Is Edinburgh Safe for Travel in 2024?

Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Safety Score
71

Edinburgh is the capital city of Scotland and one of its 32 council areas. Historically part of the county of Midlothian (interchangeably Edinburghshire before 1921), it is located in Lothian on the Firth of Forth’s southern shore. Edinburgh is Scotland’s second-most populous city and the seventh-most populous city in the United Kingdom.

Warnings & Dangers in Edinburgh

Overall Risk

OVERALL RISK : LOW

Edinburgh is one of the safest cities in the UK. It's important to use common sense and keep track of your belongings.

Transport & Taxis Risk

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : LOW

Public transport is well developed and safe. Keep an eye on your wallets on buses to avoid pickpocketing. Use only licensed taxi services.

Pickpockets Risk

PICKPOCKETS RISK : MEDIUM

Like any major city in Edinburgh, pickpockets do happen. Especially on public transport during rush hour. Keep track of your belongings, and do not leave bags and wallets unattended on the tables in the cafe.

Natural Disasters Risk

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : MEDIUM

Edinburgh is at risk of flooding, especially in the spring. Follow the weather forecasts and act following the recommendations of the hydrometeorological center.

Mugging Risk

MUGGING RISK : LOW

The risk of serious robbery and armed attacks is shallow in Beijing. There is little danger of these attacks in the suburbs. However, the likelihood that you will be attacked is minimal.

Terrorism Risk

TERRORISM RISK : MEDIUM

The risk of terrorism is medium in Edinburgh. The global risk of terrorist attacks in public areas exists worldwide, so tourists should be vigilant.

Scams Risk

SCAMS RISK : MEDIUM

Fraud is commonly associated with street vendors offering counterfeit goods to tourists. Don't buy them even if the price is very attractive. Also, only withdraw money from ATM at banks with cameras to avoid skimming your card.

Women Travelers Risk

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : LOW

Women traveling alone can feel quite safe in this city. The main thing is to adhere to the usual precautions and monitor your surroundings.

How Safe Is Edinburgh for Tourists?

Edinburgh is one of the safest cities in the UK.

The crime index here is at a low level.

The main problems are associated with petty theft and pickpocketing.

Burglaries and violent crimes do happen in Edinburgh, but these things happen infrequently.

During the day, visitors can safely navigate virtually any street in Edinburgh city center.

Although, like any other city, there are a few places to stay away from.

The Sighthill and Wester Hailes areas in the southwest are best avoided, especially at night.

There are often problems with drug use, and, accordingly, people are more aggressive.

The biggest threat to tourists is pickpockets and robbers.

Petty thieves usually gather near tourist attractions, on public transport, and in crowded places.

Tourists are advised not to carry a lot of cash and expensive items.

In bars and restaurants, watch your glass and don’t settle for free drinks.

This can be a ploy to get you drunk and then rob you.

Be careful with football fans, especially during matches.

Avoid criticizing the clubs of this city and do not get involved in football disputes.

Things like this often end up in fights.

Do I Need a Visa to Visit Edinburgh?

The visa policy of the United Kingdom is the policy by which Her Majesty’s Government determines visa requirements for visitors to the United Kingdom. All intended entrants must obtain a visa unless they are exempt. A valid passport is a must.

Which Currency Is Used in Edinburgh?

The official currency of the United Kingdom is the pound sterling, known as the pound (£, GBP). Each pound is divided into 100 pence (100p = £1).

How's the Weather like in Edinburgh?

The climate of Edinburgh is oceanic, with cold, rainy winters and cool, cloudy summers. The best months to visit Edinburgh are May and September.

What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Edinburgh?

Edinburgh Airport is an airport located in the Ingliston area of Edinburgh, Scotland. It was the busiest airport in Scotland in 2019, handling over 14.7 million passengers. It was also the sixth-busiest airport in the United Kingdom by total passengers in 2019.

Should I Get Travel Insurance for My Travels?

A travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country or city. Make sure you got it before starting your journey; the customs officer may ask for it.

What Are Some Things to Do in Edinburgh?

Edinburgh is Scotland’s compact, hilly capital. It has a medieval Old Town and elegant Georgian New Town with gardens and neoclassical buildings. Looming over the city is Edinburgh Castle, home to Scotland’s crown jewels and the Stone of Destiny, used in the coronation of Scottish rulers. Arthur’s Seat is an imposing peak in Holyrood Park with sweeping views, and Calton Hill is topped with monuments and memorials. 

Is the Water in Edinburgh Safe to Drink?

In Edinburgh, the water from the cold tap is 100% safe to drink.

Is Uber Safe in Edinburgh?

There is an Uber taxi in the city; you can call a taxi from your smartphone application. The fare will depend on the time of day and the distance traveled.

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