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How to Book a Trip to Edinburgh

How to · Travel

How to Book a Trip to Edinburgh

Plan a spring getaway to Scotland's capital by spreading the $2,200 cost over eighteen months without interest.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $2,200 before anything else
Across the 0% window $122.22/mo 18 months, no interest

How we got that: $2,200 spread evenly across the 18-month introductory window on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

Edinburgh in late spring is the sweet spot. You get the stone streets and the castle views without the massive crowds that arrive in August for the festivals. The gorse is blooming on Arthur’s Seat and the days are finally getting longer, making it the best time to walk the Royal Mile.

A typical trip for two runs about $2,200 once you factor in flights and a central place to stay. We use a strategy to break that total into smaller monthly chunks. It keeps the cost manageable so you can focus on the scenery instead of the bill.

The intro window is a deadline, not free money. If you still have a balance when the 18 months are up, the standard interest rate will apply to whatever is left. Stick to the monthly payment to clear the debt before that happens.

The steps

  1. 01

    Target May or June

    Aim for the window before the summer rush takes over the city. You'll find better hotel rates and shorter lines at the major sights. The weather is still brisk, so pack a solid coat for those windy evening walks.

  2. 02

    Track your flights

    Set alerts for flights into Edinburgh or even Glasgow, which is a short train ride away. Booking at least three months out helps avoid the steepest price hikes. Mid-week departures are usually the cheapest way to cross the Atlantic.

  3. 03

    Manage the cost

    Use the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card (Citi) to pay for the big expenses like airfare and lodging. It offers 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening. This allows you to pay $122.22 per month to cover a $2,200 trip.

  4. 04

    Book a central flat

    Look for a place in the New Town or West End rather than right on the Royal Mile. You'll get more space for your money and a quieter night's sleep. Most spots are still an easy walk to the castle and the train station.

  5. 05

    Reserve the castle early

    The castle often sells out, especially for morning slots. Book your entry time online as soon as your travel dates are set. This saves you from standing in the cold ticket line when you actually arrive.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

    Every figure we publish for the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card carries the date a person verified it against Citi and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.

    See Citi Simplicity® Credit Card terms →

Common questions

Is Edinburgh expensive?

It is generally cheaper than London but more than rural Scotland. Eating at pubs and using the city's walkable layout helps keep your daily spending down.

When is the best time to visit?

Late spring offers the best balance of daylight and manageable crowds. You avoid the peak prices and packed streets of the August festival season.

What does 0% interest mean?

It means the bank won't charge you for borrowing the money for a set period. You still have to pay back the original $2,200, but you won't pay extra fees on top of it.

Do I need a car in the city?

No, the city is very walkable and the bus system is reliable. Only rent a car if you plan to drive into the Highlands after your time in the capital.