{"id":5202,"date":"2016-07-28T07:53:43","date_gmt":"2016-07-28T07:53:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/travelodgeblog.wpengine.com\/?p=5202"},"modified":"2024-02-06T11:47:39","modified_gmt":"2024-02-06T10:47:39","slug":"10-best-tips-edinburgh-festival","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.travelodge.co.uk\/blog\/destination-guides\/edinburgh\/10-best-tips-edinburgh-festival\/","title":{"rendered":"10 best tips for Edinburgh Festival time"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Start with the Royal Mile. Photo \u00a9 Alicia_Garcia<\/p><\/div>

Every August, Edinburgh hosts the world’s largest arts festival. It runs for three weeks and all but takes over the city with a mix of street performances, big-name acts and smaller cultural gatherings. Here’s our list of things you can’t miss (in and out of the festival).<\/p>\n

1. Take a walk along the Royal Mile<\/strong><\/p>\n

The Royal Mile is a popular tourist attraction throughout the year, but it takes on a life of its own during the Fringe. Street performers, promoters, buskers and visitors fill the streets with noise and commotion. This is the heart of the festival, rain or shine, so take your time and soak up the atmosphere.
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2. Grab a Fringe program<\/strong><\/p>\n

The Fringe program is a little overwhelming at first as it’s full to the brim with weird and wonderful sounding shows and events. Grab your copy and flick through to get a sense of the type of shows that are on offer and to see if anything catches your eye. You can find free programs at most venues and on the counter at many local caf\u00e9s and restaurants.
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3. Watch a show you know nothing about<\/strong><\/p>\n

Several top comedians and actors have started their career at the Fringe. Don’t rely on big names or headlines to make your show choices. There are literally hundreds of shows to choose from and many hidden gems are waiting for you. Tickets are usually available at very short notice, so find one of the larger venues, ask them what show starts soon and take the plunge.
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4. Watch the Military Tattoo<\/strong><\/p>\n

The Military Tattoo lands in the city at the same time as the arts festivals and provides a fascinating display of music, action and skill, all under the impressive backdrop of Edinburgh Castle. Be sure to book in advance as tickets sell out fast.
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Highland dancers. Photo \u00a9 domnhall20<\/p><\/div>

5. Take a ghost tour<\/strong><\/p>\n

Take a break from the normal theatrics and performances to explore the darker side of the city. Tours leave from the Royal Mile several times every evening and there are a few companies offering different packages. Make sure you choose one that offers access to the underground vaults for a truly spooky encounter.
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6. Book a comfortable bed<\/strong><\/p>\n

The population of Edinburgh doubles during the month of August, so plan ahead and make sure you book a comfortable Travelodge bed<\/span><\/a> to rest your weary brain after a day of culture.
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7. Overlook the action from Arthur’s Seat<\/strong><\/p>\n

Take some time out in nature with a climb up Arthur’s Seat, the large hill that overlooks the city, providing beautiful views of the castle, university and Prince’s Street.
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8. Visit the book festival<\/strong><\/p>\n

The International Book Festival takes place from 13-29\u00a0August on Charlotte Square. Big name authors and personalities attend to talk about their new works and to debate critical issues in the world of literature. For a more relaxed atmosphere than the Fringe, this is a great place to spend an afternoon. Our Edinburgh Central Princes Street Travelodge<\/span><\/a> is just a few moments walk away.
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9. Grab some haggis, neeps and tatties<\/strong><\/p>\n

Taste the most famous of all Scottish meals and wash it down with some local beer. Most pubs in the city will serve haggis, but make sure you enjoy the full experience with parsnips and potatoes (neeps and tatties) on the side.
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10. Have breakfast at Elephants and Bagels<\/strong><\/p>\n

Bagels aren’t traditionally Scottish, but this caf\u00e9 has become a local institution with great, humble food and a welcoming atmosphere. This is also the location where J.K Rowling is said to have spent long hours writing the first Harry Potter book.<\/p>\n

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Breakfast bagel. Photo \u00a9 d1g1talman<\/p><\/div>\n