According to forum posts, Edinburgh offers a diverse range of tour options catering to different interests. These include historical tours of the city's famous sites like the Royal Mile and the underground vaults, bike tours, and guided hiking trips in nearby natural landscapes like the Pentland Hills.

Some travelers mentioned that while Edinburgh has guided bike tours, options like Tartan Bicycle Company and EZ Bike Tours are popular, albeit some tours may require navigating hilly terrains. For hiking enthusiasts, guided day trips to the Pentland Hills or bespoke hiking adventures are suggested by users.

Travelers have called out specific tours for those interested in history and literature, such as the Mercat Tours and The Real Mary King’s Close, which provide insights into the city's past without the scare tactics of a ghost tour. Additionally, tours focusing on Scottish writers and themes like Harry Potter and Outlander are available, enhancing the cultural experience.

For those willing to explore beyond the city, forum users recommend day tours to the Scottish Highlands, Glencoe, and Loch Lomond, offering a mix of stunning landscapes and historical sites. Companies like Rabbies and Timberbush are frequently mentioned for these excursions.

According to forum posts, travelers highly recommend Howies, Dine, and The Witchery for dining in Edinburgh. Howies is noted for its good service and atmosphere, making it a recurring recommendation across different discussions.

For seafood enthusiasts, Fishers in both the city and Leith was frequently suggested, with its good food and ambiance highlighted. For Italian food lovers, Rico’s offers a more upmarket experience, while Domenicos in Leith is praised for its relaxed vibe and quality dishes.

Travelers have called out The Dome for its stunning interior and The Witchery for its romantic setting. Both establishments are recommended for special occasions due to their unique atmospheres and quality dining experiences.

According to forum posts, travelers can store luggage at several locations in Edinburgh. Waverley Station offers a staffed left-luggage office adjacent to Platform 2. The Edinburgh Bus Station provides self-service lockers.

For many users, alternative luggage storage services like Stasher and Unbaggaged.com have proven to be convenient. Stasher offers various locations around the city, including some hotels, while Unbaggaged.com provides a service that picks up, stores, and returns your bags.

Some travelers mentioned the cost of lockers at the bus station as £8 for a small locker, £10 for a medium, and £12 for a large, per 12-hour period. However, prices may vary, so checking current rates is suggested.

According to forum posts, travelers have found good accommodation options in central Edinburgh at various hotels and guest houses. The Travelodge Edinburgh Central Rose Street and the Premier Inn at York Place are frequently recommended due to their accessibility and proximity to central attractions and transportation hubs like Waverley Station.

Some users noted the Travelodge on Meuse Lane as less than ideal due to its run-down entrance, suggesting instead the Travelodge on Rose Street for better access. Additionally, the Old Waverley Hotel, though slightly more expensive, is favored for its central location and accessibility.

For those looking for budget options, the Holiday Inn Express at York Place was mentioned as a comparable choice to the Premier Inn, offering similar amenities and included breakfast, which could be a budget-friendly feature.

According to forum posts, travelers can choose between the tram and the Airlink 100 bus to travel from Edinburgh Airport to the city center. The tram is preferred by some due to its immunity to traffic snarls and costs £6.50 each or £9 for a return ticket, with a slight discount if booked in advance.

Some travelers mentioned a newer service, the Airport Express bus, which also connects the airport to the city center. This option is highlighted as potentially the best choice for reaching the Premier Inn City Centre Royal Mile, as it stops conveniently at South St. David Street near the hotel.

For those preferring direct transport, taxis are available, with a typical fare to the city center costing around £25-£30. This option is favored by those with lots of luggage or preferring a more comfortable journey directly to their destination.

According to forum posts, popular family-friendly attractions in Edinburgh include the National Museum, Camera Obscura, Dynamic Earth, and the Edinburgh Zoo. The Museum of Scotland is also recommended for its interactive exhibits suitable for children.

For outdoor activities, some travelers suggest visiting the Botanic Gardens, Inverleith Park, and Portobello Beach. The Royal Mile offers street artists and historical sites that can engage children, and there are several play areas like the one on the east side of the Meadows.

Travelers have called out unique experiences such as riding on the tram, attending junior parkruns at the Meadows or Inverleith Park, and exploring the giraffe art trail. A train ride over the Forth Bridge to North Queensferry is also recommended for its scenic views and appeal to children interested in trains.

For visits in August, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe offers numerous child-friendly shows and activities, adding a cultural dimension to a family visit.

According to forum posts, the Edinburgh Christmas Markets start on November 17th, featuring areas in Princes Street Gardens with attractions like the big wheel and rides. The markets are free and unticketed, although they may implement queueing during peak times for safety. The markets have been described by some travelers as not very Christmassy or representative of Edinburgh, but opinions vary.

Travelers have highlighted special light displays such as the Christmas at the Botanics event at the Royal Botanic Garden, which features illuminated trails and festive installations. Another mentioned event is the Castle of Light at Edinburgh Castle, offering a themed light experience. These events are ticketed and popular among visitors.

Forum users also mentioned other festive entertainment options like pantomime shows at local theaters and carol concerts at key venues such as St Mary's Episcopal Cathedral. The Christmas at the Botanics event also offers seasonal beverages like spiced cider and mulled wine, enhancing the festive experience.

According to forum posts, Edinburgh offers a variety of taxi services, including traditional black cabs and Uber. There are three main black cab companies: City Cabs, Central Taxis, and Comcab, all regulated and metered by the Edinburgh Council.

Travelers have called out that taxis can be hailed directly from the streets or booked online through the respective company apps. The cost of a taxi ride from Edinburgh Airport to the city center is approximately £23-25. Prices are metered and can vary depending on the time and traffic.

Some travelers noted that taxis are generally available even for shorter distances within the city, which is compact and mostly walkable. For areas outside central Edinburgh, like South Queensferry or Dunfermline, it's advised to book taxis from local companies to ensure availability for return trips.

Travelers have found the taxi services in Edinburgh reliable. Apps for both black cabs and Uber are functional and used frequently by visitors, providing a convenient option for those looking to navigate the city or travel to nearby areas.