Edinburgh Fringe Survival Guide

August in Edinburgh can be a mad time. First time at the Fringe? Here are some handy tips to help you navigate the world’s largest arts festival which spans close to a month (over 25 days) and hosts over 53,000 performances!

The streets of Edinburgh come alive during the festival so don't forget to keep your eyes peeled while you're out and about for interesting street performances. Every day from 11:00 to 21:00 on the Royal Mile there are free shows on the streets. Also chat to people giving out fliers you might unexpectedly find a great show you never would have gone to before! Every Saturday in August there will be BSL-interpreted performances at West Parliament Square from 11:00 - 20:30

During August there are an extra half a million people in the city so it can make navigation pretty tricky.  Venue names may be confusing (there are 7 Pleasance locations and only on is on the Pleasance!) so check out a map to make sure you don’t miss any of your show!

Keep in mind the business and crowds may add on extra journey time so try and plan accordingly.
Check out this interactive venue map for a handy guide

If you’re using public transport keep in mind Lothian Buses only take exact change- or you can download the bus app to buy mobile tickets.

Keep time free for spontaneous shows, and don’t plan two back-to-back shows which are on opposite sides of town. The Festival is a hectic time in Edinburgh and remember to rest and not try to do everything in one day. Try to arrive in plenty of time for a show as a courtesy to the performer and so you don't miss a moment of Fringe fun!

August is a mighty expensive time of year in the capital so keep an eye on your costs, bear in mind drinks and food everywhere will generally be more expensive than usual so see if you can cut costs by bringing a packed lunch or a refillable water bottle.