The Guinness Men’s Six Nations kicks off on Friday 31 January which sees France vs. Wales at the Stade de France. The excitement follows into Saturday 1 February in Edinburgh as Scotland take on Wales for the first game at Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium.
With three unmissable home matches hitting the Scottish capital this year, we’ve pulled together our top recommendations of things to do in the city if you’re gearing up for the games. Whether you’re a local resident looking to make the most of the celebrations or a visitor keen to soak up the vibrant atmosphere to make a weekend of it in Edinburgh – we’ve got your plans sorted!
1. Kick off your trip with Edinburgh Bus Tours
Start your trip with a journey around the city aboard an Edinburgh Bus Tour. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or looking to rediscover the city’s charm, this is the best way to explore its iconic landmarks. Hop on and off at your leisure to visit must-see spots, all within walking distance of our stops, like the historic Edinburgh Castle, esteemed Royal Mile, and the picturesque Holyrood Park and Arthur’s Seat.
Our open-top buses provide spectacular views of the city’s skyline, and our audio commentary in 9 languages and live guides are bursting with fascinating insights to help you make the most of your trip and learn more about the city.
2. Indulge in local food and drink
Are you an avid foodie or just on the lookout for some tasty dishes to try whilst on your visit? No trip to Edinburgh would be complete without sampling some of our local favourites. Fuel yourself up ahead of the game and grab a bite to eat at a traditional pub for a plate of haggis, neeps, and tatties or enjoy fresh seafood at one of the city’s renowned restaurants.
If you’re a whisky enthusiast, why not take a tour at the Scotch Whisky Experience, Johnnie Walker Princes Street or one of the city’s many distilleries to discover Scotland’s national drink? Check out our discounts page to see what offers we have available only with your Edinbugh Bus Tours ticket!’
3. Catch the game at bars across the city
If you didn’t get the chance to get tickets to one of the games at Scottish Gas Murrayfield this year, don’t panic! Many venues across the city screen the matches live, and with the Scottish team spirit in the air, there’s no better place for a pre-or-post-game drink or two.
Edinburgh boasts an incredible bar scene, from tradition pubs to stylish cocktail spots that offer a lively atmosphere during game day so there’s somewhere for everyone to choose from. With your Edinburgh Bus Tours ticket, you can get 20% off your final dining bill at Brewhemia on Market Street – saving you some pennies whilst enjoying the game on their three big screens.
Take a stroll around the city and you’re bound to find a bar showing the games on the big screen.
4. Treat yourself whilst browsing through Edinburgh’s unique shopping scene
If you’re visiting Edinburgh for the games and looking to extend your weekend don’t forget to make your way through Edinburgh’s lively high street. With each game kicking off mid-afternoon, enjoy a morning of retail therapy or stay the night and spend the following day exploring the Scottish capital’s unique shopping scene.
With a bustling shopping centre at St James Quarter, picturesque Princes Street that is lined with high street fashion stores and an unmissable view of Edinburgh Castle and Old Town perched opposite, or the iconic Royal Mile and Victoria Street that are home to unique and quirky independent stores, you’ll be spoilt for choice and can shop ‘till you drop!
5. Visit Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium
If you’re visiting specifically for the Six Nations, of course the highlight of your trip will be the game itself. Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium, the home of Scottish rugby, is just a short journey from the city centre. Arrive early to soak up the pre-match buzz, grab a bite from food vendors, and enjoy the camaraderie of fans outside the stadium.
A number of Lothian Buses services are on hand to get you to and from all the action, so make sure you plan your journey in advance to make the most of your time at the game! Download the Bus & Tram App to purchase and gift tickets, plan your journey, track buses and more.
No matter what you get up to in the Scottish capital during the Six Nations, the city’s atmosphere during the games is unmatched. Edinburgh offers something for everyone no matter your budget or taste – make sure you make the most of your trip and see what our magnificent capital has to offer.
(It’d be rude to not cheer on our home team, so c’mon Team Scotland!)
