Edinburgh, one of my favorite cities in the UK and the lively capital of Scotland, is a city where history, culture, and amazing architecture come together in perfect unison. From its ancient castles and medieval streets to its one-of-a-kind festivals and modern attractions, Edinburgh offers an unforgettable experience for travelers. Whether you are taking a guided tour of the cobblestone alleys of the Old Town or exploring more contemporary areas of the city, there’s no shortage of things to see and do.
In this guide, we’ll take you through 25 of the best places to visit in Edinburgh, highlighting both the iconic landmarks you’ve been imagining since your trip planning began and the hidden gems that make this city so special. If this is your first visit or your tenth, our comprehensive list will help you discover both the main attractions and the lesser-known spots of this captivating city.
Be sure to read all the way to the end for bonus suggestions and travel tips!
Table of Contents
Edinburgh Castle: The Crown Jewel
Perched on top of 350 million-year-old rock from the plug of an ancient volcano this area now called Castle Rock hosts Edinburgh Castle, the most iconic landmark in Scotland. This is a must-see for anyone visiting Edinburgh and is hard to miss from most points in the city. With its towering viewpoint and centuries-old history, the castle offers some of the best views of Edinburgh and is home to the oldest crown jewels in the United Kingdom.
Within its ancient walls, you’ll discover the rich history of Scotland, from St. Margaret’s Chapel to the grandeur of the Great Hall. A visit to Edinburgh Castle is not just about admiring its architecture; it’s about immersing yourself in the history that shaped Scotland.
Things to Do
- Tour Edinburgh Castle and see the Crown Jewels
- See the magnificent Honours of Scotland, including the Crown, Sceptre, and Sword of State, which are among the oldest crown jewels in the British Isles.
- Visit St Margaret’s Chapel, the oldest building in Edinburgh
- Step inside St Margaret’s Chapel, a sacred space dating back to the 12th venture that still hosts christenings and weddings today.
- Explore the Great Hall and learn about its historical significance
- Walk through the grandeur of the Great Hall, where you can learn about the castle’s role in Scotland’s complicated history and admire the medieval armor and weaponry on display.
- Enjoy the panoramic views of Edinburgh from Castle Rock
- Take advantage of the vista from this elevation and snap a few panoramic photos of Edinburgh’s cityscape, stretching from Old Town to the distant hills beyond.
Exploring the Royal Mile
Stretching from the top of the Royal Mile near Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Royal Mile is the heart of Edinburgh’s city center and one of the most famous streets in Scotland. Lined with historic buildings, charming shops, and packed pubs, the Royal Mile offers visitors a chance to walk through centuries of history. Interested in exploring ancient architecture? Or perhaps delving into the city’s haunted past? The Royal Mile has something for everyone.
Things to Do
- 5. Walk the Royal Mile and explore its many historical sites
- Explore Dunbars Close, a secret 17th-century garden just off the main tourist path, and of course the many grand buildings such as St Giles Cathedral.
- 6. Take a guided walking tour of the Royal Mile
- Join a guided walking tour to uncover stories only locals know and learn about the rich history of Edinburgh’s most famous street.
- 7. Experience a ghost tour
- With centuries of complicated history, of course, there has to be a ghost tour! This is a fun way to learn unique information about hauntings and explore the eerie locations along the Royal Mile.
- 8. Visit St Giles’ Cathedral
- Step inside St Giles’ Cathedral, a gorgeous example of Gothic architecture and an important site in Scotland’s religious history. And don’t miss the lovely cemetery grounds next door.
Arthur’s Seat and Holyrood Palace
Another landmark that dominates the Edinburgh skyline is Arthur’s Seat. This extinct volcano is one of the city’s most beautiful natural landmarks and rises above Holyrood Park. The ancient hill offers some of the best views of Edinburgh, making it a must-visit for hikers and nature lovers.
At the foot of Arthur’s Seat lies the Palace of Holyroodhouse (often referred to as Holyrood Palace), the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. This area, rich in both history and natural beauty, serves as a great launching point for anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors within the heart of the city.
Things to Do
- 9. Hike up Arthur’s Seat
- Take a hike to the top of Arthur’s Seat to enjoy fantastic views of the coast. When we hiked there was a food truck parked at the start of the trail. If it’s there reward yourself with a slushy drink or ice cream cone once you’re coming back.
- 10. Explore the ruins of St Anthony’s Chapel on the way to Arthur’s Seat
- Its date of origin has been lost to history but the views of the city through the arches of this medieval chapel’s remains are beautiful.
- 11. Tour the Palace of Holyroodhouse
- Tour the State Apartments and Palace Gardens, or during the summer take an evening tour. There are frequent children’s activities hosted there as well.
- 12. Walk through Holyrood Park
- You don’t have to hike Arthur’s Seat to enjoy the outdoors. Holyrood Park surrounds the Palace and is equally beautiful. Take a stroll along the well-maintained paths that you’ll share with bicyclists and enjoy the scenery.
Cultural Experiences: Museums and Galleries
Edinburgh’s many museums and galleries provide visitors with an in-depth look at both the world at large as well as Scotland’s artistic and historical heritage. From the impressive collections of the National Museum of Scotland to the thought-provoking shows at Dynamic Earth, there’s something for everyone. Whether you are fascinated by art, obsessed with history or just looking for a unique experience like the Camera Obscura, Edinburgh’s cultural scene is sure to hold your interest.
Things to Do
- 13. Visit the National Museum of Scotland
- Dive into Scotland’s past at the National Museum of Scotland, where you can explore exhibits ranging
- 14. See famous artwork at the National Galleries of Scotland
- Admire masterpieces by renowned international artists, such as Monet, Van Gogh, and Picasso just to name a few, as well as contemporary art from Scottish artists.
- 15. Explore portraits of iconic Scots through the National Portrait Gallery
- You can view portraits of Scotland’s most influential figures from historic icons to contemporary leaders.
- 16. Experience optical illusions at Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
- Have fun with mind-bending optical illusions and interactive exhibits at Camera Obscura and World of Illusions, a favorite with children. You can book online to get tickets in advance or save money with a later entry time.
- 17. Explore the Dynamic Earth
- This world-class museum is both a science center that caters to educational programs as well as a planetarium. Near Palace of Holyroodhouse, you can take a journey through time and learn the history of our planet through both indoor and outdoor interactive exhibits.
Literary Legends and Historical Figures
Known as the birthplace and/or inspiration for some of the world’s most beloved writers, Edinburgh is the perfect place for your family’s bibliophile to visit. From the towering Scott Monument dedicated to Sir Walter Scott to the places that inspired JK Rowling’s famous Harry Potter series, this city is a goldmine for literary enthusiasts. Are you a fan of Robert Burns or Robert Louis Stevenson? Or are you simply interested in exploring the landmarks associated with these great authors? Edinburgh offers a wealth of experiences that celebrate its literary heritage.
Things to Do
- 18. Climb Scott Monument
- Due to the time that it was built and the historical nature of the monument, you can only access the monument via stairs. There are 287 steps that access four different levels but the summit view from the top is a beautiful view of Edinburgh.
- 19. Visit the Writiers’ Museum
- Step inside the Writers’ Museum, where you can discover more about the lives and works of Scotland’s literary giants.
- 20. Explore locations connected to JK Rowling and the Harry Potter series
- Wander through the street of Edinburgh and discover places that inspired JK Rowling as she wrote the Harry Potter series. Grab a coffee or tea at The Elephant House where Rowling used to sit and write as her first book was published, or enjoy the luxury of The Balmoral where she was able to work on her final book Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. Follow the Potter Trail to discover Harry Potter-related sites and make a quick stop to walk through Greyfriars Kirkyard, looking for character namesakes on the tombstones. You can also travel outside of Edinburgh to Fort William to take a round-trip journey on the Jacobite Steam Train, also known as Hogwarts Express.
Shopping, Dining and Beyond: Princes Street and More
Edinburgh offers a blend of shopping, dining, and unique experiences that cater to every taste. Princes Street, in the city centre, is a great place to start exploring, as it offers everything from high-end shops to beautiful gardens with views of the castle. Looking to indulge in some retail therapy? Want to savor traditional Scottish fare like a stovie in a cozy pub? Or maybe just immerse yourself in the festive spirit of the Edinburgh Christmas markets? The city has something for everyone. And if you’re a fan of the Harry Potter series, don’t miss the chance to explore the colorful Victoria Street, said to have inspired Diagon Alley.
Things to Do
- 21. Shop along Princes Street
- Here’s where you’ll find popular store, designer boutiques and souvenir shops, all set against the backdrop of Edinburgh Castle.
- 22. Enjoy a meal of traditional Scottish fare
- Experience authentic Scottish cuisine at one of Edinburgh’s cozy pubs, where you can savor dishes like stovie (a traditional stew), neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes) or even a warming glass of whisky.
- 23. Take a tour and try a taste at the Scotch Whisky Experience
- While yes, this is primarily geared toward tourists, what the heck! Live a little and dive into the world of whisky with a guided tour followed by samples of some of Scotland’s finest.
- 24. Visit the Edinburgh Christmas markets during the holidays
- Immerse yourself in the festive Christmas spirit starting in mid-November and shop for unique gifts, enjoy seasonal treats and soak up the holiday cheer.
- 25. Explore Victoria Stree shops and restaurants
- Wander through Victoria Street, said to be the real-life inspiration for Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter series, and check out the quirky shops and restaurants that call the street home.
Bonus
- 26. Walk along Water of Leith for a peaceful escape
- Everyone needs to escape once in awhile and you’ve been pretty busy! So take a break by taking a serene walk along the Water of Leith, a picturesque river that winds through Edinburgh and offers peaceful views and a bit of nature in the city.
Valuable Tips for First-Time Visitors
1. Plan for the Weather
- Be Prepared for All Seasons: Edinburgh’s weather can be unpredictable, even in summer. It’s common to experience all four seasons in a day, so pack layers, including a waterproof jacket and good walking shoes. An umbrella can be handy, but the city’s winds might make it difficult to use. The locals are known to say, “There is no bad weather, just bad clothing.”
2. Walk, But Also Use Public Transport
- Walking-Friendly City: Edinburgh is a very walkable city, especially in the central areas like the Old and New Towns. Many of the main attractions and quality dining options are within walking distance of each other.
- Public Transport: For longer distances, take advantage of Edinburgh’s efficient bus and tram systems. Consider getting a day pass if you plan to use public transport frequently. We took advantage of the Hop On Hop Off buses during our stay. It was incredibly convenient and there are multiple pass options to choose from.
3. Take a Free Walking Tour
- Get Oriented: A free walking tour is a great way to get your bearings and learn about the city’s history from a knowledgeable guide. Many companies offer tours that cover different aspects of the city, from historical sites to literary connections.
4. Visit During Off-Peak Times
- Avoid Peak Tourist Season: If possible, visit Edinburgh during the shoulder seasons (spring or autumn) to avoid the busiest crowds. This can make for a more pleasant experience, especially when exploring popular attractions like Edinburgh Castle. We visited in early June and were already dealing with crowds.
5. Book Ahead for Popular Attractions
- Reserve in Advance: Edinburgh is a popular tourist destination, so it’s wise to book tickets for major attractions like Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the Royal Yacht Britannia in advance, especially during peak season. You will not necessarily be able to purchase tickets on the day of, so save yourself the disappointment and grab those ahead of time.
6. Respect Local Etiquette
- Tipping: Tipping in Edinburgh is similar to the rest of the UK. A tip of 10-15% is customary in restaurants if service is not included. It’s also polite to round up the fare for taxi drivers.
- Respect the Scots: Scots are generally very friendly and welcoming. Be mindful of the fact that Scotland has a distinct cultural identity, separate from the rest of the UK and it is likely that if you engage in conversation with a local they will have opinions about that fact. A little knowledge of Scottish history and culture goes a long way in making a good impression.