Scotland’s vibrant capital is famous for the imposing Edinburgh Castle, incredible views from Arthur’s Seat and the Royal Mile that runs through the Old Town.
It’s also home to several annual events, which visitors from across the world flock to, making Edinburgh one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in the UK.
When you rent a car in Edinburgh you can head into the Scottish capital and check out the best goings-on in the city.
Edinburgh Fringe
The biggest arts festival in the world, Edinburgh Fringe brings thousands of actors, comedians, musicians and street performers together for an unforgettable celebration of worldwide culture.
It’s held across a period of three weeks in the late summer, taking over around 300 different venues across the city.
See a mixture of established stars and up-and-coming acts, and generally get swept up in the carnival atmosphere of the city during the festival.
Tickets are available in batches, with shows revealed in advance, giving you the chance to book your tickets early – as the most popular acts and productions sell out quickly.
Hogmanay
Edinburgh knows how to ring in the New Year with their Hogmanay celebrations. Held over several days in the run-up to New Year’s Eve, there are live music acts and fireworks to mark the occasion.
The Street Party, held on the 31st December every year, is the biggest attraction of this electric event. Starting in the early evening, live DJs, street performers entertain revellers through to the early hours.
Start the New Year right by purchasing early bird tickets for the event several months in advance. This lets you secure your entry to the Street Party early-on.
Edinburgh’s Christmas
From November to January, Edinburgh is transformed into a winter wonderland, packed with Christmas markets, a Ferris wheel and a host of other festive attractions.
The market, held in Princes Street Gardens, sells a vast collection of products, gifts and delicious seasonal food and drink.
Entry to the market is free, while you can purchase tickets for special events that happen around the city, as well as the theme park rides nearby.
Highland Games
The Highland Games are Scotland’s proudest cultural and sporting showcase, consisting of unique events happening across different outdoor locations throughout the country. And, there are three events based near to Edinburgh.
Musselburgh Racecourse (EH21 7RG) hosts the New Year Sprint event, occurring on New Year’s Day. It’s just a short 20-minute drive from the city in your rental car.
Around 45 minutes away via the A1 and B1347 is the North Berwick Highland Games (EH39 4EE). Highlights include the caber toss and stone putt, plus a tug-of-war contest.
The Inverkeithing Highland Games includes running, heavy weights and highland dance events. Plus, it’s only a 35-minute drive north-west of Edinburgh, over the Queensferry Crossing Bridge.
Start experiencing all this and more of Scotland’s cultural highlights when you book Edinburgh car rental with Hertz.
