A Basic Guide to the Edinburgh Festival

Did you know...

• Edinburgh is said to be one of the most haunted cities in Europe

• Edinburgh’s Hogmanay is the world’s biggest New Year's street party

• The Edinburgh Fringe is the largest arts festival in the world

The Edinburgh Festival in a Nutshell

Fringe @ laurasuarez

The streets of Edinburgh spring to life in August as thousands flock to experience the world renowned phenomenon that the Edinburgh Festival has become.

Festival fever takes over, as separate events including the Edinburgh Fringe, the Edinburgh International Festival, the Art Festival and the Book Festival take place simultaneously, turning the city into one giant stage.

Whether your love is theatre, comedy, dance, film, music or street art, the Edinburgh Festival will fill you with delight.  We've got the basic covered below so you'll know the best places to eat and some cool B&b options before you go. For specific festival gigs, programmes and more, visit the official Edinburgh Festivals site .

Where to Eat

Pizza @ Maya83

You’ll never be short of places to eat in Edinburgh and the city’s cafes, bars and restaurants are buzzing throughout the festival. Bear in mind there is an excess of people in the city during August and book ahead where possible.

Make like a local and hunt down some proper ‘tattie’ (potato) scones topped with black pudding and eggs for your first meal of the day at the Roseleaf in Leith. A great spot for lunch in Edinburgh is The Grain Store, situated in the Old Town. Serving up the best in local Scottish produce, their lunchtime special of 3 courses for £15 will not disappoint.

Another option for lunch in Edinburgh, or a pre-show evening meal is La Favorita. The restaurant frequently appears on ‘the top places to eat in Edinburgh’ lists, and with good reason. Dine on the best pizza in town, prepared in a wood-fired oven and served with delicious deluxe toppings. The pasta dishes are also worth a try.

For fast food on the run, head for Edinburgh’s top chip shop L'alba D'Oro, where the fish supper will go down a treat. 

Where to Stay

If you haven’t already done so, book your Edinburgh Festival accommodation from our wonderful range of Edinburgh guest houses now! The crowds who flock to take in the shows in Edinburgh will all be seeking somewhere to rest their weary heads each night.

Panda Villa B&B

For a quirky budget option book into Panda Villa B&B. Situated in the heart of the city, it offers easy access to all the fun of the festival and is packed full of home comforts. The garden makes a great spot for chilling after a late night at the Edinburgh shows. Book a double room with a shared bathroom from just £44 per night.

Festival posters cover photo @ zoetnet