London or Edinburgh for Christmas: Which City Is Better?

Left: London | Right: Edinburgh

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas, and if you’re planning a festive trip to the UK, chances are you’re debating between London and Edinburgh. Both cities deck themselves out in lights and cheer for the holiday season, but they offer very different vibes. So which one is better for you?

Having lived in both London and Edinburgh during the December madness, I can tell you that each city has its own unique charm. If you’re torn between the two, let me break it down for you—here’s everything you need to know to make your decision easier.

Christmas Lights

Left: London | Right: Edinburgh

Let’s start with the Christmas lights because, honestly, both cities know how to shine. London’s light displays are nothing short of spectacular. The major shopping streets—Oxford, Regent, and Bond—are draped in glittering overhead installations. Don’t miss Covent Garden’s festive decor, Carnaby Street’s fun theme, or the tree in Trafalgar Square.

That said, London’s light displays come with a price: crowds. And I mean crowds. London in December is not for the weak. Be ready to jostle for space, especially on weekends.

Edinburgh, on the other hand, takes a more intimate approach. The city’s Christmas lights feel cozier, with twinkling fairy lights on historic buildings and beautifully decorated shopfronts. Many businesses go all out with creative displays, and there’s something so magical about wandering through the streets at night. While it’s smaller in scale than London, Edinburgh’s festive charm is enchanting—and, while it’s still busy, you won’t feel like you’re in a mosh pit.

Festive Activities

Left: London | Right: Edinburgh

Both cities pull out all the stops when it comes to festive activities. London’s Hyde Park Winter Wonderland is an absolute extravaganza, with ice skating, rides, plenty of mulled wine, and sugary treats. For a more tranquil experience, you could try the light trail at Christmas at Kew. There are also plenty of holiday-themed theatre shows and pop-ups.

While it’s the smaller city, Edinburgh holds its own with the Castle of Light show, where the iconic Edinburgh Castle is illuminated in spectacular fashion. You can also skate at George Street’s rink or explore the festive light trail at the Royal Botanic Gardens. Both cities offer enough activities to keep you busy for days.

Christmas Markets

Left: London | Right: Edinburgh

Now, I’m going to say something controversial: I think the Christmas markets in both cities are overrated. Don’t get me wrong–they’re still a fun night out, but they’ve become so commercialized. Edinburgh’s main market in Princes Street Gardens is picturesque, but it’s crowded, and most stalls sell overpriced trinkets rather than unique local crafts. London has several markets spread out across the city, but the experience feels the same at all of them. 

For a more authentic Christmas market experience, consider a day trip to Bath, York, or Oxford. These smaller markets are less crowded and offer more unique handcrafted goods. 

Weather

Left: London | Right: Edinburgh

UK weather in December can be summed up in one word: GREY. Expect chilly temperatures and dampness no matter which city you choose. However, Edinburgh is noticeably colder than London, but that means there’s also a higher chance of snow. If it does snow, Edinburgh becomes a real-life snow globe with each building piped in white frosting. London’s milder weather may make strolling through the city a little more comfortable, but it lacks that snowy wonderland vibe. On the rare chance that it snows in London, it quickly turns into city slush. 

Cost

London, always an expensive city, has become exorbitant in recent years. From accommodations to dining to ticketed attractions, costs will quickly add up. Edinburgh, while not cheap, is less expensive in comparison. That said, both cities see price spikes in December, so plan accordingly. If you’re on a tight budget, you might want to consider skipping the UK entirely and heading to Eastern Europe, where the Christmas markets are better and your money will stretch further. 

Transportation

London’s size means you’ll need to rely on public transport to get around. It may seem intimidating at first, especially during the rush hour sardine time, but I promise the Tube is easy to navigate and you’ll get the hang of it quickly. Edinburgh, by contrast, is an extremely walkable city. The city’s compact size means you can explore most attractions on foot, though the steep hills can be a workout. If you’re venturing further afield to pet a highland cow or go for a polar plunge along the coast, Edinburgh’s bus system is reliable.

Note: With many steps, Edinburgh is not an accessible city. 

Additional Sights & Activities

Left: London | Right: Edinburgh

This is where London’s size works in its favor. The city is a global hub of culture, with world-class museums, theatres, and shopping. If you’re planning a longer trip, London will keep you entertained. Edinburgh, while smaller, is still packed with options. From the historic Royal Mile to Arthur’s Seat, the city has much to explore. 

Overall

Left: London | Right: Edinburgh

London: Big, bold, and bustling, London is perfect if you thrive on energy and excitement. 

Edinburgh: Quaint, cozy, and utterly charming, Edinburgh is ideal for a more storybook holiday. 

Final Thoughts

London and Edinburgh each have their own magic, and you really can’t go wrong with either. If you can swing it, consider taking the picturesque train between the two and experience both cities for yourself. Just remember to bundle up, prepare for crowds, and be ready to make some festive memories!