edinburgh tourist guide

27 things you should know before visiting Edinburgh: Why does it smell? Can I use English money? And more

Jan 3, 2022 • 8 min read

Here’s what you need to know before you dive into Edinburgh © matthi / Shutterstock

With its grand castle and famous festival, Edinburgh is a tourist magnet. But Scotland ’s capital isn’t just a collection of big-ticket sights. Set on a series of extinct volcanoes and blessed with chasm-like medieval alleys and grand civic squares, Edinburgh is a stunner with substance.

There’s history around every sandstone-hewn corner, of course, but you’ll also find vibrant life in its parks, pubs and suburbs. Edinburgh isn’t just worth visiting, it’s worth throwing yourself into. Here’s what you need to know before you dive in: when to go, what to pack, the slang, the smells and the banknotes.

Planning your trip to Edinburgh

Arriving in edinburgh.

Edinburgh's airport is 8 miles (13km) away. Buses (cheaper), trams (quicker when the roads are busy) and taxis (good for door-to-door drop-offs) connect the terminal with the city center. If you’re arriving from outside Britain and you’re not a UK citizen, you’ll need to fill out a passenger locator form .

Train passengers roll into Edinburgh Waverley – travelers coming from England will get gorgeous coastal views on the way up. Buses arrive at St Andrew’s Square in the New Town, just north of the center.

Come in summer for a chance of sunshine

Summer, when the days are long and bright and the winds are generally docile, will suit most visitors best. But if you don’t mind a spot of dreich (dismal) weather, come in the colder months, when you can mix warm pubs and museums with bracing strolls along atmospheric streets.

Dodge the Festival (unless you’re here for the Festival)

The world’s biggest arts festival takes over the city every August. If you’re going, book your accommodation months in advance and be ready to book the biggest shows early too. If you’re not, avoid August. Things also get pretty busy around Hogmanay (the run-up to New Year), but the madness is shorter-lived.

Booking in advance can be worth it

The earlier you book your accommodation the better, especially during the Festival. The biggest shows, including the Tattoo , should be booked well in advance too. The Edinburgh City Pass is worth a look if you’re also going to hit attractions such as the Castle and Leith’s Royal Yacht Britannia – it includes access to the fun city bus tours too.

Beyond that, booking online a day or so before you go is a good idea for the castle – you can save money and waiting time. 

Pack waterproof gear

You’ll need a jacket whenever you’re visiting. Edinburgh rarely gets that cold, but it can change from bright sunshine to rain-lashed darkness in a heartbeat. You’re likely to do a fair bit of walking, so a pair of comfy shoes is important. There’s no need to pack anything particularly formal.

Why are there two towns?

Central Edinburgh is a city divided. But it’s not any ill feeling that keeps the city apart – instead a valley containing the elegant Princes Street Gardens and Waverly Station separates the Old and New Towns. The Old Town is the medieval quarter, where packed tenements rise high and cobbled streets and wynds (alleys) stretch down from the famous Royal Mile. The New Town (around 250 years old, everything being relative) has airy boulevards and clipped squares along an orderly grid.

Further out are districts including the West End (fairly smart), Leith (the rough-cut setting of Trainspotting , now steadily gentrifying) and the Southside (low-key and studenty).

How long do you need in Edinburgh?

Take a day for a whistle-stop tour of the Royal Mile and a ramble around the Castle, or take two to get a sense of what the Old and New Towns have to offer. Four days or more will give you a proper feel for the city, heading north to the former port of Leith and west to the Gallery of Modern Art , as well as ticking off all the big sights in the center.

Spending time in Edinburgh

What kind of currency do you need .

Scotland has its own banknotes, but English notes are accepted everywhere in Scotland. (You’ll find a few shops in England that don’t repay the favor.) Card and contactless payments are now more common than cash, and they're the easiest way to pay on public transport too – if you use cash on a bus, you’ll need exact change, or a pass is a good alternative.

The Pink Triangle is where to find LGBTQ+ Edinburgh

Edinburgh’s gay scene is centered on the “Pink Triangle”, just northeast of Princes Street. CC Blooms is the mainstay, with (fairly expensive) food in the day and cabaret and DJs at night. Down the road in Abbeyhill, the Regent is a laid-back alternative. Same-sex marriage was legalized in Scotland in 2014. 

Sniffing out Old Reekie

“Old Reekie” is one of Edinburgh’s most enduring nicknames. It dates from the 17th century, when the Old Town’s narrow, tall streets, combined with the Nor Loch (a stagnant pool where Princes Street Gardens now sits) created a notorious odor that mixed smoke and effluent. These days, Edinburgh smells much like any other city, although the West End sometimes has a slight boozy fug from the brewery.

How to travel around Edinburgh

It's hilly, but walking is the best way to get around Edinburgh  – you’ll pass unexpected views and get a feel for the city’s rhythms. If you’re heading right across town, a cab (try Central Taxis) or ride-sharing app (Uber is the big one) isn’t a bad bet. There’s no subway, but trams connect the city center and West End with the airport, and buses are also helpful for heading to Leith or the Southside.

Etiquette in Edinburgh

Don't offend the locals.

If you meet someone in a social setting, an informal “hi” or a handshake are the usual greetings. You’re unlikely to inadvertently cause offense, though subjects like politics and religion are generally avoided in small talk. Scottish independence and Brexit can inspire passionate responses too.

Remember that Edinburgh is in Scotland, which is a part of Britain, but you’re definitely not in England – while lots of English people happily make Edinburgh their home, the England football team is traditionally booed with enthusiasm.

Buy your round in the pub

Rules here are the same as elsewhere in Britain and Ireland – one person usually orders for your group at the bar, paying for the “round” of drinks and bringing them back to the table. Everyone else then takes turns to get the round. Smarter bars may have table service, and almost everywhere will be able to offer a tray if you’ve lots of drinks to carry.

Most places take cash, although card or phone payments are more common. Pubs stay open later than south of the border – usually until midnight or 1am.

When should you tip, and how much? 

Tipping is only really required for table service in a restaurant (10% to 15%), although locals often round up taxi fares. If a hotel porter helps with your luggage, a tip of a pound or two per bag is standard.

Mind your tongue!

As a cosmopolitan city, Edinburgh is used to a range of accents. But you may not recognize every word you hear – take, for example, haar (a sea fog), Jambos (supporters of local club Hearts), Hibbies (hy-bees, supporters of city rivals Hibernian), Weegies (Glaswegians) and salt ‘n sauce (a vinegary and delicious condiment for chips). And you should ken (know) that Cockburn Street is pronounced “Coe-burn” and Edinburgh itself is “Edin-bru”, or even “Embra”.

Health and safety in Edinburgh

It’s a safe city – but watch your step.

Edinburgh is relatively safe. Pub-packed areas like the Cowgate (Old Town), Rose Street (New Town) and Lothian Road (West End) get lively on Friday and Saturday nights, but serious trouble is rare. Calton Hill offers good views during the day but is best avoided at night. Take usual precautions for a city, and use recognized ride-sharing apps or black cabs if in doubt at night.

Street scams are also uncommon, but watch your step as you explore: The sloping cobbles of the Old Town are slippery when wet. And when crossing roads, remember that traffic drives on the left.

Can you drink the water?

Oh yes. Edinburgh tap water is safe to drink ,and you can request it for free with your meal in a restaurant. The region’s water is soft (low in dissolved minerals), giving it a fresher taste than water from much of the UK.

Attractions are mostly accessible

Most modern hotels and attractions are accessible for travelers with disabilities, but many older buildings – including guesthouses and some pubs and restaurants – lack ramps and lifts. The New Town, with its wide streets, is more straightforward for wheelchair users than the steep, sometimes cobbled streets of the Old Town. Tourism body VisitScotland has a useful guide to accessible accommodation.

You might also like:  Budget Edinburgh: the best things to do for free in Scotland's capital 17 best things to do in Edinburgh Edinburgh for first-timers  

Explore related stories

Tips & Advice

Feb 8, 2024 • 7 min read

Writer Monisha Rajesh reports on her overnight journey on the Caledonian Sleeper train from London to Edinburgh.

Jan 2, 2024 • 8 min read

Dec 5, 2023 • 7 min read

Nov 19, 2023 • 10 min read

Aug 16, 2023 • 6 min read

Aug 3, 2023 • 4 min read

May 26, 2023 • 5 min read

May 23, 2023 • 6 min read

May 22, 2023 • 6 min read

May 10, 2023 • 5 min read

Best Time to Visit

Edinburgh Airport Guide

Public Transportation

48-Hour Itinerary

Day Trips From Edinburgh

Top Things to Do

Best Museums

Visiting Edinburgh Castle

Guide to Arthur's Seat

Best Restaurants

Nightlife Guide

Your Trip to Edinburgh: The Complete Guide

Known sometimes as "The Athens of the North" or "Auld Reekie," the Scottish capital is one of the country's most popular destinations, and is a great place to spend a long weekend or to include in a larger Scotland itinerary . Edinburgh is relatively compact and walkable, but there's a lot to see and do in this historic and culturally vibrant capital, including exploring Edinburgh Castle, visiting one of the city's top museums, going on a nearby hike, or hitting up the annual Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

Whether you are looking to explore Edinburgh's food and bar scene or to travel back in time through its history, here are a few things to keep in mind while planning your trip.

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit: Based purely on the weather, June through August is the best time of year to travel to Edinburgh. Scotland can be notoriously gloomy and wet during the winter, but summer brings moderate temperatures and some sun, making it ideal for outdoor sightseeing. Do keep in mind that summer is also peak tourist season; if you want to avoid the crowds, consider planning your trip for either May or September. No matter what time of year you visit, be sure to pack layers of clothing.
• Language: English is the primary language spoken in Scotland and the rest of the U.K. However, because Edinburgh is a fairly large, international city, you may hear other languages spoken around town. Gaelic is also spoken in some parts of Scotland.
• Currency: The currency in the U.K. is the pound sterling , which is also known as GBP or just "the pound." Cents are known as pence.
• Getting Around : While Edinburgh is a highly walkable city, especially in the city center, there are good public transportation options, including the Lothian Buses and Edinburgh Trams. Taxis and Ubers are also available. Car rentals are another option, though we don't recommend driving or parking in the city center of Edinburgh.
• Travel Tip : Make your visit to Edinburgh part of a larger exploration of Scotland, taking advantage of the trains if you prefer not to drive through the winding roads. Glasgow is less than an hour away from Edinburgh, while Dundee and St. Andrews are a quick journey north. But you don't have to pick just the bigger destinations to better understand Scottish culture. Nearby, look for day trips to the Scottish Borders, North Berwick and Stirling, when planning an itinerary.

Things to Do

Edinburgh has a lot of history, culture, and art available to explore, as well as expansive shopping areas. Touring Edinburgh Castle , one of the oldest fortified palaces in Europe, is a must-do for all visitors, as is hiking Arthur's Seat , the highest point in Edinburgh. Another popular attraction is Palace of Holyroodhouse; the Scottish residence of Queen Elizabeth II, it welcomes visitors whenever the British Royal Family is not in town. Here are some of the top things to do during your trip to Edinburgh:

• Tour The National Art Gallery of Scotland ; consisting of three galleries, this vast art museum showcases works from both Scotland and around the world.
• Dine at The Kitchin , a renowned Michelin-starred restaurant that highlights local ingredients.
• Attend the annual Edinburgh Festival Fringe , the world's largest arts festival , to see performances ranging from plays and comedy shows to live music.

For more, explore our full-length articles on the top things to do in Edinburgh and the best museums in Edinburgh . And, be sure to check out our guide to spending 48 hours in the Scottish capital .

Iain Masterton/Getty Images 

What to Eat and Drink

Edinburgh is an international city that boasts cuisine from all over the world, but of course you'll want to experience Scottish fare while visiting. Haggis, a meaty pudding cooked in a sheep's stomach, is Scotland's most famous dish and broadly available around Edinburgh, especially at pubs. Other local dishes include Stornoway black pudding, Cullen skink, Cranachan, and smoked salmon. And if you're wanting to imbibe on Scottish whisky, you can sample it at any number of places, including The Abbey Bar and The Balmoral Whisky Bar .

Because the city is so diverse, travelers will find not just pubs, but also fancy Michelin-starred restaurants, quirky burger joints, and outdoor food stalls. While many restaurants and pubs can be found in the city center, be sure to venture into Leith to try pizza at La Favorita or Scottish-French fusion at Restaurant Martin Wishart .

For more, check out the best restaurants in Edinburgh and our guide to Edinburgh nightlife .

Where to Stay

While each of Edinburgh's 12 neighborhoods is distinctly charming, you might find some more convenient than others depending on your itinerary, Most travelers opt to stay in the city center, which includes the Royal Mile and New Town. Many of the popular hotels, including both chain and boutique options, are located in these two areas alongside the popular attractions and shopping streets. If you prefer to stay somewhere close to the water, look for a hotel or apartment rental in Leith, a cool neighborhood with lots of independent cafés, stores, and bookshops. For something a little off-center, head to Portobello, a seaside resort neighborhood only 20 minutes from central Princes Street. Some iconic Edinburgh hotels include The Balmoral , The Witchery by the Castle , The Royal Scots Club , and Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh .

Read our roundup of the best hotels in Edinburgh to learn more and find the right accommodation for you.

Getting There

Most international travelers arrive in Edinburgh by flying into Edinburgh Airport , a fairly busy airport with one main terminal. The airport services several cities in the U.S., mostly on the East Coast, as well as Europe and the Middle East. It also has numerous flights that connect from London's Heathrow Airport.

Alternatively, you can take a train from London or one of the U.K.'s other large cities; trains operate regularly and arrive at Edinburgh Waverley station. If you're driving, be sure to include a GPS in your rental car to help navigate the unfamiliar roads.

Culture and Customs

Tipping isn't as frequent in Scotland as it is in America, but it's still customary to tip in restaurants or taxis, especially when you receive good service. The typical amount is 10 percent, but you can use your best judgment. In a pub, leave a pound or two when ordering drinks at the bar. And while it may be slightly jarring to some visitors, the legal drinking age in Scotland is 18.

 Joe Daniel Price/Getty Images

Money Saving Tips

• The best way to save a few bucks is to walk. Edinburgh is a very walkable city and it's central area is compact enough that you shouldn't need a rental car or to take many taxis. Plan out your itinerary to take advantage of walking everywhere you can.
• Many of the museums offer free entry, including The National Museum of Scotland, The Museum of Childhood, and The Museum on the Mound. Historic cathedrals like St. Giles' Cathedral are also free to enter.
• Tour the Scottish Parliament for a glimpse inside Scotland's political landscape. It's open to the public six days a week and tours are free.
• To save money on meals, pay a visit to one of Edinburgh's food markets. The Pitt Market, which takes place every Saturday in Leith, is one of the most popular. Travelers arriving at Waverley Station will also find more than 40 food stalls at Waverley Market @ Platform 2.
• Two discount attraction passes are available for tourists in Edinburgh: Royal Edinburgh Ticket and Edinburgh City Pass .

Visit Scotland. "Frequently Asked Questions About Scotland."

VisitScotland. "Frequently Asked Questions About Scotland."

This Is Edinburgh. "Edinburgh Fringe Festival."

Your Trip to Birmingham, England: The Complete Guide

Nightlife in Edinburgh: Best Bars, Clubs, & More

10 Questions to Ask Yourself Before You Plan Your UK Trip

Dublin Guide: Planning Your Trip

Best Time to Visit Edinburgh

Your Trip to Ireland: The Complete Guide

Your Trip to Mexico City: The Complete Guide

48 Hours in Edinburgh: The Ultimate Itinerary

The Top 20 Things to Do in Edinburgh

The Best 15 Restaurants in Edinburgh

Your Trip to Munich: The Complete Guide

Trips to Sicily: The Complete Guide

Regensburg: Planning Your Trip

A Guide to Airports in Scotland

Seoul Guide: Planning Your Trip

Your Trip to London: The Complete Guide

Planning a trip to Edinburgh? In Introducingedinburgh.com you’ll find all the necessary and up to date information on the best places to visit in the city, where to stay or the top neighbourhoods to go out for dinner and a night out , among a lot more interesting facts and figures. 

Edinburgh Travel Guide

• General Information
• Top Attractions
• Getting to Edinburgh
• Getting around Edinburgh
• Where to Eat
• Where to Stay
• 2-Day Edinburgh Itinerary

Why visit Edinburgh?

Scotland’s capital is one of the most unique and memorable cities in Europe . Edinburgh has a rare charm with narrow and cobbled passageways , called closes in Scots . The town is also known for its dark corners where terrifying events have taken place , its majestic buildings and gardens , countless fascinating museums , which are free to visit,  and, especially, the city's  kind and open locals . All the above-mentioned make this city a favorite among those who have seen it.

Edinburgh is fondly known as “Auld Reekie,”  which means “Old Smokey” in Scots. This is because of all the smoke and chimneys the city had in the past, creating smog over the city. The weather in Edinburgh is normally rainy and windy , but far from being an inconvenience, the bitter weather gives the town an extra charm, creating a mysterious and somber atmosphere.

The capital has a unique radiance when the rays of sun stream through the clouds, and when the night falls, the ghosts that refuse to leave Edinburgh  come out to haunt the streets and buildings while guides accompany curious tourists to see crypts, alleyways, and graveyards to discover the mysteries that besiege the heart of the city.

As well as countless ghost stories, Edinburgh also offers its visitors and locals a wide variety of attractions, including museums , most of which are free. Tourists can also visit a whisky distillery and learn how Scotland’s national drink is made in   the   Scotch Whisky Experience ,  discover how the Scottish people lived during the Middle Ages in the People’s Story Museum , or explore the evolution of medicine in the Surgeon’s Hall Museums .

The country’s hearty dishes combined with the traditional Scottish breakfast will probably mean you’ll go home a few pounds heavier but happy and full of extremely fond memories of the city.

With our guide, you’ll discover why Edinburgh is the second most visited city in the UK after London . Every year, over two million tourists visit Scotland’s capital city.

Need accommodation?

If you still don’t have a hotel, hostel, or apartment booked, we recommend checking out the link below, where you’ll find all types of accommodation with the best rates guaranteed. If you book in advance, you’ll be able to get up to 75% discount and pay once you get to your destination.

• Hotels in Edinburgh – Book online for the best rates guaranteed.

top activities

Edinburgh: Loch Ness, Highlands & Glencoe Day Trip Travel from Edinburgh to Loch Ness on this tour of some of the  Scottish Highlands ' most stunning attractions - an unforgettable day trip at the best price!

Edinburgh Castle Guided Tour Edinburgh Castle is the most visited monument in Scotland ; an unmissable sight in the Scottish capital. Don't miss this Edinburgh Castle Guided Tour!

Edinburgh Underground Ghost Tour Embark on a haunting journey into Edinburgh's eerie depths . Uncover the secrets within the haunted underground vaults and Greyfriars Kirkyard by night !

Edinburgh Free Tour Discover Edinburgh's Old Town with this free walking tour of one of Scotland's most beloved cities. This tour is perfect for any first-visitors to Edinburgh!

Dinner and Traditional Scottish Show Looking for fun things to do in Edinburgh ? Spend a unique evening with this Scottish folk dinner and concert , complete with lively music and local dishes.

Forth Boat Tour Make the most of your time in Edinburgh admiring one of the most emblematic feats of civil engineering on this boat tour of three Forth bridges .

Holyrood Palace Tickets Coronations, weddings, betrayal, assassination... discover the secrets of Holyrood Palace: the official residence of the queen of England and Scotland .

Edinburgh Outlander Tour Imposing castles, palaces and mythical mansions ... Discover a new side of Scotland by exploring the filming locations of the legendary TV series  Outlander .

Day Trip: Stirling, Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park Get a slice of Highland life on this day trip to western Scotland, witht scenic lochs, the old capital of Stirling, and the Trossachs: land of William Wallace.

Holy Island & Alnwick Castle Day Trip Discover the Medieval Kingdom of Northumbria: explore the ruined castles, quaint villages and wild coastline of North-East England on this tour from Edinburgh.

West Highland Lochs, Mountains & Castles Day Trip This day trip lets you enjoy a taste of all things Scottish , as we take you on a fascinating journey through the Highlands. Lochs, castles and mountains await.

Royal Edinburgh Ticket Book this Royal Edinburgh Ticket and enjoy the best of the Scottish capital city for 48 hours. Visit the Castle, the Royal Yacht and the Palace .

Get lost in the lively Scottish nightlife with this route across five of the capital's best pubs . Pints of beer, live music... let's get this party started!

Ghost Tour of Edinburgh The Scottish capital is famously haunted and there have been countless sightings of phantoms. Are you brave enough to take our ghost tour of Edinburgh ?

Edinburgh Food Tour On this Edinburgh Food Tour, you'll explore the Scottish capital through its gastronomy. You'll try traditional dishes such as haggis, neeps and tatties!

Rosslyn Chapel and the Borders Day Trip On this trip, you'll explore the mysterious Rosslyn Chapel and the border town of Melrose & its Abbey , plus a tour of a malt whisky distillery .

Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond & The Kelpies Explore the Scottish Highlands on this day trip from Edinburgh to Stirling, Loch Lomond and the Kelpies! You'll discover history and nature!

Scottish Highlands Tour Explore the Scottish Highlands on this excursion from Edinburgh and discover natural landscapes, a whisky distillery and historical monuments!

Loch Ness & the Scottish Highlands: 2 Day Tour Delve deep into the delights of Scotland. Discover spectacular mountains, rivers and lochs as you immerse yourself in the legendary history of the Highlands.

St. Andrews & Fife's Fishing Villages Day Trip Make the most of your stay in Edinburgh with this St. Andrews & Fife's Fishing Villages Day Trip. Explore the famous golfing town and quaint coastal towns.

3-Day Tour of Skye and the Highlands See the very north of Scotland , where the winds whip the wild edge of the United Kingdom. We'll see highlands highlights such as Loch Ness, Ben Nevis  and more.

Blackness Castle & Forth Bridges Cruise Enjoy a cruise to the three famous Forth bridges and the historic Blackness Castle on this  boat tour on the Firth of Forth .

Whisky Distillery Tour Discover the secrets of Scotch whisky on this  tour of the Dewar's and Glenturret distilleries from Edinburgh ​. The ideal excursion for any whisky lover!

Edinburgh Private Tour Discover the architecture, history & everyday life of Edinburgh accompanied by a private tour guide . The best way to explore Scotland's capital city!

Edinburgh Shore Excursion If you're arriving in the Scottish capital by cruise, don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the city's history with this Edinburgh Shore Excursion.

Edinburgh Hard Rock Cafe Enjoy a delicious lunch or dinner at Edinburgh's Hard Rock Cafe, a restaurant full of rock and roll. Choose your menu and enjoy a fun dining experience!

Full Day Edinburgh Walking Tour + Entry Tickets On this  tour of Edinburgh , you'll visit the most important places in the city , such as the Castle and the Scotland National Gallery . 

Edinburgh Hop On Hop Off Bus Explore top Edinburgh attractions with our flexible hop-on hop-off bus tour without getting tired . Enjoy audio commentary in multiple languages!

Harry Potter Train Tour Want to travel on the Hogwarts Express ? Travel through Scotland's breathtaking scenery on board the Jacobite with this  Harry Potter Train Tour .

Edinburgh Christmas Tour We'll admire Christmas markets and dreamy lights  on this Christmas Tour in Edinburgh . Explore the Scottish capital at this magical time of year!

Outlander Tour While in the Scottish capital , take a page from Jamie Fraser 's book and embark on our Outlander tour through Edinburgh to see iconic sites from the hit series !

This guide has been made by exploring each street, taking photos of every nook and cranny, and paying attention to each and every little detail to help you prepare your trip in the best way possible .

All the information in this guide was updated in March 2023 . If you see any errors or anything we should change, we would be delighted to hear from you .

Our travel guides

• top attractions
• where to stay
• and much more

Edinburgh Travel Guide

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

• roughguides.com
• edinburgh-lothians
• Travel guide
• Local Experts
• Travel Advice
• Accommodation

Edinburgh, the showcase capital of Scotland, is a venerable, cosmopolitan and cultured city famed worldwide for its superb annual festival. The setting is wonderfully striking: perched on a series of extinct volcanoes and rocky crags which rise from the generally flat landscape of the Lothians, with the sheltered shoreline of the Firth of Forth to the north. “My own Romantic town”, Sir Walter Scott called it, although it was another native author, Robert Louis Stevenson, who perhaps best captured the feel of his “precipitous city”, declaring that “No situation could be more commanding for the head of a kingdom; none better chosen for noble prospects”. Edinburgh’s ability to capture the literary imagination has seen it dubbed a “World City of Literature” by UNESCO, who have also conferred World Heritage Site status on much of the centre.

Brief history of Edinburgh

What to do in edinburgh, accommodation in edinburgh.

• Out from Edinburgh's Centre

Edinburgh City Tours

Edinburgh drinking, eating in edinburgh.

• Edinburgh's New Town

Edinburgh nightlife and entertainment

Shopping in edinburgh, the edinburgh festival, the edinburgh international festival, the edinburgh festival fringe, fringe venues, the other festivals.

Edinburgh also featured in our reader survey of the most beautiful places in Scotland .

The area north of the castle, the dignified, Grecian-style New Town was laid out in the eighteenth century after the announcement of a plan to improve conditions in the city. The Old Town, on the other hand, with its tortuous alleys and tightly packed closes, is unrelentingly medieval, associated in popular imagination with the city’s underworld lore of murderers Burke and Hare and of schizophrenic Deacon Brodie, inspiration for Stevenson’s Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde.

Set on the hill which sweeps down from the fairy-tale castle to the royal Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Old Town preserves all the key reminders of its role as a historic capital, augmented now by the dramatic and unusual new Scottish Parliament building, opposite the palace. A few hundred yards away, a tantalizing glimpse of the wild beauty of Scotland’s scenery can be had in Holyrood Park, an extensive area of open countryside dominated by Arthur’s Seat, the largest and most impressive of the volcanoes. Among Edinburgh’s many museums, the exciting National Museum of Scotland houses 10,000 of Scotland’s most precious artefacts, while the National Gallery of Scotland and its offshoot, the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, house two of Britain’s finest collections of paintings.

Beyond the centre, Edinburgh’s liveliest area is Leith, the city’s medieval port, whose seedy edge is softened by a series of great bars and restaurants, along with the presence of the former royal yacht Britannia. The wider rural surroundings of Edinburgh, known as the Lothians, mix rolling countryside and attractive country towns with some impressive historic ruins.

Book tickets and tours in Edinburgh Old Town

Book tickets and tours in Edinburgh

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Scotland, created by local experts

20 days  / from 3018 USD

The Great British Road Trip

Get ready to explore Britain on this unique self-drive road trip. Choose the car of your liking before you hit the road: from the Cotswolds and its picturesque villages over the Beatle's favorite hang-out in Liverpool to Scotland's capital Edinburgh: this trip includes many highlights to be explored

6 days  / from 617 USD

Festive Feelings around Christmas in Scotland

Experience the magic of Christmas in the heart of the Scottish Highlands! Lovely Christmas Markets and winter festivals await visitors during the winter months, but this itinerary can also be turned into a summer festival hop!

11 days  / from 1079 USD

Scotland's Wildest Natural Scenery

Want to lose yourself in Scotland's wildest natural scenery? This itinerary is a breath of fresh air and perfect to explore the most enchanting landscapes of the Highlands. It will allow you to get to know the wildest landscapes of Scotland, its fast-paced history and its amazing traditions.

Tailor-made trips for   Scotland

It was during the Dark Ages that the name Edinburgh – at least in its early forms of Dunedin or Din Eidyn (“fort of Eidyn”) – first appeared. The strategic fort atop the Castle Rock volcano served as Scotland’s southernmost border post until 1018, when King Malcolm I established the River Tweed as the permanent frontier. In the reign of Malcolm Canmore in the late eleventh century, the castle became one of the main seats of the court, and the town, which was given privileged status as a royal burgh, began to grow.

Turbulent Middle Ages

Under King James IV (1488–1513), the city enjoyed a short but brilliant Renaissance era, which saw not only the construction of a new palace alongside Holyrood Abbey, but also the granting of a royal charter to the College of Surgeons, the earliest in the city’s long line of academic and professional bodies. This period came to an abrupt end in 1513 with the calamitous defeat by the English at the Battle of Flodden leading to several decades of political instability. In the 1540s, English king Henry VIII’s attempt to force a royal union with Scotland led to the sack of Edinburgh, prompting the Scots to turn to France: French troops arrived to defend the city, while the young Scottish queen Mary was dispatched to Paris as the promised bride of the Dauphin, later Francois II of France. While the French occupiers succeeded in removing the English threat, they themselves antagonized the locals, who had become increasingly sympathetic to the ideals of the Reformation. When the radical preacher John Knox returned from exile in 1555, he quickly won over the city to his Calvinist message.

The Scottish Enlightenment

James VI’s rule saw the foundation of the University of Edinburgh in 1582, but following the Union of the Crowns in 1603, when James assumed the throne of England in addition to that of Scotland, the city was totally upstaged by London: although James promised to visit every three years, it was not until 1617 that he made his only return trip. The Union of the Parliaments of 1707 dealt a further blow to Edinburgh’s political prestige, though the guaranteed preservation of the national church and the legal and educational systems ensured that it was never relegated to a purely provincial role. On the contrary, it was in the second half of the eighteenth century that Edinburgh achieved the height of its intellectual influence, led by natives such as David Hume and Adam Smith. Around the same time, the city began to expand beyond its medieval boundaries, laying out the New Town, a masterpiece of the Neoclassical style and grand town planning.

The nineteenth century and beyond

Industrialization affected Edinburgh less than any other major city in the nation, and it never lost its white-collar character. Through the Victorian era Edinburgh cemented its role as a conservative bastion of the establishment, controlling Scotland’s legal, ecclesiastical and education systems. Nonetheless, the city underwent an enormous urban expansion in the nineteenth century, annexing, among many other small burghs, the large port of Leith.

In 1947 Edinburgh was chosen to host the great International Festival which served as a symbol of the new peaceful European order; despite some hiccups, it has flourished ever since, in the process helping to make tourism a mainstay of the local economy. During the 1980s Glasgow, previously the poor relation but always a tenacious rival, began to challenge the city’s status as a cultural centre, and it took the re-establishment of a devolved Scottish Parliament in 1999 for Edinburgh to reassert its status in a meaningful way. With debates and decisions about crucial aspects of the government of Scotland taking place in Edinburgh, there was a notable upturn in the city’s standing, augmented by significant achievements in scientific research and the arts. The financial sector burgeoned, with the Royal Bank of Scotland becoming the second largest banking group in the UK in the early years of the new century. Its near collapse and subsequent bail-out by the government during the 2009 economic crisis dented not only the city’s self-confidence, but also the arguments made by nationalist politicians that Scotland has the stability and economic prowess to prosper as an independent country.

Book tickets and tours in Glasgow

Visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse

For centuries the sometime residence of Scotland's kinds and queens, the Palace of Holyroodhouse has a hauntingly ruinous abbey. Book your entrance ticket ahead of time.

Explore Edinburgh Castle

Possibly the most iconic castle on earth, home to one of the world's most celebrated military parades. Take in the castle and several more of Edinburgh's world-class sights on a hop-on-hop-off bus tour .

Book tickets and tours in Edinburgh Castle

Take a tour of the Scottish Parliament

An architectural one-off that still divides opinion; squeeze in among the tourist hordes and decide for yourself.

Relax in Hollyrood Park

Get off the beaten track without leaving the city centre. To get to know the park and Portobello Promenade, take a 3-hour bike tour .

Celebrate Hogmanay

The most popular New Year blowout on the planet; get your ticket early.

Unwind at Dr Neil's Garden

Get even further off the beaten track in this low-key idyll by Duddingston Village. For souls who seek yet more of the great outdoors, Edinburgh is just about day-tripping distance from the legendary Loch Ness .

Meander through the Old Town

The haunted heart of old Edinburgh, with tenements, closes and catacombs piled up cheek-by-jowl. For some truly chilling storytelling, book onto a ghostly underground tour of Edinburgh's vaults.

Soak up views of the city skyline

The classic sightline southwest from Calton Hill, taking in the Old Town in all its magnificence, is gorgeous.

Take in Rosslyn Chapel

Da Vinci Code fever may have cooled, but this gothic masterpieces is as mesmerising as ever. Excellent tours combine a visit to Rosslyn Chapel with the gorgeous border town of Melrose and its Abbey.

Catch a show at the Edinburgh Festival

The whole world descends on Edinburgh come August for the mother of all arts extravagance.

Wander around the New Town

The Old Town's polar opposite, with dazzling Georgian crescents, postcard-pretty mews and manicured gardens.

Explore the Shore

Leith's medieval port and surrounds are a foodie paradise of Michelin stars, foraged produce and ethical eats.

Smell the flowers at the Royal Botanical Gardens

Edinburgh's showpiece gardens, with the world's biggest collection of wild Asian plants outside China.

Hole up in one of Edinburgh's pubs

Edinburgh's Camera Obscura has been a tourist attraction since 1853, while the World of Illusions is a labyrinth of family-friendly exhibits of optical illusions, holograms and clever visual trickery.

Enjoy old-school fun at the Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

Get your harry potter on.

Enjoy a Harry Potter-themed walking tour around Edinburgh and visit Tom Riddle's grave.

Sip the best of Scottish whiskey

There's no more Scottish drink than whiskey. Visit the distilleries of Dewar's and Deanston to sample some of the best.

Edinburgh has a greater choice of accommodation than anywhere else in Britain outside London. Hotels (and large backpacker hostels) are essentially the only options you’ll find right in the heart of the city, but within relatively easy reach of the centre the selection of guesthouses, B&Bs, campus accommodation and even campsites broadens considerably.

Making reservations is worthwhile at any time of year, and is strongly recommended for stays during the Festival and around Hogmanay, when places can get booked out months in advance.

Out from Edinburgh's Centre

Just over a mile northeast of the city centre is Leith, a fascinating mix of cobbled streets and new developments, run-down housing and excellent restaurants, as well as Edinburgh’s zoo, a perennial favourite with children.

Despite the compactness of the city centre, open-top bus tours are big business, with several companies taking slightly varying routes around the main sights. All cost much the same, depart from Waverley Bridge and allow you to get on and off at leisure. There are also several walking tours, many of which depart from the central section of the Royal Mile near the High Kirk of St Giles; ghost tours and specialist tours are also available. Advance booking is recommended for all tours, and for the specialist tours in particular.

Book overnight trip to Edinburgh

Many of Edinburgh’s pubs, especially in the Old Town, have histories that stretch back centuries, while others, particularly in the New Town, are unaltered Victorian or Edwardian period pieces. Add a plentiful supply of trendy modern bars, and there’s enough to cater for all tastes. Note that the opening hours quoted here may well be extended during Festival.

Edinburgh’s dining scene is a feather in the city’s cap – with five restaurants holding Michelin stars, it can justifiably claim second place behind London in the UK’s fine-dining pecking order. Under this level, small diners and bistros predominate, and Edinburgh is an excellent place if you like fish and shellfish. Plenty of tourist-oriented restaurants offer haggis and other classic clichés, mostly with little culinary merit; a better idea is to seek out the crop of places using locally sourced, quality ingredients available from small and artisan producers around Scotland. During the Festival the majority of restaurants keep longer hours than are given here, but they are also much busier.

Edinburgh's New Town

The New Town, itself well over two hundred years old, stands in total contrast to the Old Town: the layout is symmetrical, the streets are broad and straight, and most of the buildings are Neoclassical. Originally intended to be residential, today the New Town is the bustling hub of the city’s professional, commercial and business life, dominated by shops, banks and offices.

The existence of the New Town is chiefly due to the vision of George Drummond, who made schemes for the expansion of the city soon after becoming Lord Provost in 1725. Work began on the draining of the Nor’ Loch below the castle in 1759, a job that took some sixty years. The North Bridge, linking the Old Town with the main road leading to the port of Leith, was built between 1763 and 1772 and, in 1766, following a public competition, a plan for the New Town by 22-year-old architect James Craig was chosen. Its gridiron pattern was perfectly matched to the site: central George Street, flanked by showpiece squares, was laid out along the main ridge, with parallel Princes Street and Queen Street on either side, built up on one side only, so as not to block the spectacular views of the Old Town and Fife.

The layout of the greater New Town is a remarkable grouping of squares, circuses, terraces, crescents and parks along with Charlotte Square and the assemblage of curiosities on and around Calton Hill. However, it also contains assorted Victorian additions, notably the Scott Monument on Princes Street, the Royal Botanic Garden on its northern fringe, as well as two of the city’s most important public collections – the National Gallery of Scotland and, further afield, the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art.

National Gallery of Scotland

Princes Street Gardens are bisected by the Mound, one of only two direct road links between the Old and New Towns (the other is North Bridge), formed in the 1780s by dumping piles of earth and other waste brought from the New Town’s building plots. At the foot of the mound on the Princes Street level are two grand Neoclassical buildings, the interlinked National Gallery of Scotland and the Royal Scottish Academy. Both were designed by William Henry Playfair (1790–1857), though the exterior of the National Gallery is considerably more austere than its bold Athenian counterpart.

Built as a “temple to the fine arts” in 1850, the National Gallery houses Scotland’s finest array of European and Scottish art from the early 1300s to the late 1800s. Its modest size makes it a manageable place to visit in a couple of hours and affords a pleasantly unrushed atmosphere.

Early works

A gallery highlight is a superb painting by Botticelli, The Virgin Adoring the Sleeping Christ Child which, along with Raphael’s graceful tondo The Holy Family with a Palm Tree, has undergone careful restoration to reveal a striking luminosity and depth of colour. Of the four mythological scenes by Titian, the sensuous Three Ages of Man is one of his most accomplished early compositions. Alongside the Titians, Bassano’s Adoration of the Kings and a dramatic altarpiece, The Deposition of Christ, by Tintoretto, as well as several other works by Veronese, complete the fine Venetian section.

European highlights

Rubens’ The Feast of Herod is an archetypal example of his sumptuously grand manner. Among the four canvases by Rembrandt are a poignant Self-Portrait Aged 51 and the ripely suggestive Woman in Bed. Christ in the House of Martha and Mary is the largest and probably the earliest of the thirty or so surviving paintings by Vermeer.

Impressionist masters have a strong showing, including a collection of Degas’ sketches, paintings and bronzes, Monet’s Haystacks (Snow) and Renoir’s Woman Nursing Child. Representing the Post-Impressionists are three exceptional works by Gauguin, including Vision After the Sermon, set in Brittany, Van Gogh’s Olive Trees, and Cézanne’s The Big Trees – a clear forerunner of modern abstraction.

Scottish and English works

Of Sir Henry Raeburn’s large portraits, the swaggering masculinity of Sir John Sinclair in Highland Dress shows the artist’s technical mastery, though he was equally confident when working on a smaller scale, as seen in one of the gallery’s most popular pictures, The Rev Robert Walker Skating on Duddingston Loch. The gallery also owns a brilliant array of watercolours by Turner, faithfully displayed each January when damaging sunlight is at its weakest; at other times two of his fine Roman views are displayed in a dim gallery.

The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art

At the far northwestern fringe of the New Town, the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art was Britain’s first collection devoted solely to twentieth-century painting and sculpture, and now covers two grand Neoclassical buildings on either side of Belford Road. The extensive wooded grounds serve as a sculpture park, featuring works by Jacob Epstein, Henry Moore, Barbara Hepworth and, most strikingly, Charles Jencks, whose Landform, a swirling mix of ponds and grassy mounds, dominates the area in front of the gallery.

The gallery on the western side of Belford Road, Modern One, divides its display spaces between temporary exhibitions and selections from the gallery’s own holdings; the latter are arranged thematically, but are almost constantly moved around. The collection starts with early twentieth-century Post-Impressionists, then moves through the Fauvists, German Expressionism, Cubism and Pop Art, with works by Lichtenstein and Warhol establishing a connection with the extensive holdings of Eduardo Paolozzi’s work in the Modern Two. There’s a strong section on living British artists, from Gilbert & George to Britart stars, while modern Scottish art ranges from the Colourists to the distinctive styles of contemporary Scots including John Bellany, a portraitist of striking originality, and the poet-artist-gardener Ian Hamilton Finlay.

Modern Two, also known as the Dean Gallery, was refurbished to make room for the huge collection of work of Edinburgh-born sculptor Sir Eduardo Paolozzi, described by some as the father of Pop Art. There’s an awesome introduction to Paolozzi’s work in the form of the huge Vulcan, a half-man, half-machine that squeezes into the Great Hall immediately opposite the main entrance – view it both from ground level and the head-height balcony to appreciate the sheer scale of the piece. In the rooms to the right of the main entrance Paolozzi’s London studio has been expertly re-created, right down to the clutter of half-finished casts, toys and empty pots of glue.

The ground floor also holds a world-renowned collection of Dada and Surrealist art; Marcel Duchamp, Max Ernst and Man Ray are all represented. Look out also for Dali’s The Signal of Anguish and Magritte’s Magic Mirror along with work by Miró and Giacometti – all hung on crowded walls with an assortment of artefacts and ethnic souvenirs. Elsewhere, look out for 2009 Turner Prize winner Richard Wright’s major wall-painting The Stairwell Project, his most complex and ambitious work to date in Britain.

Contemporary art in Edinburgh

In addition to the contemporary art collections in the city’s National Galleries there are a number of smaller, independent galleries around the city.

The Collective Gallery

Tends to focus on young local artists, and doesn’t flinch from showing experimental modern work. Tues–Sun 11am–5pm.

Edinburgh Printmakers

A highly respected studio and gallery dedicated to contemporary printmaking. Tues–Sat 10am–6pm.

Fruitmarket Gallery

The stylish modern design of this dynamic and much-admired art space is the capital’s first port of call for top-grade international artists. Mon–Sat 11am–6pm, Sun noon–5pm.

Ingleby Gallery

Ingleby’s reputation for ambitious projects and innovative artists makes it one of the nation’s foremost small private art galleries, often featuring Scotland’s premier stars such as Alison Watt, Kenny Hunter and Callum Innes. Mon–Sat 10am–6pm, plus Sun noon–5pm in Aug.

Open Eye Gallery

One of the city’s best commercial galleries, regularly featuring shows by Scotland’s top contemporary artists.

Scottish Gallery

The longest established of a number of small galleries on this New Town street; some of the most striking works are in the basement area, dedicated to applied art. Mon–Fri 10am–6pm, Sat 10am–4pm.

Inevitably, Edinburgh’s nightlife is at its best during the Festival, which can make the other 49 weeks of the year seem like an anticlimax. However, at any time the city has plenty to offer, especially in the realm of theatre and music. The best way to find out what’s on is to pick up a copy of The List, a fortnightly listings magazine covering both Edinburgh and Glasgow.

Princes Street, one of Britain’s most famous shopping streets, is all but dominated by standard chain outlets, though no serious shopper should miss out on a visit to Edinburgh’s venerable department store, Jenners, opposite the Scott Monument. More fashionable upmarket shops are to be found on and around parallel George Street, including a street (Multrees Walk) of exclusive international fashion boutiques on the east side of St Andrew Square. There’s nothing compelling about central Edinburgh’s two big shopping malls, Princes Mall and the St James Centre, which are dominated by the big names.

For more original outlets, head for Victoria Street and the Grassmarket where you’ll find an eclectic range of antique, crafts, food and book shops. Along and around the Royal Mile, meanwhile, several distinctly offbeat places sit among the tacky souvenir sellers. Edinburgh’s only regular market is its impressive farmers’ market, on Castle Terrace, immediately west of the castle, which draws around 35 local produce stalls from south and east Scotland.

This page contains affiliate links. All recommendations are editorially independent.

For all its appeal as a historic and attractive capital city, Edinburgh is perhaps best known for its incredible annual Festival, which takes place every August and transforms the place into an overwhelming mass of cultural activity. To even attempt to get a handle on what’s going on, it’s worth appreciating that the “Edinburgh Festival” is an umbrella term that encompasses several different festivals. The principal events are the Edinburgh International Festival and the much larger Edinburgh Festival Fringe, but there are also Book, Jazz and Blues and Art festivals going on, as well as a Military Tattoo on the Castle Esplanade.

The sheer volume of the Festival’s output can be bewildering: virtually every branch of arts and entertainment is represented, and world-famous stars mix with pub singers in the daily line-up. It can be a struggle to find accommodation, get hold of the tickets you want, book a table in a restaurant or simply get from one side of town to another; you can end up seeing something truly dire, or something mind-blowing; you’ll inevitably try to do too much, stay out too late or spend too much – but then again, most Festival veterans will tell you that if you don’t experience these things then you haven’t really “done” the Festival.

Dates, venues, names, star acts, happening bars and burning issues change from one year to the next. This unpredictability is one of the Festival’s greatest charms, so be prepared for – indeed, enjoy – the unexpected.

The Edinburgh International Festival, or the “Official Festival”, was the original Edinburgh Festival, conceived in 1947 as a celebration of pan-European culture in the postwar era. Initially dominated by opera, other elements such as top-grade theatre, ballet, dance and classical music now carry as much weight, and it’s still a highbrow event, its high production values and serious approach offering an antidote to the Fringe’s slapdash vigour.

Performances take place at the city’s larger venues such as the Usher Hall and the Festival Theatre and, while ticket prices run to over £60, it is possible to see shows for £10 or less if you’re prepared to queue for the handful of tickets kept back until the day. The festival culminates in a Fireworks Concert beside the castle, visible from various points in the city.

Even standing alone from its sister festivals, the Fringe is easily the world’s largest arts gathering. Each year sees more than 40,000 performances from more than 750 companies, with more than 21,000 participants from all over the world. There are something in the region of 1500 shows every day, round the clock, in 250 venues around the city. Much more than any other part of the Festival, it’s the dynamism, spontaneity and sheer exuberance of the Fringe that dominate Edinburgh every August.

These days, the most prominent aspect of the Fringe is comedy, but you’ll also find a wide range of theatre, musicals, dance, children’s shows, exhibitions, lectures and music – and a decent range of free shows.

While the Fringe is famous for its tiny and unexpected auditoriums, five Fringe giants colonize clusters of different-sized spaces for the duration of the Festival. These are all safe bets for decent shows and a bit of star-spotting. And while it’s nothing like as large as the venues reviewed here, you shouldn’t ignore the programme put on at the Traverse Theatre. Long a champion of new drama, the “Trav” combines the avant-garde with professional presentation and its plays are generally among the Fringe’s most acclaimed.

Long based in George Street’s Assembly Rooms, Assembly has been on the move in recent years with its impressive line-up of top-of-the-range drama and big-name music and comedy acts.

The most varied programme of the big five, occasionally staging controversial productions that other venues might be too wary to promote.

Gilded Balloon

The comedy-focused Gilded Balloon bases its operations in a students’ union, the gothic Teviot Row.

Pleasance Courtyard

A slightly raucous atmosphere, thanks to its busy courtyard bar, with offbeat comedy and whimsical appearances by panellists on Radio 4 game shows. They organize events at a variety of external venues, too.

Operates eleven comedy and cabaret spaces, including the giant, inflatable upside-down cow, “the Underbelly”, on Bristo Square.

Edinburgh Art Festival

A relative newcomer on the scene, held throughout August and including high-profile exhibitions by internationally renowned contemporary artists as well as retrospectives of work by pioneering twentieth-century artists. Virtually every art gallery in the city participates, from small private concerns to blockbuster shows at the National Galleries of Scotland’s five venues.

Edinburgh International Book Festival

Taking place in the last two weeks of August, this is the world’s largest celebration of the written word. It’s held in a tented village in Charlotte Square and offers talks, readings and signings by a star-studded line-up of visiting authors, as well as panel discussions and workshops.

Edinburgh Jazz and Blues Festival

Immediately prior to the Fringe in the first week in August, easing the city into the festival spirit. Highlights include nightly jam sessions and a colourful New Orleans-style Mardi Gras and street parade.

The Military Tattoo

Staged in the spectacular stadium of the Edinburgh Castle Esplanade, the Tattoo is an unashamed display of pomp and military pride. The programme of choreographed drills, massed pipe bands, historical tableaux, energetic battle re-enactments, national dancing and pyrotechnics has been a feature of the Festival for over half a century, its emotional climax provided by a lone piper on the Castle battlements. Followed by a quick fireworks display, it’s a successful formula barely tampered with over the years. Tickets (£16–50) should be booked well in advance.

Edinburgh hosts one of the worlds’ landmark New Year’s Eve street parties, with around 100,000 people on the streets of the city seeing out the old year. For the street party, stages are set up in different parts of the city centre, with big-name rock groups and local ceilidh bands playing to the increasingly inebriated masses. The high point of the evening is, of course, midnight, when hundreds of tons of fireworks are let off into the night sky above the castle, and Edinburgh joins the rest of the world singing “Auld Lang Syne”, an old Scottish tune with lyrics by Robert Burns, Scotland’s national poet.

When hardline Scottish Protestant clerics in the sixteenth century abolished Christmas for being a Catholic mass, the Scots, not wanting to miss out on a mid-winter knees-up, instead put their energy into greeting the New Year, or Hogmanay. Houses were cleaned from top to bottom, debts were paid and quarrels made up, and, after the bells of midnight were rung, great store was laid by welcoming good luck into your house. This still takes the form of the tradition of “first-footing” – visiting your neighbours and bearing gifts. The ideal first-foot is a tall dark-haired male carrying a bottle of whisky; women or redheads, on the other hand, bring bad luck – though, to be honest, no one carrying a bottle of whisky tends to be turned away these days, whatever the colour of their hair. All this neighbourly greeting means a fair bit of partying, and no one is expected to go to work the next day, or, indeed, the day after that. Even today, January 1 is a public holiday in the rest of the UK, but only in Scotland does the holiday extend to the next day too.

Discover more places in Scotland

• East Lothian
• West Lothian

The Rough Guides to Scotland and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Find even more inspiration here

Planning your own trip? Prepare for your trip

Use Rough Guides' trusted partners for great rates

written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 2.06.2021

Ready to travel and discover Scotland?

Get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

• Where to stay
• Travel advice

30 Epic Things to Do in Edinburgh: Ultimate Guide by a Local

Shrouded in myths and legends and steeped in thousands of years of history, Edinburgh is a city like no other.

With an electric mix of architecture, winding cobbled streets, atmospheric alleyways, diverse festivals, plenty of green spaces and one of the best castles in Scotland – It’s hard to beat Edinburgh’s charm. Nearly every type of traveller will find something in this Scottish city to marvel at.

It’s been our home for almost a decade now, and we are so excited to share our favourite experiences and places to help you curate your journey.

Even if the sun doesn’t shine every day, Edinburgh is so incredibly stunning that “it breaks the heart again and again.”

It’s not surprising that in 1995, The Old and New Town of Edinburgh was recognised in UNESCO’s list of World Heritage sites.

From Harry Potter writer J. K. Rowling to Irvine Welsh, Robert Louis Stevenson to Sir Walter Scott – this Scottish capital city has inspired many creative geniuses.

So, whether you have only a day or a week, this guide will help you pull together a fantastic itinerary of Edinburgh. Also, there are some great day trip options within easy reach.

We have covered much of what this city has to offer to first-time visitors, as well as some ideas to explore a little further in pursuit of different experiences for returning visitors.

Best things to do in Edinburgh

1. soak up the panoramic views from calton hill.

Located only a few metres off the east end of the busy Princes Street, Calton Hill is a public park housing several Greek-style historical monuments and landmarks. It is one of the best places in Edinburgh to get an interrupted panoramic view of the city’s dramatic skyline.

At the top, you will find the upside-down telescope-shaped Nelson Monument. You can climb 143 steps to reach a viewing platform at the top to admire some of the best views of Edinburgh.

Another historic attraction on Calton Hill is the columned structure of the National Monument of Scotland. The construction of this 19th-century landmark remained unfinished due to lack of funds at that time and hence earned the nickname ‘Edinburgh’s Disgrace’.

We will highly recommend visiting Calton Hill at sunset. It takes only 5-10 minutes to reach the top through the steps on Regent Road. It is open to visitors every day, all year round.

Find Out the Best Viewpoints and Attractions on Calton Hill

2. Explore the Turbulent History of Edinburgh Castle

Sitting at the top of the historic Royal Mile, this magnificent fortress is a prominent part of the city’s iconic skyline. Steeped in over nine hundred years of history, its dramatic setting on an extinct volcanic plug provides a stunning view over the city.

The oldest surviving structure of Edinburgh Castle is the St. Margaret’s Chapel. It was built in the early 12th century by King David I. He named this small chapel after his beloved mother, Queen Margaret. However, historians believe that the origins of the fortress and the geological features of this area are much older.

Read More: 25 Most Beautiful Castles in Scotland You Must Visit

Edinburgh Castle has a chequered past. For many years, this was the home of Scottish kings and queens of Scotland, then it was turned into a mighty military fortress and later served as a prison. The control of the castle changed hands numerous times throughout history.

We would suggest spending at least two hours to explore all the hidden corners of the castle.

Visitors can see the famous Honours of Scotland, the Stone of Destiny, Mons Meg, the Royal Palace, the Great Hall, St Margaret’s Chapel, and the One O’Clock Gun. Follow our extensive guide to visiting Edinburgh Castle .

Tickets: Admission fees up to and including 31st March costs £18 online and £21 walk-up for adults.

From 1st April onwards, it costs £19.50 online and £22 walk-up for adults.

3. Step Back in Time in the Historic Royal Mile

A meander along the historic Royal Mile is an unmissable part of sightseeing in Edinburgh. The street is actually longer than a mile. The term ‘Royal Mile’ refers to a Scots mile – an old Scottish measuring unit which became obsolete in the 18th century.

The Royal Mile is one of the oldest thoroughfares in the city. It runs from the historic castle to the Holyrood Palace.

This iconic street is lined with various famous city landmarks, souvenir shops, museums, traditional pubs and restaurants. During Edinburgh Festival in August, this area comes alive with entertaining street performances.

Some of the historical highlights of Royal Mile are the Scottish Parliament Building, St Giles’ Cathedral, The Real Mary King’s Close, John Knox House and the Museum of Edinburgh .

Also, watch out for the narrow alleyways known as closes in Scotland. Advocates Close, Anchor Close and White Horse Close are particularly very photogenic.

Read More: Detailed Guide to Edinburgh Castle

4. Take in Breathtaking Views from Arthur’s Seat

Created by volcanic activity 335 million years ago, Arthur’s Seat is one of the most popular sites in Edinburgh to watch the sunset. Watching the Sun gradually disappear behind the horizon is an absolute treat.

Sitting at the edge of the historic Royal Mile, right next to the Holyrood Palace, the Holyrood Park spreads across a vast area of 650 acres. The highest point of the park is Arthur’s Seat at 251 metres.

Read More: Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting Arthur’s Seat

There are numerous walking trails all around this park. The hike to Arthur’s Seat is moderately easy and well worth the effort to see the breathtaking view over the sprawling cityscapes of Edinburgh and beyond.

It takes around 1 -1.5 hours to climb the summit, depending on your pace and fitness level. Alternatively, the jagged cliffs of Salisbury Crags are also an excellent vantage point to admire the epic skyline of Edinburgh.

If you are a keen walker, you might be interested in taking a peaceful stroll around Duddingston Loch, Dunsapie Loch and St Margaret’s Loch – home to many wildlife and birds.

5. Unleash Your Inner Harry Potter in Victoria Street and Grassmarket

Frequently referred to as the fictional Diagon Alley of Edinburgh, Victoria Street is one of the most photographed streets in the city. It is like a magic alleyway that will make you disappear from the historic Grassmarket and pop you out at the iconic Royal Mile. The Colourful stretch of old Flemish-styled buildings with arch-shaped facades is bound to cast a spell.

Grassmarket is one of the most vibrant and liveliest places in the Old Town. In past centuries, public hangings used to take place here.

Read More: A Short Guide to Victoria Street

Grassmarket has some of the oldest pubs in Edinburgh. One of them is the White Hart Inn, a 500-year-old pub where many famous people spent the night, including William Wordsworth and Robert Burns. It was also frequented by the notorious body snatchers of the 18th century, Burke and Hare.

Nowadays, Grassmarket is home to many events, including the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Also, you can visit the farmer’s market on Saturdays.

6. Explore the Prettiest Corners of Dean Village

Nestled in a deep valley on the Water of Leith, Dean Village is only a few minutes away from the busy Edinburgh city centre. This picturesque neighbourhood stands out for its colourful half-timbered houses, medieval cobbled streets and idyllic riverside settings.

For over 800 years, Dean Village was a bustling site with various thriving industries and mills that used to harness power from the Water of Leith. Look out for the millstones and stone plaques decorated with baked bread and pies on the buildings. Dean Village used to supply milled flour and other grains to the residents of Edinburgh.

One of the most impressive houses here is Well Court. The red sandstone building with its landmark clock tower, conical turrets and crow-stepped gables oozes charm. It was built in the late 19th century for the nearby mill workers.

Follow the riverside path towards Stockbridge to visit St. Bernard’s Well, a hidden gem of Edinburgh. This elegant Roman temple-like structure houses a beautiful statue of Hygieia – the Greek goddess of health.

Read More: Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting Dean Village

7. Discover the Royal History of Palace of Holyroodhouse

The official residence of the British Monarch in Edinburgh, Holyrood Palace is one of the top tourist attractions in the city. This grand palace stands at the east end of the Royal Mile with Arthur’s Seat in the backdrop.

This 16th-century palace was closely associated with Mary, Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie – two prominent royal figures in Scottish history. Visitors can explore the grand interiors and the collections of Flemish and French tapestries in the state apartments. Also, you can see the two thrones commissioned by King George V in 1911 in the Throne room.

Outside the palace, you would find the ruins of the historic Holyrood Abbey, which played a pivotal role in Edinburgh’s history. It was founded in 1128 by King David I.

Stroll around the beautiful garden and search for Queen Mary’s Bathhouse. Also, the adjacent Queen’s gallery is worth a visit. It displays paintings, furniture and photographs from the Royal collection.

Opening Hours : 1 November – 31 March 09.30 am – 16.30 pm.

1 April – 31 October 09.30 am – 18.00 pm.

Ticket Price : Adult advance £18, on the day £19.50.

8. Visit the National Museum of Scotland

Located opposite Greyfriars Kirkyard, the National Museum of Scotland is one of the best kid-friendly attractions in Edinburgh.

It features several exhibitions on natural and ancient history, ancient civilisations, archaeology and the history of Scotland. You can easily spend an hour or two discovering all the impressive collections this museum has to offer.

From ancient Egyptian artefacts to ceramics, cultural diversity to wildlife – you can find everything under one roof. Some highlights include Dolly the Sheep, the millennium clock and Lewis chessmen. Also, the Grand Gallery looks very photogenic.

They regularly host several events, including guided tours, workshops and temporary exhibitions.

Don’t forget to visit the rooftop of the museum. It is free and provides a stunning panoramic view over Edinburgh rooftops. If you can’t find it, ask any member of the staff for directions.

Opening Hours : Daily, 10 am – 5 pm.

9. Enjoy Romantic Strolls in Circus Lane and Stockbridge

Travellers visit Circus Lane to admire the vibrant floral displays, cute Georgian mews houses, colourful doors and the picturesque settings of the imposing St Stephen’s Church in the background. This cobbled street is a popular spot with local photographers and tourists.

Regarded as the prettiest street in Edinburgh, Circus Lane was originally a back alley built to cater for the horses, carriages and stable servants of wealthy residents of nearby Royal Circus in the 19th century.

Further Reading: Our Detailed Guide to Stockbridge

Circus Lane lies in the bustling neighbourhood of Stockbridge . From indulging in tasty street food in the farmer’s market to feeding the ducks at Inverleith Pond – there are loads of amazing things to do in Stockbridge.

Packed with trendy cocktail bars, cosy cafes, gastro eateries and several independent shops, Stockbridge is famous for its cool bohemian vibe. Also, it is a few minutes away from some of Edinburgh’s open green spaces and art museums.

Further Reading: Our Brief Guide to Circus Lane

10. Marvel at the Priceless Paintings of the Scottish National Gallery

Housed in an elegant 19th-century neoclassical building just off Princes Street, Scottish National Gallery is the leading art gallery in Scotland. It is undoubtedly one of the best free visitors attractions in Edinburgh. You can easily spend an hour or two discovering priceless art.

Established in 1859, it showcases an extensive collection of paintings and sculptures from the early renaissance to the end of the nineteenth century. Here you’ll find many famous masterpieces by legends like Raphael, Van Gogh, Degas, Monet, Velázquez and Vermeer.

Also, there are paintings by several Scottish artists. Look out for Edwin Landseer’s famous painting ‘The Monarch of the Glen’ and Henry Raeburn’s much-loved ‘The Skating Minister’.

The nearby Royal Scottish Academy is also part of the Scottish National Gallery and hosts many temporary exhibitions.

Opening Hours : Open daily, 10 am-5 pm.

11. Test Your Limits and Climb Scott Monument

Standing proudly in East Princes Street Garden, Scott Monument is dedicated to one of Scotland’s most legendary writers, Sir Walter Scott.

This Gothic structure at the heart of Edinburgh is the second-largest monument to a writer, anywhere in the world. A statue of him with his beloved dog, Maida, sits at the base of this memorial.

Constructed in mid 19th century, Scott Monument is a famous landmark in the city and an iconic part of the skyline. The exterior of the tower is adorned with several small statues of Scottish writers and various characters from Scott’s novels.

Do you know you can actually climb Scott Monument? There are viewing platforms at different levels offering gorgeous views of Edinburgh rooftops and the surrounding hills. Inside, you can visit the exhibitions showcasing the life and legacy of Sir Walter Scott. There are 287 steps to climb up to the top. The last few steps are quite steep and narrow.

12. Admire the Interiors of St Giles Cathedral

Founded in 1124, St Giles Cathedral is one of the prominent historic buildings in Edinburgh. It’s technically not a cathedral – rather a church that stands right on the iconic Royal Mile with distinct crown spires, popularly known as lantern towers. The architecture is impressive and worth a visit inside. 

Step inside this medieval building and learn the riveting tale of reformation when John Knox was a priest. They have guided rooftop tours available as well. The view of the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Old Town is stunning from the top.

The highlight of your visit would be the Thistle Chapel, situated at one corner of the church. It has ornated roofs and impressive wood carvings, including coats of arms of the sixteen nights, swords and thistles. Also, don’t miss the large stained glass window above the main entrance depicting the national poet of Scotland, Robert Burns.

13. Be Royalty for a Day at Royal Yacht Britannia

A floating palace moored in Leith, Royal Yacht Britannia is one of the top tourist attractions in Edinburgh. This Royal vessel has sailed one million nautical miles, hosted several State Receptions and dignitaries, and a few Royal honeymoons – she served the Royal Family for over forty years.

Built at the shipyard of John Brown & Co in Clydebank, Scotland, Royal Yacht Britannia was launched by Queen Elizabeth II on 16 April 1953. It sailed her first overseas maiden voyage to the Grand Harbour of Malta in 1954.

Explore the five decks of this ship, the State Apartments, State Drawing Room and the Sun Lounge, which was the Queen’s favourite room here. Also, you can uncover the stories of the crew members and learn about their life at sea. Britannia’s fascinating tale of its epic voyages around the globe to its retirement in Edinburgh will intrigue you.

If you fancy a bite with a stunning view, pop into their onboard restaurant, The Royal Deck Tearoom.

Price : Adult £18.50 and child £9.25.

14. Commune with Nature at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

Just a mile away from the city centre, The Royal Botanic Garden is the perfect place to relax and enjoy nature. Home to some of the extensive collections of living plants and more than 13,500 species, this sprawling 70 acres of green space is one of the best places to walk in Edinburgh.

Founded in 1670, this is one of the oldest gardens in the UK. Enjoy the vast collections of plants at the Chinese Hillside, climb to the highest point of the Garden Rock, follow the Beech Hedge and Herbaceous Border or meander around the large Redwood trees in the Woodland Garden.

Also, there are many vantage points offering fantastic views of Edinburgh’s skyline.

The lovely Victorian Temperate Palm House is a must-visit. Entry to the garden is free except for the glasshouses, which require tickets. During the winter months, Royal Botanics hosts Christmas at the Botanics – a popular family-friendly event.

Opening Hours : Daily, November to January 10 am-4 pm; February and October 10 am – 5 pm; March to September 10 am-6 pm.

15. Get Spooked in Greyfriars Kirkyard

If you are a Harry potter fan, Greyfriars Kirkyard should be a must-visit place in your Edinburgh itinerary.

As you stroll around the graveyard, you will spot the name of some of the beloved Harry Potter Characters. Watch out for the names of Tom Riddle, McGonagall, Mad-eye Moodie, and Potter.

The author J.K. Rowling penned some of the chapters of the Harry Potter series at the nearby Elephant House Cafe.

Another unmissable attraction is the adorable bronze statue of the famous Skye Terrier, Greyfriars Bobby. Tourists often rub its nose for luck.

The story goes that Bobby guarded the grave of his master in Greyfriars Kirkyard for 14 years after his death in 1872. Bobby became very famous in his lifetime, and people from all over Edinburgh used to come to watch and feed him.

Greyfriars Kirkyard is said to be one of the most haunted places in the city.

16. Sit Back with a Picnic at Princes Street Garden

This Scottish city doesn’t have any shortage of open green spaces. But Princes Street Garden at the heart of the city centre is a special one. It is a great place to hang out beneath the imposing Edinburgh Castle and enjoy a picnic.

In summer, you will find the garden teeming with locals and tourists sunbathing and chilling out. During Christmas, this ground transforms into a winter wonderland. In East Princes Street Garden stands Scott Monument, an iconic landmark of Edinburgh. Centrepiece of the westside garden is the beautifully ornate Ross Fountain.

You can also see many statues here. Look out for the Statue of Wojtek, a soldier bear who carried ammunition during World War II.

Also, visit the gingerbread-looking Gardeners Cottage, the former home of the head gardener. Today this dinky house is a popular photo spot in Edinburgh.

Another point of interest is the Floral Clock, the first floral clock in the world, dating back to the early 20th century.

17. Take Some Unforgettable Day Trips from Edinburgh

If you are visiting this city for a little longer, we highly recommend adding a few of the best day trips from Edinburgh to your visit.

Take a day trip to Glasgow , famous for various museums , Victorian and art nouveau architectures, colourful urban mural trail , legendary music scenes and nightlife.

A day tour to visit the incredibly beautiful Loch Lomond is a must. Take a boat cruise and explore Luss , one of the prettiest Scottish villages on the bank of Loch Lomond.

Catch a train from Edinburgh Waverley to the coastal town of St Andrews . Frequently referred to as the home of golf, the Old Course is one of the oldest golf courses in the world.

The picturesque fishing village, St Abbs in the Scottish Borders, has featured in the Avengers the Endgame movie and is worth a visit.

History lovers would love exploring the history of Stirling . The bustling city is full of many historical sights.

18. Enjoy a Taste of Haggis

No visit to Edinburgh is ever complete without tasting the national dish of Scotland, haggis. Love it or hate it, you have to try this famous dish at least once. You never know. Maybe you might turn into a fan of this savoury pudding.

Haggis is typically served with a generous portion of mashed tatties (potatoes) and neeps (turnips) and accompanied by a dram of whiskey.

It tastes like crumbly sausage, with an earthy texture and peppery flavour. It is made by combining sheep’s plucks – chopped liver, heart and lungs with oatmeal, onions, salt and spices and cooked in a sheep’s stomach.

Some of the best places to try haggis in Edinburgh are Arcade Bar Haggis and Whisky House  and Whiski Bar & Restaurant . Other delicious Scottish dishes you might be interested in trying are Cullen Skink, full Scottish breakfast, black pudding and Scotch Pie.

19. Watch a Live Performance at the Edinburgh Festival

August is the most happening month in the city’s calendar. Edinburgh comes alive with an array of festivals and events. More than 2500 performances take place every day in August at various venues around the city.

The Fringe Festival is the largest arts festival in the world. Hundreds of street performers entertain the audience in the Royal Mile, Grassmarket and Princes Street Garden.

Also, you can enjoy several standup comedy shows, ballets, operas, cabaret and musicals by renowned local and international artists. We would strongly recommend seeing the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo , an experience of a lifetime. The jaw-dropping performances of military pipes and drums come alongside traditional Scottish highland dance. Tattoo tickets sell out months in advance.

The month-long festivities end with the annual fireworks display. Thousands of locals and tourists gather at various vantage points to witness this breathtaking display.

20. Uncover Gourmet Delights in Leith

Away from the city centre, Leith is a vibrant and culturally diverse corner of Edinburgh. The Water of Leith flows through the heart of this neighbourhood. It has a rich maritime history and was once an important industrial hub of Scotland.

Today, this area is bustling with trendy shops, hip coffee shops and cosy pubs. From fine dining at Michelin-starred restaurants to delicious street foods, Leith is a must-visit destination for all foodies visiting Edinburgh.

You can find some of the city’s best restaurants in Leith. Some of our favourites are Fishers, Teuchters Landing , Martin Wishart and The Kitchin . Also, the full Scottish breakfast at Roseleaf Bar Cafe is a reason alone to visit Leith.

If you are here on Saturday, head to the farmer’s market for fresh local produces.

21. Explore Underground History at Real Mary King Close

Steeped in history, the Real Mary King Close lies underneath the busy street of the Royal Mile. This family-friendly attraction takes you back in time and tells the unheard stories of the Edinburgh Old Town.

An hour-long guided tour is the only way to explore this historic close and the surrounding maze of narrow alleyways and tenement houses from the 17th century.

It is named after Mary King, a local businesswoman who was a resident of this close. An expert guide will tell you about the life of some of the notable residents who once lived here. Also, you will learn intriguing tales about the deadly plague that ravaged Edinburgh and this close in past centuries.

Over the years, this site has been associated with various folklore, legends and paranormal activities. It was featured in several books and on television as one of the haunted places in the UK.

Price : Adult £21 and child £15.

22. Enjoy Yourself in Edinburgh Christmas Market and Hogmanay

We are perhaps a bit biased, but this city hosts one of the best Christmas markets in Europe. It shines bright with festive spirit at this magical time of the year.

You can find the beautiful Edinburgh Christmas Market in the Princes Street Gardens. There is an array of beautifully decorated chalets selling everything from hot mulled wine to Christmas decorations.

Also, there are plenty of fun rides and activities for all age groups. Younger visitors would love the Christmas Tree Maze, Santa’s Grotto and Nativity Carol Concert. You would love skating at the Alpine ice rink located on George Street.

Hogmanay is an integral part of the Edinburgh Christmas celebration and Scottish tradition. The three-day-long festivity starts with a torchlight procession.

On New Year’s Eve, there are spectacular fireworks displays from the castle . Locals and tourists enjoy themselves at the world-famous Hogmanay Street Party with live music and a delicious selection of street food and drink.

23. Release Your Inner Child at Camera Obscura & World of Illusions 

Camera Obscura and World of Illusions is located at the top of the historic Royal Mile, close to Edinburgh Castle esplanade. If you are not familiar with Camera Obscura, it’s a Latin term for dark chamber and is related to the earliest version of the modern-day camera.

Established in 1835, Camera Obscura is a six-floor building having plenty of entertaining and interactive optical illusions suitable for all age groups. The mindblowing puzzles, mirror maze, and vortex tunnel are thoroughly enjoyable.

The Camera Obscura is still in use and can project the buildings and streets of Edinburgh up and close for visitors. The rooftop terrace offers a superb panoramic view of the sprawling city and the Firth of Forth.

Price : Adult £20.95 and child £16.95.

24. Visit Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art

The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art lies at the West End of Edinburgh. You can also walk here from Dean Village following the Water of Leith pathway. Sitting side by side, there are actually two separate buildings – Modern One and Two.

You will find an extensive collection of modern and contemporary artworks by reputed Scottish and international artists.

There are many interesting outdoor sculptures and art installations on the surrounding ground. The landform by Charles Jencks in front of Modern One looks stunning.

Modern One houses masterpieces by famous artists like Matisse and Picasso. Modern Two hosts various temporary exhibitions all year round. As you enter the building, you will notice a giant 7.3 metre-tall sculpture, Vulcan. Their permanent display includes the recreation of Edinburgh-born artist Eduardo Paolozzi’s studio.

Opening Hours : Open daily, 10 am – 5 pm.

25. Take a Tour of the Scotch Whisky Experience

If you are a whisky enthusiast, a visit to the Scotch Whisky Experience at the top of the Royal Mile will surely interest you. After all, whisky is the national drink of Scotland.

Established in 1988 on the former premise of a school, this visitor attraction in Edinburgh Old Town offers various guided tours to showcase Scotland’s rich history of the whisky industry. It houses the world’s largest collection of whisky bottles. They also have a restaurant and whisky bar on site.

They offer different types of tours. Their expert guide will demonstrate the methods and skills of making scotch whisky. The tour concludes with a wee tasting. Also, you can bring a small bottle back home with you. Audio guides are available in 20 languages. The tour price starts from £21 per adult.

Opening Hours : 10 am – 5 pm.

26. Explore the Scottish National Portrait Gallery

Situated on Queens Street, the Scottish National Portrait Gallery has a superb selection of photographs, sculptures and portraits of some of the most famous Scottish personalities from past and present.

Also, you would be amazed by the glittering friezes and murals of this neo-gothic architectural gem of Edinburgh. The beautifully painted mural at the main entrance hall will surely impress you.

From Mary Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie to Tilda Swinton and Flora Macdonald – You can see all their beautiful portraits here.

This gorgeous red sandstone building was donated in the 19th century by John Ritchie Findlay – the proprietor of The Scotsman newspaper.

It is an amazing free attraction in Edinburgh to spend a rainy day.

Opening Hours : Open daily, 10 am to 5 pm.

27. Discover Writers Museum & Makar’s Court

Located at Lady Stairs close, just a few steps off the Royal Mile, the Writers Museum houses a magnificent collection and memorabilia of three legends of Scottish literature – Robert Burns, Walter Scott and Robert Louis Stevenson.

This picturesque house was built in 1622 by Sir William Gray of Pittendrum, an Edinburgh-based wealthy businessman. Today, the fairy-tale-looking turret draws tourists to this humble museum.

Highlights of your visit would be the first edition of Scott’s Waverley, Burn’s writing desk and a rare cast of his skull, and Robert Louis Stevenson’s personal items. Also, you would get to know a lot about their literary life.

Just outside the Writers Museum lies Makar’s Court, an open space where famous quotes of Scottish writers are etched on flagstones – possibly the most fitting feature to honour Edinburgh, the world’s first UNESCO City of Literature .

Opening Hours : Monday to Saturday, 10 am – 5 pm.

28. Admire the Grand Architecture of the Forth Bridge

An iconic landmark of Scotland, Forth Rail Bridge is an engineering marvel over the Firth of Forth – the estuary of the River Forth.

Located about 10 miles west of Edinburgh City Centre, this bridge connects two villages of Scotland – North and South Queensferry.When this rail bridge was completed in 1890, it was the longest single cantilever bridge in the world. It has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2015.

There are several sightseeing tour companies that offer guided trips to the Forth Bridges. Alternatively, hop on board Lothian Bus service 43 from Princes Street to South Queensferry. Also, it takes only 15 minutes from Edinburgh Waverley to Dalmeny by train.

If you have time, we recommend you take a boat trip from South Queensferry to the picturesque island of Inchcolm.

29. Enjoy Strolls on the Grounds of Lauriston Castle

Away from the hubbub of the busy city centre, Lauriston Castle is a hidden gem of Edinburgh. The history of this castle dates back to the middle ages. Completely Destroyed during the Earl of Hertford’s raid around 1544, Lauriston Castle was rebuilt in 1590.

Once there, explore the grand interior of this Edwardian tower house. If you hear some eerie footsteps inside, don’t worry. It must be the resident ghost, who hasn’t reportedly harmed anyone yet.

This historic house has lovely grounds with a nice little pond, an award-winning modern Japanese garden, and an Italian garden. Also, you would admire the gorgeous view across Edinburgh and Fife coastline. The woodland around the castle is very scenic, especially in spring, with bluebells lying all around.

Opening Hours : 1 April – 30 September, 8 am – 7.30 pm and 1 October – 31 March, 8 am – 4.30 pm.

Price : £8.00 for adults.

30. Build Sandcastles at Portobello Beach

Just a few miles from Edinburgh City Centre, Portobello is a seaside suburb with a sprawling sand beach stretching over two miles. In summer, it’s a popular spot with sunbathers, swimmers, and volleyballers.

Take a stroll along the charming promenade. It is lined with busy pubs and cafes, chippies, arcades and ice cream shops. Plus, this award-winning beach hosts events like the Big Beach Bush and an annual music and sandcastle competition event. Catch the local bus service 15 or 26 from Princes Street to get here.

So, in short, Portobello would be a perfect spot for a breezy beach day in summer.

How Many Days to Spend in Edinburgh

You will need to spend at least two days visiting some of the main attractions in the city. Check out our detailed 2-day itinerary of Edinburgh . But if you want to explore the city’s nooks and crannies more closely, you can easily spend a week here. You can also add some great day trip destinations to your itinerary. 

But if you are really short on time, it’s possible to see some of the highlights in a day.

Best Time to Visit Edinburgh

Although this capital city is a delight to explore all year round, June to August is the perfect time to explore Edinburgh.

The weather remains relatively dry, pleasant and warm, with longer daylights. Usually, July is the hottest month here. Also, it is an ideal time to enjoy various festivals. But this is also the peak tourist season. So, expect long queues at the attractions.

Scottish weather is famous for being unpredictable. You may experience all four seasons in one day. So, carry an umbrella or a rain jacket when you go out.

Edinburgh is also a great destination for a short winter city break in the UK. It hosts a lovely Christmas market.

Map of the Tourist Attractions

Here is a map of all the Edinburgh tourist attractions mentioned in this article. We have also marked some of the best cafes, restaurants, and pubs for you. Save this Google Map on your phone to use it later. Also, you can use it offline.

How to Get Around Edinburgh

Most of the attractions mentioned in this article are spread across the historic Old and New Town. The area is not that huge. So, the cobbled streets of Edinburgh are best explored on foot.

This city has an excellent public transport system. If you are venturing out of the city centre, catch a local Lothian Bus service.

Buses run frequently day and night. It costs £1.80 for a single journey and £4.50 for a day ticket. Also, the tram runs regularly from Edinburgh Airport to St Andrew’s Square.

We hope this article on the best things to do in the city of Edinburgh was helpful to plan your trip. Read our other travel guides of Scotland to fuel your travel inspirations further.

3 thoughts on “30 Epic Things to Do in Edinburgh: Ultimate Guide by a Local”

Excellent. This should be used as a leaflet of Edinburgh for tourist and sightseeing. Informative and interesting, make you want to get up and go do.

Excellent piece! We will definitely use this!

Thanks for the wonderful info. Is there a working link to the ‘detailed 2-day itinerary of Edinburgh” ? Would love to see it.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Skip to main content
• Skip to footer

edinburghtouristguides.com

Professional guides for Edinburgh

Explore Edinburgh with a Blue Badge guide!

A visit to the Scottish capital will undoubtedly be a highlight of your trip to Scotland, and who better to show you around than a local, knowledgeable Blue Badge guide!  Discover the dark alleyways of the Old Town , the Georgian splendour of the New Town or even go a bit further afield to explore the spectacular coastline and surrounding countryside with a qualified, professional tour guide on hand to share the stories, legends and customs of this beautiful part of the world.

Qualified Tourist Guides

Enjoy a bespoke tour tailored to your requirements and interests. Learn more about the different types of tour we can provide here .

When it comes to Edinburgh, we are the professionals!

Established over 60 years ago, the Scottish Tourist Guides Association has over 200 members based in and around Edinburgh.

All our guides are fully trained, qualified, and experienced.

We offer tours in 19 different languages.

Awarded by the Scottish Tourist Guides Association, the ‘Blue Badge’ is a symbol of excellence in tourist guiding.

We are Scotland’s ONLY body of Accredited National Tourist Guides

Established over 60 years ago, we are recommended by the Scottish Government and VisitScotland

Discover Edinburgh’s best kept secrets with a Blue Badge guide! Our guides are knowledgeable, informative and entertaining, and will help you make the most of your visit to Edinburgh.

Look out for our Blue Badge

Whilst each of us has our own unique guiding style, interests, and areas of expertise, we are united by our passion for Scotland’s capital city and our desire to share it with you. Look for our Blue Badge – the mark of excellence in tourist guiding around the globe. We are the only ones to hold it in Scotland.

A warm welcome to visitors to Edinburgh!

Latest News

Love on the Royal Mile

February 9, 2022

A team of STGA Blue Badge guides are offering walking tours with a difference this Valentine's Day! … [Read More...] about Love on the Royal Mile

Tall Tales Returns for Doors Open Day

September 16, 2021

Sat 26th Sep: in person walking tour Sun 27th Sep: virtual tour Enjoy amazing stories behind … [Read More...] about Tall Tales Returns for Doors Open Day

The Pentland Hills – A Favourite Walk

September 6, 2021

Susan Napier, Blue Badge Guide, takes us on a scenic walk through the Pentland Hills just outside … [Read More...] about The Pentland Hills – A Favourite Walk

Edinburgh   Travel Guide

25 Best Things to Do in Edinburgh, Scotland

True to its incredible literary history, Edinburgh is a Jekyll and Hyde city with two very different faces: the UNESCO medieval Old Town with its dark alleyways and shambling buildings and the resplendent Georgian New Town with its wide boulevards

• All Things To Do

Edinburgh Castle Edinburgh Castle

Hoisted high atop Edinburgh, as if monitoring the city below, Edinburgh Castle is not only one of Scotland's most recognized landmarks, but one of the country's most-visited attractions. The castle has been home to various royals throughout history, once housed military prisoners within its thick walls and has changed hands between the Scottish and English after many bloody bombardments and sieges throughout the centuries. Inside its stone walls (which survived a World War I bombing), some of the attractions available for visitors to view are the Honours of Scotland (the oldest crown jewels in Britain), St. Margaret's Chapel (Edinburgh's oldest building), Mons Meg (considered one of the greatest guns in medieval Europe), the National War Museum, the Great Hall and the vaults that once held prisoners of war (located under the Great Hall). If you hear a loud crack at 1 p.m., don't worry: It's the traditional One o'Clock Gun that's been fired off daily (with few exceptions) since 1861.

Visitors have expressed disappointment at the castle's high price of admission, but quickly followed up with a strong recommendation to visit anyway. Travelers loved learning about the ancient complex's history, exploring the grounds and taking in the expansive views of the city. Some suggested springing for an audio guide. Several of Edinburgh's top tours make stops at the castle.

Holyrood Park and Arthur's Seat Holyrood Park and Arthur's Seat free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  While most visitors to Arthur's Seat follow the main route signposted to the summit, this narrow track can be crowded. The Nether Hill – a second promontory near the top – offers the same panorama, and it often feels like you're the only person around. – Suzy Pope

Holyrood Park isn't like other city parks. Sure, you'll find plenty of verdant areas and duck-filled lakes (actually, they are small lochs), but this historic park also boasts Iron Age, Bronze Age and medieval ruins. That's not to mention the huge extinct volcano looming over the vast lawns.

Royal Yacht Britannia Royal Yacht Britannia

Did you know Princess Diana and then-Prince Charles honeymooned aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia? You'll find the impressive yacht anchored at the Leith Docks, north of central Edinburgh. Along with ferrying royal honeymooners (Princess Margaret and her husband were the first to use it), this yacht served as a floating residence for the royal family for more than 44 years. Throughout that time, the Royal Yacht Britannia traveled to 600 ports in 135 countries, clocking in more than 1 million nautical miles for 968 state visits. This made Queen Elizabeth II the most traveled monarch in the world. Visitors can now come aboard and tour the boat fit for a queen; everything from the crew's quarters to the State Apartments, which have housed the likes of Nelson Mandela and Ronald Reagan. You can even have tea in the Royal Deck Tea Room, the same place where the royals used to dine. (Note: the tearoom is only open to those with a Britannia ticket.)

Recent travelers found the interiors to be stunning, the history fascinating and the overall layout of the museum to be very organized. Even those travelers who reported having little interest in the royal family enjoyed the attraction. Some strongly encouraged future travelers to take advantage of the free audio guide given with the ticket, as it made the experience much more informative. 

Popular Tours

Loch Ness, Scottish Highlands, Glencoe & Pitlochry Tour from Edinburgh

(4247 reviews)

from $ 78.43

Loch Ness & Highlands Day Tour Including Cruise from Edinburgh

(5146 reviews)

from $ 123.72

Edinburgh Castle Guided Walking Tour in English

(2640 reviews)

from $ 43.07

Royal Mile Royal Mile free

Stretching from the high-on-a-hill Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse , the Royal Mile is both Old Town Edinburgh's main thoroughfare and one of the city's main streets. Here you'll find top attraction after top attraction, including the Scotch Whisky Experience and  Camera Obscura & World of Illusions , as well as shops selling tartan keepsakes, bottle shops specializing in Scotch whisky, restaurants serving up traditional Scottish fare and pubs housed in old, medieval buildings. You'll often see (and hear) a busking piper by St. Giles' Cathedral , tooting out "Flower of Scotland" on the bagpipes.

If you want to walk the length of the Royal Mile, it's easiest to start from the Castle and make your way downhill to Holyrood Palace. Despite the name, the Royal Mile is not exactly a mile long. It is 1.13 miles long – an old Scots mile which hasn't been used since the 18th century. The oldest remaining building on the Royal Mile is John Knox's House which dates back to 1470 and was home to the famous preacher in the 16th century. It's now a museum. You can get a feel for what 17th-century life was like along the Royal Mile at the Gladstone's Land museum. This medieval tenement building has been restored back to its heyday with costumed guides talking you through the sights, sounds and smells of Edinburgh in the 1600s.

Calton Hill Calton Hill free

If you're like the writer Robert Louis Stevenson, you might enjoy the view from Calton Hill; this spot was a favorite of his. One of the most popular vantage points for photo-ops (and included in the city's UNESCO World Heritage Site distinction), Calton Hill affords a majestic panorama of the city below – so don't forget to bring your camera, or make sure your phone is charged.

Located east of New Town, Calton Hill is one of the country's first public parks, founded in 1724. Today, the hill is home to an unfinished acropolis modeled after the Parthenon , a towering monument dedicated to Admiral Horatio Nelson and a sprawling old complex that was once the Royal Observatory (now an art space). This collection of Greek-style architecture led to Edinburgh's nickname; the Athens of the North. 

Princes Street Gardens Princes Street Gardens free

Situated between Old Town and New Town – and nestled at the base of Edinburgh Castle – are the Princes Street Gardens. Like much of Edinburgh, this area is steeped in history. This park was once a boggy lake known as the Nor Loch where witches were drowned in the 17th and 18th centuries. It's now a huge green space bursting with pristine flower beds. Walkways are shaded by towering chestnut trees and there are vast grassy areas to stretch out on a sunny day. Travelers report the flowerbeds are well-kept and highly encourage future visitors to save time for a quiet walk through the park.

A nice walk is not the only thing to do here, however. On the edge of the gardens, you'll find the Scott Monument, a memorial dedicated to Sir Walter Scott with a viewing platform. Rising up like a warlock's tower from a fantasy novel above Princes Street, the Scott Monument was once described by travel writer Bill Bryson as "a gothic rocket ship." You can walk up 287 steep stairs to the lookout point at the top. Within the gardens there is also the Ross Fountain, a remarkable cast-iron fountain sculpted by Jean-Baptiste Jules Klagmann; a floral clock, which is not only created with thousands of real flowers, but also tells accurate time; and a small gardener's cottage which makes for a pretty photograph but is closed to the public. You'll also find memorials to Robert Louis Stevenson, Scottish American soldiers and Wojtek the Soldier Bear as well as toilets, cafes (the Scottish National Gallery's café terrace sits within the gardens), a bandstand and a playground. Princes Street Gardens regularly hosts events, including the city's Christmas Markets and Winter Festival as well as concerts.

National Museum of Scotland National Museum of Scotland free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  For a beautiful panorama of Edinburgh's Old Town, head to the museum's rooftop terrace. From here, you've got one of the best views of the shambling rooftops with Arthur's Seat looming in the distance and the spire of St Giles' Cathedral jutting upwards. – Suzy Pope

If Edinburgh Castle and Holyroodhouse Palace don't quench your thirst for some Scottish history, take a trip to the National Museum of Scotland. The museum houses a collection of tens of millions of artifacts (though not all are on display), spanning continents and millennia, spread out through its numerous, diverse galleries. Here, visitors will find exhibits dedicated to art and design, the natural world (which features a giant T. rex skeleton), history, archaeology and world cultures. And don't leave without visiting the Dolly the sheep display (named after Dolly Parton), the first mammal to ever be cloned from an adult cell at neighboring Edinburgh University. 

Water of Leith Water of Leith

Snaking through the city center and out into the countryside, the Water of Leith is Edinburgh's main river. It begins (or, rather, ends) at The Shore in Leith where it meets the sea (north of Edinburgh). A walking trail follows the meandering path of the river, running for 13 miles from Leith by the sea to Balerno at the foot of the Pentland Hills . While you could walk the entire trail in an entire day, most people tackle it in sections. From Leith to Stockbridge, you can see the north of the city's industrial history and you can spot one of Antony Gormley's famous sculptures in the river at St. Mark's Park. The pathway is paved in places but is mostly a dirt track which some travelers comment can get muddy after rain. It's best to wear comfortable shoes. Walking a section of the Water of Leith is a serene way to spend a morning, afternoon or full day, protected by trees and enjoying the sound of rushing water.

From Stockbridge, it's a short walk along the path to the Modern Art Galleries, past 18th century St Bernard's Well and the towering Dean Bridge. Another Gormley sculpture stands in the water at the galleries and a stepped path leads from the riverside to the grounds of Modern One. Further along the trail towards Balerno, you'll find the beautiful Victorian gardens of Saughton Park, vibrant street art in the old railway tunnel at Colinton and a Visitor's Center detailing the wildlife and plant life that can be spotted along the route at Slateford, where the river meets the canal.

Isle of Skye, Highlands and Loch Ness 3-Day Tour from Edinburgh

(478 reviews)

from $ 269.99

St Andrews & the Fishing Villages of Fife Small-Group Day Tour from Edinburgh

(1267 reviews)

from $ 75.29

3-Day Isle of Skye and Scottish Highlands Small-Group Tour from Edinburgh

(1057 reviews)

from $ 610.08

Scotch Whisky Experience Scotch Whisky Experience

U.S. News Insider Tip : Whisky connoisseurs shouldn't miss the chance to taste Scottish single malts at the Scotch Malt Whisky Society's bar and members club housed in a 13th century cellar in Leith. The Vaults showcase some of the finest Scotch whiskies within historic and beautiful surroundings. – Suzy Pope

No trip to the capital of Scotland is complete without sampling a wee dram of firewater. If you want to broaden your whisky repertoire, the Scotch Whisky Experience is for you. It features a variety of tours varying in price. The standard Silver Tour lets you become a whisky expert in just under an hour and includes a journey through the production of Scotch whisky, introductions to whisky aromas, a taste of whisky and a glimpse into the largest collection of Scotch whisky (more than 3,300 bottles!). There's also a Gold Tour and Platinum Tour, which includes all that is offered in the Silver Tour as well as additional tastings and membership with the Scotch Whisky Appreciation Society for a year. For a longer visit, try Tasting Tales or A Taste of Scotland tours, which pairs whisky and Scottish cuisine. If you don't want to go on a tour, but still want a taste of the experience, visit Amber Restaurant, located on-site. 

Scottish National Gallery Scottish National Gallery free

While military history fans can get their fill at Edinburgh Castle , art history lovers should make time to visit the Scottish National Gallery. The gallery features displays of fine art from the 14th to 20th centuries. Here you can view the works of great impressionists like Degas and Van Gogh, Velázquez's works from the Baroque period and Nicolas Poussin's "Seven Sacraments." There's also an entire exhibit devoted to Scottish art, featuring works by the likes of Joan Eardley, Phoebe Anna Traquair and Sir Henry Raeburn, among others.

Travelers are quick to compliment the gallery, saying the art is exceptional. It's recently completed a multimillion dollar renovation, expanding vast exhibition spaces.

St. Giles' Cathedral St. Giles' Cathedral

Even if you're unfamiliar with St. Giles' Cathedral, you've probably seen its crown spire in pictures of the Edinburgh skyline. Designed in the Gothic tradition – it was founded in 1124 and is older than most of Old Town – the church has seen drastic alterations since its inception, especially after it switched allegiances from Roman Catholic to Presbyterian during the 1500s Scottish Reformation. Following the Reformation, the church was split into smaller churches and rooms were divided. Two separate restorations in the 1800s returned the church to its full glory. St. Giles' now serves as the official Church of Scotland and in the evening, you may hear organ music and hymns drifting from the glowing stained-glass windows.

You're welcome to explore the building at your own pace, but if you need some guidance, the church runs daily tours at 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. on a pay-what-you-wish basis (be sure to book online in advance to reserve your spot). The church also hosts monthly events, including concerts and art installations.

Camera Obscura & World of Illusions Camera Obscura & World of Illusions

If you're traveling with kids, there is no better place in Edinburgh than Camera Obscura and World of Illusions. Located at the top of the heavily (tourist) trafficked  Royal Mile , Camera Obscura is filled with enough colorful puzzles, games and optical illusions to keep the kids (and adults) entertained for hours. It's also one of the city's oldest attractions, having opened in 1835. 

Inside this Victorian tower of a building, visitors will find the Camera Obscura show, which is over 170 years old and is led by a (usually funny) tour guide. There's also a mirror maze and photogenic vortex tunnel in Bewilderworld, Light Fantastic and a vast collection of holograms. At the hands-on Magic Gallery, visitors can catch their shadows, shake hands with their ghost and even walk on water. There's also something for the history buffs; the 3D Edinburgh exhibit takes you through the city from the 1850s to present day. 

Harry Potter Sites Harry Potter Sites free

J.K. Rowling lived in Edinburgh when she penned the universally beloved "Harry Potter" series of books. Across the city, you can see and visit the places that inspired her wizarding world. There are several "Harry Potter" guided tours that run through the Old Town, led by costumed guides waving wands in the air. The Potter Trail is the original operator of this type of tour and tourgoers report that the guides are fun and knowledgeable and enjoyed being sorted into houses and earning points throughout.

Most tours stop outside the now famous café said to be where Rowling wrote the majority of the first book: the Elephant House on George IV Bridge. Sadly, a fire consumed the interior in 2022 so you can no longer grab a coffee and sit by the window overlooking Greyfriars Kirkyard , but you can still see the exterior and snap a photo or two. A visit to the kirkyard (churchyard) itself is possible though, where you can spot the tombstones that allegedly inspired the names of many Harry Potter characters, including the gravestone of Thomas Riddell and Cruikshanks (pronounced Crookshanks). It is also said to be the inspiration for the Little Hangleton graveyard in the books. From here, you can also see the gothic spires of George Heriot's School towering against the sky. Hogwarts is rumored to be based on this formidable building, which you can spot from the Elephant House, kirkyard or (for an even better view) from the Edinburgh Castle esplanade.

3-Day Isle of Skye and Highlands Inc Accommodation from Edinburgh

(626 reviews)

from $ 514.27

Underground Vaults Walking Tour in Edinburgh Old Town

(5415 reviews)

from $ 25.71

Outlander Locations Tour Including Admissions from Edinburgh

(653 reviews)

from $ 115.36

Palace of Holyroodhouse Palace of Holyroodhouse

If you're one for the royals, a stop at the Palace of Holyroodhouse is a must. The palace is the official Scottish residence of the king and has housed many other notable royal figures throughout history, including King George V, Charles I and Mary, Queen of Scots. When the current monarch isn't home, visitors are welcome to tour parts of the property. Visitors are able to explore Mary, Queen of Scots' Chambers, the State Apartments, the Throne Room, the area where new knights are decided and the Great Gallery, which houses portraits of all the kings of Scotland. Travelers also have the opportunity to visit the dramatic stone skeleton of The Abbey, included in the standard admission to Holyroodhouse Palace. Next to the Palace is the Queen's Gallery, which houses a fabulous collection of old master paintings and antique furniture, but it is currently closed for refurbishment until 2024.

Apart from opulent rooms and stately apartments, there's a tearoom open year-round at Holyroodhouse, even when the monarch is in residence. Recent travelers enjoyed their time exploring the Palace of Holyroodhouse and particularly loved the on-site gardens, abbey and the view of Arthur's Seat . A few were disappointed that they were not permitted to take photos inside. Some strongly recommended utilizing the audio guide or taking a guided tour, as it helped the great history of the attraction come alive. Several of Edinburgh's top tours make stops at the palace.

Edinburgh Zoo Edinburgh Zoo

Owned by the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland, the Edinburgh Zoo focuses on conservation and education. Visiting its more than 2,500 animal residents, you can spot penguins, tiny monkeys, Scottish wildcats, red pandas and pygmy hippopotamuses. For another treat, attend a zookeeper talk to learn more about the creatures housed on-site. The zoo also hosts a range of experiences (for an additional fee) that allow visitors to walk in a zookeeper's shoes or meet their favorite animal up-close. Every day, there is a penguin parade around lunchtime, where you can watch the little aquatic birds waddle along the path between enclosures.

Prior to becoming a zoo in 1913, the grounds were a nursery. Today, the zoo keeps that tradition alive with its own on-site gardens. Displays in the garden rotate seasonally, but if you time your visit right, you could see bananas growing on the trees.

Grassmarket and Victoria Street Grassmarket and Victoria Street

One of the oldest parts of Edinburgh, the Grassmarket is a vast square beneath the south side of Edinburgh Castle where merchants used to gather to sell their livestock. Cowgate, the street that runs towards the Grassmarket and the hub of Edinburgh's liveliest nightlife, is a nod to this history. The Grassmarket itself is a popular spot for a pint or two. Pubs that have stood for centuries line one side of the square with tables and chairs spilling out onto the pavement, ideal for those rare moments of Scottish sunshine in summer. The White Hart Inn is allegedly Edinburgh's oldest and most haunted pub and has stood in the same spot since 1516, retaining the same name throughout the centuries. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, there's an excellent array of spirits inside in the form of a vast whiskey collection. While some travelers have commented that the Grassmarket can be rowdy at the weekend due to its reputation as a popular stag and hen party (bachelor and bachelorette party) destination, there's no denying the cozy atmosphere in the older pubs and the selection of independent retailers is excellent.

Branching directly off the northeast corner of the Grassmarket, Victoria Street is a picture-perfect rainbow of old townhouses that twists towards George IV Bridge. It is said to be the inspiration for Diagon Alley in the "Harry Potter" books, an accolade that has seen many wizard-themed shops open up on the street. It's rare that a day goes by without numerous travelers snapping a picture of this iconic street – low levels of traffic make it easy to pose in front of the striking, multicolored buildings. Apart from wands and stuffed owls, boutique shops sell a variety of treasures from handmade tartan to artisanal cheese and vintage whiskies. Up a twisting spiral stone staircase, Victoria Terrace runs above the street where there are a handful of Scottish restaurants with outdoor seating and you can catch an exceptional view of the street below before reaching the Royal Mile in two minutes on foot. 

The Real Mary King's Close The Real Mary King's Close

Buried beneath the Old Town of Edinburgh, there's a close (a narrow street lined with residential tenement houses) that was lost to time. Site of an outbreak of the Black Death, this subterranean street is said to be one of the most haunted places in Scotland. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, visiting this eerie site just off the Royal Mile is a fascinating insight into tenement life in the 1600s.  The close was named for Mary King, a merchant who sold clothes and cloth to support her four children after her husband passed away. (She also had a seat on the Edinburgh Council and had voting rights.)

A character guide leads the hourlong guided tours of the close, during which you'll learn about Edinburgh's rich history. Guides include a maid to a merchant family, poet Robert Fergusson, a plague doctor and a foul clenger (someone who cleared infected homes during the Great Plague of 1645). 

Surgeons' Hall Museums Surgeons' Hall Museums

Indulge your inner scientist at the Surgeons' Hall Museums, which contains a vast collection of artifacts related to surgical pathology. At the Wohl Pathology Museum, you'll learn about the history and advancement of medicine, how specimens were preserved, surgery in times of war, women's role in surgery and more. (Keep in mind, the remains on display are real. The museum acknowledges the debt science owes to those who suffered and died so medicine could advance.) This is not an attraction for the faint of heart, but those with a macabre side or who relish in the history of science shouldn't miss out.

The History of Surgery Museum looks at Edinburgh's role in surgery. It covers everything from the discovery of antiseptic to the darker side of medicine (where dissection was used as a punitive measure). This museum also has an interactive dissection table.

Glenfinnan Viaduct, Glencoe and Fort William Tour from Edinburgh

(507 reviews)

from $ 83.57

Edinburgh Castle: Guided Walking Tour with Entry Ticket

(1995 reviews)

from $ 45.00

Scottish Highlands, Loch Ness and Glencoe Day Trip from Edinburgh

(1870 reviews)

from $ 75.86

Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh free

If you're looking for some peace and serenity after a long day on the Royal Mile , the Royal Botanic Gardens are the perfect place for a calming stroll. This garden, which covers 70 acres, brims with so much beautiful foliage along meandering pathways you're likely to forget that you're in one of Scotland's biggest cities. The garden is famous for its rhododendron flowers. The Royal Botanic Garden's collection is considered the world's richest assemblage of rhododendrons, and it has been a major center for study since the late 19th century. After you've visited these famous flowers, take a stroll through the giant redwood trees in the Woodland Garden, or view the contemporary art gallery in Inverleith House where a rotation of modern art exhibitions tackle themes like climate change, colonialism and plant life. And if you're in town during Christmas, make time to visit the gardens for the festive light displays which sees the foliage illuminated at night with soundscapes and torchlight providing the atmosphere (tickets sell out so it's best to book in advance). Hoping to see the glasshouses and the 13,500 species housed inside? Unfortunately, you'll have to wait: The structures are undergoing a major renovation projected to finish in 2030.

Recent visitors strongly recommended this attraction simply for its beauty and the serenity it brings. Travelers say no matter what time of year you visit, there is always something in bloom. Don't forget to take your camera; the garden is as photogenic as you can imagine.

Greyfriars Kirkyard Greyfriars Kirkyard free

Tucked down a cobbled street off George IV Bridge, Greyfriars Kirkyard (meaning churchyard in Scots) is a surprisingly peaceful spot by day with the sun filtering through the leaves of ancient oak trees and birds cheeping between the mossy old gravestones. Perusing the inscriptions on the tombs, you might spot some familiar names, like Ebenezer Scroggy, said to be the inspiration for Charles Dickens' Scrooge character in "A Christmas Carol." Cloaked guides lead tour groups through the kirkyard at all hours of the day. When the sun's up, " Harry Potter " tours (such as The Potter Trail ), spotting the gravestones that inspired characters from the books (which were written in cafes across Edinburgh, namely the Elephant House which looks out over the kirkyard). At the back of the graveyard a wrought-iron gates leads to the beautiful George Heriot's school which is rumored to be J.K. Rowling's inspiration for Hogwarts. By night, cloaked guides take visitors in search of something more sinister. Greyfriars Kirkyard is said to be one of the most haunted spots in Scotland and City of the Dead tours lead tourgoers through the dark mausoleums and shadowy corners of the graveyard with tales of poltergeists, witches and body snatchers.

But the graveyard's most famous inhabitant isn't a poltergeist or a wizard: it's a dog. The story of Greyfriars Bobby is a favorite among Scottish children and warms the hearts of visitors to the kirkyard. In the 19th century, Bobby, a sprightly Skye terrier, would follow his master around town as he made his rounds as night watchman. After his master died of tuberculosis, the little terrier refused to leave the man's grave in the kirkyard. Rain or shine, he slept on his master's grave until he passed away. Moved by the act of loyalty to his master, the keepers of the kirkyard allowed Bobby to be buried alongside him. You can see a statue dedicated to Bobby just outside the entrance to the graveyard. His nose has turned golden from visitors touching it for luck. This a habit only started a few years ago by a tour guide and has no bearing in tradition. It is something of a controversial topic for local Edinburgers, so touching the nose might earn you a few tuts from locals passing by. 

Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art free

The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art is split between two buildings at the edge of Edinburgh's Georgian New Town. Modern One is the smaller of the two, with two gallery spaces and a sprawling sculpture garden. It is dedicated to the leading modern art of today, showcasing works by local artists currently on the scene in ever-changing exhibitions alongside permanent exhibitions of late 20th century works by big names like Picasso. It can be accessed from the main street on Belford Road or by a steep staircase from the Water of Leith pathway.

Modern Two is on the other side of Belford Road, in a striking neoclassical building with grand columns outside. In here, you'll find works by global artists from the 19th and 20th centuries, like Picasso, Matisse, and Lichtenstein. Keeping things local, there is also a vast collection of works by Scottish modern artists like Samuel John Peploe, John Duncan Fergusson, Douglas Gordon and Steven Campbell. The crowning glory to most may be the huge sculpture by Eduardo Paolozzi which presides over the Paolozzi Kitchen café inside. Perhaps overlooked in favor of the eye-catching and ground-breaking works in the exhibition rooms, Modern Two is also home to the Gabrielle Keiller Library – a beautiful, book-filled space with one of the world's best collection of books on Dadaism and surrealism.

Dean Village Dean Village free

It may be close to the city center but, as the name suggests, there's a cute small-town feel to the Dean Village. Old watermills and pretty buildings perch on the Water of Leith creating a setting that belongs on a postcard. The Dean Village went undiscovered for many years and was something of a local secret until the days of social media. Now, there's an almost endless stream of influencers and visitors stopping on the narrow footbridge to snap the perfect picture of this bucolic scene. But who can blame them when the surroundings are this pretty? The walkways here are littered with old millstones worn smooth with age and the meandering Water of Leith pathway leads off to the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art in one direction and towards Stockbridge and Leith in the other. The most iconic building in the Dean Village is Wells Court. This beautiful red complex features a clock tower and was built to house mill workers in the 1880s.

Recent reviews commented on the lack of facilities other than an occasional coffee cart, but from Dean Village, it's a short, half-mile walk along the Water of Leith path to the cute neighborhood of Stockbridge where you'll find fine dining restaurants alongside cozy brunch spots and trendy cafés. This is one of the best areas in Edinburgh for thrift store shopping, too, and it is next to the Royal Botanic Gardens . Recent travelers have also remarked that the stream of influencers and photographers to the Dean Village has disturbed the idyllic village feel, but that it's still worth a visit for the scenery. To reach the Dean Village from Princes Street, you'll walk nearly a mile. The Nos. 37, 43 and 19 bus routes run to Dean Bridge from Princes Street, but it is a steep downhill walk to the village itself.

Dynamic Earth Dynamic Earth

In a city perched on an extinct volcano, what better place to visit a museum of geology and natural history than Edinburgh. You can't miss the exterior of Dynamic Earth, rising like a white sail from the base of Arthur's Sea t. Inside, a series of interactive exhibits, cover the Earth's creation, geology, ecosystems, animal life and more. There's also an on-site planetarium. Refurbished in 2020 with new projectors and software, the planetarium gives visitors the chance to marvel at the celestial bodies visible in Earth's night sky and learn about the latest space discoveries. Travelers rave about the Planetarium but concede that some of the other exhibitions feel a little dated in comparison. Though a fun experience overall, some travelers mention that Dynamic Earth may be best suited for children, rather than adults.

Tickets can be purchased online in advance. Tickets cost 19.50 pounds (about $24) for adults, 12 pounds (about $15) for children 4 to 15 and are free for kids younger than 4. Tickets include access to both the exhibits and the planetarium. You can also purchase tickets to the planetarium show only for 7.70 pounds (around $9.30) per person. Dynamic Earth is open Wednesday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. It's closed Monday and Tuesday.

3-Day Isle of Skye Inverness Highlands and Glenfinnan Viaduct Tour from Edinburgh

(928 reviews)

from $ 236.57

Edinburgh Food & Drink Tour with Eat Walk Tours

(291 reviews)

from $ 122.14

Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and the Kelpies Tour from Edinburgh

(702 reviews)

from $ 77.14

Pentland Hills Pentland Hills free

U.S. News Insider Tip: For the perfect post-hike pint after a day exploring, the Flotterstone Inn can't be beat. After settling in with a real ale and plate of hearty pub fare by the wood-burning stove at this 17th-century inn, catch the 101 or 102 bus back into Edinburgh. – Suzy Pope

From the top of Arthur's Seat or from the parks of Edinburgh, you can catch glimpses of rugged, heather-bruised hills just outside the city. These are the Pentland Hills and taking a trip out to Balerno, Hillend or Bonaly (all at the end of Lothian Bus routes), gives you access to this region's abundant hiking trails. From Bonaly, you can explore the wilderness of Bonaly Country Park or head for a circular route around Torduff Reservoir where the glass-like surface of the water reflects the gorse-speckled hills on sunny, summer days. From Balerno, farmland turns to quiet valleys through wind-beaten hills just beyond the Threipmuir and Harlaw Reservoirs. You can follow an 8-mile trail through Maiden's Cleugh to Flotterstone. Hillend is where a dry ski slope runs down the hillside; it's where Edinburgh kids practice their snow ploughs before ski season in Glencoe or the Cairngorms Mountains. There's also a hiking route for keen hillwalkers, up to the summit of Caerketton Hill for a stunning panorama of the city in one direction and endless rolling landscape in the other.

Blackness Castle Blackness Castle

After exploring Edinburgh Castle , head about 20 miles west of the city to experience Blackness Castle. While there are a number of castles outside the city (this is the land of many a border skirmish, after all), Blackness is one of the most striking, perched on the water of the Firth of Forth. Built in the 1400s, the castle was not only a residence for the Crichton family – one of Scotland's most powerful families – but was also a prison and a fortress. It was in service for nearly 500 years and was decommissioned and returned to the state as a tourist attraction after World War I. Sitting right on the water's edge, it's referred to as "the ship that never sailed," given its three towers make the stone building look like a ship run aground.

Today, visitors can explore Blackness and climb its towers and along its curtain wall for both stunning views of the building and the Firth of Forth. You'll also get to explore the interior; there are informative placards throughout. Travelers were pleasantly surprised by the castle, saying that it's a hidden gem. They loved the views from the curtain walls. "Outlander" fans particularly enjoyed the stop, as the castle was used as Fort William in the show's first season.

Things to Do in Edinburgh FAQs

Explore more of edinburgh.

Best Hotels

When To Visit

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

The 50 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Holly Johnson December 1, 2023

The 26 Best Zoos in the U.S.

Rachael Hood November 16, 2023

44 Cheap Tropical Vacations That Feel Expensive

Holly Johnson|Alissa Grisler November 10, 2023

Europe Chevron

United Kingdom Chevron

Scotland Chevron

Edinburgh Chevron

11 Best Things to Do in Edinburgh

By Freya Herring

If you're not into history, then Edinburgh might not be for you—but it'll be your loss, because it happens to be one of the world’s best cities to soak it all up. It’s not all antiquity and Harry Potter, though; in one moment, you might find yourself wandering around a 1,000-year-old building, and in the next, viewing the work of Scotland’s most cutting-edge artists. Oh, and did we mention the gelato? We've got it all covered on this list, our picks for the best things to do (and see, and eat) in Scotland’s capital city.

Arthur's Seat Arrow

As you ascend the hill known as Arthur’s Seat, you can’t believe you're less than two miles from the center of Scotland’s capital city—the wild, rugged, and rocky climb is only a 45-minute walk each way. If you do it early in the day or late in the afternoon, you’ll see local runners; but most people just walk this trail, which takes you right to the center of Holyrood Park—and to the spectacular views over the city and the Firth of Forth.

Greyfriars Kirkyard Arrow

Sure, it's a graveyard—but Greyfriars Kirkyard, which has been housing the dead since the late 1500s, is no ordinary cemetery. In fact, it's one of the most popular tourist destinations in Edinburgh. The dog statue outside the gates pays tribute to Bobby, the faithful canine who laid at his owner's grave for 14 years; it's considered good luck to rub his nose. Check out the caged graves (known as mortsafes), made to protect cadavers from being exhumed and sold to Edinburgh Medical College for dissection—a huge problem in Edinburgh during the early 19th-century.

Royal Mile Arrow

You would struggle to miss Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, even if you tried. Splicing through the Old Town (Edinburgh also has a New Town, built in the late 1700s), the Royal Mile is actually a succession of streets that link the two royal buildings of Scotland’s capital: Edinburgh Castle at the top of the hill, and the Palace of Holyroodhouse, a mile away, at the bottom. It’s lined, too, with Edinburgh’s famed closes (historic, narrow laneways) and plays host to some excellent, albeit touristy, shopping. But ignore the tat and head straight for the cashmere, the key thing to buy in Scotland; the Royal Mile’s wool shops often offer great deals.

Water of Leith Walkway Arrow

The Water of Leith Walkway is a 12-mile path that leads from Balerno in Edinburgh’s suburbs, all the way through the capital itself, to the Firth of Forth at Leith on the northernmost tip of the city. Mostly green and leafy, the path largely follows the river known as the Water of Leith, although there are brief interludes that diverge. It’s a long way, so most people opt for sections—on foot, by bike, or, in some parts, on horse—but you can certainly see the whole thing if you have the stamina.

Jessica Puckett

Caitlin Morton

Olivia Morelli

National Museum of Scotland Arrow

If you want to learn about Scottish history and identity, the National Museum of Scotland is your one-stop-shop. It’s in the beating heart of central Edinburgh, and therefore easy to access, and you can’t miss it—it’s one of the few contemporary buildings in this UNESCO-listed part of the city. Inside, you can view the famed Lewis Chessmen, carved in ornate detail from walrus ivory in the 12th century, as well as historic clothing, plus furniture from Scotland’s most acclaimed designers (most notably, Charles Rennie Mackintosh). Don't miss the macabre Miniature Coffins: tiny wooden figures inside little pine coffins that were discovered on Arthur’s Seat in 1836 and have been bound with tales of witchcraft and voodoo ever since. Kids will go nuts for the dinosaur exhibits. Entry is free, and you can take one of the free guided tours, but the labeling throughout is so good throughout that you'll probably be fine going it solo.

Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art Arrow

There are so many things to love about the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art—not least, the peace and quiet. Situated a leisurely (and very enjoyable) half-hour walk from Edinburgh’s Old Town, the gallery is actually two separate Georgian mansions (known as Modern One and Modern Two) separated by a lush sculpture park. Modern One houses some of Scotland’s best collections of modern art, from the Scottish Colourists to Tracey Emin. Hop past the pond and you’ll find yourself at Modern Two, which is renowned for its extensive collection of Dada and Surrealist works, along with the reconstructed studio of pioneering Scottish Pop artist Eduardo Paolozzi. Look out for the changing exhibitions, too—a lot of Europe’s leading shows visit these galleries. And the best part is the museum is completely free (except for temporary exhibitions) so you can wander in and out at your leisure, all while soaking up classic Georgian Edinburgh.

Mary King's Close Arrow

What’s particularly special about Edinburgh’s Old Town is how relatively unchanged it is from its Medieval past. Walking through its ancient streets is like walking through time itself, and Mary King’s Close is one of the best-preserved slices of history in the city. Closes—or alleyways—like Mary King’s were once teeming with people, vermin, crime, and, inevitably, the Plague. Things were so filthy in the 18th century that eventually the city decided to build its new Royal Exchange building (now the City Chambers) on top of the existing city, rather than next to it, thereby sentencing streets like Mary King’s to a lifetime of enclosed darkness. The last resident moved out in 1902; today, tour guides dressed as former residents lead groups around the dark space, where there are still eight-story buildings in situ, all completely underground. Just make sure to book your ticket ahead—it's very popular, and deservedly so.

Edinburgh Castle Arrow

Overlooking the city and capping Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle looms over Scotland’s capital. Inside the ticket-only affair, you’ll see the Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny, and room after majestic room befitting of Scotland’s former royal family. Don’t miss the quiet calm of Saint Margaret’s Chapel, built in 1130, the oldest building in Edinburgh, or the National War Museum, also onsite. Visit the castle earlier in the day rather than later, when it can get crowded, but stick around until 1 p.m. if you can, when a gun is shot into the sky. And if you don’t want to pay the steep £18.50 entry fee (about $24), walk up the Royal Mile to the top and you'll still get to see the castle up close. The scenic views over Edinburgh and the mountains beyond come free of charge.

The Stand Comedy Club Arrow

Comedy is a fundamental part of Scottish culture—having good craic, or banter, is basically what makes you an acceptable human being in this country. So experiencing a Scottish comedy club zeroes in on this most foundational of Scottish-isms. The Stand, a basement club with performances every night, has a bit of a cult reputation—this is where comedians go to see comedy. It's frequented mainly by locals, but the lucky tourists who know about it will see a side of Scotland they otherwise might not. Although you can book tickets for The Stand (and we recommend you do so in advance), seats aren't assigned, so your best bet is to show up before the doors open to make sure you get a spot; otherwise, you’ll be standing at the bar.

Advocate's Close Arrow

Walk down the Royal Mile and you’ll see open doorways near the castle end of the street. In Edinburgh terms, these are known as "closes"; basically, very old, narrow, steep streets once replete with open sewers. Now home to bars, restaurants, and museums, they offer a true taste of historic Edinburgh. Advocate’s Close is a particularly interesting one; positioned up high, it affords views of the Scott Monument and a good portion of Edinburgh. Halfway down, The Devil's Advocate is a moodily lit bar that serves up excellent cocktails in a historic setting.

Mary's Milk Bar Arrow

Mary’s Milk Bar is the best gelateria in Edinburgh—maybe in Scotland—so there's almost always a line here. There will always be the stalwarts—vanilla, chocolate, and the like—but your best is to go for some of the more creative flavors, like ginger and rhubarb; strawberry and elderflower; damson ripple; or tea and biscuits. There are even savory options. You'll see people from all walks of life: locals who want their ice cream fix, trend-seekers who have seen Mary’s on Instagram, and tourists looking to see what all the fuss is about. With only a handful of seats, Mary’s is tiny, but most people are getting their goodies to go. If you're lucky enough to snag a seat, it’s well worth staying for a Knickerbocker Glory, the Holy Grail of British sundaes. Don’t ask them what’s in it—let yourself be surprised.

Recommended

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

We've noticed that you're using an out of date browser. We recommend that you update to the latest version to enhance your browsing experience.

Availability Search for  Edinburgh - City Centre

Terms & conditions.

This booking system and any information appearing on this page relating to the availability of any accommodation is provided by third parties and not by VisitScotland. It is intended to provide real time availability information relating to accommodation which is also provided by third parties. You may use this booking system to place direct bookings with third party accommodation providers. Any booking you make will not be placed with VisitScotland and we will have no liability to you in respect of any booking. If you proceed to make a booking you will leave our Website and visit a website owned and operated by a third party. VisitScotland does not have any control over the content or availability of any external website. This booking system and any information appearing on this page is provided for your information and convenience only and is not intended to be an endorsement by VisitScotland of the content of such linked websites, the quality of any accommodation listed, or of the services of any third party.

Copyright: Anthony Brown

Edinburgh - City Centre

Central Edinburgh has two distinct parts, divided by Princes Street, which runs roughly east-west under the shadow of Castle Rock.

Related items of interest

Cookies are required to view this content. Change your preferences at Manage Cookie Settings

The content of many of our web listings is provided by third party operators and not VisitScotland. VisitScotland accepts no responsibility for (1) any error or misrepresentation contained in third party listings, and (2) the contents of any external links within web listings ((1) and (2) together hereinafter referred to as the "Content"). VisitScotland excludes all liability for loss or damage caused by any reliance placed on the Content. The Content is provided for your information only and is not endorsed by VisitScotland.

What's Nearby

Accommodation, attractions, food & drink, terms and conditions.

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Edinburgh Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 1, 2023

As the capital of Scotland since the 15th century, Edinburgh has a rich history (especially literary history; the city was designated a UNESCO City of Literature in 2004). Both the Old Town and New Town are also UNESCO World Heritage sites and there are centuries of myths and legends about the spooky underbelly of the city ( which you can learn about on a haunted ghost tour .

As the second-most visited city in the UK, there are tons of things to see and do here no matter what your interests are. There are beautiful walks, historic buildings, lively pubs, huge festivals (such as the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and Hogmanay), a castle, Harry Potter tours, and much, much more.

This travel guide to Edinburgh can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit to this historic and picturesque city!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Edinburgh

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Edinburgh

1. Visit Edinburgh Castle

Built in the 12th century, Edinburgh Castle sits on a hill overlooking the city’s Old Town. It’s the most besieged place in Great Britain and you can easily spend hours here exploring and learning the castle’s history (the Crown Jewel exhibit is worth the price alone). Admission is 15.50 GBP.

2. Hike to Arthur’s Seat

Arthur’s Seat is an extinct volcano on the outskirts of Edinburgh. With a height of 251 meters (823 feet), it provides hikers with a picturesque panorama of the city. The hike takes an hour each way. If the weather is nice, bring a picnic and spend an afternoon looking out over the city.

3. Walk the Royal Mile

This pedestrian road is lined with pubs, restaurants, and shops. While touristy (it can get crowded in the summer), it’s also incredibly beautiful and historic. There are many historical monuments and buildings to check out nearby, such as the medieval St. Giles’ Cathedral.

4. Tour Rosslyn Chapel

Founded in 1446, this historic chapel near Edinburgh was made famous in The Da Vinci Code . The chapel is ripe with intricate artwork and symbolism that has spawned many conspiracy theories. Located just an hour from Edinburgh, admission is 9.50 GBP.

5. See the Scott Monument

Other things to see and do in edinburgh, 1. take a free walking tour.

The best way to get the lay of the land is to take a walking tour. You get a feel for the city and get to see the main sights while also having a local expert on hand to answer your questions. I always take a free walking tour when I arrive at a new destination. It’s the best way to get situated. New Europe has a great free tour that lasts a couple of hours — just be sure to tip your guide at the end!

2. Hang out in Calton Hill

Calton Hill is a quiet place to escape the noise of the city and admire the view. Take a hike to the top of the hill where you can sit and relax in a peaceful park-like setting. The National Monument of Scotland (a memorial to the soldiers who fought in the Napoleonic Wars between 1803-1815) and the Nelson Monument, dedicated to Horatio Nelson (a famous 18th-century British Admiral) are located here.

3. Explore Princes Street Gardens

For another free outing, spend an afternoon at Princes Street Gardens, which boasts a beautiful view of Edinburgh Castle. The garden is composed of two main parks and dates to the 1770s, when Edinburgh’s largest lake, Nor Loch, was drained to create the park. Today, the park is beloved by tourists and visitors alike, with vendors selling food and souvenirs here. At Christmas, the Garden turns into a German-style winter fair, full of stalls selling food, mulled wine, toys, and rides (the Christmas markets usually open mid-November).

4. Tour the Museum of Edinburgh

This museum is in the 16th-century Huntly House (one of the historic buildings on the Royal Mile) and offers insight into the city and its past. The museum is home to the National Covenant (an important Scottish Presbyterian document from 1638) as well as some original city plans and a miniature of the Old Town. There are also works of art, silverware, weapons, and more. The museum is free.

5. Visit the National Gallery of Scotland

This impressive gallery is home to works by Monet, Rembrandt, Degas, Vermeer, and Van Gogh, as well as works by famous Scottish painters like Allan Ramsay, David Wilkie, and William McTaggart. Opened in 1859, the gallery was designed in the Neoclassical style to look like an ancient Greek temple. Works span the centuries from the Renaissance to the 20th century and the gallery is free to enter (some temporary exhibits have a fee).

6. Attend a summer festival

During the summer, Edinburgh is home to several huge festivals. The most popular is the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Held in August, this festival brings in performers and entertainers of all kinds — actors, musicians, buskers, and more. The festival lasts three weeks and is the biggest festival of its kind in the world. Keep in mind that during this time, accommodation prices skyrocket and the city floods with people. If you plan to attend, make sure you book your accommodation in advance. The Edinburgh International Film Festival in June and the Edinburgh Jazz Festival in July are two other big festivals worth attending in the summer.

7. Take a ghost tour

Edinburgh has a spooky history and there are many tours that illuminate the city’s eerie past by taking you around to graveyards and through underground tunnels. Even if you don’t believe in ghosts, the tours take you to some old and interesting parts of Edinburgh. Don’t miss the Ghost Bus tour as well as a tour of the Vaults (the underground tunnels below the city) — both of which you do at night!

8. Drink some scotch

Learn how scotch is made by touring the Scotch Whisky Experience. It’s part museum, part interactive attraction (there’s even a barrel ride where you sit in a fake barrel and learn about the whisky-making process). There are also exhibits to show you the history of Scotland’s famous drink and how it came to hold such a revered place in the culture. Prices vary depending on what type of tour you want but begin at 17 GBP.

9. Celebrate Hogmanay

Hogmanay is one of the world’s biggest and most famous New Year’s Eve celebrations . Tens of thousands of people gather in the city streets to celebrate with torchlight processions, concerts, and fireworks. Prepare yourself for lots of drinking, holiday festivities, live music, and huge crowds. Book your accommodation far in advance as tens of thousands of people attend the festival.

10. Have fun at Camera Obscura

Founded in 1835, Camera Obscura is a fun and educational interactive museum. It’s home to over 100 exhibits that use light, mirrors, and technology to create stunning optical illusions. It’s located right in the heart of the Old Town making it easily accessible for anyone traveling with kids (or anyone who wants to indulge their inner child). It’s part science, part illusion, and all fun. Admission is 18 GBP.

11. Take a Harry Potter tour

If you’re a fan of J.K. Rowling’s epic fantasy series, be sure to book a spot on The Potter Trail, Edinburgh’s original Harry Potter tour. Tours are held daily and cover all the main sites in the city that relate to the books. The tour lasts 90 minutes and is accessible for both casual enthusiasts as well as die-hard fans. The tour is free, though make sure to tip your guides as well.

12. Visit St. Giles’ Cathedral

Also known as the High Kirk of Edinburgh, St. Giles’ Cathedral is located on the Royal Mile and was originally built in the 12th century. The current building dates to the 14th century and was formerly a Roman Catholic Cathedral (St. Giles is now part of the Church of Scotland). In addition to the beautiful and austere interior, the cathedral is home to some noteworthy monuments, including one to famed Scottish author Robert Louis Stevenson, who wrote Treasure Island and The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde . Admission is free. Remember that this is a place of worship, so dress respectfully.

  For more information on other cities in Scotland, check out these guides:

• Glasgow Travel Guide

Edinburgh Travel Costs

Hostel prices – Most 4-8-bed dorms cost 16-22 GBP, while a bed in a dorm with 10 or more beds costs 12-14 GBP per night. Prices tend to rise a few pounds in the summer and drop a few in the winter. Private double rooms cost 50-75 GBP per night.

Free Wi-Fi and lockers are standard and most hostels also have self-catering facilities. Free breakfast is rare, but a few hostels in the city do offer it. Be sure to book those hostels in advance if it’s a priority.

Budget hotel prices – Budget hotels cost around 50-65 GBP per night. These usually include free Wi-Fi and some offer free breakfast.

A private Airbnb room costs 30 GBP per night while entire homes/apartments start at 55 GBP per night (though most cost 70 GBP per night or more).

For those traveling with a tent, camping is another option here — especially if you head out to the nearby Loch Lomond National Park. Expect to pay around 17 GBP per night for a basic plot (which is just a flat space for a tent; electricity is generally not included). Most parks close for the winter, so availability is limited come late October/early November. If you’re in a car or campervan, you can use the app ‘park4night’ to find paid overnight parking, free overnight parking, and campgrounds.

Food – Scottish food is hearty, heavy, and filling. Seafood is abundant, and popular traditional dishes include blood pudding, minced beef, fish and chips, smoked herring, neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes), and of course haggis (a dish composed of minced sheep’s organs and spices inside a sheep’s stomach casing). Porridge is a common breakfast choice, though a larger breakfast of sausage, eggs, beans, and bread is not uncommon either. Sticky toffee pudding is a favorite dessert, and of course, you can’t visit Scotland without sampling some scotch.

Expect to pay around 10-12 GBP for a basic meal like a Scottish breakfast or haggis. For pub food like fish and chips or a burger, prices are usually between 15-25 GBP. For a full three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant, prices begin around 30 GBP.

A pint of beer is 4 GBP while a glass of wine is around 5.50 GBP. A latte or cappuccino is around 2.70 GBP.

A classic fish and chips from a no-frills takeaway spot is around 6 GBP. Chinese takeout is around 8-10 GBP, while a basic fast food combo meal (think McDonald’s) costs around 6 GBP. Street food (like from a food truck) costs around 6-8 GBP.

The Mosque Kitchen is one of the cheapest restaurants in the entire city. You can get an excellent meal there for 6-8 GBP.

For a week’s worth of groceries, expect to pay 40-60 GBP. This covers basic staples like pasta, rice, seasonal produce, and some meat. The cheapest supermarkets to look out for are Aldi, Lidl, Asda, and Tesco.

Backpacking Edinburgh Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget, you can visit Edinburgh for about 55 GBP per day. This means staying in a dorm room or camping, cooking all of your meals, limiting your drinking, sticking to mostly free activities like hiking and free walking tours, and using public transportation to get around.

On a mid-range budget of about 100 GBP per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb room, eat out for most of your meals (sticking to a lot of pub foods), do more paid activities like visiting museums or galleries, enjoying a couple of drinks at the bar, and taking the occasional taxi to get around. You’re not going to live large, but you can get by without worrying too much about your spending.

On a “luxury” budget of 200 GBP or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for every meal, drink what you want, and visit as many museums and attractions as you’d like, take taxis, and do whatever else you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though — you can easily spend more if you really want to splash out!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in GBP.

Edinburgh Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Like the rest of the UK, Edinburgh can be expensive. Fortunately, there are lots of ways to lower your costs and save money here. Here are some quick tips to help you save money in Edinburgh:

• Get the Edinburgh City Pass – If you’re planning to explore Edinburgh, get the City Pass. For 45 GBP, you’ll get access to 22 attractions as well as free transportation to and from the airport. There is also a two-day pass for 55 GBP and a three-day pass for 65 GBP. It’s a good choice for anyone planning to see a lot.
• Eat in a pub – The best food is often in the pubs and at a fraction of the price when compared to a sit-down restaurant. If you’re going to eat out, eat here.
• Eat during lunch – Many cafes, bakeries, nd chains offer lunch deals for as little as 3-5 GBP.
• Use apps to get discounted food – The app Too Good to Go, (on which participating eateries sell severely discounted meals/groceries/baked goods at the end of the day) has good coverage all across Scotland, particularly in Edinburgh. For discounts on takeout try the app Secret Takeaways which supports local restaurants by cutting out the delivery app middlemen (and their high fees).
• Visit the free museums – The public museums in Scotland are free — so take advantage! Free attractions include The National Museum of Scotland, Scottish National Gallery, St. Giles Cathedral, the Royal Botanic Garden, and the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art.
• Avoid eating and shopping in the city centers – Edinburgh is significantly more expensive the closer you get to the city center/Old Town. There are plenty of good restaurants and quirky shops outside of the center, so go for those. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.
• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing is the best way to save on accommodation as it’s free! You’ll not only save money but have access to a knowledgeable local who can help point you to some of the city’s hidden gems.
• Take a free walking tour – If you want to learn more about the history, architecture, and people of Scotland then be sure to take a free walking tour. They usually last a couple of hours and are a great introduction to the city.
• Cook your own meals – Food in the UK isn’t cheap. Save yourself some money and cook a few meals for yourself. It may not be as fancy as eating out, but your wallet will thank you!
• Use discount websites – Groupon, Wowcher and Living Social have good deals on accommodation, attractions, and dining out.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Edinburgh

Edinburgh has plenty of hostels and they’re all pretty comfortable and sociable. These are my favorite places to stay in Edinburgh:

• Castle Rock
• Edinburgh Backpackers
• A&O Edinburgh
• Kick Ass Grassmarket

How to Get Around Edinburgh

Public transportation – Buses and trams are the most common forms of public transportation in the city. A single ticket costs 1.80 GBP and goes up from there depending on how far you go. Buses take only exact change so you may want to download the “Transport for Edinburgh” app to pay for tickets on your phone instead. You can even use it to buy tram tickets to/from the airport.

Day passes can be purchased for 4.40 GBP and a one-week ticket costs 20 GBP (does include the airport).

The Airlink bus to the airport costs 4.50 GBP for the 30-minute journey, while the tram costs 6 GBP.

Taxi – Taxis aren’t cheap here so I would avoid them as much as possible. Rates start at 3 GBP and go up by 1.40 GBP per kilometer. Stick to public transportation if you’re on a budget unless you are splitting the ride with someone.

Gett and Free Now are the two most common platforms used for taxis (they are linked to the Google Maps app so you can use that to get price estimates if you’re comparing modes of transportation). That being said, Edinburgh has safe and reliable public transportation, so I’d avoid taxis and ridesharing unless you have no other options.

Ridesharing – Uber is available in Edinburgh, but it’s not always cheaper than taxis.

Car rental – Scotland is a great road trip destination, though I would only rent a car if you’re leaving the city (or if you need it for a specific reason in the city). Getting around the city is easier without a vehicle as public transportation is reliable. I would avoid renting a car unless you’re leaving the city.

You can find rentals for 25 GBP per day and campers for as little as 30 GBP per day. Just remember that traffic flows on the left. Most vehicles are manual transmissions as well.

When to Go to Edinburgh

Summer is the most popular time to visit Edinburgh. In July and August, there’s warm weather and minimal rain, with temperatures reaching highs of around 20°C (68°F). This is also the busiest time of the year, so expect crowds in the cities and lots of people out enjoying the nearby national parks. The Edinburgh Fringe Festival takes place in August, which is a huge multi-week festival. Be sure to book your accommodation in advance if you’re visiting during this time.

September is a rather wet month, though October offers incredible fall foliage. It’s a good month for road trips — especially if you plan on renting a car or camper and heading into the Cairngorms (Scotland’s biggest national park, which is only a couple of hours from the city). Seasonal businesses and accommodations start to close in mid-October so be sure to keep that in mind when planning. Expect October temperatures to hover around 12°C (55°F) during the day.

The spring is a great time to visit, with April and May offering minimal rain and no crowds. There’s snow and cool temperatures in the highlands, but the city is lively without being crowded.

Winters in Scotland are cold and dark. December is relatively dry but the temperatures dip close to 0°C (32°F). It’s nevertheless a popular time to visit, with many tourists coming to Edinburgh for the huge Hogmanay New Year’s Eve celebration (one of the biggest New Year’s festivals in the world).

By February, snow is common so keep that in mind if you plan on renting a vehicle. Unless you’re coming to engage in winter sports, I’d avoid a winter visit unless you don’t mind the grim and grey atmosphere of the country.

How to Stay Safe in Edinburgh

Scotland is a safe country, and you won’t need to worry about crime while you’re here. Edinburgh is safe for solo travelers — including female travelers — though women should take the standard precautions when traveling alone at night (don’t travel alone intoxicated, keep an eye on your drink, etc.).

As in all cities, stay vigilant when you’re in crowded tourist areas and on public transportation as that is when pickpockets usually strike. Always keep your valuables secure and out of reach just to be safe.

If you are hiking nearby (for example, in the Cairngorms a few hours north) make sure you have the appropriate equipment and that you notify your accommodation of your plans just in case. And if you’re hiking Arthur’s Seat, expect windy conditions at the summit.

While scams here are rare, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here if you’re concerned.

If you experience an emergency, dial 999 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Edinburgh Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Edinburgh Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Scotland and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hotels in Edinburgh

The Best Walking Tours in Edinburgh

Where to Stay in Edinburgh: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The Best Ghost Tours in Edinburgh

A Complete Visitor’s Guide to Rosslyn Chapel

Searching for the Perfect Dram on Islay

Get my best stuff sent straight to you, pin it on pinterest.

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Edinburgh Travel Guide (including essential tips, itinerary & map)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: November 25, 2023

Our  Edinburgh Travel Guide  includes recommended places to visit and things to do, accommodation options, tips and more for the beautiful Scottish capital. Everything you need to plan your visit and essential reading for any visitor to Edinburgh!

Plan your visit to Edinburgh

The Scottish capital of Edinburgh is one of the most visited and beautiful cities to visit in the United Kingdom (in fact it is the second most visited city in the UK after London).

The winding cobblestone streets of its Old Town offer quaint medieval charm which is contrasted by the New Town, the very epitome of Georgian style. There is culture and history around every corner, and the list of Edinburgh attractions is a long one.

A visit to Edinburgh is one of the highlights of any UK itinerary and features in our recommended top 19 attractions, sights and landmarks to see in Scotland.

First-time visitor? Read our practical tips and make the most of your Edinburgh adventure

What you will find in this complete Edinburgh Travel Guide

Map of Edinburgh

When is the best time of year to visit edinburgh, how many days do you need in edinburgh, public transport options, alternative transport options (including tours), 🚆 by train from london, 🚗 by car (road trip option), ✈️ fly to edinburgh airport, attractions and things to do in edinburgh (and scotland), uktp podcasts about visiting edinburgh, quick picks, luxury/boutique hotels, mid-range hotels (including well-known chains), guest houses, edinburgh travel guide -tickets, tours & attractions, best day trips from edinburgh, best multi-day tours from edinburgh, best pubs, cafes and restaurants in edinburgh, books to read before visiting edinburgh, enjoy your visit to edinburgh.

Edinburgh travel guide – Visiting Edinburgh FAQ’s

Edinburgh is a popular destination to visit throughout the year. In fact, there are some months of the year it is best to avoid Edinburgh unless you are specifically visiting to attend an event such as

• Hogmanay (December 30/31)
• The Edinburgh Festival (August)
• The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo (August)

Weather-wise the summer months are the perfect time to visit Edinburgh. The days are long and expect sunny, warm and drier weather.

Winter can be brutal in Scotland. Expect rain, freezing fog and even snow especially in January or February. Read more about visiting the UK in winter .

Make sure to pack for the weather – layers are always recommended (and waterproofs too) whatever time of year you plan to visit.

Read more about the best time to visit the UK in my detailed guide.

We recommend spending at least 2 days in Edinburgh. This will give you enough time to see the main sights, landmarks and attractions. Edinburgh is also the perfect base for exploring Scotland with many organised tours departing from the city.

There are many attractions to visit on days trips from Edinburgh (by train, car or tour) such as the Kelpies, Stirling, and St Andrews. Although it is possible to take a day trip tour to the Scottish Highlands we recommend planning your own multi-day itinerary or joining an organised multi-day tour.

Include Edinburgh in your train trip itinerary of the UK . It can be easily reached by train from London in just a few hours.

Catching the Caledonian Sleeper from London to Edinburgh (or Fort William or Inverness ) is a fantastic experience and if you enjoy train travel we recommend including it in your travel plans.

What is the best way to explore Edinburgh?

Many of the sights are close to each other (Edinburgh Castle, Royal Mile, Holyrood House, the monument to Sir Walter Scott, Princes Street ) and are within walkable distance of one another.

The city has a modern public transport network which includes buses, trams and trains.

There is a city-wide network of buses operating 24 hours a day. The Airlink bus runs between the airport and Waverley Station (Edinburgh’s train station) 24 hours a day. The journey takes around 25 minutes and leaves every 10 mins (approx) An adult single costs £4.50 and an open return £7.50.

The tram is a great way of travelling from one end of the city to the other. With regular stops along Princes Street jumping on and off the tram is one way to get around. The tram runs 14 km from Edinburgh Airport to York Place in the east end of the city centre. 

Buy tickets from the ticket vending machines at each tram stop. The machines accept credit and debit cards including cash (but give no change)

If you are travelling into  Edinburgh from the airport  via the tram network the cost is £6.50 for an adult and £3.30 for a child (single). Return tickets are £9.00 for adults and £4.80 for children.

Airport transfers are also included in the Edinburgh Pass. It is also possible to book an  Airlink Bus Transfer  or  private car transfer  to and from the airport into Edinburgh.

• Trains  

If you want to travel further afield for the day there are regular services from Edinburgh Waverley Train Station to Glasgow, Falkirk ( for the Kelpies and the Falkirk Wheel) and Stirling. 

There are a number of hop-on and hop-off bus services operating in the city. If you purchase an  Edinburgh Pass  (these can be purchased for one, two or three days in Edinburgh) the Hop-on Hop-off Bright Bus Tour is included in the cost as well as a City Bus Tour.

Other bus tours include 

• City Sightseeing Edinburgh: 24-Hour Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour

Travel on an open-top, double-decker bus with panoramic views of the city.

• Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Pass with 3 City Tours

Tour Edinburgh on 3 different hop-on and hop-off bus routes with 24 or 48 hours unlimited travel. Enjoy live guidance in English during the City Sightseeing Tour and the Majestic Tours.

• Royal Attractions with Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours

See all of Edinburgh’s attractions from the comfort of a hop-on-hop-off sightseeing bus which includes free entry to 3 royal attractions with a 48-hour Royal Edinburgh Ticket.

Visit the Castle, climb aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia, and tour Holyroodhouse.

What is the best way to travel to Edinburgh from London?

For timetables and tickets, we recommend the trainline. Take the train to Edinburgh for a short break or incorporate it into your UK train travel itinerary.

Tip – If this is your first time catching a train in the UK read our complete guide to UK train travel which includes all the information you need to know to make travelling around the UK by rail a relaxing and stress-free experience.

🔀 Distance from London (via transport): 600 km (400 miles)

🕐 Time taken by train: 5 hours

📍 Leave from London Euston or London King’s Cross

If you are taking a road trip around the UK and plan to include Edinburgh in your itinerary make sure you book a hotel/ accommodation with free parking.

Many of the hotels and guest houses don’t offer parking at all so do check before you book. 

If you plan to start your road trip in Edinburgh I would see all the main city sights before picking up your car and continuing your trip.

I recommend checking car hire options through Discover Cars  who compare the prices from a number of companies to secure the best deal for you.

If you want to fly directly to Edinburgh you will find options from many destinations across the world. We recommend Skyscanner for flights,

If there is no direct flight available take a connecting flight from London. Edinburgh airport is close to the city and there are many ways to transfer to your accommodation including bus, taxi and tram.

Click here for transfers from Edinburgh airport

Read more – How to get from London to Edinburgh

BEST THINGS TO DO AND SEE IN EDINBURGH

21 BEST DAY TRIPS FROM EDINBURGH

SCOTTISH ISLANDS TRAVEL GUIDE

ISLE OF SKYE TRAVEL GUIDE

INVERNESS TRAVEL GUIDE

19 PLACES TO VISIT IN SCOTLAND

NORTHUMBERLAND TRAVEL GUIDE

Accommodation in Edinburgh

Best hotels in edinburgh for sightseeing.

There are lots of accommodation options in Edinburgh to suit every budget. These are my choices of some of the best hotels in the city based on location and customer reviews.

The Balmoral

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

5* luxury with a Michelin starred restaurant

Holiday Inn Express City Centre

⭐️⭐️⭐️

3* hotel located in the New Town

Elder York Guest House

Excellent location & good breakfast included.

• The Balmoral  – 5* luxury, a Michelin starred restaurant, amazing afternoon teas, a spa and located right next to Waverley train station. £35 per day for parking.
• The Witchery by the Castle  – a luxury boutique hotel with 9 themed suites. Boasting 4 poster canopied beds, spacious bathrooms and beautifully furnished and decorated the Witchery is the perfect choice for a special occasion. No parking available.
• Waldorf Astoria The Caledonian  – Another beautiful 5* luxury hotel offering rooms with some lovely views. Facilities include a spa and fitness centre, indoor pool, restaurant and bar. £25 per day for parking.
• Holiday Inn Express City Centre  – 3* hotel located in the New Town. A good breakfast, free WiFi, clean rooms and and comfy beds make this a great choice. With family rooms available it is a popular option for those traveling with children. No parking available.
• Radisson Blu Hotel Edinburgh City Centre   – A very good hotel at a good price the Radisson Blu is centrally located. Facilities include a spa and gym. Parking is £12.50 per day. 
• Motel One Edinburgh Royal  – Centrally located and affordable yet stylish hotel with clean and comfortable rooms. Adults only. No parking.
• Elder York Guest House  – perfectly located a few minutes walk to Princes Street this is where we stay when we visit the city. Breakfast is good and the rooms comfortable. Note there is no lift so you have to climb a few sets of stairs to get to the guest house. No parking.

➡️ WHERE TO STAY IN EDINBURGH – LOCATION AND ACCOMMODATION GUIDE

Find more special stays in my Accommodation Guide for Scotland.

This is our selection of the best tours and attractions available in Edinburgh (if you fancy a ghost tour check out our guide to 9 of the spookiest, scariest and best ghost tours of Edinburgh !)

• Harry Potter Magical Guided Walking Tour – Take a magical 2-hour walking tour of Edinburgh and discover the city where the world of Harry Potter was conceived.
• Underground Vaults Tour – Visit the vaults beneath Old Town which date back to the early 18th century
• Holyrood Distillery Gin and Whisky Guided Tour – Enjoy a guided flavour-forward experience, learn how gin and whisky are made, and explore the craft distilling methods at Holyrood Distillery.
• Firth of Forth: 90-Minute Three Bridges Cruise – A 90-minute sightseeing cruise with views of the “three bridges”, including the UNESCO World Heritage Forth Bridge, Inchcolm Island and medieval abbey. Enjoy incredible views of the Edinburgh skyline during your cruise.
• History of Whisky with Tasting and Storytelling – Visit an outstanding whisky venue where you will be served four classic single malt scotch whiskys and immerse yourself in the great cultural importance of whisky and storytelling in Scotland.

Click here for great tickets, tours and attractions for Edinburgh

Best day & multi-day trips from Edinburgh

I have handpicked the best tours available from Edinburgh through Get Your Guide (we book most of our day tours and organised activities through Get Your Guide due to their great customer service and cancellation policy) and Viator (another tour company we have used during our travels).

You will find even more options to choose from in our guide to the best day trips and multi-day tours from Edinburgh here.

• Loch Ness, Glencoe, & the Highlands Day Tour – See the best of Scotland, all in one day with this 12 hour day tour.
• Hogwarts Express and Scottish Highlands Tour – Ride the world-famous Jacobite Steam Train and explore Glen Coe
• Loch Lomond, Trossachs & Stirling Castle Tour – Experience the natural beauty of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park
• 3-Day Isle of Skye, Highlands & Loch Ness – Stay overnight in the island village of Portree, visit haunting Glencoe & explore Eilean Donan Castle.
• Outlander Experience 2-Day Tour – Follow in the footsteps of Claire and Jamie during this Outlander themed 2-day tour.
• Iona, Mull, and Isle of Skye – Explore the famous Scottish Highlands and discover the unspoiled beauty of its westerly islands, including Mull, Iona, Staffa, and the famous Isle of Skye.

Are you an Outlander fan? Read our guide to the best Outlander tours available in 2022 and beyond

There are so many fantastic places to eat in Edinburgh you are spoilt for choice. These are our top picks:

• Makar’s Gourmet Mash Bar – for haggis, neeps & tatties
• Biddy Mulligans (pub)
• Maggie Dicksons (pub)
• The World’s End (pub)
• Toast (brunch and lunch)
• The Dome – dine in stunning surroundings (bookings essential)

For more Scottish literary inspiration check out my selection of 25 of the best books to read before you visit Scotland.

This guide will have provided inspiration plus practical information to help plan your visit to Edinburgh. You will find more inspiration and ideas to help plan your travels around Scotland in these travel guides:

• Best castle hotels in Scotland
• Northumberland Travel Guide (including tips, itinerary + map)
• 10 virtual tours of famous landmarks in the UK

Find more inspiration for your travels in my Scotland Travel Guide which includes information about what to see, where to stay, how to get around, travel tips, recommended reading and more to make the most of your trip.

35 Best Things to Do in Edinburgh: The Ultimate Guide

Posted on Published: March 9, 2024  - Last updated: March 17, 2024

Categories Blog , City Guides , Europe , Scotland , Travel Guides , United Kingdom

Edinburgh is one of my favorite cities in the world. We’ve traveled there on numerous occasions and even got married in Edinburgh! After visiting many times, we’re proud to share our list of the very best things to do in Edinburgh whether you’re visiting for the first time or the fiftieth time.

If you’re searching for what to do in Edinburgh, you’ll be spoiled for choice. On our last trip to the city, we spent one week in Edinburgh and still didn’t run out of things to see and do. We list the top Edinburgh attractions, activities, tours, cute and historic neighborhoods, and so much more in this Edinburgh travel guide.

Posts may be sponsored. Post contains affiliate links. I may be compensated if you make a purchase using my link.

Check out our 35 top recommended things to do in Edinburgh. If you’re in a hurry, check out our mini quick guide in the yellow box below.

Quick Guide to Edinburgh

Here are some of the best tours, activities, attractions and lodging in Edinburgh. If you’re planning your trip at the last minute and you’re looking for must do activities, look no further!

Best Tours and Activities in Edinburgh

• Edinburgh Castle Skip the Line Tour
• Walking Tour of the Royal Mile
• Haunted Underground Vaults and Graveyard Walking Tour
• Edinburgh Pub Crawl
• Scotch Whisky Experience Tour and Tasting

Best Hotels and Accommodation in Edinburgh

• Dragon Suites Luxury Apartments
• The Glasshouse Hotel Edinburgh

Table of Contents

Things to Do in Edinburgh: Edinburgh Castle

The most iconic place in Edinburgh has to be Edinburgh Castle. Up high on Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle is the main focal point of the city. You’ll be able to see it from multiple vantage points all over Old Town and New Town. It truly is a symbol of Scotland’s capital city.

While I don’t personally think that it is the best castle to visit in Scotland (nearby Stirling Castle is my favorite), touring Edinburgh Castle is one of the best things to do in Edinburgh for many reasons. First, it’s a vital piece of Edinburgh’s history. There has been a royal castle here since the 11th century and held a prominent role throughout Scottish history.

Over the years, Edinburgh Castle was a royal residence, a military fortress, a prison, a treasury, a national archive and more. The castle has amazing architecture and it is extremely well-preserved. It’s home to the Crown Jewels and it is the site of the Scottish National War Memorial and the National War Museum. Plus, the views from the top of Edinburgh Castle are astounding with panoramic scenery of the whole city.

You cannot simply walk up to Edinburgh Castle and expect to visit right away. It is an attraction where you must book your tickets in advance. I recommend booking this Edinburgh Castle Skip the Line Tour . Not only will you walk right into the castle property, but you’ll take an informative tour with a knowledgeable guide. After the tour ends, you can spend as much additional free time at the castle as you’d like.

Things to Do in Edinburgh: The Royal Mile

In the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, the Royal Mile runs between two important locations, Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse. While it is the busiest street in the historic area of the city, there are many unmissable attractions along this stretch of cobblestone streets.

While it was once the traditional processional route of monarchs (and in actuality, longer than a mile), this is Edinburgh’s High Street. It’s a bustling area of town with rows of shops and restaurants. Some of the main attractions include St. Giles’ Cathedral and the Real Mary King’s Close, as well as many architectural marvels from Medieval and Renaissance times.

It’s possible to go for a wander on the Royal Mile, and I suggest doing so at least once during your stay. For a more in-depth experience, embark on a walking tour of the Royal Mile with a spirited guide. Learn about Edinburgh’s extensive history beginning in Roman times and catch glimpses down narrow passageways and inside notable buildings.

Victoria Street and Grassmarket

Victoria Street is a remarkable curved street in Old Town Edinburgh that may conjure imagery of Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley for you. It’s one of the most colorful and prettiest streets in Edinburgh.

Go for a stroll down this beautiful cobblestone streets and check out some of the unique shops and cafes on the way. You can walk up a staircase on Victoria Street to appreciate this photogenic road from up above, too.

However, if you continue walking down Victoria Street, you’ll wander right into the Grassmarket area of Edinburgh. Grassmarket is another historic area of the city filled with traditional Scottish pubs, local markets, live music performances, restaurants, shops and more.

Things to Do in Edinburgh: Calton Hill

Located in New Town Edinburgh, visiting Calton Hill is one of the best free things to do in Edinburgh. You’ll walk up a staircase for amazing viewpoints of Edinburgh that rival those that you’ll see from Edinburgh Castle and Arthur’s Seat.

It’s also quite a unique spot as there are several monuments scattered throughout this park and public space. The National Monument is dedicated to those who lost their lives in the Napoleonic Wars, and it closely resembles the Parthenon in Athens.

The Dugald Stewart Monument (pictured above) is named after a Scottish philosopher and features an iconic structure in the foreground of a brilliant city view. In addition, don’t miss the Nelson Monument, the Playfair Monument, and the Monument to the Scottish Parliament.

Things to Do in Edinburgh: Arthur’s Seat

Holyrood Park is home to Arthur’s Seat, one of the highest points in Edinburgh. It’s one of the best things to do in Edinburgh if you love scenic walks and epic views. There are a few trails that lead to the top of Arthur’s Seat and some are more physically demanding than others.

The “Easy Route” starts from the car park on Queen’s Drive and slowly ascends around Salisbury Crags. You will have one final steeper ascent to the very top. There are more difficult and challenging ways to the top, so it’s a bit of a “choose your own adventure”.

Arthur’s Seat is an extinct volcano formed by volcanic activity that took place over 350 million years ago. The summit is 251 meters (823 feet) above sea level, and it is a really popular place for a hike. Take in the sweeping vistas or enjoy a picnic at the top.

Real Mary King’s Close Tour

One of the best attractions and tours in Edinburgh is The Real Mary King’s Close . Travel back in time and go underground beneath the Royal Mile to learn about life in Scotland from over 400 years ago. Your tour guide (in the character of a real person from that time period) will take you underground and through the former residences and shops that were once full of activity.

The “closes” (lanes or alleyways) grew out of the Royal Mile and were named after prominent residents. Mary King’s Close was named for the prominent businesswoman, Mary King, and it was highly unusual for a close to be named for a woman at that time.

We learned about the outbreak of the plague in Edinburgh in 1645, which spread rapidly as everyone lived very close to one another. There are also many other interesting aspects of the tour, but I won’t spoil them for you. You’ll have to see for yourself. The Real Mary King’s Close tour lasts one hour and you’ll need to book it in advance.

Things to Do in Edinburgh: Dean Village

Dean Village is one of the most picturesque areas of Edinburgh and not to be missed. Even though it’s only minutes away from Princes Street, Dean Village feels like a world all of its own. This historic neighborhood is situated by the Water of Leith where you can admire its old world charms.

Start your trip to Dean Village in the southern end of the neighborhood, walking across a small bridge crossing the Water of Leith. Then, make your way up to Bell’s Brae Bridge for an alternative vantage point of this beautiful place. Dean’s Village is easily one of my favorite places in Edinburgh.

The Water of Leith Walkway continues as it leads you out of Dean Village. You’ll walk along a secluded path where you can see The Dean Bridge and St Bernard’s Well, both designed by Thomas Telford. The old mill houses and buildings offer a window into the past, and this peaceful spot offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Circus Lane

If I had to choose, Circus Lane might just be my favorite street in Edinburgh. It’s postcard perfect in every way. This curved cobblestone street has rows of cute Georgian and Victorian-era homes and no shortage of lush greenery and flowers in bloom.

We actually had some of our wedding photos taken on Circus Lane and they turned out just as dreamy as you’d expect. It’s not a very long walk, but it’s well worth the detour off Princes Street. If you’re into photography or you’re looking for a few great shots for your Instagram, don’t hesitate to add Circus Lane to your Edinburgh itinerary.

Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is one of the top free things to do in Edinburgh (though some special events may have a fee). In fact, it’s one of the best botanical gardens in the United Kingdom with a history going back over 350 years.

With 70 acres of stunning landscapes, the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is home to a diverse collection of plants in several themed areas, like the Chinese Hillside and the Rock Garden. They’re also quite well known around the world for their conservation efforts and scientific research.

Stockbridge

Circus Lane isn’t the only highlight of Stockbridge, a lively neighborhood that’s just northwest of New Town Edinburgh. But, if you’re looking for another Instagram-worthy location, visit the adorable cottage at 33 North West Circus Place (on the corner of India Place).

Stockbridge was originally a separate village from Edinburgh, and its Victorian and Georgian buildings add to its allure. It’s home to the Stockbridge Market every Sunday, as well as a wonderful mix of independently-owned shops, boutiques and restaurants.

Don’t miss stopping by the Cowan and Sons cafe, if you’re looking for a light bite or a coffee. I enjoyed a delicious oat latte while resting my legs for a little break from walking all over Edinburgh. They also collaborate with local and international artists to create limited run prints for sale.

Maison de Moggy, Edinburgh’s Cat Cafe

Love cats? Me too! Welcome to Scotland’s first cat cafe, Maison de Moggy . This is a relaxing place to enjoy a cup of tea or coffee while visiting the resident cats. Okay, so the cats are the star of the show, but they do offer delicious beverages and sweet treats, too.

The cafe is the permanent home of the cats with plenty of space to play and snooze (as well as some private areas if they don’t wish to be disturbed). The cats are able to thrive in this loving environment and I am sure that you will love meeting them.

Maison de Moggy only allows a set amount of visitors at a time, and you’ll need to be mindful of their hours as they do allow the cats to have a break in the middle of the day. Book your visit there well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Scottish National Gallery

National Galleries Scotland is home to three galleries across four buildings in Edinburgh, and it’s free to visit all of their permanent collections. It’s amazing how art is so accessible to everyone here. The main Scottish National Gallery is home to one of the greatest art collections in the world.

You’ll find incredible Scottish and international works of art from 1300 to 1945. Established in 1859, the goal was to establish a collection of art for the people of Scotland to enjoy. From fine art to sculptures and Renaissance works to those from the early 20th century, appreciate art from across the centuries, including renowned Scottish artworks.

Scottish National Portrait Gallery

The Scottish National Portrait Gallery is another amazing free thing to do in Edinburgh. On their website, it’s described as “a love letter to Scotland”. This museum features influential figures who shape Scotland’s past, present and future.

Situated inside a neo-Gothic palace, the architecture and decor of this gallery is nothing short of stunning. Even if you don’t take the time to admire the portraits, walking through the main foyer on both the ground and first floors is quite the experience.

The Great Hall also has a striking zodiac ceiling with 47 constellations and 2000 stars. Back to the portraits themselves, you’ll see famous ones belonging to Mary Queen of Scots, Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, and Charles Edward Stuart, as well as contemporary portraits of icons like Billy Connolly.

Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art

The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art is located across two buildings, Modern One and Modern Two. In addition to the two gallery buildings, there’s also two sculpture parks, too. As a whole, this contemporary art museum focuses on compelling pieces from the 20th century.

In Modern One, discover displays, shows and installations of modern art by today’s premiere artists. Modern Two departs from traditional styles to highlight abstract and experimental pieces. Both buildings are located in the picturesque Dean Village, so you should pop by the galleries when you’re there.

Cockburn Street

Another iconic street in Edinburgh that’s not to be missed is Cockburn Street. This steep, winding road connects the Royal Mile to Waverley Station and New Town. Its Victorian buildings and quaint shops capture the essence and charm of Edinburgh.

Named after the prominent Scottish figure, Henry Cockburn, this bustling street is home to little shops, pubs and cafes. I had brunch with a friend of mine at Laila, an Instagrammable cafe with a pink facade adorned with flowers. These are the sorts of places you’ll stumble upon when walking up or down this famous street.

Holyrood Palace

Holyrood Palace, also known as the Palace of Holyroodhouse, is a fascinating historic place to visit in Edinburgh. It was once an Augustan monastery dating back to the 12th century. Since the 16th century, it has served as the main royal residence in Scotland. The King uses this residence once a year during his official engagements.

Over the years, the Palace of Holyroodhouse was the home of Mary, Queen of Scots, and has been connected to many famous figures like Bonnie Prince Charlie. Visit the ruins of Holyrood Abbey, the gardens, and the Queen’s Gallery featuring art from the Royal Collection. Get your entry ticket to the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

Scott Monument

The Scott Monument is a Victorian Gothic monument at Princes Street Garden. This striking architectural work is dedicated to Sir Walter Scott, and it’s one of the largest monuments named for a literary figure in the world. Admire the impressive Scott Monument from outdoors (you can’t miss it!) or take a guided tour from inside it.

On your tour, you’ll learn more about the famous Scottish writer, Sir Walter Scott, and you’ll also have the opportunity to enjoy the scenery of Edinburgh from the third floor viewing platform. There is no pre-booking available for the monument, simply show up at the kiosk in person before your tour. Tours take place 7 days a week from 10 am to 3:30 pm, though it closed daily for lunch from 12:30pm-1:45pm.

Princes Street Garden

Princes Street Gardens is the perfect place to go for a walk, have a picnic, or enjoy a little downtime during your explorations of Edinburgh. This is one of the best urban parks in Edinburgh, and it is the greenspace that separates Old Town from New Town.

It was created after Nor Loch was drained, which was an artificial loch (and Edinburgh’s largest loch) used primarily for medieval defenses. However, the water was polluted by sewage from the Old Town so it was eventually drained and transformed into a beautiful park.

Princes Street Gardens is home to the cast iron Ross Fountain, the quaint Gardener’s Cottage, and numerous sculptures and statues scattered around the park. You can also visit the Christmas Market around the holidays. At the “Winter Wonderland” holiday market, there is an ice rink, a Ferris Wheel, and many vendors with festive wares and food/drink.

St. Giles Cathedral

Located on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh, St. Giles Cathedral was founded in 1124 by King David I. This parish church is also known as the High Kirk of Edinburgh and has been a working church for over 900 years.

The current church was built between the 14th and 16th centuries and is a fine example of medieval architecture. It also combines Gothic and Renaissance styles from various renovations and additions throughout the years.

The church is involved with many important events and figures throughout Scottish history, including John Knox, the leader of Scotland’s Reformation. He was the church’s minister during the Reformation. Visitors can walk into St. Giles Cathedral during its regular opening hours and there isn’t an admission fee.

Greyfriars Kirkyard

Greyfriars Kirkyard is a historic graveyard that dates back to 1620 in Old Town Edinburgh. The church, Greyfriars Kirk, was the first to be build in post-Reformation Scotland. A number of prominent Edinburgh residents are buried at this cemetery.

Most notably, Greyfriars Bobby, a Skye Terrier famously guarded his owner’s grave for fourteen years following his death. Bobby captured the heart of many. He was buried just outside the cemetery and a statue of the wee doggie was erected a year after his death in 1872. The statue of Greyfriars Bobby is now a main tourist attraction and his nose has been rubbed so many times that it is now a shiny bronze shade.

Greyfriars Kirk is also a main tourist site for Harry Potter fans. Visit the grave of Tom Riddell (Tom ‘Riddle’), McGonagall (Head of Gryffindor), Moodie (Alastor Moody), Scrymgeour (Rufus Scrimgeour) and others. Prefer a guided tour? Check out this Haunted Underground Vaults and Graveyard Walking Tour .

On the northern side of Edinburgh, Leith is a really fun neighborhood to spend the day. It’s been named one of the “world’s coolest neighborhoods” and home to the Royal Yacht Britannia. For history and ship enthusiasts, the Royal Yacht Britannia is a popular tourist attraction in Leith, and the entire area was once a significant port.

Though Leith became more prominent through being featured in Trainspotting , it’s overall a really hip place to be in Edinburgh. There are loads of unique restaurants, cocktail bars, pubs, brewery taprooms and cafes. Go for a walk along the waterfront, admiring the charming buildings and seaside views on the way.

There’s also a thriving arts scene in Leith. The eight-day Leith Festival celebrates local music, art, theater and more. The Biscuit Factory is a hub for arts and fashion with many pop-up events and markets. Finally, the Leith Theater showcases concerts, community events, movie screenings and more.

The Cauldron

The Cauldron is an immersive cocktail bar experience like no other! I went to The Cauldron along with three of my girlfriends for my unofficial bachelorette party before my wedding in Edinburgh. It’s such a fun place to gather your friends, family members or have a date night with that special someone.

Although it’s not officially tied to Harry Potter, fans of the books and movies will adore The Cauldron. You’ll feel like a true wizard when you wear the provided cloak and wave the magic wand. Choose from the potions book and create some magical and tasty concoctions during your mixology class.

There are special events throughout the year (we visited close to Halloween) or you can attend their standard cocktail experience. It comes with two cocktail creating experiences (I suggest choosing one where you mix the drinks inside a cauldron!), an additional cocktail, a shot, and a glass of bubbly to start.

Ballie Ballerson

Have you ever been to a ball pit cocktail bar? Ballie Ballerson has a location in Edinburgh and it’s such an amazing place for a night out. There is a giant ball pit with over a million balls where you can dance, frolic, jump around, or simply toss the balls up into the air!

Want to get to the dance floor and cocktail bar? Use the slide to get from the second floor back down to the first floor. There’s a DJ spinning R&B and all the hits, and you can order some fun cocktails like the “Caprisunha” that comes served in a little bag like the Capri-sun juice you had as a kid.

Scotch Whisky Tour

If there’s one beverage to try in Scotland, it’s Scotch whisky, and of course you can find plenty of it in Edinburgh. One of the best things to do in Edinburgh is go for a Scotch Whisky tasting and tour. You’ll take a guided tour through one of the world’s largest collections of Scotch whisky with 3500 bottles.

Learn about the production and maturation process of single malt Scotch whisky. Then, discover the art of blending and sample some whisky for yourself. Take home a souvenir crystal tasting glass as a memory of your experience. Book your Scotch Whisky Experience Tour and Tasting .

Jupiter Artland

Jupiter Artland is a modern sculpture and art park just outside of Edinburgh’s city center. If you don’t have a car, it’s really easy to take the city bus to Jupiter Artland, plus you’ll get a small discount upon entry when you travel by public transportation.

Located on 100 acres of forested areas and meadows, Jupiter Artland is an extraordinary place for art and nature lovers alike. Go for a walk around the property to stumble upon unique and immersive sculptures. There are permanent installations and temporary exhibitions throughout the year by artists from Scotland and around the world.

Some of my personal favorites include Cells of Life by Charles Jencks, sculpted grassy landforms around bodies of water; Weeping Girls by Laura Ford, faceless sculptures of young girls placed by the trees; and The Light Pours Out of Me by Anya Gallaccio, an amethyst grotto.

Go on a Pub Crawl in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is the perfect place for a pub crawl. Beer lovers will adore Edinburgh for the vast variety of different brews and great neighborhood places to enjoy them. My best friend isn’t able to consume wheat, but that’s no problem in Edinburgh: there are so many gluten-free beers (that actually taste good, too!).

Some of our favorite pubs and taprooms in Edinburgh include The Hanging Bat, Fierce Beer, Innis & Gunn Edinburgh, Brewdog, The Last Drop, and Ghillie Dhu (our wedding venue!). If you prefer a guided tour, there are many Edinburgh pub crawls that you can take with a local. Book this Edinburgh pub crawl for a fantastic time on the town (great for meeting like-minded folks, too!).

Unique Cocktail Bars in Edinburgh

If you prefer cocktails over beer, there are many innovative and highly decorated cocktail bars in Edinburgh, too. Sip fanciful concoctions, martinis, or whatever innovative creations the bartender suggests. For instance, we loved the cocktail bar at Tigerlily Hotel in New Town for its many beautiful rooms and thoughtfully prepared drinks.

Panda & Sons is a hidden speakeasy beneath a barbershop. Paradise Palms is another creative cocktail bar with tropical vibes and delicious vegetarian and vegan eats. The Alchemist is a super inventive cocktail bar featuring cocktails that bubble, pop and smoke. We drank our bubbling cocktails out of test tubes at The Alchemist!

Coffee Shops in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is home to many cozy cafes. With all the rain the city gets, it’s no wonder that there are so many delightful coffee shops to escape the bad weather and stay warm. Some of these are little nooks that are more suited for takeaway, while many cafes are a great place to spend a lazy afternoon catching up with your friends.

I’ll be writing a more in-depth look at Edinburgh’s coffee shops. In the meantime, feel free to add The Milkman, Cairngorm Coffee, Gordon Street Coffee, Lowdown, Seven Neighbourhood Cafe, Chapter One Coffee Shop, and Throat Punch Coffee to your list.

Vegan Food in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is such a foodie city with eclectic restaurants for every taste. As someone who follows a vegan diet, I’m so pleased to say that Edinburgh is one of the most vegan-friendly destinations I’ve visited. Pub grub, Italian food, healthy eats, vegan Mexican food, vegan-friendly cocktail bars…plus, practically every restaurant you visit will have something that’s plant-based on the menu.

For the full listing, here’s my vegan guide to Edinburgh . In short, here are a few restaurants that I highly recommend that you check out: Hendersons, Sora Lella, Nova Pizza, Paradise Palms, Holy Cow, Sen Viet Vegan, Soul Vegan, and Curran Geal.

Day Trips from Edinburgh

If you decide to base yourself in Edinburgh, there are a variety of exciting day trips that you can take. You can reach the cities like Glasgow and Stirling quite easily by train in under an hour. The trains run on a very regular schedule all day and night.

For the other day trips that aren’t as easy to reach by public transportation, I suggest renting a car for the day. Make a road trip for the day to Loch Lomond and the Trossachs or Falkirk for the Kelpies. You can compare car rental prices here to find the best rates out there (we always use Discover Cars when we travel!).

One of my favorite small cities is Stirling . Not only do I have personal ties to Stirling (my family is from Stirling!), but there are many great attractions to see in one day. Visit Stirling Castle (the best Scottish castle, in my opinion), the Wallace Monument, and the bustling Old Town.

Falkirk is home to quite a few interesting attractions: the Kelpies (famous gigantic horse statues), the Pineapple House, and the Falkirk Wheel. With a rental car, you could stop in Falkirk on your way to/from Stirling.

Loch Lomond & the Trossachs

Seeking some nature? Here’s our recommendations for a day trip to Loch Lomond and the Trossachs . Visit quaint villages and see some of Scotland’s epic natural spaces including lochs, parks, trails and even a waterfall. Begin your day trip with a stop at the historic Doune Castle of Outlander and Game of Thrones fame.

Day Tours From Edinburgh

As for tours, I had recommended a couple of day tours to our wedding guests who had never visited Scotland before. They thoroughly enjoyed their day trips with the local tour company, Rabbie’s Tours. These are the West Highlands, Lochs and Castles Tour ; the St. Andrews and Fife Fishing Villages Tour ; and the Outlander Adventure Tour .

Bonus: Get Married in Edinburgh

From personal experience, we have to say that Edinburgh is the perfect location for a destination wedding. The two of us got married at Ghillie Dhu in Edinburgh. This beautiful venue space and pub used to be a church and it retains many of its original architectural features throughout its transformation.

Shoutout to Emma at Ghillie Dhu who made planning our wedding a seamless process as we mostly communicated our ideas from our home in Canada. Our officiant, Fiona Flanagan created a personalized and highly memorable wedding ceremony. We loved our vegan wedding cake from Mama’s Wee Bakery and of course, our stunning photos by Paul Budzinski.

Where to Stay in Edinburgh

Justin and I stayed at Dragon Suites Luxury Apartments in Edinburgh for one week leading up to our wedding, and we can’t recommend it enough. My sister stayed in another Dragon Suites apartment at the same time, and we both only had great things to say about our apartments.

We stayed in the Aiden Suite and it truly was a home away from home with everything we needed. The apartment is bright and modern with a kitchen, comfortable bed, lovely little seating area and a spacious bathroom. It’s within walking distance of all the major attractions, Old Town, New Town, and the Haymarket train station.

BOOK YOUR STAY | READ MORE REVIEWS

If you’d like to browse all of your options, this handy map lists all of the properties in Edinburgh. There are hotels, apartments, vacation rentals and more. Enter your travel dates for the most accurate information. Click on each accommodation to learn more and book your stay.

More Scotland Travel Guides

So, what are you waiting for? You can plan a quick city break in Edinburgh or incorporate your stay into a road trip of Scotland. Here are some other Scotland travel guides that can help you plan your trip.

• Fun Things to Do in Glasgow
• Amazing Things to Do in Stirling
• Best Things to Do in Oban

Need Travel Insurance?

You should never leave home without it. Get a travel insurance quote in seconds with the best rates.

Follow Us on Social Media!

Lauren is the full-time travel blogger and content creator behind Justin Plus Lauren. She started Justin Plus Lauren in 2013 and has travelled to 50+ countries around the world. Lauren is an expert on vegan travel as one of the very first vegan travel bloggers. She also focuses on outdoor adventure travel, eco and sustainable travel, and creating amazing travel itineraries for cities and small towns.

• Inspiration
• Destinations
• Places To Stay
• Style & Culture
• Food & Drink
• Wellness & Spas
• News & Advice
• Partnerships
• Traveller's Directory
• Travel Tips
• Competitions

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Travel guide to Edinburgh

By Olivia Morelli

The Scottish Parliament has given Edinburgh a newfound dynamism. Among the cobbled streets and Gothic architecture you will find chic modern hotels and trendy restaurants.

How to get to Edinburgh

Edinburgh airport is 13km west of the city centre. There are frequent buses to and from the airport.

AIRLINES FROM THE UK

British Airways ( britishairways.com ), easyJet ( easyjet.com ), British Midland ( flybmi.com ).

Direct trains go from King’s Cross London in around five hours.

The drive from London to Edinburgh takes just under eight hours.

Where to stay in Edinburgh

From original grand dame hotels to secret hideaways hidden down cobbled alleys, here are the best places to stay in Edinburgh.

By Rick Jordan and Steve King

Where to eat in Edinburgh

With more restaurants per head than any other city in the UK, the Scottish capital is sure to satisfy all kinds of cravings, whatever your taste and budget. See our round up of the best restaurants in Edinburgh .

By Olivia Morelli and Mike MacEacheran

Where to drink in Edinburgh

The city has a flourishing underground scene of basement bars, speakeasies and sophisticated saloons.

What to do in Edinburgh

From hilltop hikes with views across the city and a vast selection of galleries and museums to the UK's best vintage shopping scene, you'll be spoilt for choice.

By Alice Howarth , Olivia Morelli , Nonie Niesewand and Caoilfhionn Rose

The Edinburgh Festival

Every August, two million people flock to the city as Edinburgh morphs from Scotland’s stunning gothic capital to become the world's centre of art, theatre and culture. Here's our guide to the festival.

By Danny Wallace , Rebecca Humphries and Anya Meyerowitz

Insider tips

Actor and comedian Russel Tovey shares his favourite spots in the Scottish capital.

Our editors' favourite hotels

WHERE TO STAY OUTSIDE THE CITY

The gleneagles hotel.

41 miles from Edinburgh. Described as 'a Riviera in the Highlands' when it opened in 1924, the 270-room château-style hotel is as popular today as it ever was - it was voted best UK leisure hotel in our Readers' Travel Awards 2002. The renowned golf course hosts many competitions and one of the hotel's four restaurants, run by Andrew Fairlie, has a Michelin star. There is also an equestrian centre and spa. ££ 0800 389 3737; gleneagles.com To see our full review of The Gleneagles Hotel , click here.

• Destinations

Edinburgh Travel Guide

Edinburgh has been Scotland's capital since the 15th century. With a huge part of its center listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, there's something to explore around practically every corner of this incredibly photogenic city. History looms over the city in the form of its postcard-perfect castle and Royal Mile, while on the ground, culture and a dynamic food scene thrive in independent, tucked-away venues. — Krystin Arneson

• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Your US State Privacy Rights
• Children's Online Privacy Policy
• Interest-Based Ads
• About Nielsen Measurement
• Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
• Nat Geo Home
• Attend a Live Event
• Book a Trip
• Inspire Your Kids
• Shop Nat Geo
• Visit the D.C. Museum
• Learn About Our Impact
• Support Our Mission
• Advertise With Us
• Customer Service
• Renew Subscription
• Manage Your Subscription
• Work at Nat Geo
• Sign Up for Our Newsletters
• Contribute to Protect the Planet

Copyright © 1996-2015 National Geographic Society Copyright © 2015-2024 National Geographic Partners, LLC. All rights reserved

Visit Edinburgh Scotland - Tourist Guide

No.1 travel guide edinburgh: city trip & tourism in capital of scotland.

Visiting Edinburgh city in Scotland? EdinburghTips.com is the tourist guide with the best city trip info, tourism tips for exploring sights and places to visit in Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland.

Tourist guide for a city trip Edinburgh (Scotland)

Are you planning to go on a Edinburgh city trip ? Be welcome at EdinburghTips.com, because on our travel guide you will find the best tips for visiting Edinburgh Scotland. We offer you all the tourist information you need to visit the Scottish capital with a city trip. On this online travel guide you will find the best hotels , tips for activities and the most interesting attractions , so you can be well-informed and prepared for your city break. If you follow our Edinburgh tips on this page, you are guaranteed to experience an amazing Edinburgh city trip.

Edinburgh has been the capital of Scotland since the Middle Ages, which is also reflected in the historic center of the city. The city has approximately 519,000 inhabitants and is the second largest city in Scotland after Glasgow. Edinburgh city lies to the east on the sea and lies on the south side of the Firth of Forth. Edinburgh was once just a fortress on the volcanic Castle Rock, but after being conquered several times - Celts, Romans, English and Scots have built the city – it has grown into the city nowadays, where today the Scottish Parliament is located.

Famous Edinburgh Festivals

The Edinburgh Fringe Festival in the summer months attracts many tourists to the Scottish city every year. The festival consists of performances of music, opera, dance and theatre, with the most famous international artists and instrumentalists showing their performances to the world. In the month of August , a second festival will take place in the capital, namely the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo , where a world-famous military and musical show is given. Various armies from all over the world participate in this. At the end of August you can also visit the International Film Festival of Edinburgh Scotland.

Sightseeing Edinburgh city trip

In addition to its many cultural events and festivals, Edinburgh is also known for its sightseeing and tourist attractions. These must-sees places to visit during your city trip to Edinburgh are mainly found in the districts Old Town and New Town of the city. These two neighborhoods are on the World Heritage List of UNESCO and for a good reason. Edinburgh is also a UNESCO City of Literature as part of the Creative Cities Network project.

Royal places to visit in Edinburgh Scotland

One of the most famous sights of the Scottish capital is the Edinburgh Castle . It is a castle built on volcanic soil and has served as a royal palace and garrison castle for centuries. Today, the castle is home to a number of museums, including the National War Museum. The Palace of Holyroodhouse , the current residence of the royal family during a visit to Scotland, is also a real eye-catcher. Finally, the former Royal Yacht Britannia is located in Edinburgh harbor in Leith and is now open to all.

Museums to visit in the Scottish capital

In addition to the National War Museum in the Edinburgh Castle , there are also dozens of other museums worth visiting in the city. For example, visit the Camera Obscura and World of Illusions , which is housed in a former conservatory near Edinburgh Castle. Or take some time to visit the Scottish National Gallery in the Princess Street Gardens. Learn about economics and coins at the Museum of the Mound, housed in the former headquarters of the Bank of Scotland. For whiskey lovers there is also the Scotch Whiskey Experience , a museum about and to taste Scotch whisky, which is also included in the popular Edinburgh Pass . The diversity of the various museums in Edinburgh makes a museum trip a must on your city trip.

A city trip with children

A visit to Edinburgh doesn't have to be boring, even for the youngest among us. In Edinburgh Scotland , for example, you will find the Edinburgh Zoo, where you can view special animal species such as the giant panda and the koala. Or visit the monument to Greyfriars Bobby , John Gray's Sky Terrier, one of Edinburgh's best-known tales that has even been released several times on the white cloth.

More tourism in Edinburgh

Edinburgh's most famous street is the Royal Mile , which runs between the Holyrood Palace and Edinburgh Castle and consists of a succession of several smaller streets. On the Royal Mile you can also see the St. Giles Cathedral , a twelfth-century cathedral. A ten minute walk from the Royal Mile you can also visit the Scott Monument in memory of the famous Ivanhoe author Sir Walter Scott. The Scott Monument is located next to the famous Princes Street Gardens . Also visit Holyrood Park, which is built on a number of hills, the main one being Arthur's Seat . Do you want to avoid the hustle and bustle of Edinburgh city? Then walk to Calton Hill , from where you have a spectacular view of the city and where you can find a number of famous monuments, such as the Nelson Monument.

Tips for activities during your trip

• Edinburgh Castle

The most famous tourist attraction remains Edinburgh's castle on Castle Rock. Today you can take a guided tour to visit some of the castle's famous chambers and there are a number of museums in the castle, such as the National War Museum.

Top 20 Edinburgh Attractions

Edinburgh is a city full of medieval history with castles, numerous museums, beautiful sights and fun events. The city is more than just the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle. During your city trip, it is advisable to view the top 20 sights below.

• Top 20 Edinburgh Sights

• Old Town & Royal Mile

Old Town is the area in Edinburgh where most of Edinburgh's tourist attractions are located. The Royal Mile is the main street through Old Town starting at Castle Rock, on which Edinburgh Castle is located, to Holyrood Palace.

• Palace of Holyroodhouse

Today, Holyrood House is the residence of the British Royal Family when they visit Scotland. Holyrood Palace contains a number of highlights of the city, such as the Great Gallery, the Queen Gallery and the Palace Gardens.

Transport & Airport Transfers

Fortunately, many attractions are within walking distance. In this article you can read about the transport options in Edinburgh and about the transport options to and from Edinburgh Airport.

• Transport in Edinburgh

Scotland: Day trips from Edinburgh

Due to the central position of Edinburgh, there are also many day trips possible to the area around the Scottish capital. For example, you can visit the Scottish Highlands with the sharp mountain peaks and famous lakes, such as Loch Ness.

• Scotland excursions

Best time to visit Edinburgh Scotland

Edinburgh and Scotland have a temperate maritime climate with mild winters and cool summers. It is striking that there is approximately half as much precipitation as in Glasgow, for example, which may be a result of the location of the city on the Firth of Forth, the North Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. However, the weather can be an important factor for people when they want to visit Edinburgh for a city trip. The best time for tourism to visit the city is therefore in spring. The temperatures are pleasant during this period and the chance of prolonged precipitation is minimal. However, many people also visit Edinburgh in the summer (particularly August), when there are many festivals in the city, such as the Edinburgh Festival.

Video: Impression Edinburgh city trip

Where is the capital of scotland.

Most visited attractions

Top 20 Things to do in Edinburgh

Edinburgh Castle & Tickets

Excursions in Scotland

• South Africa
• Afghanistan
• North Korea
• Adventure + Outdoors
• Amusement Parks
• Backpacking Trips
• Boating + Cruises
• Budget Travel
• Bus + Train Travel
• Coasts + Islands
• Country Trips
• Fall Vacations
• Family Vacations
• Green Travel
• Heritage + History
• Honeymoons + Romance
• Inspiration + Guide
• Landmarks + Attractions
• LGBT Travel
• Markets + Bazaars
• National Parks + Reserves
• Nature + Wildlife
• Parks + Gardens
• Pets + Animals
• Photography
• Airlines + Airports
• Budgeting + Currency
• Business Travel
• Celebrity Travel
• Customs + Immigration
• Deals + Rewards
• Family Travel
• Hotels + Resorts
• Luggage + Packing Tips
• Offbeat News
• Photography Tips
• Responsible Travel
• Solo Travel
• Tech + Gear
• Travel Etiquette
• Travel Warnings
• Bars + Clubs
• Celebrity Chefs
• Restaurants + Cafés
• Wine + Vineyards
• Beach Hotels
• Boutique Hotels
• Hotel Openings
• Hotel Reviews
• Luxury Hotels
• Mountain + Ski Resorts
• Spa Resorts
• Vacation Rentals
• Asia Cruises
• European Cruises
• Festivals + Events
• Museums + Galleries
• Style + Design
• Travel’s Best
• Hotel with Agoda.com
• Hotel with Booking.com

Where to go in Kunming? — 15+ top Kunming attractions &…

Must eat in Georgetown — 10+ famous, must-eat & best street…

Must eat in Melaka — 10+ famous Malacca street food &…

What to do in Alishan? — 5 top attractions & best…

Hong Kong food culture — Hong Kong cuisine tells the historical…

All about tips in Nepal — How much to tip in…

Cambodia travel tips — 15+ what to know & things to…

When is the best time to visit Kyoto? — The best,…

When is the best time to visit Malaysia? — The best,…

Hong Kong Soya sauce Chicken Rice and Noodles — The first…

Top hotels in Siem Reap — 8+ best places to stay…

Top hotels in shanghai — 15+ best hotels in Shanghai

Top hotels in Malacca — 10+ good & best hotels in…

Top places to stay in Bali — Top 10 best areas…

10 must-know things for your best first time European river cruise

Top 3 best luxury cruises in Halong Bay, Vietnam

Cherry blossom festival Korea 2024 — Top 5 cherry blossom festivals…

Ghibli museum blog — The fullest Ghibli museum guide for first-timers

Kyoto festival — Top 10 best events & most famous festivals…

National Palace Museum Taipei blog — What to see in National…

Japanese waterfall — Top 10 most beautiful waterfalls in Japan in…

19+ most beautiful towns in Europe every tourist need to visit…

Georgia travel photos — 20+ captivating photos show Georgia is heaven…

Explore Damnoen Floating Market — The oldest floating market of Thailand

Visiting Fenghuang Ancient Town — One of the most charming ancient…

Mekong Delta travel blog — Beyond rivers of Southwestern Vietnam

14 reasons why you should travel when you are young

Shigaraki Tanuki – An animal symbol of good luck in Japan

Living in the charms of cave houses in Andalucia, Southern Spain

20+ jaw-dropping tiny homes around the world

Edinburgh travel blog — the fullest edinburgh travel guide for first-timers.

Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland, a city as beautiful, peaceful, ancient and quaint as a jewel. If you want a different, meaningful and unexpected trip, you should plan a trip to visit this city to experience an artistic and marvelous beauty. The charming capital but also extremely crowded is located in the southeast of Scotland. Edinburgh is always crowded with tourists because of its bustling festivals, haunted castles, Victorian villas and houses and the place of men in skirts and it is also one of the Europe’s most haunted cities. Here is the most detailed and useful Edinburgh travel guide for your upcoming trip.

• Edinburgh itinerary 1 day — How to spend 1 day in Edinburgh & what to do in Edinburgh in one day
• 5 free things to do you should try when visit Edinburgh, Scotland

Where to go in Kunming? — 15+ top Kunming attractions & best places to visit in Kunming

Must eat in melaka — 10+ famous malacca street food & must try food in melaka, what to do in alishan — 5 top attractions & best things to do in alishan, taiwan.

So, what to do and how to plan a perfect budget trip to Edinburgh, Scotland for the first-time? Let’s check out our Edinburgh travel blog (Edinburgh blog, Edinburgh blog travel) with the fullest Edinburgh travel guide (Edinburgh guide, Edinburgh tourist guide, Edinburgh city guide, Edinburgh scotland travel guide, Edinburgh visitor guide) from how to get there, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit and top things to do to find out the answer!

Edinburgh is considered as one of the few cities in the world that has a harmonious combination of economic prosperity with culture, history and art. Visiting Edinburgh, visitors will be amazed at the bustle of a shopping center located right next to a 12th-century citadel, in the medieval old town and admire the architecture of the 18th century…

Edinburgh travel blog: Overview of Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a city halfway up the mountainside. Standing from the top of the mountain, visitors can have a panoramic view of the city. On the contrary, if you stand at the foot of the mountain, you can see the whole city. Edinburgh has very characteristic streets, steep and multi-layered. From the peaceful and beautiful small streets which when going to the main streets, visitors will immediately encounter the noise and vitality of a big city. Edinburgh is also one of the major financial centers of Europe, with many large banks, controlling almost entire banking system in Hong Kong, Australia and especially in the United Kingdom and once dubbed “the City of Money”.

This city is also known as the “Athens of the North”, has mountainous terrain and medieval architecture that makes a deep impression on visitors. Coming here, visitores will be immersed themself in an atmosphere full of nostalgia and full of art like in fairy tales.

Language: Because the United Kingdom lacks a codified constitution, there is no official language. However, Scotland has 3 officially recognized languages: English, Scottish Gaelic and Scottish. Temporarily called officially, English is the main language and almost all Scots can speak standard English with a Scottish accent.

Culture: Due to its location on a hilly terrain and numerous George and Medieval houses, Edinburgh is one of Europe’s most impressive cities. Edinburgh has been the capital of Scotland since 1437 (replacing Scone) and is the seat of the Scottish Parliament. It was one of the great centers of the Enlightenment, led by the University of Edinburgh, hence its nickname the “Athens of the North”. Old Town and New Town of Edinburgh were recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 1995.

Currency: Scotland uses the British Pound Sterling (GBP) currency for transactions, with an exchange rate of about: GBP 1 ~ USD 1.85.

Edinburgh blog: When is the best time to visit?

Due to its geography located in the north of England, the Scottish climate is often colder than elsewhere in the British Isles. It has primarily oceanic climate, with often cool, rainy, and windy. Especially in winter, Scotland is very cold and often snows and fogs appear all year round, that’s why this place is also known as “the island of fog”.

However, the best time to visit this city is from June to August every year. This is the time when the climate in Edinburgh is extremely wonderful, the sky is clear and the weather is warm which is suitable for sightseeing and outdoor activities. This is also the time when the biggest festivals of the year take place in this city, so it is very vibrant, bustling and crowded with tourists.

Spring and summer, the weather begins to warm up, but not too hot, the temperature fluctuates around 18 degrees Celsius, quite cool, so this is considered the best time to visit Scotland.

The rest of the year the weather is colder but can also bring interesting experiences. If you come to Edinburgh in winter, you will be surprised to see the city covered in white snow and more beautiful than any European city on Christmas cards.

Edinburgh travel guide: How to get to Edinburgh?

Scotland, although a sovereign state, is still part of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, part of the British constitutional monarchy. Therefore, to come to Edinburgh, Scotland, visitors need to apply for a UK tourist visa. You need to apply for a visa to travel to Scotland at the UK Embassy. To ensure a high visa approval rate, you need to prepare a strong enough profile or via visa travel agencies.

In Scotland, there are 4 international airports: Aberdeen International Airport, Edinburgh Airport, Glasgow Airport, Glasgow Prestwick Airport. Airlines operating flights from Vietnam to Edinburgh are: Vietnam Airlines, China Southern Airlines, Qatar Airways, Cathay Pacific and Etihad Airways. Airfares for Vietnam – Scotland flights ranging from 630 to 880 USD/trip.

In addition, there are many other airlines which offer connecting or direct flights to Endinburgh from many worldwide cities such as American Airlines, United Airlines, KLM, Air France, Emirates, Singapore Airlines… To find the most suitable routes depend your location, you can access Google Flights or SkyScanner to find and hunting cheap airfares as well.

You can fly direct to Edinburgh with many different airlines to choose from that we mentioned above. Otherwise, you can fly to London and then traveling to Edinburgh by other means of transport such as plane, bus or train. Thus, you can combine visit London and Edinburgh in one journey. Flight time from London to here takes about 1 hour 30 minutes, this way is better than flying directly to Edinburgh because you can visit many places and not get tired. However, you should note that the airports are often quite far from the city center, so it is necessary to arrange the time accurately, to avoid miss the flight.

If you depart from London, you can also take a train or bus. If you take the train, it will take you about 4 and a half hours with prices ranging from 100-130 Euros for a round trip ticket. You can enjoy the scenery along the way, but because the seats on the train are also quite small, not being able to carry a lot of luggage, it will be quite inconvenient. Refer here .

If you take the bus, it costs about 40 Euros, the travel time will be longer, from 8-10 hours, although it is more saving, but travelinng for a long time can make you tired if you are not used to it.

• Edinburgh Airport to City Train Ticket

Edinburgh travel blog: Getting around Edinburgh

The public transport system in the city of Edinburgh is very developed. Therefore, when arriving at Edinburgh airport, visitors can easily getting into the city center thanks to public transport such as taxi, train or bus.

Edinburgh’s bus system is very developed and operates 24 hours a day. Therefore, this is the means chosen by many tourists when traveling between attractions. You should buy a double-decker bus tour ticket (Hop-on hop-off tour bus) valid for 24 hours, you can comfortably traveling and stop at any place to visit on its route, on the bus there will be a guide to guide and introduce you along the way.

• Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off City Sightseeing Bus Tour

Edinburgh’s tram system with 15 stops can easily connect Edinburgh Airport with its New Town. In addition, you can travel by taxi which is also very convenient. It’s very popular in Scotland, regarding its advantages, it moves quite quickly, conveniently, initiative and saves time. However, the cost of taxi here is quite expensive, so it is only suitable for short trips.

Edinburgh is also a very cyclist-friendly capital. There are dedicated bike lanes, green parks and suburbs that are ideal for exploring by bike. You should not drive on the streets of Edinburgh, because finding a parking space is a very difficult thing especially during festival season and peak tourist season.

In addition, visitors can rent a car to getting around Edinburgh and surrouding areas to be more active in exploring. However, you need to have an international driver’s license to participate in traffic here.

Edinburgh blog: Where to go and what to do

Edinburgh is famous for its beautiful old town like a fairy tale, impressive architectural works, buildings and houses with full of nostalgia and not to mention the tourist attractions that have made a name for this city as follows.

Edinburgh Castle

Address: Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NG, United Kingdom Hours: 9:30AM–5PM

When traveling to Edinburgh, you should explore this must-visit castle first. Not only is it a unique architectural building, but the castle is also built on top of a long-dormant volcano. Also because of this feature, the castle became a famous tourist centrepoint of Edinburgh in particular and whole Scotland in general. The castle is so majestic and prominent that you can see it from any corner of the city. Inside the castle, you will learn more about the history of this place as well as visit a small military museum inside with a display of the crown, scepter staff and sword of the former Scottish queen.

The castle is also the symbol of Scotland’s kingship, located on a steep hill in the center of the city and is a must-see on your itinerary. Once playing a major role in Scotland’s history, as a royal residence and at the same time a military fortress, so it also keeps a lot of military equipment, weapons including Mons Meg, one of the oldest cannons in the world and once seen as cutting edge military technology. Inside the castle there is a museum, a small village with traditional Scottish houses…

This castle is located on a large volcanic rock at Castle Rock and from here you can have a great view of the entire city. Having the opportunity to set foot here, visitors will learn about the museum and military prison inside this castle and the display area of ​​the crown of the Queen of Scotland.

At the entrance of the castle gate is a row of cannons used for military purposes in the past. Now they are used to fire every day, except Sunday, at 1pm. If you want to see the whole view of the city, you can go up to its loopholes. It takes more than 2 hours to visit all the parts of the castle. Admission is 16 Euros per person.

Standing by the loopholes here, you will easily admire the panoramic view of the city below. To visit and explore the entire castle, you can spend more than 2 hours wandering through the rooms, museums…

National Museum of Scotland

Address: Chambers St, Edinburgh EH1 1JF, United Kingdom Hours: 10AM–5PM

The museum in Romanesque Revival architectural style was found in 2006 is a place for you to explore and learn more about Scottish culture, history and people. The museum has a total of 5 floors that show the history of this land from the beginning to the 1990s through various interesting exhibitions. This place is also often the site of major festivals and exhibitions. The museum daily opens from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is completely free admission and audio guides for tourists in different languages.

The National Museum of Scotland covers the entire history of this country through a multitude of exhibitions and impressive events. This is considered a remarkable site of this city and a tourist atraction not to be missed. The national museum with its facade extending all the way to Chambers Street. One of two museum buildings with modern architecture was inaugurated in 1998, is one of the landmark works of the city.

Scottish Parliament Building

Address: Edinburgh EH99 1SP, United Kingdom Hours: Monday: 10AM–5PM/9AM–6:30PM/Friday, Saturday: 10AM–5PM/Sunday: Closed

One of the prominent architectures of Edinburgh that makes you admire is the Scottish Parliament Building, which was built on the foundation of an old brewery, and was inaugurated in 2005 with the architectural styles of Deconstructivism, Postmodern Architecture. This building is truly a masterpiece by architect Enric Miralles.

Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art

Address: 75 Belford Rd, Edinburgh EH4 3DR, United Kingdom Hours: 10AM–5PM

This is also a tourist attraction. Inside the two impressive neoclassical buildings, surrounded by many ornamental gardens, are collections of 20th-century art of the world’s greatest artists such as Henri Matisse and Picasso besides other famous Scottish painters.

Address: 109 The Royal Mile Royal Mile, Edinburgh EH1 1SG, United Kingdom

The Royal Miles is a street connecting the east and west of the city of Edinburgh. This road leads to Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse (Royal Palace of Holyrood) with a length of 1.6km. Royal Mile is home to many ancient architectural buildings and houses and countless restaurants, shops… extremely bustling. When exploring this street, visitors can easily shop a lot of Scottish souvenirs or enjoy a hot cup of tea with delicious butter cookies in British style, it will be a very wonderful experience.

Royal Mile brings many values ​​and historical imprints of the city. Coming here, you can walk around the shops selling souvenirs, gifts, clothes, coffee shops… At the beginning of this street is the Whiskey museum displaying hundreds of different types of whiskies, going down a little further is the St Giles’ Cathedral with outstanding ancient architecture from the 9th century and high pipe organ system.

Palace of Holyroodhouse (Holyrood Palace)

Palace of Holyroodhouse Ticket in Edinburgh

Address: Canongate, Edinburgh EH8 8DX, United Kingdom Hours: 9:30AM–4:30PM/Tuesday; Wednesday: Closed

At the end of the Royal Mile is the magnificent Palace of Holyrood, built in 1128 and opened in 1678, next to the ancient Holyrood Abbey. This palace is closely related to Scotland’s tumultuous history, today it is also the residence of the Queen and members of the royal family during public holidays…

The Elephant House

Address: 21 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1EN, United Kingdom

This is a famous cafe known as the place where writer J.K. Rowling wrote the famous Harry Potter series. The cafe serves a variety of drinks, in addition it also selling Harry Potter-related products such as shirts, badges, water glasses, etc. The Elephant House is decorated with many articles and pictures about the writer J.K. Rowling. If you have the opportunity to come to Edinburgh, do not miss the Elephant House!

Saint Andrew Square

One of the extremely interesting places of this city is Saint Andrew Square – an extremely important public area of this city. This is also a comfortable place to visit and shopping area for tourists thanks to many restaurants, bars and luxury fashion stores. In addition, when visiting the Square, visitors will have many opportunities to enjoy street performances and contemporary art performances.

Calton Hill

Calton Hill is one of Edinburgh’s highest natural landmarks. The hill is located in the center of the city, from here visitors can admire the whole city. This is the ideal place if you want to watch the sunrise and sunset in Edinburgh. Calton Hill is home to important works of Scotland such as: Main offices of the Scottish government, Nelson Monument, National Monument.

Sunrise in Scotland will become extremely beautiful if viewed from the top of Calton Hill. The city of Edinburgh that is both shy and beautiful, both ancient and magnificent appearing in the first hours of a new day will certainly be the most memorable experience of visitors.

Princes Street

This street located in the New Town of Edinburgh, Princes Street was built in the early 18th century, with the countless large and small galleries. In addition, there are also antique shops, coffee shops, clothing stores… for you to stop by and explore. Nearby there is also a very nice square and the Scottish National Gallery which you can visit.

Arthur’s Seat

Arthur’s Seat is one of the tallest mountains and the best place to watch the sunrise over the city. To conquer this extinct volcano, it will take you about 1 hour to trek to the top. Setting foot on the top of the mountain, you will enjoy the fresh air and panoramic views of Edinburgh, with old castles, Victorian architecture, East Lothian and Pentland Hills. Especially, if you come here in May, it is also the time when the bright yellow gorse flowers bloom, giving off a sweet scent all over the mountainside.

Edinburgh travel blog: What to eat

The Scottish cuisine in general and the city of Edinburgh in particular is not too famous as the cuisine of other European countries. However, it also has its own characteristics and dishes that will surely impress visitors.

Haggis (Large Traditional Sausage)

Haggis is the most famous dish in Scotland, made from minced sheep’s organs with fat, onions, oats and some spices and then stuffed into the sheep’s stomach like a giant sausage then steamed. For those who are not used to eating offal, Haggis will not be an attractive dish.

However, this type of “sausage” is especially popular in many small eateries or supermarkets and is often served with mashed potatoes and mustard greens. Regardless of appearance, Haggis impresses diners with its delicious and savory taste.

Traditional Scottish Cullen Skink Soup

As the typical representative of soups, Cullen Skink is elaborately prepared from smoked haddock, potatoes and onions with accompanying butter, cream and milk. This dish is served with bread, bringing great taste to visitors. This was originally a specialty dish of the town of Cullen in the North East of Scotland, but thanks to its special taste, the soup has become popular throughout the country. The soup is delicious, thick when added cream, butter and milk. When enjoying the soup, you will need to add a few slices of bread.

Scottish Crispy Morning Rolls

Like Haggis, this crispy butter bread is a delicious Scottish dish which has a distinct fluffy pillow texture, one of Scotland’s best loved foods. They are eaten at breakfast or made into sandwiches. The delicious, buttery and crispy cake will definitely not disappoint diners.

Black Pudding

Scotland is quite famous for a very rich variety of pudding. If you are a food enthusiast, you cannot ignore the black pudding made from oatmeal, pork fat or beef suet, pork or beef blood, oat groats or barley groats.

Also if you are not brave enough to enjoy this dish, you can try red or white pudding which is also very delicious.

Raisin Shortbread Cookies

Coming to Edinburgh, you must definitely enjoy the delicious and attractive raisin shortbread cookies. This is a traditional Scottish food with delicate, natural sweetness combined with the gentle aroma of rum.

Dundee Cake

Dundee cake is a traditional Scottish cake that is very popular. This is a fruit cake made from raisins and currants, Scottish also often use different fruits to add in. The cake is spongy and very light, with a sweet and sour taste and a bit of wine flavor. The Dundee cake is decorated with almonds arranged in beautiful circles around, eye-catching. The Scottish people often eat Dundee as a Christmas cake, in the cold winter days.

Stovies are a winter favorite dish in Scotland. They are made from simple ingredients such as potatoes, corned beef, onions, and butter cooked together in a pan. When eating, just served with bread and beets.

Aberdeen Angus Steak

This is a high-class dish that is very favorite in Edinburgh, it is served at many luxury restaurants in the city. Aberdeen Angus Steak is a nutritious, sweet and flavorful beef steak. Beef steak is pureed or chooses the best part of beef, when eaten, it is soft, melts in the mouth, delicious and greasy.

Although this dessert is simple, it is extremely popular in this country. This is a dessert that appears in many luxury hotels and restaurants, and is a combination of ingredients such as honey, oatmeal, cream, whiskey and raspberries.

Scottish whiskey is so famous worldwide that no one has never heard of it and no connoisseur has never tasted it. Tasting whiskey in Edinburgh is an incredibly rewarding experience.

In addition to whiskey, you can enjoy Parrs’ Irn Bru – a carbonated soft drink that is very popular with locals.

Edinburgh blog: Nightlife

Pub: British cultural rendezvous, where people meet to chatting, eating, entertaining and make friends to expand their social life. Most pubs in the UK are friendly and safe, creating the best space and atmostphere for customers to socialize and chat with each other. If you go to traditional pubs, you can easily see that the customers here are mainly elderly people, drinking beer and happily chatting. There is a famous pub chain in the UK that belongs to Wetherspoons, which is essentially a collection of local pubs but under one system to minimize costs and maximize profits. Food and drink prices here are quite affordable, averaging a few pounds. If you find a locally nightlife spot, you can come here.

Edinburgh tourist guide: Shopping

The shops in this city are diverse and easy to shop. Clothing and scarves that are typical items of Scotland are also popular items to buy as gifts. The city of Edinburgh is an ideal destination for those who love shopping. There are many famous brands gathering here such as H&M, Primark, Lush, The body shop…

In addition, there are many lovely shops selling souvenirs. Surely the items here will make you unable to hold back and definitely have to buy them as gifts.

You can shop at any of the shops in Edinburgh’s old town. However, when shopping here, visitors need to pay attention to VAT. Please ask for a VAT Refund Form when buying at stores and keep all shopping receipts to get a tax refund at the airport before you return home.

It can be said that shopping in Scotland is quite good, here is full of common brands in London such as The body shop, Lush, H&M, Primark… Although the same brand, I see items in these stores in Edinburgh are diverse, beautiful, cheaper and easier to buy than in London. There are also quite a few Scottish shops that I find the quality and design to be very good, but the price is a bit high.

From the Edinburgh castle gate, go along the Royal Mile (which I think is quite beautiful) there are many beautiful shops selling souvenirs, clothes, traditional costumes, typical Scottish checkered tartan pattern scarves and dresses, you can visit to buy as gifts.

Note: Because the VAT in the UK is very high (20%), you should try to get a refund at the airport when you return home. Please note that to get tax refund, you must apply for a VAT refund form at the stores you buy from. When going to the airport, fill out detail information in this form, attach the invoice and along with the goods you bought ready to be checked (usually they do not check but still need to be prepared). Once approved, you can choose to receive cash or wire transfer. If you receive cash, you will lose £3.5/tax refund bill, but you will get the money right away, and by transfer, it will take you 1.2 months to receive it.

What to buy

Scotland is home to famous whiskey, so this is also the most attractive and meaningful Scottish gift. Here, there are many types of whiskey with delicious and savory flavors for you to choose from such as: Lowland Single Malt (With the sweet aroma of flowers and grass in the plains), Speyside Single Malt (Fruit and herbal flavors of Spey river region in Northeastern Scotland), Highland Single Malt…

If you want to enjoy strong spirits, with great taste, you can buy Islay or Campbeltown (2 types of whiskies of Scottish islands). Before buying you should check the bottle body for more information about where production and taste of each whiskey, so that you can choose the right flavor for you.

Edinburgh travel blog: Suggested Endinburgh 2-day itinerary

Day 1: Take a morning train from London at 7-8am, the scenery along the way is very beautiful, especially when passing through York and New Castle. Arrive in Edinburgh in the early afternoon at 12.30pm or 1pm, check-in hotel and then joining the free walking tour of Edinburgh by SANDEMANs NEW Edinburgh Tours, in the evening go to a local pub to experience Edinburgh nighlife.

Day 2: In the morning visit the Edinburgh castle, in the early afternoon visit some museums, strolling around the royal botanical garden and wandering around the city, then go shopping and walking around the streets.

Edinburgh blog: Where to stay

Scotland in general and Edinburgh in particular are very developed in terms of tourism. Therefore, finding a hotel or guesthouse here is quite easy. You can completely find hostels, hotels from budget to high-class, meeting all the needs of visitors.

Edinburgh has a lot of hostels and hotels from high-end to budget for you to choose from. You should stay at places near Edinburgh Castle for more convenience in moving and visiting places around this place. If you go in a large group, you can also find rental apartments that will be much more comfortable.

Below we recommend more best budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• Ten Hill Place Hotel ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Ibis Styles Edinburgh Centre St Andrew Square ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• The Scotsman Hotel ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Novotel Edinburgh Park ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh – The Caledonian ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Leonardo Royal Edinburgh Haymarket ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )
• Castle Rock Hostel ( Agoda.com or Booking.com )

Check out more top and best hotels in Edinburgh on Agoda.com or Booking.com .

Edinburgh travel guide: Some useful notes before you go

Edinburgh is attracting more and more tourists to visit and explore. Therefore, in order to have a safe and meaningful trip, visitors need to understand the following notes:

• Prepare carefully before traveling, the weather in Edinburgh is quite cold compared to other countries especially tropical nations, so it is necessary to bring a thin, light and warm enough jacket.
• You can bring medicine in case of unforeseen circumstances.
• Scotland uses GBP (British Pound) currency for transactions and purchases.
• When booking air tickets and hotel rooms, you should book at least a month in advance to take the initiative and enjoy preferential programs.
• Look up the map before moving between tourist destinations. If you are traveling for short distances, taking a taxi is more convenient than taking public transport.
• Traveling to Scotland is very safe, but you should still be careful when going to crowded places.
• Should take advantage of places that offer free admission to save money on the trip.
• And the last thing, temporarily forget all worries and chaos if any and enjoy a fresh and enjoyable trip.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Edinburgh you can refer to

• Shared Edinburgh Airport (EDI) Transfers for Edinburgh by Airlink 100
• Edinburgh Castle Tour
• Edinburgh Rail Tour with Edinburgh Castle & Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tour (From London)
• Scottish Borders Day Tour from Edinburgh including Rosslyn Chapel
• Whisky and Waterfalls Day Tour from Edinburgh
• Outlander and Three Castles Day Tour from Edinburgh
• Loch Ness, Glencoe, and the Scottish Highlands Day Tour from Edinburgh
• Edinburgh City Pass
• Edinburgh Castle Admission Ticket
• Royal Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Pass with Edinburgh Castle Entry

Read more top things to do in Edinburgh here . And Edinburgh itinerary 1 day — How to spend 1 day in Edinburgh & what to do in Edinburgh in one day .

Related articles

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

Hong kong food culture — hong kong cuisine tells the historical story of the whole land.

Melaka food blog — Experience Melaka delicacies, arrived at by Trishaw

Alishan travel blog — The fullest Alishan travel guide for first-timers

Gingtiangang Grassland Yangmingshan — The ultimate guide on how to go & top things to do

Tokyo best parks — 10+ best & most beautiful parks in tokyo

Yamanashi blog — The Yamanashi travel guide & top things to do in Yamanashi

Editor picks.

Where to go in Kunming? — 15+ top Kunming attractions &...

Must eat in Georgetown — 10+ famous, must-eat & best street...

Must eat in Melaka — 10+ famous Malacca street food &...

Popular posts.

What to buy in USA? — 17+ must buy in USA...

Must buy souvenir in Taiwan — Top 17+ most famous, cheap...

Must buy in Korea — Top 23 cheap, famous & best...

Popular category.

• Inspiration + Guide 1453
• Trip Inspiration 469
• Thailand 209
• Food + Drink 207
• Coasts + Islands 193
• South Korea 168
• Vietnam 166
• Travel Photos 144
• Work for Us
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy