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How to Book an Edinburgh Trip

How to · Travel

How to Book an Edinburgh Trip

Visit the Royal Mile and historic castles without the August price spikes by spreading your costs over 15 months.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $2,600 before anything else
Across the 0% window $173.33/mo 15 months, no interest

How we got that: $2,600 spread evenly across the 15-month introductory window on the Discover it® Cash Back. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

Edinburgh is all about dark stone alleys and the castle sitting on a dormant volcano. It gets crowded and expensive in August during the festivals, so we suggest aiming for May or September. You get the same moody atmosphere and green hills for a lot less money.

A typical trip runs about $2600. Instead of dropping that all at once, we can use the Discover it® Cash Back to break it up. This card has a 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers, which lets you pay for the flight and hotels over time.

This window is a deadline, not a gift. If you still have a balance when the 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers ends, the standard interest rate will apply to whatever you still owe.

The steps

  1. 01

    Pick your window

    Skip August. Go in late spring or early autumn to save on airfare and keep the streets walkable. The weather is cool, but that is part of the charm.

  2. 02

    Track the flights

    Use a tracker to watch for price drops from major hubs. Direct flights to Edinburgh exist, but connecting through London or Dublin is often cheaper for US travelers.

  3. 03

    Manage the cost

    Use the Discover it® Cash Back to book your major expenses. Since it offers a 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers, you can pay $173.33 a month to cover a $2600 trip.

  4. 04

    Choose your base

    Look for small apartments or guesthouses near the Royal Mile or the West End. Being within walking distance of the main sights saves you a lot on local transport.

  5. 05

    Walk the city

    Most of the best views, like Calton Hill or Arthur’s Seat, are free. Budget your cash for the castle entry and a few solid pub meals instead of expensive tours.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

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

    See Discover it® Cash Back terms →

Common questions

Do I need a car in Edinburgh?

No, we don't recommend it. The city is very walkable and the bus system is reliable for reaching places further out like Leith.

What is the best way to pay locally?

Most places take cards, but keep a little cash for small shops. Check if your card has foreign transaction fees before you start tapping.

Is the tap water safe?

Yes, it is some of the best in the world. Bring a reusable bottle to save a few dollars every day while you are out walking.

How do I get to the castle?

It is at the top of the Royal Mile. Buy your tickets online in advance to avoid the long line at the gate and ensure you get in.