Edinburgh in December 2026: Things to Do, Weather & Tips

Pass Edinburgh in December, It's about experiencing the Scottish capital at its most magical time: the Christmas market at the foot of the castle, the illuminated Old Town, and, to end the year, the famous Hogmanay festival. Having lived in Edinburgh since 2012, we'll give you the weather forecast, key dates for 2026, and our tips for enjoying the city.

In short: In Edinburgh in December, the temperature is generally between 2 and 7°C, and night falls around 3:40 pm. The Christmas market in Princes Street Gardens is open from November 14, 2026, to January 3, 2027. The month ends with Hogmanay, from December 29 to January 1. Please note: the castle is closed on December 25 and 26.

What is the weather like in Edinburgh in December?

In December, temperatures in Edinburgh are generally between 2 and 7°C. Winds often blow from the North Sea, and rain can fall at any time. However, snow is quite rare in the city. The days are also very short: the sun sets around 3:40 pm, so the Christmas lights can be admired from mid-afternoon onwards.

UP TO YOU

What kind of traveler are you for? Edinburgh in December 2026: what to do, weather and tips "?

5 quick questions to see what suits you best.

Question 1 of 5

In the city, you enjoy exploring…

On foot, neighborhood by neighborhoodMajor sites first

Question 2 of 5

Need a break?

A local cafe or pubA museum or a monument

Question 3 of 5

What appeals to you most?

The atmosphere of the streets and marketsHistory and architecture

Question 4 of 5

In the evening, you would rather choose…

A good restaurant and a lively neighborhoodA show or a visit

Question 5 of 5

With a few free hours?

You let yourself be carried awayYou add an essential

Pack several warm layers, a hat, gloves, and a waterproof jacket. Our guide to climate in Scotland provides detailed weather information month by month.

Key dates to remember in Edinburgh in December 2026

Here is the season's schedule, according to the organizers. Opening hours change during the holidays: please check them before your visit.

Event	Dates 2026-2027
Christmas Market (Edinburgh's Christmas)	From November 14, 2026 to January 3, 2027
Christmas at the Botanics (light trail)	From November 19 to December 30, 2026
Edinburgh Castle	Closed December 25th and 26th, closing at 4 pm on the 24th
Torchlight procession in Hogmanay	Tuesday, December 29, 2026
Hogmanay Street Party	Thursday, December 31, 2026, starting at 8 p.m.
Loony Dook in South Queensferry	Friday, January 1, 2027

What to do in Edinburgh in December?

The Princes Street Gardens Christmas Market

First, the Christmas market sets up at the foot of the castle, between the old town and the new town. Chalets, a Ferris wheel, rides, and mulled wine enliven the gardens from approximately 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Dates, times, and prices of attractions: everything is in our guide. Edinburgh Christmas Market.

Christmas at the Botanics

Then, from November 19th to December 30th, 2026, the Royal Botanic Garden transforms into a nighttime light show. The walk lasts approximately one hour. Book early, as weekend slots fill up quickly.

The castle and the Royal Mile

Edinburgh Castle remains open for most of the month, except for December 25th and 26th. On the 24th, it closes earlier, at 4 pm. Arrive as soon as it opens to enjoy the daylight. Then walk down the Royal Mile to Holyrood Palace, passing St. Giles' Cathedral, which often hosts Christmas concerts.

Views of the illuminated city

As night falls, climb Calton Hill to admire the city and its lights. The more adventurous can even climb Arthur's Seat, weather permitting, before sunset.

Historic pubs

Finally, nothing beats a cozy pub after a cold day. The pubs in the Grassmarket and Old Town are perfect for a whisky or a Scottish meal. See our selection of traditional pubs in Edinburgh.

Hogmanay: Celebrating the New Year in Edinburgh

To end the year, Edinburgh hosts one of the biggest New Year's Eve parties in Europe. On December 29th, thousands of torchbearers parade from the Meadows through the Old Town. On the 31st, the Street Party takes over Princes Street from 8 pm until the midnight fireworks display over the castle.

On January 1st, the most daring finally plunge into the icy waters of South Queensferry during the Loony Dook. These events require tickets and sell out quickly. For the program and tickets, please consult our guide.’Hogmanay in Edinburgh.

Edinburgh at Christmas: what's open on December 24, 25 and 26

• December 24th The market, shops and monuments are open, but close earlier. The castle, for example, closes at 4 p.m.
• December 25th The city is running at a reduced pace. The castle and Christmas market are closed, and public transport is severely limited. So book your Christmas meal in advance.
• December 26 : the castle remains closed, but the market reopens in the afternoon, generally from 12pm to 8pm.

Check the opening hours of each site on the castle site and on the Edinburgh's Christmas page before your visit.

Our tips for visiting Edinburgh in December

• Book your accommodation several months in advance, especially for weekends in December and the Hogmanay period.
• Visit the market on a weekday, late morning, to avoid the crowds.
• Start your visits early, as it gets dark at 3:40 pm.
• Extend your trip to the Highlands, stunning in winter, with our guide to the...’Scotland in winter.
• To help you organize your days, consult our guide What to do in Edinburgh.

Frequently asked questions about Edinburgh in December

Is it cold in Edinburgh in December?

It's cool and windy: temperatures between 2 and 7°C. Snow remains rare in the city, but rain is frequent.

When will the Edinburgh Christmas Market take place in 2026?

From November 14, 2026 to January 3, 2027, at Princes Street Gardens. It is closed on Christmas Day.

Is Edinburgh Castle open at Christmas?

No, it is closed on December 25th and 26th. On the 24th, it closes at 4 p.m.

How many days should I plan to spend in Edinburgh in December?

Three to four days are enough for the market, the castle, the old town and an evening at the pub. Add two days for Hogmanay.

Cover photo: Sourabh.biswas003, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.

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