First Time In Edinburgh: Why Am I Not Enjoying It As Much As I Expected?

First Time in Edinburgh: Why Am I Not Enjoying It as Much as I Expected?
Landing in a new city is always exciting, but sometimes, reality doesn’t match expectations. I arrived in Edinburgh, Britain, a week ago for the first time in my life, and I haven’t been enjoying it as much as I thought I would. The weather is unpredictable, the streets are bustling yet strangely isolating, and making friends has been harder than I anticipated. Am I missing something? Is there a secret to falling in love with this historic Scottish capital?

Navigating Edinburgh: The Initial Challenges
One of the first things I noticed was how different the transportation system is compared to what I’m used to. Back home, getting around was straightforward, but here, I found myself relying on buses and trams more than expected. I even overheard someone talking about how convenient Glasgow taxi services are compared to Edinburgh’s options, which made me wonder if I was in the right place for easy travel.

Edinburgh’s beauty is undeniable—the cobbled streets, the towering Edinburgh Castle, and the hauntingly beautiful Arthur’s Seat. Yet, despite the stunning scenery, I felt a sense of loneliness creeping in. Was it just me, or is it really this hard to connect with people here?

The Social Barrier: Why Is It So Hard to Meet People?
I’ve always considered myself outgoing, but Edinburgh’s social scene feels… different. Locals are polite but reserved, and striking up conversations in pubs hasn’t been as easy as I hoped. Maybe it’s a cultural difference—Scottish people are warm once you get to know them, but breaking the ice takes effort.

I tried joining a few meetups and visiting popular spots like The Grass market and The Royal Mile, but most interactions stayed surface-level. Perhaps I need to give it more time, or maybe I’m not approaching it the right way.

Exploring Beyond the Tourist Spots
A friend suggested I venture beyond the typical tourist attractions to get a real feel for the city. So, I took a walk through Leith, Edinburgh’s trendy waterfront district, and loved the vibe there. The cafés were cozier, the people seemed more relaxed, and I even had a nice chat with a barista who gave me tips on hidden gems.

Maybe the key is to explore neighborhoods where locals actually hang out instead of sticking to the postcard-perfect spots. The New Town area, with its Georgian architecture and boutique shops, also felt more inviting.

Transportation Tips for Newcomers
Getting around efficiently can make or break your experience in a new city. At first, I relied heavily on walking (which is great for short distances), but when I needed to go further, I realized how essential it is to understand Edinburgh’s transport system.

I booked an Edinburgh Airport transfers service when I first arrived, which was smooth and hassle-free. But after that, I had to figure out buses and the tram system. The Lothian Buses app is a lifesaver—it helps with routes and real-time updates. If you’re staying longer, getting a Rida card for unlimited travel might be worth it.

Adjusting to the Weather (and the Whisky)
Let’s talk about the weather—it’s as unpredictable as everyone says. One minute it’s sunny, the next it’s pouring rain. I quickly learned to always carry a lightweight jacket and an umbrella. On the upside, the moody skies make the city look even more dramatic and photogenic.

And then there’s whisky. I’m not a big drinker, but when in Scotland, right? A visit to the Scotch Whisky Experience was eye-opening, and I even found a few blends I liked. Maybe bonding over a dram could be a way to make new friends?

Final Thoughts: Is Edinburgh Growing on Me?
It’s only been a week, and while my initial experience wasn’t what I imagined, I’m starting to see glimpses of why people love this city. The history, the hidden closes, the vibrant arts scene—there’s depth here that takes time to uncover.

Maybe the problem wasn’t Edinburgh itself, but my expectations. Traveling isn’t always about instant gratification; sometimes, the best experiences come from slow immersion. So, I’ll keep exploring, keep trying to connect with people, and see if this city eventually feels like home.

Have You Felt This Way in a New City?
If you’ve been to Edinburgh (or any new place) and felt similarly, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Did it get better with time? Any tips for meeting people or discovering the city’s true charm? Drop a comment below—maybe we can figure this out together!