Edinburgh in winter is cold, dark early, and often damp — but with the right planning it is one of the most atmospheric times to visit. This guide covers the weather, what to pack, what stays open over Christmas and New Year, and how to get into and around the city so nothing catches you out.
Weather in Edinburgh in Winter
Edinburgh’s weather in December and January is cold, with dark mornings and evenings — sunset falls around 4–4:30pm. Snow is unlikely, but days can be damp and wet. Expect temperatures as low as 1°C and highs of around 7°C, though milder winters now bring the occasional 12°C day. As the local saying goes, there is no such thing as bad weather in Scotland, just bad clothing. If you are lucky you will catch crisp mornings and glorious East Coast sunrises.
If you plan a day trip out of the city, factor in the shorter days and seasonal opening times — many rural attractions close early or shut entirely in winter.
Winter Packing List
- Layers — cardigans and jumpers (what we call pullover sweaters in Scotland)
- Tights under skirts and dresses
- Avoid denim if you can — it is miserable when wet and slow to dry
- A waterproof coat or jacket, plus a padded warm coat
- Waterproof shoes or boots, and trainers without air holes
- Hat, gloves, and a scarf
- Skip the umbrella if it is windy — it will only fight you
- A refillable water bottle — the tap water here is excellent
- A tote bag for shopping — carrier bags cost 5p in Scotland
- Your camera — there is so much beauty to snap
Christmas Day & New Year Opening Hours
The 25th (Christmas) and 26th (Boxing Day) of December and the 1st and 2nd of January are official public holidays in Edinburgh, which means very little activity around the city. On Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, public buses run on a very limited timetable (check the Lothian Buses website), trains do not run at all, and taxis are hard to find and charge holiday prices.
Major attractions such as Edinburgh Castle, the Botanics, Holyrood Palace, and the museums are closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day, re-opening on the 1st and 2nd of January. Boxing Day is no longer the big shopping day it once was, but most major brands open on Sunday/holiday hours. If you are staying in a self-catering apartment, do your grocery shop before Christmas Day — then enjoy having the city almost to yourself.
Getting To & Around Edinburgh
Edinburgh Airport is a short ride from the city centre. The Airlink bus and the tram both connect the airport to town, and it is worth planning your route before you land. Public transport in the city runs on bus, tram, and train — Lothian Buses have a handy trip planner, and buses run day and night timetables.
There are three rail stations: Waverley is the most central (two minutes from Princes Street, ten from the Royal Mile), Haymarket sits in the west near the West End and Murrayfield, and Edinburgh Gateway links to the Gyle and the airport. Buy a ticket before you travel — you will be charged £10 if caught without one, and day tickets are available. On Hogmanay the trams run free after midnight to get party-goers home safely. For taxis, the city has Uber and Moon (app-ordered), private firms (phone-ordered), and black cabs you can hail or grab from a rank.
Frequently Asked Questions
How cold does Edinburgh get in winter?
Expect lows around 1°C and highs of about 7°C in December and January. Snow is uncommon, but the damp, windy chill makes it feel colder — waterproof layers matter more than heavy ones.
What is open in Edinburgh on Christmas Day?
Very little. Trains stop entirely, buses run a skeleton timetable, and major attractions like Edinburgh Castle and the Botanics close on the 25th and 26th. Stock up on groceries beforehand if you are self-catering.
What should I pack for Edinburgh in winter?
Warm layers, a waterproof coat, waterproof boots, and a hat, gloves and scarf. Avoid denim, which is miserable when wet, and leave the umbrella if it is windy.