Our student guide to Edinburgh

Whether you’re studying in Edinburgh for the first time or returning for your remaining time at university, our guide to Edinburgh student life will help you make the most of your time in this capital city.

With iconic landmarks, local delicacies, and student nightlife, enjoy everything this historic city has to offer with our student living in Edinburgh.

Edinburgh student city guide

Things every Edinburgh student needs to know

The second-most populous city in Scotland, Edinburgh also happens to be its capital. Famous for its Royal Mile, amongst other locations, this city has a rich heritage.

Located in southeastern Scotland, Edinburgh is surrounded by the Firth of Forth estuary to its north and to the south by the Pentland Hills. Home to Scottish monarchs for centuries, Edinburgh Castle was used by Mary, Queen of Scots and was the birthplace of King James VI of Scotland and I of England.

Travelling to Edinburgh is easy, with Edinburgh Waverley station operating on the main UK rail network. There are frequent direct trains to Glasgow, London, and Aberdeen, connecting northern Scotland with England. Domestic and international flights operate from Edinburgh Airport, which is easily accessible from the tram stop outside Edinburgh Haymarket station. Thinking about driving to and from Edinburgh? The city is located just off the A1, enabling you to take in this coastal route during your journey.

There are plenty of exciting things to do in Edinburgh between your studies. Besides the obvious historical landmarks, Edinburgh is surrounded by luscious hills and greenery. Take a hike up to Arthur’s Seat and Calton Hill for stunning views of Scotland’s capital city.

For the history buffs, The Real Mary King’s Close offers an insight into Edinburgh’s underground history by exposing the secrets of the hidden streets beneath the city. Intrigued by the darker side of Edinburgh’s history? The Edinburgh Dungeon is a popular tourist attraction featuring live actors, immersive sets, and rides that create a thrilling experience.

If you’d rather a quiet spot of shopping, Princes Street has all your classic high street shops. Alternatively, take a wander down Grassmarket or Cockburn Street for fantastic independent retailers. Honourable mention to Waverley Market, located inside the train station, the perfect place to pick up a souvenir before you head home.

The city is also the home to Edinburgh Fringe Festival. This celebration of art and culture takes place every August across Edinburgh, drawing in crowds from all over the world.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxed drink with friends or a lively night on the town, there’s something for everyone when it comes to Edinburgh student nightlife.

Situated in an old Victorian pump house, The Devil’s Advocate is a hidden gem with an extensive drinks menu to suit all tastes. Feel like some live music? Biddy Mulligan’s is located in the Grassmarket and offers live music 365 days a year, plus drinks and Irish pub charm.

Going out out? Ballie Ballerson makes for a great addition to any student night out. The ball pit makes for the main attraction, but the choice of cocktails afterwards is an added bonus. Also, did somebody say karaoke? Popular clubs include Liquid Room and Sneaky Pete’s.

From traditional Scottish delicacies to popular cuisines from around the world, Edinburgh has something to suit every palate, budget, and dietary restriction.

Fancy trying a tasty local dish? Makars Gourmet Mash Bar is situated just off the Royal Mile and serves up haggis, neeps, and tatties (that’s mashed turnip and potato) with a twist. Alternatively, head over to nearby Bubba Q for slow cooked barbecue goodness and loaded fries.

Prefer a coffee and a light bite to eat? Southern Cross Café on Cockburn Street is a must visit with delicious cakes and rolls on offer – plus bigger breakfasts if you’re feeling a bit peckish. Other coffee shops include Lowdown Coffee and The Milkman.

Edinburgh is home to two major universities, The University of Edinburgh, and Edinburgh Napier University, with collectively over 60,000 students studying at these institutions. Both universities’ campuses are situated around the city centre and its outskirts, meaning they’re easily accessible.

In terms of student accommodation in the city, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Alongside the university’s owned dedicated accommodation, you also have four Student Roost properties: Lady Nicolson Court, Brewers Court, Panmure Court and Portsburgh Court. All are situated in and around Edinburgh city centre, meaning you’ll be at the heart of everything that’s happening in this capital city. Whether you’re looking to share with mates or would prefer your own self-contained kitchen and living space, we have a room to suit your needs. Plus, all our properties offer additional benefits like all bills included, 24/7 support and more.

We’d love to have you call our Edinburgh student accommodation your home, so check out our four properties and, if you like what you see, arrange face-to-face or virtual viewing at one of our four Edinburgh properties. This will help you find out why we're more than a room so you can get to the important stuff, like enjoying your student experience in Edinburgh.