The Guinness Men’s Six Nations kicks off on Thursday 5 February when France welcome Ireland to Paris. Scotland begin their campaign in Rome against Italy on Saturday 7 February.
This year, Scottish Gas Murrayfield will host two huge fixtures – including Scotland v England on Valentine’s Day – where we’re sure the spirit of the day will disappear for a few hours just!
We’ve put together our top recommendations of things to do in the city while you’re visiting for the games. Whether you’re a local resident looking to make the most of the celebrations or visiting to soak up the vibrant atmosphere, we’ve got you covered!
1. Discover the capital with Edinburgh Bus Tours
There’s no better way to get your bearings in the city than aboard an Edinburgh Bus Tour. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or not, this is the best way to explore the city’s iconic landmarks. Tickets are valid for a minimum of 24 hours, giving visitors the freedom to make the most of their stay, hopping on and off as many times as they wish while taking in the unmissable attractions which make Edinburgh one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.
Immerse yourself in 900 years of the city’s history from the top-deck of an open-top bus, perfect for spectacular views of the city’s skyline. Our tours come with audio commentary in nine languages and live guides on our Edinburgh Tour ready to regale you with tales of Old and New Edinburgh.
2. Catch all the action at Scottish Gas Murrayfield
If you’re in town specifically for the match, nothing will top the view from the stands at Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium, the home of Scottish Rugby. This magnificent arena is just a short journey from the city centre, and with the pre-match festivities beginning early on, you can soak up the atmosphere with food, drink and entertainment outside the stadium.
A number of Lothian Buses services, including our special Service X12, are on hand to get you to the game and back. Make sure you plan your journey in advance to make the most of the day. Download the Bus and Tram App to purchase and gift tickets, plan your journey, track buses and more.
3. Indulge in the flavour of Edinburgh
Edinburgh is famous for its exquisite bars and restaurants, leaving a real Scottish taste in your mouth! Fuel yourself ahead of the rugby in one of our many traditional pubs with a plate of haggis, neeps and tatties or some of the finest seafood in Scotland.
Whisky enthusiasts have struck the jackpot in Edinburgh. Why not learn about the history and production of Scotland’s most famous produce at the Scotch Whisky Experience, Johnnie Walker Princes Street or one of many distilleries. Even better, with your Edinburgh Bus Tours ticket you can access a wide range of discounts on these attractions! Head to our discounts page to learn more.
4. Join the scrum and catch the game in the city
If you can’t get tickets for the game at Scottish Gas Murrayfield, the next best thing is to kick for touch and catch the game in the city! Many venues in Edinburgh will be showing the game live, and with the Scottish team spirit in the air, you’ll feel like you’re in the stadium.
Edinburgh is proud of its incredible bar scene, with a mixture of traditional pubs to stylish cocktail spots and theme pubs, all offering a lively atmosphere during the entire Six Nations. Your Edinburgh Bus Tour ticket will get you 20% off your final dining bill at Brewhemia on Market Street – saving you some pennies…just remember to cheer for Scotland!
5. Don’t forget your souvenir!
If you’re visiting Edinburgh during the Six Nations, remember to pick up a keepsake of your time in the city, or get a lovely gift for loved ones back home. Edinburgh’s iconic Princes Street boasts world famous brands as well as our own local retailers supplying the tartan wrapped shortbread tins Scotland has become known for around the world!
Luxury shoppers can head to George Street or the bustling St James Quarter for a gift for that special someone. The historic Royal Mile and Victoria Street, home to unique and quirky independent stores, are well worth exploring, too. In Edinburgh you’ll be spoiled for choice. Just make sure you have enough room in your case for all your purchases!
If you are coming to Edinburgh for the rugby, we know that you’ll have a fantastic time and really enjoy the amazing atmosphere in the city. Edinburgh has something for everyone’s budget or taste – make sure you capture everything that makes our city so cherished the world over.
