For the first time since the pandemic, Edinburgh Fringe will make a full return this summer and the city is itching to get back into full swing.
In the next few weeks, thousands of performers, tourists and holidaymakers will descend on the capital to enjoy the festivities, and it creates an atmosphere like no other.
However, for those based in the burgh, the hustle and bustle can make everyday life a little, difficult, shall we say.
What might be a calm stroll through the city centre for the other 11 months of the year suddenly becomes a serious operation, with flyers, cameras and street performers popping out on every corner.
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The relaxing coffee in Princes Street Gardens is impossible, and every bar, restaurant and cafe within a two mile radius of the city centre is packed.
So, it's no surprise that many Edinburgh locals might be searching for an escape from the crowds in the next few weeks.
Luckily, Edinburgh Live have prepared a quick guide on five spots around Edinburgh you can head to if all the festival fun is just getting a little too much.
Pentland Hills
Looking down over Edinburgh, you won't need to navigate past a juggler, silent disco tour and enthralled onlookers on top of the Pentlands.
A tranquil spot with some stunning scenery, why not head to one of the reservoirs for a stroll, or take on a full hike through the hills to get some fresh air.
Union Canal
Although the canal starts at Fountainbridge, it's guaranteed to still be quieter than the heart of the city centre.
From there, the water weaves out through Polwarth and onwards towards Merchiston, before continuing on all the way to Ratho and beyond.
As well as a great walking route, there are a ton of stops you could make on the way, from cute cafes to gastropubs that are mostly all outwith the tourist hotspots.
Saughton Park
Another hidden gem out of the city centre, Saughton Park boasts some beautiful landscaped gardens, an adjacent play park for the kids, a skate park and even a fantastic café and restaurant, the Garden Bistro.
If you're looking for somewhere to sit out in the sun, or catch up over some lunch with a friend in a cosy café, this is an ideal spot which will make you forget the Fringe is even on.
Stockbridge and Inverleith Park
Now, Stockbridge, although slightly away from the main Fringe festivities, may still be subject to some busy streets and Edinburgh vistors.
However, there an abundance of coffee shops, cafes, bars and pubs that won't have the same enormous queues and crowds to enjoy.
Or, why not grab something to takeaway and head over to Inverleith Park, where you can mooch about without having to navigate each step.
Portobello beach
Although often heaving with Edinburgh locals when it's sunny, the beach isn't usually the top attraction on most tourist's 'to do' lists.
So, it can be a great spot to enjoy in the city without heading into the centre, with an array of foodie locations and great views out over the Forth.
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