Studying in Edinburgh
As a city, Edinburgh has it all – stunning architecture, abundant parks, state-of-the-art sports facilities, world-famous museums, galleries and theatres, and a lively social scene. Edinburgh is not only Scotland’s capital city but one of the world’s top student destinations.
What makes Edinburgh such a great place to study?
Edinburgh was named the most beautiful, walkable and best city in the world in 2022 by Time Out, and the best place to live and study in the UK by the Royal Mail.
Historic Capital
The Old and New Towns of Edinburgh are a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can visit the world-famous Edinburgh Castle, or take a walk down the historic cobbled streets of the Old Town. The city has an amazing variety of visitor activities including historic sites, landmarks and statues, parks and beaches, cultural tours, a royal palace, religious sites and places of worship.
Arts and Culture
Throughout the city you can discover fascinating museums, galleries and theatres, many of which are free to visit. Enjoy a vibrant calendar of exhibitions, events and festivals throughout the year, to immerse in Scottish, British and international arts and culture.
Student City
Edinburgh has a large student population as it is home to Edinburgh College and also four universities. It is a fantastic place for international students, with a multicultural population and lively bars, clubs and restaurants across the city.
Festival City
Edinburgh hosts 12 major festivals every year with over 25,000 performers and 4.2 million visitors from over 70 countries. Our top picks are the summer’s International Fringe Festival and Edinburgh’s Hogmanay celebrations at New Year. These were both voted Event and Festival Destination of the year.
Edinburgh’s International Airport has direct international flights from more than 35 countries in Europe, North America, the Middle East, Africa and Asia. With excellent rail and bus links throughout the UK, Edinburgh is the perfect place to begin your journey.
Direct flights and excellent travel links
Edinburgh’s International Airport has direct international flights from more than 35 countries in Europe, North America, the Middle East, Africa and Asia. With excellent rail and bus links throughout the UK, Edinburgh is the perfect place to begin your journey.
Edinburgh is only ...
- 1.5 hours from London
- 1.5 hours from Amsterdam
- 2 hours from Paris
- 8 hours from Doha
- 11 hours from Beijing
- 3 hours from Rome
- 5.5 hours from Istanbul
Events and Festivals in Edinburgh
Edinburgh is a vibrant cultural city with events and festivals happening throughout the year.
Winter
- Edinburgh's Christmas Market and Winter Festival (December)
- Edinburgh's Hogmanay (December / January)
- Six Nation’s Rugby (February)
- Edinburgh Science Festival (March)
Spring
- Edinburgh International Children's Festival (May/June)
- Hidden Door Music Festival (May / June)
- Pride Edinburgh (June)
- Royal Highland Show (June)
Summer
- Edinburgh Jazz and Blues Festival and Carnival (July)
- Edinburgh Food Festival (July)
- Edinburgh International Festival (August)
- Edinburgh Festival Fringe (August)
- The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo (August)
- Edinburgh Art Festival (August)
- Edinburgh International Book Festival (August)
- Edinburgh International Film Festival (August)
- Scottish Highland Games (August)
Autumn
- Doors Open Scotland events (September)
- Scottish International Storytelling Festival (October)
- Halloween events across the city (October)
- Samhuinn Fire Festival (October)
- Bonfire Night Firework displays and celebrations (November)
