Edinburgh's Christmas Markets 2025 Guide
Edinburgh, Scotland • 15 Nov 2025 – 4 Jan 2026 • Scotland
Princes Street Gardens, George Street and St Andrew Square host Edinburgh’s festive extravaganza with a double-decker big wheel, ice rink and alpine food huts.
Why visit in 2025?
- Traditional market in East Princes Street Gardens under the castle
- George Street ice rink loop and Polar Ice Bar
- Santa Stories experience for young families
At a glance
Locations
East Princes Street Gardens, West Princes Street Gardens, St Andrew Square Winter Gardens & George Street, Edinburgh EH2.
Opening hours (2025)
- Daily: 10am – 10pm
- 24 December: closes at 6pm
- 26 December & 1 January: special hours – check before travelling
Costs
Free entry for market areas. Ice rink, Santa’s Stories, the Big Wheel, Star Flyer and light trail are ticketed.
Contact
Why Edinburgh’s market is special
Edinburgh’s Christmas is spectacular thanks to its dramatic cityscape: stalls spill down the embankments of Princes Street Gardens with Edinburgh Castle and the Scott Monument as a backdrop. European chalets, artisan Scottish producers and global street-food vendors fill the lower terraces, while the upper level hosts rides, lights and the famous Big Wheel. George Street’s illuminated ice rink returns for 2025, along with Santa’s Stories, the Alpine Ice Bar and the traditional Nativity Scene on the Mound.
The market is run by Unique Assembly for City of Edinburgh Council and has a strong focus on community programming and sustainability. Expect free events, choir performances and partnerships with local charities throughout the season.
Getting there
By train
Edinburgh Waverley station sits at the heart of the market footprint. Direct trains arrive from London, Glasgow, Aberdeen, Inverness, Newcastle and Manchester.
By coach
Scottish Citylink, National Express and Megabus buses depart from Edinburgh Bus Station (St Andrew Square), a five-minute walk from the market.
Driving & parking
City centre streets can be congested and parking is limited. Use the 7-days Park & Ride sites at Ingliston, Sheriffhall or Straiton and continue by tram or bus. Blue Badge parking is available on nearby streets.
Accessibility
The market is set over terraces, so lifts and ramps help connect levels. Accessible toilets are available in East Princes Street Gardens and St Andrew Square. Dedicated quiet sessions and sensory guides are published closer to opening.
Need-to-know details
- Tell me something unusual: The market’s Alpine Ice Bar is sculpted fresh each year and kept at -10°C – thermal capes are provided.
- Year established: 1999 (relaunched in 2013 in its modern format).
- Typical attendance: Over 2.6 million visitors each season.
- Official opening: Joined by the Lord Provost of Edinburgh with fireworks and choirs on opening weekend.
- Entry cost: Free.
Top things to do
- Traditional market stalls: Shop German wooden toys, handmade candles, tweed clothing, Scottish shortbread and mulled wine stands.
- Ride the Star Flyer: Soar above Princes Street Gardens for views of the castle and Firth of Forth.
- Skate the George Street rink: A 400m ice ribbon with music and festive lighting, perfect for families.
- Visit Santa’s Stories: Book timed slots for storytelling sessions, crafts and a meeting with Santa.
Make a weekend of it
Explore Edinburgh’s Old Town for the Royal Mile, St Giles’ Cathedral and the Real Mary King’s Close tour. Discover the National Museum of Scotland, whisky tastings on the Royal Mile, and panoramic views from Calton Hill. For day trips, head to Rosslyn Chapel or the seaside village of North Berwick.
Plan your trip
Accommodation
Book hotels or guesthouses as early as possible—weekend dates around the market book up quickly. Consider nearby villages for boutique stays.
Travel
Rail is often the most convenient way to arrive. If driving, look for park and ride services to avoid city-centre congestion.
Accessibility
Most markets provide accessible routes, but cobbles and temporary surfaces can be uneven—check the organiser accessibility guide linked below.
Weather Ready
Pack layers, waterproof footwear and gloves (touchscreen-friendly for photos). Early sessions are quieter; evenings bring the best atmosphere.