
Low Season (November through April): Winter in Edinburgh is long, although with low temperatures typically a degree or two above 0 (centigrade), it’s not as chilly as many people imagine. These are the very best months to visit Edinburgh, with temperatures ranging around 11☌ to 14☌, fewer crowds, and discounts on airfare and accommodation. September and October see little to no rain and clear blue skies with typically a slight chill in the air. Shoulder Season (May and June, September and October): May and June brings fresh, crisp air, blossoming flowers, and pleasant weather overall with less rain than in the summer. This is when tourism is at its peak, so airfare and accommodation will be priced higher and need to be booked well in advance. The city’s northern locale offers plenty of daylight for enjoying attractions and summertime festivals. While there are likely to be some sunny days, there are just as many wet ones, however. High Season (July and August): Summer is the warmest time of the year in Edinburgh, with average high temperatures around 19☌. Keep in mind that some courses require golfers to use mats on the fairway to avoid creating divots during this time. By planning a golf trip during the months on either side of the peak season, May and September, discounts and less-crowded greens can be enjoyed. Best Time for Golfing: The warmer months of the year from May through September bring the majority of golf visitors, pushing room rates up considerably and keeping golf courses busy, due to slightly more reliable weather. The year’s biggest annual shopping day is Boxing Day, December 26, bringing big crowds and long lines (sometimes beginning before dawn) on popular shopping streets like Princes Street. Best Time for Shopping: There are no specific periods for sales in Scotland, but the best bargains and discounts tend to come just after the holidays and again in late spring or early summer. To avoid long lines and other interruptions, plan to arrive early, a few minutes before opening on a weekday (or a Sunday, if experiencing the boom of the gun isn’t a must), especially during peak tourist season in July or August. So this time of day sees the biggest crowds, especially on a Saturday.
Best Time to Visit Edinburgh Castle: Many visitors come to Edinburgh Castle to experience the One o’clock Gun, which is fired at 13:00 every day except Sunday.Both sunshine and rain can be expected during any given month in Edinburgh and throughout Scotland.
The city may be most ideal during the second half of May and the first half of September, when no more than a sweater is usually necessary to stay warm, and precipitation is less likely. Best Time to Visit for Good Weather: Summer months see the warmest temperatures in Edinburgh, particularly July and August, with the average high at 19☌, along with many wet days.Arriving earlier or later during this period will also mean shorter lines and fewer tourists to get in the way of views. Best Time for Sightseeing: The best time for sightseeing in Edinburgh is between May and September, when days are longer and the temperatures are usually pleasant.The best months to visit Edinburgh are May and September. Clock tower of the Balmoral Hotel in Edinburgh, Scotland.