10 Things to Do in Edinburgh in August

As you may already know, in addition to all the usual things to see and do in Edinburgh, there are several major festivals taking place in August. But the Scottish capital also allows you to enjoy nature, beautiful castles, the surrounding beaches and the delicious craft beer that is produced here.

A good way to take advantage of the good temperatures in the city at this time of year is to take a sightseeing bus tour. You have two floors to choose from (one covered and the other open-air), and during the tour you can enjoy an audio guide available in several languages.

Among the monuments you'll pass are the National Museum and Edinburgh Castle, and for 24 hours you can hop on and off the bus as many times as you like. A perfect option to get to know Edinburgh in a comfortable way and without missing any of the essential monuments of the city.

Edinburgh is a beautiful city to visit but I also recommend you to visit its surroundings. The Highlands, also known as the Scottish Highlands, is a mountainous region in the north of Scotland that is considered a paradise for nature lovers. Among its attractions we also find the typical castles famous in the area with idyllic landscapes, thick forests, blue lochs... without a doubt, perfect to get to know with the good temperatures!

We suggest you book an excursion to the Highland lakes and castles, located 50km from the capital, specifically in the so-called Arrochar Alps, with an expert guide who will accompany you on a visit to some of the most important castles in the area such as Doune and Inveraray, among many other attractions not to be missed.

If there's one thing Edinburgh is known for, it's the amount of entertainment and culture on offer to visitors throughout August. Here are a few festivals that might be perfect to check out during your days of sightseeing in Edinburgh if you're visiting in August.

• Edinburgh International Festival: Classical music, dance and theatre. The last three weeks of August are a great time in Edinburgh. This festival takes place in the main theatres and concert halls to showcase leading figures in classical music, performing arts and dance. Tickets can be purchased directly from the Edinburgh International Festival website. They are usually available, with prices, from the first few months of the year.
• Fringe Festival: The Fringe is arguably the most famous of Edinburgh's festivals in terms of celebrating arts and culture. It takes place in August for almost the whole month.

Its venues span the whole city: bars, clubs, makeshift stages and much more. You can buy your tickets directly from the Festival website, although there are also free performances.

• International Film Festival: characterised by an innovative approach that includes short films, experimental cinema and genre documentaries. This festival is especially famous for the variety of premieres that take place there. The sale of tickets for the screenings of both short films and feature films is subject to each year's programme and can be purchased directly on the website or at the box office of the participating screening venue.

For two to three weeks in August, the Royal Military Tattoo takes place, an event which aims to showcase the talents of numerous artists from different nations, but with a particular focus: military bands. The show features musicians, dancers and acrobats, all dressed in lavish and elaborate uniforms.

Throughout history, at least 40 nations have participated in the event, and over the years it has seen everything from New Zealand pipe bands to youth acrobat teamson motorbikes.

Where it's held

Since its founding in 1950, the festival has taken place every year on the esplanade of Edinburgh Castle and is considered one of the most iconic events in the city's annual calendar.

How to buy tickets

Tickets are sold well in advance and can be purchased directly from the EdinburghTattoo event website. It's worth bearing in mind that proceeds from the event are used to support a number of charitable causes.

The festivals continue non-stop throughout August. Here's some information about some of the other lesser known international events, but equally interesting ones, that you might consider enjoying during your stay in the city.

Edinburgh Mela

• What to expect: Founded in 1995, this festival celebrates the city's ethnic minority communities, including traditions from Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, China, various regions of Africa and others.
• Where: Since 2010 it has beenheld at the Link Leith, with 3 stages for events, food and drink area, bazaar area and children's area.
• Tickets: Approximately €5 per adult ticket. Free for children under 12 years old.

Edinburgh International Book Festival

• What to expect: This festival lasts between 15-20 days and exhausts an extensive calendar of activities including autograph signings, talks, cultural and political debates around different themes; they also have an educational learning programme for children.
• Where: During the last three weeks of August in Charlotte Square.
• Tickets: Adult-focused events can cost between €9 and €18, while children's events cost between €3 and €9.

Edinburgh Art Festival

• What to expect: During festival season the city's leading galleries, museums and exhibition spaces celebrate the best and brightest in the visual arts; bringing together local and international talent with emerging figures.
• Where: Art Festival activities take place at venues such as the Royal Botanic Gardens, Edinburgh Sculpture Workshop, The National Galleries of Scotland, Jupiter Artland and more.
• How to buy tickets: The vast majority of exhibitions are free. It is advisable to look carefully at the programme website days before your trip for more information.

Steeped in festival atmosphere is the West End Fair, which brings together no less than 100 artists and craftspeople from all corners of the country. The aim is to present a truly unique selection of jewellery, clothing and many other pieces of contemporary wear.

If you find yourself in Edinburgh these days it is well worth spending an afternoon exploring the stalls. The fair runs throughout the month.

If you like quirky and original fashion accessories, explore the vintage shops in Stockbridge. If you're interested in summer sales, however, be sure to visit the shops on Princes Street, where discounted merchandise is on display every Thursday evening.

Where it takes place

In the area known as the West End, located on the western edge of the city centre. It's famous for elegant boutiques and pretty bars.

How to buy tickets

No tickets are necessary, it is a free event with free entry to the public.

The Edinburgh foreshore is obviously a less frequented area by tourists, who flock to this part of the country for the rich history and cultural heritage of the Scottish city.

However, by the end of August the good summer temperatures begin to recede, so it's a good time to enjoy the waters.

Gullane Beach Edinburgh:

This area is home to some of the best golf courses in the country. It is a 45 minute drive from the centre of Edinburgh, taking the road to North Berwick. By public transport you will need to catch the 124 bus from St Andrew's House station.

Yellowcraigs Beach

It is a 45 minute drive away. By public transport you can catch the 124 bus from St Andrew's House station, which will take you to Yellowcraigs Parks which is a 20 minute walk from the Beach.

Cramond Beach

This is a beautiful beach located on the Firth of Forth sea front where you can look out over the coastline from the promenade. It is one of the nearest beaches and is only a 20 minute drive away. Catch the 29 bus from Foot Of The Mound stop and it's only a 5 minute walk to the coast.

Rooftop bars are a great place to hang out almost all year round, but especially on cool summer nights. Whether you're looking for something to enjoy with friends, family or for a romantic getaway with your partner, it's the perfect plan!

In the city you will find many centres that offer this type of entertainment. Here are my favourites.

Nor' Loft Rooftop and Champagne Bar

Located on the rooftop of the Market Street Hotel, this establishment offers fabulous views of the Scott Monument and Princes Street Garden, one of the best shopping spots in the city.

Rooftop 51

A mixed indoor/outdoor bar located on the rooftop of the Moxy Hotel. It is characterised by two very appealing qualities: the presence of a young crowd and for offering fabulous views of Edinburgh Castle, especially if you visit during the day.

SKYbar

This is one of the city's most exclusive rooftop bars. Located in the Doubletree Hilton the space is mainly used for cocktail events and weddings. Open to the public a couple of days a week.

Cold Town House

If you're looking for a relaxed and fun atmosphere, Cold Town is the place for you. One of Edinburgh's most unstructured rooftop bars, you'll find a wide selection of craft beer and pizza cooked in old stone and wood-fired ovens.

Edinburgh' s Beer Gardens are a beer garden style terrace space popular with the locals. It's the perfect outing when the sun is shining on a Wednesday afternoon to enjoy the great weather with friends, so if you're only in town for two or three days include at least one of the following options.

The Last Drop

If you're looking for a traditional Scottish pub this is a great option. Located in Grassmarket Square, the Last Drop is also a great option if you're looking for good music in the evening.

The White Hart Inn

Another popular and busy pub in the Grassmarket area. Urban legends have it that the place is haunted and perhaps this is the reason for its popularity.

Subway Social's Secret Garden

The landscaped roofs of this venue are truly beautiful, and it's worth a visit just for the beautifully illuminated space at night.

Cold Town House

Offers a wide selection of Neapolitan pizza cooked in stone and wood-fired ovens. When the skies are clear, the roll-up roof of this pub 's terrace is released for beautiful views of Edinburgh Castle.

Summer is the best time to enjoy the green and landscaped spaces of central Edinburgh. Here are two places you shouldn't miss out on.

Princes Street Gardens

Considered Edinburgh's most beautiful garden area, you can't leave the city without lying on the grass of Princes Street Gardens in the sunshine.

Even during the crazy festival season, this space is much quieter than the rest of the city, so you can take the opportunity to have a fun picnic with your friends.

Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

The Botanic Garden space is divided into four distinct areas allegorical of four major areas of the planet: aquatic plants, European plants, North American plants and plants from the southern hemisphere of America.

The best time to visit is undoubtedly during the summer, when all the vegetation on display is at its best.