We have an upcoming trip to Scotland in April for 8 days.
We'll be staying at least 2 nights in Edinburgh & was wondering if anyone had thoughts, advice, or recommendations about staying in Old City or New City? Is it worth staying an extra day before leaving to explore the Highlands for the remainder of the trip?
TIA!
Michelle:
I am not sure what you are referring to by Old and New City. There is an area known as the New Town (which is over 150 years old!) and there is the Royal Mile area, each is within walking distance of the other, but the extreme ends of each may be a bit far to walk. It depends what you want to see, but buses take you quickly and easily wherever you are, even beyond these areas.
As for exploring the Highlands in a day, again, it depends what you want to see. You could get a bus tour to take you for a day trip, or if you have a car (which you won't need in Edinburgh), you could plan a day trip. The Highlands certainly are worth seeing for the scenery and some of the old castles, etc., but a day trip will only scratch the surface.
Town. I mean Town. Sorry about the mistake.
The old city really means the Royal Mile which is close to many sights and very busy and touristy. You can stay in New Town and it's quite busy as well and is close to different sights! Or you can stay in areas that are a bit away from either of them! I've stayed on Dalkeith Road which was good and I've stayed out by Bruntsfield Place. Both were good locations and quick bus ride or a bit longer walk into city centre. My favorite place to stay is near the Botanic Gardens. I like it as it gets me out of the crush and makes me feel like I'm in the Edinburgh where locals may live, (it's near a real grocery store) but it's also easy to get up to the sights. I love Edinburgh, but if you only have 8 days, I would keep to the 2 nights. Pam
Sorry, I misread your post. The one day refers to an extra day in Edinburgh, not one day to see the Highlands. It all depends on your interests in Edinburgh, you could spend all 8 days there. The bus service is very good and you could stay anywhere and be within reach of teh sights you will want to see.
