Europe
United Kingdom travel guide
The UK packs a lot of history into a small island. Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital, has a medieval Old Town and a Georgian New Town that together form a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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United Kingdom at a glance
- Currency
- Pound sterling (GBP, £). Contactless payment is accepted almost everywhere.
- Language
- English (and Scots and Gaelic).
- Plugs
- Type G, 230 V.
- Emergency number
- 999 or 112
- Entry
- The UK is not part of the Schengen area or the EU. Check official UK entry rules (including any electronic travel authorisation) for your passport.
- Getting around
City guides for United Kingdom
Edinburgh
Edinburgh is compact and walkable. The Old Town runs down the Royal Mile from the castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Georgian New Town is across Princes Street Gardens, and Arthur’s Seat rises right behind the palace. Two days covers the highlights; three lets you add Dean Village, Leith or Stirling. Book the castle online, pack layers, and in August book everything early.
If you only have one day in Edinburgh
- Edinburgh Castle: The fortress on Castle Rock, home to the Honours of Scotland (the crown jewels), the Stone of Destiny and St Margaret’s Chapel, with views over the whole city.
- The Royal Mile & its closes: The Old Town’s spine, from the castle down to Holyrood, with narrow closes and courtyards leading off on both sides.
- Calton Hill: An easy hill with monuments, including the unfinished National Monument, and one of the best views of the Old Town and the castle.
- Best time to go
- May–September for long days. August is festival month (busy and expensive). December has Christmas markets and Hogmanay.
- From the airport
- The tram runs from the airport to the city centre in about 30 minutes. Tap on and off with the same contactless card. The Airlink 100 bus is an alternative.
United Kingdom travel FAQ
How many days do I need in Edinburgh?
Two days covers the castle, the Royal Mile, Holyrood and Arthur’s Seat. Three days lets you add the New Town, Dean Village and Leith, or a day trip to Stirling.
What currency does the UK use?
The pound sterling (£). Contactless card payment is accepted almost everywhere.
Which plugs does the UK use?
Type G (three rectangular pins), 230 V. Bring an adapter.
Travelling to United Kingdom?
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