Whether or not you cross time zones on your way to the city, you'll need to adjust to "Edinburgh Festival Time". The entertainment runs more or less around the clock, but there's a distinct pattern to each day: mornings are quiet, afternoons are busy... and evenings are full-on bedlam.

It's different strokes for different folks: some enjoy the tranquillity found only before lunchtime, while others want nothing more than to party the night away. So - however you choose to play it - here's what to expect from a Festival day.

Morning

Not a great deal happens at the Festival before lunchtime. With deserted venues and empty streets, it feels as though the whole city's catching up on some sleep - and if you're really buying into the high-octane spirit of the Fringe, you may need to do the same. But if you're out of bed in time, the mornings are a great chance to catch up on reviews, organize tickets, check the latest on FringeGuru's website (we're sorry, we had to get that plug in)... or even seek out some of what Edinburgh has to offer outside the Festival.

Quiet mornings

With deserted venues and empty streets, it feels as though the whole city's catching up on some sleep - and if you're really buying into the high-octane spirit of the Fringe, you may need to do the same

In a nice touch, all three of these options include coffee and a croissant (or something similar) - though true trenchermen should be warned that the quantities on offer may not be quite enough to last through to lunchtime.

Afternoon

The Fringe fires up properly at about 1pm, with the first part of its daily programme strong on children's shows, theatre and dance. You needn't be po-faced - there are a lot of funny plays on offer, for example - but if you prefer something subtler than in-your-face stand-up, the afternoon programme should suit your style. It's also the best time for music on the Fringe; styles as varied as classical, jazz and a cappella are popular after lunchtime.

Enjoying the sun at Charlotte Square. Image courtesy Edinburgh International Book Festival

At Charlotte Square at the west end of Princes Street, the Book Festival packs in a surprising number of events, with authors, journalists and occasional public figures giving talks and seminars throughout the afternoon. You might also try the Art Festival - visiting the galleries takes no pre-planning, and can make a welcome break from the hectic whirligig of the Fringe.