Top 3 Reasons to Study Abroad in Edinburgh this Spring!

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Semester in Edinburgh

Authored By:

CIEE Edinburgh

Edinburgh, Scotland’s vibrant capital, is the perfect place to study abroad, especially in the spring! Here are our top three reasons why you should study in Edinburgh for your spring semester:

1. Fall in love with Edinburgh’s Natural Beauty 

Edinburgh is surrounded by nature, right in the city centre! In the spring, the city comes alive with blooming flowers and lush greenery. Here are some must-see spots:

Arthurs Seat:  This ancient volcano offers panoramic views of the city and is perfect for a spring hike.

Students take a hike up Arthurs Seat, admiring views of the city below
Students hike up Arthurs Seat, admiring the views of the city below 

Royal Botanic Garden: A haven for plant lovers, the garden is especially beautiful in the spring with its vibrant displays of flora.

The Meadows: See the cherry blossoms bloom in the Meadows, one of our 112 parks, in April

Cherry Blossom trees bloom in Edinburgh in Spring
Cherry Blossoms blooming in the Meadows! 

Portobello Beach:  Just a short bus ride from the city center, this beach is perfect for a refreshing walk or a study break by the sea.

2. Join in on unforgettable cultural festivals and events! 

Edinburgh is known as a festival city, hosting 11 international festivals every year! In the Spring, you’ll get to be a part of some fantastic events: 

Burns Night: Celebrated in late January, this festival honours Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns. It’s an unforgettable day of traditional Scottish music, dance, and of course, haggis! 

Edinburgh International Science Festival: Held in April, this festival features interactive exhibits, workshops, and talks from leading scientists.

Beltane Fire Festival: This unique festival on April 30th celebrates the arrival of summer with spectacular fire displays and performances on Calton Hill.

Edinburgh TradFest: Tradfest in early May gives you the chance to attend concerts from the very best of traditional Scottish music. 

3. Experience world-renowned vintage shopping and outdoor markets  

Edinburgh offers fantastic shopping, especially for those who love unique finds:

Second-Hand Shops: Edinburgh is known for its vintage and thrift stores, where you can find everything from vintage clothing to antique treasures.

Markets: Spring welcomes the best of outdoor markets in Edinburgh. With markets all across the city filled with foodie treats and handmade art, there’s something for everyone! 

Bookshops: Edinburgh is the world’s first UNESCO City of Literature, and its numerous independent bookshops are a testament to its literary heritage. Spend an afternoon browsing through rare books and discovering new authors.

Students explore Edinburgh bookshop
Students explore one of Edinburgh's many bookshops.
Can’t wait to see what Edinburgh has to offer in person? Then pack your bags and get ready for an incredible spring semester in Edinburgh!