for stopping by, and have a great day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. If you don’t like crowds and love all things spooky, autumn is a great time to visit Edinburgh as festivals and events are abundant and you can explore the city without having to navigate your way through throngs of tourists. We stayed for a few days and had a chance to comb through its many nooks and crannies. The weather was fantastic and that made our visit even more memorable. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  4. Such great information and photos in your post! I have been fortunate to have visited Edinburgh multiple times and agree that it is a beautiful city with so much to offer. Like travelling_han, the bookstores look particularly inviting. Thanks for sharing, and I hope you have a great day!

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    1. Thanks so much! I am glad to see that your comment hasn’t disappeared into the depths of the cyber world and that I was able to find it in my spam folder. Edinburgh in autumn is a lovely time to visit. Crowds disperse after the madness of the August Festival Fringe and leaves turn from lush green to warm yellows, oranges and striking red which is a stunning contrast against white skies and grey historic buildings.

      For anyone who loves browsing through bookstores -Edinburgh is known as one of the top literary cities in the UK and is teeming with independent bookshops. This city is an absolute haven for book lovers with many literary giants living and writing here. Thanks for stopping by, and have a great day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  5. You truly got there for the golden time Aiva. I recall our first visit to Edinburgh in early October 1977 on our honeymoon. The weather was warm and the sun was golden. It was magical. Have a wonderful Monday and a great week. Allan

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    1. Much to my delight, the weather cooperated, and I was able to spend more time exploring and photographing outdoors and city scenes. I was happy to go back once more, this time bringing my whole family along. Thanks for stopping by, and Happy Halloween. Enjoy the spooky festivities. Aiva 🙂 XX

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  6. Just reading this made me feel all cozy! It’s cold and snowy out right now and I’m already missing the colorful beauty of autumn. Thanks for bringing it back with this post.

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    1. Wow, you guys already had snow, that’s amazing! The leaves are only starting to change colour in the woodlands surrounding Sligo and it may be a good few weeks before we see a proper colour blast!

      When it comes to Edinburgh, autumn is a wonderful time to walk around the city and see the sights, as the foliage in the city’s green spaces, tree-lined streets and parks turns a glorious golden brown, adding another splash of colour both above and underfoot. It was the first time that we visited Edinburgh as a family of four which made it even more special. Thanks for sharing. Here’s to a Halloween filled with costumes, laughter, and the joy of being a kid again. Aiva 🙂 xx

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      1. The snow has long since melted now, but it sounds like we may get a bit more this week. It’s the time of year for us where the weather fluctuates wildly between almost-summer and winter.

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        1. It’s the same in Ireland and to the point where I don’t even know how to dress! One minute the sun is beaming, and I am frantically looking for my sunglasses, and the other – the gusty wind breaks my umbrella in half! Take care xx

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    1. Thanks so much, Mark. I only wish Ireland had something similar to Scotland’s Doors Open Days so people could celebrate Ireland’s heritage and its built environment. Thanks for stopping by, and have a wonderful day. We are getting ready for trick-and-treat activities – the kids are buzzing! 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. There’s something about autumn in Edinburgh, with the leaves changing colour and the jam-packed streets becoming more laid back. It’s in the tourist lull between the Fringe and the Christmas season that Edinburgh truly comes alive. It’s a hit or miss when it comes to weather, but come rain, fog, or shine, the city is waiting for you to explore. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  9. I’ve only had a brief stay in Edinburgh years ago while adventuring through the UK and Ireland, but I hope to return soon! Scotland in the fall looks absolutely stunning, and especially at golden hour! Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Aiva. 🙂

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    1. Thanks so much, Rebecca! I hope you get to visit Edinburgh in autumn. I love the hustle and bustle of Edinburgh in summer, but after the Fringe Festival is over and before the busy winter crowds, it’s nice to have some tranquillity. You get to explore the city’s most beautiful historic attractions without the mass of tourists, enjoying the opportunity to take better photos and spend more time at each location. Thanks for stopping by, and may your Halloween night be full of laughter, friends, and unforgettable memories. Aiva 🙂 xx

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    1. Thanks so much! Scottish comfort food is the best, but haggis or neeps and tatties just aren’t the same in the heat. Autumn is the best season to delight in the traditional, hearty favourites. Small independent bakeries also provide rich hot chocolates, and you’ve got to try a battered Mars bar. Thanks for stopping by, and may all your pumpkins be glowing – a happy Halloween to you! Aiva 🙂 xx

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    1. Thanks so much. The changing of the trees is always beautiful, but when paired with the forever-striking Edinburgh attractions, the views are spectacular. The brilliant reds and oranges contrast the stark grey stone of the rock, making for amazing images. Thanks for stopping by, and don’t forget to treat yourself this Halloween! Aiva 🙂 xx

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    1. Thanks so much. I love the idea of the Doors Open Days and how it offers free access to over a thousand venues across Scotland to visitors and locals alike. It’s a fantastic opportunity to explore places that are usually closed to the public. If only we had something similar in Ireland. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  13. I’ve always wanted to visit Edinburgh since my early days of blogging. Somehow, the city seems and sounds so appealing and interesting, and the old buildings certainly make it look photogenic as well. That sunset photo is just so beautiful and magical! Thank you for all the tips, including the one on visiting the city during Doors Open Days.

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    1. You would love exploring the old buildings and little nooks and crannies of Edinburgh as it’s a city unlike any other. Doors Open Days weekend usually takes place in September and has always been one of my favourites. Mostly because you can get access to private and hidden spaces that are normally closed to the public. Not to mention it’s a free activity. Thanks for stopping by, and have a wonderful day! Aiva 🙂 xx

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  14. As you probably know by now, autumn is my favourite season🙂 There is something about the warmth the fall colours bring to our heart, and to our soul. Time to breath in and slow down. To enjoy the moment!
    A beautiful post, as always Aiva, you make us fall in love with Edinburgh before visiting it🙂
    Have a lovely day! xx

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    1. Thanks so much, Christie. Yes, there’s just something alluring about the autumn season and the way it makes us shift and change with each passing day. I am up for slowing down and experimenting with new baking recipes. After a busy summer months, it’s refreshing to have a season where we can sit back and enjoy the simple things. Thanks for stopping by, and have a wonderful day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  15. You’ve done a marvellous job of capturing Edinburgh at its best. Every time I read your articles on Edinburgh, I tell myself that it’s time to revisit this city with all its wonders. Great thanks for sharing.

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    1. Thanks so much. I had a fantastic time exploring Edinburgh once more this year and was delighted to see it dressed in the best autumnal attire. I love how autumn offers a backdrop of unparalleled beauty for capturing pretty city scenes. Thanks for stopping by, and have a great day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. I am glad to hear you had a fantastic time in Edinburgh! I visited in April when the cherry blossoms were in full bloom and it was so interesting to be back again in September and see it from a different perspective. I couldn’t bring myself to sign up for a ghost tour as they seemed too scary, but I went deep into the old streets under the Royal Mile and very much enjoyed it. Thanks so much for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  17. I will skip the haggis and the coffee and find a nice pub for a pint. Your pictures are stunning captures of an interesting city. I’ve been twice, but both times, it was too short.

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    1. There are many traditional pubs in Edinburgh where you can settle in for the night and enjoy a session of traditional music and some lively tunes. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  18. First, before I forget, thank you for coming over to visit me at Marmelade Gypsy. It’s delightful to “meet” you!

    Your blog is beautiful. I love to travel and especially in the UK and looking down I see posts I must return and visit — next spring we hope to visit Ireland and Scotland (along with more England and maybe Wales) and while it will be a whirlwind, I look forward to getting a few hints from your blog.

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    1. It’s nice to ‘meet’ you too! I hope you get to explore all the destinations you mentioned in your comment – there’s so much to discover in be in awe at each of them. For the past few years, we’ve been exploring cities and towns closer to home and were delighted to discover that you don’t have to travel across the globe to have a great time. Thanks for stopping by, and have a wonderful day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  19. Edinburgh is always good for the soul and this is fantastic list to enjoy this beautiful city. Edinburgh is one of those cities that I think I could happily wander the streets and just soak up the history, the architecture, the literature, the whole thing. Fantastic post! 🙂

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    1. Thanks so much! I agree with you – Edinburgh is always good for the soul and so is autumn! I was delighted to go back to the Scottish capital during the fall season when the city is quieter and when the air turns crisp and reflect on life and how everything changes. You know life is full of cycles and endings and beginnings. As I strolled sun-lit streets with leaves crunching under my feet, I was reminded that we should stop and enjoy those little glimpses of happiness, no matter how small, but also cherish our moments of pain because those too will eventually lessen in saturation and eventually pass for us to find some joy again. Thanks for stopping by and have a wonderful day 🙂 Aiva xx

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        1. Thanks so much. I am still learning to stop and smell the roses, well in my case, autumn leaves! Nevertheless, I am always amazed by the difference in well-being, happiness, and sense of elevation it brings when I choose to slow down and experience the delight of something. Take care xx

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  20. Autumn is my favourite time of the year. You’re absolutely right about how Edinburgh manages to look even more charming in the fall. I like the sound of the ghost hunting tour! Seems fitting for the time of year. Thanks for sharing. Hope all is well. Linda

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    1. There’s just something special about autumn, isn’t, Linda? I love autumn, too. So much that I never feel sad saying goodbye to summer – I count down the days until the cold and dark season begins. Moreover, I look forward to the soft tapping of the rain, seeing trees look like they’re on fire, and last but not least, being snuggled up on the sofa with a warm cup of tea and a good book. Spending a few September days in Edinburgh was so soul-fulfilling, that I went back for another trip in October. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Thanks so much, Luisa. I am glad to see that we have a mutual love for the magical and mystical Scotlands capital, Edinburgh! Thanks for stopping by, and have a wonderful day. At last, the sun is shining in Sligo, and it’s a truly amazing autumn day here on Emerald Isle 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Hi, and thanks for stopping by – it’s nice to ‘meet’ you! I hope that one day, you’ll get to visit Edinburgh – it’s a wonderful city to wander around! Cheers, Aiva 🙂 xx

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  23. Such a fantastic and useful post! I have only been in Edinburgh around February/March, but I can imagine how stunning it must be in autumn, as it feels like a very cosy city, with plenty of nice things to do inside and outside. I’d love to go back and revisit it!

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    1. Thanks so much, Juliette! I find that autumn is the perfect time to wander around Edinburgh’s parks and quieter neighbourhoods yet there’s plenty to do indoors too. I was fortunate not to see a single drop of rain which was quite surprising as Edinburgh is known as a city where it rains quite a lot. Thanks for stopping by. I hope you are enjoying the cosy autumn afternoons in your part of the world. Aiva 🙂 xx

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    1. Thanks so much, Ruth. While I was very lucky with the weather and the sun made an unexpected yet welcomed appearance, Edinburgh looks equally atmospheric during the rainy autumn days. Thanks for stopping by and have a wonderful day 🙂 Aiva x

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  25. Oh Aiva- this post has my whole heart. Edinburgh + Autumn sounds like a match made in heaven to me. I am literally daydreaming now about how I can spend this season abroad next year so that I may visit the many incredible places you’ve mentioned here. The spirit and soul of the city seems to be perfectly in alignment with the mystical, moody atmosphere that these darker months bring. As a coffee lover and avid reader, I can just picture myself tucked in a cozy cafe corner with my nose deep in a book, watching the passing city scene. I am so grateful to know that whenever I do make a trip to Scotland happen, I will have so much helpful information to turn to on your site! 😊🍂💞

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    1. Thanks so much, Laura! 🙂 If you are lucky enough to be able to discover Edinburgh at any time of the year, autumn is THE ideal season as the city has just waved farewell to the throngs of tourists, the neighbourhoods are much quieter, and real-life resumes on the cobbled streets. Autumn is also a great time to meet people and get off the beaten track. And for someone who is a book lover, Edinburgh is a perfect place to be as there are more independent and second-hand bookshops than space here allows – on my recent trip I was forced to completely reshape my itinerary as I lost hours browsing the well-stocked shelves and talking to people who worked at the bookstores. Thanks for stopping by, and have a wonderful day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  26. Oh you have convinced me! Not just about going in Autumn, but actually going to Edinburgh. What a wonderland. Gorgeous photos. This is a wonderful resource. Weren’t some of the Harry Potter movies filmed there?
    Alison

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    1. Thanks so much, Alison! Edinburgh is a dream come true for any Harry Potter fan. It brings the wizarding world to life. J.K. Rowling wrote most of the series while living in Edinburgh and confirmed that this city inspired many aspects of the books. The moment you arrive and wander, you’ll immediately begin to see the similarities between Edinburgh and the fictional world of Harry Potter. Thanks for stopping by, and have a wonderful day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Thanks so much, Allie! I find that autumn is a wonderful time of the year to wander around and explore Edinburgh, without the crowds of tourists. It’s when architectural flourishes are enhanced by golden light and crisp blue skies, while indoor treats such as galleries beckon during bursts of rain. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Thanks so much and nice to ‘meet’ you Graham. If I remember correctly, this is the first time I’m interacting with a Dunediner here on the WordPress platform. I was delighted to be back in Edinburgh for the third time this year. With tickets costing 15 euros each way from the Knock Airport, it’s cheaper for me to catch a flight to Scotland than to travel to Dublin. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  29. What a wonderful and comprehensive guide to this enchanting city. And particularly in Autumn, it looks simply stunning. It’s been 35 years since I visited Scotland and Edinburgh. Such a long time and I’m sure many things have changed. Fabulous post. xx

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    1. Thanks so much, Miriam! We cannot ignore the fact that autumn wakes up the artistic soul in every human’s mind. The colourful leaves scattered on the ground, the early morning shadows stretching over vast fields, and the enchanting rainbows after the rain, all provide many breathtaking views that will make you appreciate nature even more. There are even some places in the world where you can experience their real beauty only in the autumn season and Edinburgh is one of them. Thanks for stopping by, and have a wonderful day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. I am with you on the books – there is something magical about bookshops to me; perhaps it’s being in a space where creativity comes to life or that soothing new book smell. I sometimes travel to Edinburgh just for an opportunity to browse its wonderful independent bookstores. It is a great city for picking up the perfect good book for a cosy night in at your holiday cottage. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. I was fortunate enough to visit Edinburgh three times this year and still managed to find something new and wonderful to explore like the Gladstone’s Land on Royal Mile. It was my first time exploring Edinburgh’s Lawnmarket history through one of the city’s oldest tenement houses! I can highly recommend it as the building is a great spot to get some social history at your own pace. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Hi, Neil, it’s so nice to hear from you! That’s one of the aspects I love about Edinburgh too – the beauty of the Scottish capital is its quaint, walkable nature. You can pretty much walk from one side of the city to the other one in about 30 minutes!

      But given that many of Edinburgh’s streets are quite hilly and made of old cobblestone not to mention that many of the side streets off the Royal Mile drop sharply downwards, you need to wear comfortable footwear. While that’s what gives the city its old-world charm, it’s also what makes walking a little bit more challenging. Wear comfy shoes and rest up at night! Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Thank you kindly, Nilla. I am glad you enjoyed it. Edinburgh’s Royal Mile with its hidden corners and alleyways, is a real treasure trove of surprises. As there are about 80 closes and wynds on or branching off Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, you would have a memorable time exploring these narrow passages dating back to the medieval period. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Thank you kindly, Jo 🙂 Doors Open Days is a truly exceptional event because it opens the doors to hidden treasures, inviting you to explore the architectural wonders that have shaped the past and continue to influence the present. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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