5 Tips for Visiting the Edinburgh Christmas Markets

If you’re going to be heading into Edinburgh for Christmas, then you owe it to yourself to experience the city’s amazing Christmas markets. The city is beautiful throughout the year, but when it’s all lit up at Christmas time, it’s truly magical. 

If you’re going to get the best from your stay, you’ll want to track down some high-quality accommodation at a convenient location. If you’re a key worker, then you might be able to do so without paying over the odds. Did you know you can find Premier Inn discounts for NHS workers available online – and there are fifteen branches throughout the city!

So, what activities are on offer at this time of year? Hopefully this post will give you plenty of ideas...

Have a Mulled Wine

Christmas just isn’t Christmas unless you’re enjoying a mulled wine. It’s on sale from multiple street vendors, and it’ll keep you warm even when the weather gets chilly in the evening. Of course, this isn’t the only festive tipple on offer in the city – but it is the one that’s traditional.

Go to a Panto

Pantomime season will be in full swing at Christmas time, and there are a range of different shows available. They’re all family-friendly and uproariously funny. There’s Sinbad at the Brunton Theatre in Musselburgh, there’s Cinderella at Edinburgh South, and there’s Mother Goose at Howden Park Centre in Livingstone.

Check the dates before setting out, and make sure that you’ve booked your tickets in advance if you want to avoid disappointment!

Enjoy a Glass of Fizz at the Dome

No venue screams Christmas quite as volubly as the Dome. There’s a festive set menu on offer throughout December, and an a la carte menu available after Christmas Day. Of course, if you’re going to be dining here, then you should set aside a little bit of your budget for a glass of quality fizz. There are plenty of options to choose from!

Go Ice-Skating

Outdoor ice-skating is one of those activities that’s only available at certain times of year. Even if you’re not all that steady on your feet, you can still enjoy your time on the ice. The ice rink has been a major draw of the market for years. The skate hire is bundled in with the cost of entry, making this an affordable way to spend your time, too.

Go on the Rides

The Christmas market is famous for its stunning fairground attractions, including a sizeable ferris wheel from which you can get a decent view of the surrounding city. And if you’re going to be taking children to the market, then going on a ride or two should be considered obligatory.

Have you ever visited Edinburgh at Christmas time before?

This is a collaborative post.