With over 100,000 students in Edinburgh, the city is well-catered to all things student life. But if you’re new to the city, it can feel a little overwhelming to get used to city. Unifresher’s range of guides to living in Edinburgh offer helpful information like public transport options and where to find student storage.
We’ve also got plenty of inspiration on what to do in city, with guides on the best student bars in Edinburgh, the best escape rooms, dance classes, fitness classes, live music venues and so on.
Edinburgh is home to a mix of universities, each known for different things but all possessing a great reputation.
The University of Edinburgh is one of the UK’s oldest and most prestigious universities, with a global reputation for research and academic excellence. You’ll find strengths across a huge range of subjects — from medicine and science to the arts, law, and philosophy. Its historic buildings are dotted around the city, giving students the full “study in a postcard” experience, all while being right in the heart of Edinburgh’s cultural scene.
Edinburgh Napier University takes a more modern, hands-on approach. With campuses across the city and strong industry links, it’s known for career-focused courses in areas like computing, business, media, and health. Students here benefit from practical learning, placements, and close connections to local employers — great if you want to hit the ground running after uni.
Heriot-Watt University, just outside the city, offers a self-contained campus experience with a strong international focus. Known for engineering, maths, and business, it’s ideal for students who want a quieter environment while still being within easy reach of the city centre. It also has a strong rep for research and innovation, with a real focus on employability.
New to Edinburgh or already settled in but keen to explore more of the city? Whether you’ve just arrived for uni, searching for your next student flat, or on the hunt for new weekend hangouts, we’ve got you covered. Edinburgh’s neighbourhoods all have their own unique feel — from the buzzing streets of Newington and Marchmont to the historic charm of Old Town and the creative vibes of Leith.
If it’s your first time living here, don’t worry — Edinburgh’s compact and easy to get around, whether you’re walking, cycling, or hopping on a bus. Whether you’re after somewhere social, scenic, or just a short stroll from lectures, there’s a corner of the city that’ll feel like home.
Here’s your guide to the areas every student should know — perfect for settling in, branching out, or just switching up your routine.
Close to uni, full of students, Newington is one of the most popular student areas, especially for University of Edinburgh students. It’s packed with student flats, cafés, bars, and late-night takeaways. You’re a short walk from campus, The Meadows, and the city centre — it’s social, lively, and convenient.
Just west of Newington, Marchmont is ideal if you’re after a slightly more laid-back vibe without giving up location. It’s known for its beautiful old tenement flats, leafy streets, and proximity to The Meadows — a huge park that’s perfect for picnics, running, or lounging in the sun. There’s a strong student community here, but it’s a bit quieter and more residential than Newington. It’s a top choice for second- or third-year students who want to stay close to campus but live somewhere that feels a bit more grown-up.
If you want to live in the heart of Edinburgh’s history, Old Town is the place to be. You’ll be surrounded by cobbled streets, medieval architecture, and iconic landmarks like the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle. It’s as central as it gets — with easy access to uni buildings, shops, pubs, and tourist spots — though that can mean higher rents and busier streets. Still, the atmosphere is unbeatable. It’s a dream if you want a short walk to everywhere and don’t mind the buzz of city life.
Leith has become one of Edinburgh’s trendiest areas — and for good reason. It’s known for its artistic vibe, multicultural community, and more affordable rent compared to areas closer to the centre. You’ll find indie cafés, vintage shops, street art, and a serious food scene (Michelin-starred restaurants and proper fish and chips, side by side). It’s a little further out, but buses run frequently, and it has its own strong identity. Great for students looking for something different, especially if you’re into music, art, or just want to live somewhere that feels like a community.
Bruntsfield is perfect for students who want a quieter, slightly more refined place to live. The streets are lined with pretty flats, artisan bakeries, independent bookshops, and some of the best brunch spots in the city. It’s still within walking distance of the university and The Meadows, but has a more relaxed pace than the student-heavy areas nearby. It’s popular with postgrads, mature students, and anyone who likes a little calm with their caffeine fix. Expect higher rent, but a lovely living experience.
If you’re looking to save on rent but still want easy access to the city, Haymarket and Dalry are solid choices. These areas are just west of the centre and offer good transport links — including Haymarket train station and loads of bus routes. There’s a good mix of students and professionals, and the vibe is friendly and down-to-earth. You’ll find affordable flats, local shops, supermarkets, and a handful of pubs and cafés to make your own. Plus, you’re only a short walk or bus ride from most campuses.
Southside is vibrant, diverse, and always buzzing. It’s a mix of students, families, and international communities — which means tons of great food options, cultural events, and independent businesses. You’re close to Newington and campus, but the atmosphere here feels even more eclectic. Southside is great if you like to be around people, try new things, and want easy access to everything from secondhand shops to late-night takeaway joints. It’s a little scruffier in places, but that’s part of its charm.
Edinburgh’s nightlife has a bit of everything — from packed-out club nights to live music, laid-back pubs, and everything in between. Whether you’re into DJ sets, cheap student drink deals, gig venues, or just catching up over a pint, there’s always something happening once lectures are done.
Places like Why Not, Sneaky Pete’s, and The Liquid Room are go-tos for clubbers, while live music fans can catch local acts or big names at venues like The Mash House or La Belle Angele. There’s no shortage of late-night energy in this city.
Not big on clubbing? No worries. Edinburgh’s full of cosy pubs, rooftop bars, open mic nights, and spots to grab late-night food (and yes, there’s always a decent chippy or kebab shop nearby).
Our student guides will help you find the best places to go out — from low-key midweek hangs to big Friday nights, and those all-important food stops on the way home.
Student life in Edinburgh isn’t just about lectures and deadlines — it’s about finding your spots, meeting new people, and making the most of everything the city throws your way. Whether you’re into artsy stuff, live music, hill walks, or just hanging out in a good café, there’s always something to do.
You’ll find weird little theatres, pub gigs, open mic nights, and pop-up galleries scattered around the city — not to mention green spaces everywhere when you need a breather. Climb Arthur’s Seat, wander through Stockbridge, or just sit in The Meadows with your mates and a coffee. It doesn’t have to be a big plan to be a good time.
Edinburgh’s full of surprises — the kind of place where getting lost down a side street might lead to your new favourite spot. Our guides will help you figure out what’s worth checking out, where to go when you’ve got no plans, and how to make the most of life between lectures.
Edinburgh’s food scene has something for every kind of student appetite — whether you’re after a quick bite between classes, a hangover-curing brunch, or a spot to treat yourself after submitting an assignment. From cosy cafés and cheap takeaways to global street food and classic Scottish pub grub, the city doesn’t disappoint.
You’ll find student favourites scattered through areas like Newington, Nicolson Street, and Tollcross — think ramen joints, bagel bars, and those legendary chip shops you somehow always end up at after a night out. And if you’re in the mood for something a bit more special? Head to Leith, Bruntsfield, or Stockbridge for indie restaurants, vegan eats, and hidden gems worth the extra walk.
Our food and drink guides are here to help you eat well on any budget — whether you’re skint, celebrating, or just craving something salty at midnight.
Living in Edinburgh isn’t just about turning up to lectures — it’s about figuring out how to make the city work for you. From finding the right neighbourhood to live in, to discovering your favourite study spots (extra points if they’ve got good coffee and decent Wi-Fi), student life here is what you make of it.
Maybe you’re flat hunting, looking for part-time work to top up your budget, or just trying to balance studying with actually enjoying yourself — either way, we’ve got tips to help you find your feet.
Our guides cover all the essentials — from settling in and saving money, to finding your people and making the most of everything Edinburgh has to offer.
Edinburgh’s got everything you need to keep student life ticking over — from everyday essentials to last-minute bits before a night out. Whether you’re doing a food shop, hunting for a new jacket, or need a quick haircut, the city’s got you covered.
Princes Street is your go-to for high street staples, while areas like Stockbridge and the Grassmarket are great for secondhand finds, indie stores, and vintage gems. Need a trim or a beauty top-up? There are loads of student-friendly barbers and salons around town — just flash your student ID for a decent discount.
Our guides will point you to the best-value places in the city, so you can stay on top of things without spending your entire student loan.
At Unifresher, we understand student life because our guides are written by students, for students. From nightlife and local advice to saving money and finding hidden gems, every article is designed to make your university experience unforgettable.
