Written by Daisy Curtis, Partnership & Growth Manager
Updated
Beat the post-Christmas blues by lining up a trip to Scotland’s capital to kick off 2027 in style.
Edinburgh’s world-famous festive markets and Hogmanay celebrations will have been and gone, so we’ve picked out some cracking January activities to help you plan for a great start to the year.
As well as seasonal and special events, Edinburgh is the perfect city for year-round attractions.
Enjoy days out, family activities, and of course, hundreds of dining out options. Here are our recommendations for your January.
A cultural festival commemorating the life and influence of Robert Burns, the revered National Bard of Scotland.
With a range of events taking place throughout the weekend, you'll find something to love in the very best in live music, comedy, poetry, dance and art from across Scotland
What? Festival
When? TBC - usually around 25th January
Where? Various
There is nothing like the feeling of being wrapped up warm and strolling through the open Edinburgh Farmers' Market.
Take a culinary journey to paradise as you savour farm-fresh, locally sourced delights, ranging from luscious jams to succulent burgers and zesty cheeses.
What? Food Market
When? Every Saturday, 9am-2pm
Where? Castle Terrace
"'Roman Scotland' will tell new stories of Roman occupation and reshape our understanding of Scotland’s relationship with the Roman world. "
What? History Exhibition
When? 14th November 2026 - 18th April 2027
Where? National Museum of Scotland, Chamber Street
"A surge of pure Christmas joy" - The Scotsman on the King's Panto
What? Pantomime
When? 26th November 2026 - 17th January 2027
Where? King's Theatre
Having opened in 2021, Princes Street’s Johnny Walker Experience is a must for whisky lovers (and those who are just beginning their journey into Scotch).
In The Assembly Rooms, you will find everything in the A-Z of wedding ‘must-haves’.
If you have just started with your wedding plans or are looking for those all important finishing touches, whether your dream wedding is large or small, traditional or something just a little but different - LSW is the place to be!
What? Wedding Show
When? 17th January 2027
Where? The Assembly Rooms
Turner in January, the annual display of these watercolours in Edinburgh, is a keenly awaited tradition for many people in Scotland. At the dawning of the New Year, as we leave behind the darkest days of winter, the bright vitality of Turner’s watercolours is just what we need.
This is an exciting opportunity to experience a long-lasting Edinburgh tradition!
What? Art
When? TBC
Where? Scottish National Gallery (Royal Scottish Academy)
Probably the capital’s most famous attraction, Edinburgh Castle is well worth a visit if you’re coming to the city for the first time.
Learn all about its impressive and lengthy history and make sure you arrive in time for the one o’clock gun.
"Seen by almost 12 million people across five continents and honoured with more than 80 awards worldwide, Billy Elliot the Musical is one of the most successful and beloved British musicals of all time."
What? Show
When? 19th January - 6th February 2027
Where? Edinburgh Playhouse
Whether you’re visiting Edinburgh as a family, alone, or for a romantic city break, the National Museum of Scotland is a magical place to visit.
With more to see and learn than you can imagine, we recommend making sure you leave enough time to visit the rooftop, where the views over the city are breath-taking.
Housed in an impressive building, the Scottish National Portrait Gallery is home to some world-famous works.
With exhibitions beginning throughout the year, you’re guaranteed to love being immersed in the world of art and culture.
"The Scottish Portrait Awards exhibition at the Portrait will be a celebration of Scottish creativity, spotlighting the many talented contemporary portrait artists in Scotland today."
What? Portraits, art
When? 28th November 2026 - 11th April 2027
Where? National Portrait Gallery, 1 Queen Street, Edinburgh, EH2 1JD
Fancy doing something a little different? Take one of Forth Boat Tours’ excursions and take in the sights of the famous Forth Rail Bridge up-close.
Make sure you wrap up warm in the winter months!
Whatever you decide to do in Scotland's capital, we've got a hand-picked selection of luxury homes away from home to book as the perfect base for your Edinburgh self-catering holiday.
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