From the cobbled streets of the Old Town to the lively cultural scene, Edinburgh feels wonderfully unique. Yet the Scottish capital is closely connected to cities around the world through formal twinning partnerships. These relationships celebrate shared history, culture and ambition, and they highlight how global Edinburgh really is.

Edinburgh has official links with ten sister cities – in this blog we take a relaxed journey through six of Edinburgh’s twinned cities. Keep an eye out for the next four, coming soon.

Dunedin, Nice, Vancouver, Kyiv, Xi’an and Florence each share surprising similarities with Edinburgh, from dramatic coastlines and historic skylines to creative arts scenes and academic excellence. If you are planning a stay in our Edinburgh serviced apartments, these international links add an extra layer of interest to your visit.

What city twinning is all about

City twinning brings together places that want to build friendships, encourage cultural exchange and support travel and learning between communities. Edinburgh is twinned with cities that mirror its character in different ways. Some share a coastal setting, others have a strong student population, and many are known for festivals and historic architecture.

Staying in Edinburgh gives you a chance to discover these connections through museums, galleries, events and even the food on local menus.

Dunedin New Zealand: Edinburgh’s southern cousin

Dunedin on New Zealand’s South Island is often described as a city with a Scottish soul. Founded by Scottish settlers, it has grand nineteenth century buildings, a cool climate and a thriving student population. Just like Edinburgh, Dunedin balances dramatic natural scenery with a compact and walkable city centre.

Visitors from New Zealand often find echoes of home on Edinburgh’s streets, from familiar place names to proud academic traditions. When you return to our serviced apartments after a day of exploring, it is easy to imagine how life feels in this southern twin city.

Nice France: Coastal light and cultural life

Edinburgh’s twinning with Nice on the French Riviera connects two very different but equally stylish coastal cities. Nice is known for its Mediterranean light, elegant promenades and relaxed outdoor lifestyle. Edinburgh offers sweeping sea views from its hilltops and shore, along with a packed calendar of arts events.

Both cities welcome many visitors each year and enjoy a strong cafe and dining culture. You might spot a taste of the Riviera in Edinburgh’s growing outdoor terraces and food festivals, especially during the warmer months.

Vancouver Canada: Nature on the doorstep

Vancouver is a west coast Canadian city framed by mountains and ocean. Like Edinburgh, it gives residents and visitors quick access to green spaces and outdoor adventures. In both places you can start your day in the city centre and find yourself by the water or on a hillside path quite soon after.

Vancouver’s focus on liveability and the environment also resonates with Edinburgh’s own parks, cycle routes and coastal walks. These shared priorities make the partnership feel very natural.

Kyiv Ukraine: Resilience and rich culture

Kyiv is one of Europe’s oldest cities and a centre of culture, faith and learning. Its golden domes and grand boulevards are a powerful symbol of resilience and identity. Edinburgh and Kyiv share a love of literature, music and the arts, along with a long academic tradition.

Cultural events, exhibitions and community projects in Edinburgh often highlight links with Kyiv and the wider Ukrainian community. Guests staying in Edinburgh can discover these connections in local galleries and performance spaces across the city.

Xi’an China: Ancient capitals in conversation

Xi’an is a historic capital of China and home to the famous Terracotta Army. Edinburgh and Xi’an both blend ancient heritage with modern growth, and each city protects important World Heritage sites alongside busy contemporary districts.

This partnership encourages educational visits, student exchanges and artistic collaborations. It also reflects Edinburgh’s role as a city that looks outward to global ideas while celebrating its own deep history.

Florence Italy: Art architecture and learning

Florence is a city of Renaissance art, graceful piazzas and riverside views. Its historic centre, protected as a World Heritage site, mirrors the way Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns are carefully preserved. Both cities are filled with galleries, libraries and universities, and both inspire generations of writers and artists.

Walking along Princes Street or through the quiet closes of the Old Town, it is easy to feel a kinship with Florence’s narrow streets and grand squares. These shared qualities make the twinning feel especially meaningful for lovers of art and history.

Planning your Edinburgh stay

Exploring Edinburgh with these global connections in mind adds real depth to any visit. You may notice a piece of art from a twin city, a special menu inspired by international flavours or an exhibition that celebrates shared stories.

Choosing to stay in our central serviced apartments in Edinburgh gives you a comfortable base to enjoy the city at your own pace. With your own kitchen and living area you can settle in like a local, plan day trips, and reflect on the worldwide links that make Edinburgh such a fascinating place to stay. Book your stay today.