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Edinburgh is one of the most sought-after places to live in Scotland and a popular tourist destination. With so many amazing things to do in Edinburgh, the capital city has remained a must-visit destination in the UK.

With century-old castles, fascinating history, cozy pubs, and unique culture, you could visit again and again and continue to stumble across something new. 

This guide to the best things to do in Edinburgh focuses on some of the city’s top attractions and hidden places you may not have heard of before. 

Top Things to do in Edinburgh

Arthur’s Seat

For outdoors lovers, hiking to the top of Arthur’s Seat is one of the best things to do in Edinburgh and, without a doubt, one of the prettiest. The 251-meter-tall rock formation is part of an extinct volcano that towers outside the city in Holyrood Park. 

There is much speculation about how the volcanic rock formation got its name. The most popular theory is that it was the site of Camelot, where King Arthur and his knights lived.

Another idea is that it comes from the Gallic word “Àrd-na-Said,” which means the height of arrows.

In total, it takes about a 2-hour hike to the top and back, but you can also choose some more straightforward and less strenuous trails.

For example, the pathway to Arthur’s Seat can be found behind Holyrood Palace, where you will find three different paths to the top.

Calton Hill

Another scenic location in Edinburgh is Calton Hill. It is a great place to go for panoramic city views, especially at sunset. 

There originally stood a fort on the hill. The area was turned into a public park in 1724 to allow people to enjoy the outdoors and learn about the city’s history. 

There are also many things to see while up there. The hill contains intricate Greek-style monuments and an Acropolis, and City Observatory. 

On the top of the hill is the Dugald Stewart Monument. The beautiful structure is one of the most photographed places on Calton Hill and has some of the best views of the city. 

Another structure that sits on the hilltop is the National Monument of Scotland. Meant to replicate the Parthenon in Athens, construction of the monument began in 1822, but after seven years of construction, the money ran out, and construction was never completed. 

In addition, you can visit both the Old Observatory House, City Observatory, and Nelson’s Monument. If more is needed to see, the park also hosts year-round festivals.

 

National Museum of Scotland

• Hours of Operation: Daily from 10 am to 5 pm 
• Tickets: Free
• Address:  Chambers St, Edinburgh EH1 1JF, UK

The National Museum of Scotland is one of the best free things to do in Edinburgh for families. Not only are the exhibits fascinating, but the museum has fun, interactive activities for kids and adults to enjoy. 

You can learn about ancient history, art, world cultures, and science with dozens of galleries to explore.

Of course, there are lots of fascinating objects that highlight Scotland’s history. The collections are so vast that the museum spans two buildings to hold them.

The Royal Mile

The Royal Mile is a long cobblestone street connecting the trek from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace. Although there is no shortage of pretty streets in Edinburgh, the Royal Mile is probably the most famous. Unfortunately, it is also full of tourists, but keep that from deterring you.

The walk between the two attractions is short, but it could take time to get from one end to the other as there are distractions at every step. The street is lined with enticing pubs, souvenir shops, and other interesting attractions on both sides. 

While you walk along the Royal Mile, keep an eye out for the Heart of Midlothian. It is made using colored granite blocks that form a heart and cross built into the street.

The Heart of Midlothian was put there to remember the Old Tolbooth, which once stood in that location.

The building was used as a prison and administration office from the 14th century, known as the city’s heart. It was used until 1817 when the structure was finally ordered to be demolished. 

Today, you may notice people spitting on the Heart. Once done to show hatred for the prison, people do it today as they believe it is good luck. Keep an eye out for this hidden gem along the mile-long road. It is located near St. Giles’ Cathedral.

 

Writer’s Museum

• Hours of Operation: Daily from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Tickets: Free
• Address: ​​Lawnmarket, Lady Stair’s Cl, Edinburgh EH1 2PA, UK

For those who love literature, the Writer’s Museum celebrates the three extremely influential Scottish writers, Robert Burns, Robert Louis Stevenson, and Sir Walter Scott.

The mansion turned museum is the Lady Stair’s House, dating back to 1622. In 1907, it was donated to the city as a museum. 

Home to rare objects, furniture, and personal belongings, you can learn about these writers beyond their books. Some rare things in museums include the first edition of several novels and an old printing press used to print Scott’s novels.

Edinburgh Castle

• Hours of Operation: Daily from 9:30 am – 5:00 pm
• Tickets: £18 adults, £11 children (online prices)
• Address: Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NG, UK

Edinburgh Castle is one of the most exquisite castles in Scotland. Sitting high on a volcanic cliff, it looms over the bustling city below. It is the first thing that comes to many people’s minds when they think about the Scottish city. The fortified castle is quite the site from below, but it is even more impressive up close. 

Edinburgh Castle is one place that is best visited as part of a tour. Since it is one of the top things to do in Edinburgh, book your entrance in advance. It is also a good idea to visit in the morning with fewer visitors. The castle tends to get crowded in the afternoon with tourists and tours. 

Since the 11th century, the castle has witnessed some of the most intense battles in history and has withstood centuries of sieges. Climbing Castle Rock to the massive castle gates, it is hard not to contain your excitement. 

You can explore several museums, such as the National War Museum of Scotland. Displays of weapons, artifacts, and the Scottish Crown Jewels tell a fascinating story of Scotland’s history. 

One of the stand-out things to see is the large Great Hall, the Royal Palace, and St. Margaret’s Chapel. The Argyle Battery and tower and the National War Museum are other places to visit inside the castle walls.

I encourage you to explore as much of the castle as possible and remember to step out on the terraces for views of the city below. 

If you visit around 1:00 pm, you will have the chance to experience the cannon firing, a tradition dating back to 1861. The cannon was fired to communicate the time with ships and has continued out of tradition, not necessity.

Book Your Guided Tour to Edinbugh Castle

Princes Street

Princes Street is one of the main streets in Edinburgh and where you will find many brand name shops. The street was initially built as part of the New Town for residences, but over the years as become more of a commercial area. From cafes, hotels, boutique shops, and department stores, Princes Street is a busy section of the city.

Just off the main street is the lovely Prices Street Gardens, which sit on a drained loch in the city’s center. The outdoor park separates the Old and New Town. Some of the most important monuments in the gardens are the Ross Fountain, a war memorial, and a large floral clock.

Holyrood Palace

• Hours of Operation: 9:30 am – 4:30 pm (closed Tuesday and Wednesday)
• Tickets: £18 adults,  £10 children (online prices)
• Address: Canongate, Edinburgh EH8 8DX, UK

The royal palace is home to the British Royal family and their formal residence in Edinburgh. It is, however, open to visitors year-round. 

It wasn’t until 400 years after Holyrood Abbey was built that the palace was constructed due to the need for larger accommodations. As a result, the original palace buildings no longer remain. The structure you see today was designed by Charles II in 1671 and completed in 1679.

Some of the most influential figures in history have graced the palace halls over the centuries. The Strong female monarchs such as Mary Queen of Scots and Queen Elizabeth II have stayed at Holyrood. Other essential figures like King George V spent plenty of time in the castle while in Scotland.

The palace is open daily to visitors during July, August, and September. You can visit from Thursday to Monday for all other months of the year.

Visit several rotating exhibits, the state apartments, and the throne room. Other parts of the palace include the Great Gallery, lush gardens, and abbey.

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Holyrood Abbey

In the palace gardens, you will come across the crumbling Holyrood Abbey. The abbey is much older than the palace, having been constructed in 1128. 

Over the centuries, it was used for the Scottish Parliament and has played an essential role in events pertaining to royalty and politics. 

Although the abbey is no longer fully intact, what remains is a glimpse into how exquisite it once was. Located just behind the palace, Holyrood Abbey is just one of the many delightful things to tour on the property.

 

Harry Potter Tour

For Harry Potter fans, there are no better things to do than explore the many sites associated with the series. You can either visit these places on your own or as part of the popular Harry Potter Magical Guide Walking Tour.

In fact, in Edinburgh at Nicolson’s Café, J.K. Rowling came up with the idea and spent time writing parts of the books. The Elephant House and Balmoral Hotel are two other known places where she spent time writing.

Now for the places that are thought to have inspired the famous author. The colorful Victoria Street was said to be the inspiration for Diagon Alley. The mixture of vibrant buildings looks very similar to the wizard’s hidden shopping street.

Victoria Street even has shops dedicated to selling souvenirs from the book. Stop by Museum Context and the Great Wizard for a souvenir as you continue to the following site.

In addition, the Greyfriar’s Kirkyard cemetery can be closely related to that in the book and is a possible inspiration behind Tom Riddle and a few other characters’ names.

In interviews, she has mentioned getting inspiration from names from all types of places, so it is not so farfetched to think Greyfriad’s Kirkyard cemetery was one place for that inspiration.

Last stop by the Edinburgh City Chambers to see J.K. Rowling’s handprints on the flagstone in front of the buildings. After you finish, stop by The Dog House pub for a butterbeer, which you can now find at several places around the city.

Dean Village

Sitting just outside of the city is Dean Village. It was initially used for milling, and although most mills are no longer in use, the area has become a thriving neighborhood.

The neighborhood is situated on the Water of Leith, a river that runs through the village flanked by charming old homes and mill houses. 

One of the buildings, known as Well Court, has been restored to allow visitors to glimpse what life was like for the water mill workers in the late 1800s.

For the best viewpoint of the hamlet, take a walk to Dean Bridge, spanning the Water of Leith, before taking a stroll along the cobblestone roads for some quiet time away from the vibrance of the city center.

Scotch Whisky Experience

• Hours of Operation: Daily from 10 am to 5 pm. 
• Tickets: £21 – £90
• Address: 354 Castlehill The Royal Mile, Edinburgh EHI 2NE, UK

You can’t take a trip to Edinburgh without trying some of their famous scotch. For the best tastings, try joining a Scotch Whisky Experience.

Their collection includes an astonishing 3,384 bottles of Scotch Whisky, making it one of the largest collections in the world. In addition, there are several different tours available to suit your needs. 

The Silver Tour takes 50 minutes and guides you through the impressive whisky collection, including a tasting of a single whisky. This particular tour is available in 20 different languages.

The next tier is the Gold Tour, which offers the same as the silver, but is longer and includes several more tastings. Finally, the top-tasting Platinum Tour tour adds an additional deluxe blend to the tasting menu.

Want dinner with your tasting? There are two different experiences available with food. The first is the Tasting Tales Experience which is available on Saturdays and lasts an hour. Enjoy an assortment of canapé that are paired perfectly with your whiskies.

Finally, for the ultimate tasting experience, book your three-hour Taste of Scotland Experience. Experience the Platinum Tour tasting, followed by a decadent three-course meal at the Amber Restaurant accompanied by, of course, more Scotch whisky.

Book your Taste of Scotland Experience before it sells out!

Museum of Edinburgh

• Hours of Operation: Daily from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Tickets: Free 
• Address: 142-146 Canongate, Edinburgh EH8 8DD, UK

For history lovers, there is no place better than the Museum of Edinburgh. You will learn about the city’s long and intriguing history through various artwork, historical artifacts, and original documents.

The museum also features exhibits showing how Edinburgh has progressed from when it was formed to the modern day. Once you are done exploring the museum inside, take a walk to its courtyard.

 

The Real Mary King’s Close

Hidden passages lying deep below the city streets hold centuries of dark secrets and unruly characters. There is no place better to experience life between the 16th and 19th centuries than a visit to the medieval close. 

Earning a reputation as being a highly haunted part of the city, the underground alleyway lies buried under the Royal Mile.

The alleyways, or closes, were named after Mary King, a merchant burgess whole lived in one of the buildings when they were used as tenement houses. 

In the mid-1700s, the streets of Edinburgh had become overcrowded, and with no way to expand outwards, a Royal Exchange was designed to be built on top of the close.

Although some of the alleyways were destroyed, a large portion was used as the foundation for the Royal Exchange.

You can visit the Real Mary King’s Close as part of a tour where you will learn about the dirty secrets and unbelievable stories of the people who once called this part of Edinburgh home. 

St. Giles’ Cathedral

• Hours of Operation: Weekdays 10:00 am – 6:00pm; Saturday 9:00 am – 5:00pm; Sunday 1:00pm – 5:00 pm
• Tickets: Free to enter (although donations are appreciated); £5.50 for audioguides
• Address: High St, Edinburgh EH1 1RE, UK

The iconic 12th-century cathedral is a beautiful piece of gothic architecture you will see through the city. Unfortunately, the church has suffered much damage over the years. The four central pillars remain some of the only original architectural elements.

That being said, the church has been remarkably restored and boasts sizeable stained glass windows, an impressive central tower, and detailed stonework. 

One of St. Gile’s most monumental parts is the Thistle Chapel. The Knights of the Order of the Thistle has been a great honor bestowed on Scots for distinguished service by the Sovereign.

The chapel was created at St. Gile’s after the original one in Holyrood Abbey was ransacked 200 years prior. The chapel contains hand-crafted chairs for the 16 knights and Sovereign. 

The church offers free daily walking tours at 10:30 am and 2:30 pm for those wanting to learn about its history. Audio guides are also available for those wishing to explore the cathedral independently.

Victoria Street

One of the prettiest roads in Edinburgh, Victoria Street is a terrific shopping street lined with colorful buildings.

The mixture of bright Flemish buildings is incredibly charming on its own. However, add the rooftop terraces and independent shops, and you have a real gem. 

During the early 1800s, parts of the city underwent improvement to make the street easier to navigate. Victoria Street was just one of those improvements. 

Then, of course, is the street’s connection to the Harry Potter books. The road was the inspiration behind Diagon Alley and is now one of the many places rebound Edinburgh that has caught the eye of Harry Potter fans. 

 

Museum on the Mound

• Hours of Operation: Tuesday to Friday 10:00 am – 5:00 pm; Saturday 1:00 pm am – 5:00 pm; (Closed Sunday and Monday)
• Tickets: Free
• Address: The Mound, Edinburgh EH1 1YZ, UK

The Museum on the Mound is another popular museum in Edinburgh that focuses on the financial history of Scotland. It is full of interactive exhibits and even games for adults and children.

You can learn about the history of the banking system and how it has grown in impacted the city.

Inside, you can see the first-ever Scottish banknote, dating back to 1716. You can also see an iron chest used in the 18th century. 

The interactive displays and activities for kids are an engaging way to learn about Scotland’s history through its economic past.

Even better, who wouldn’t want to see what £1 million pounds of money looks like? That is just one of the many permanent exhibits displayed in the Museum on the Mound.

Craigmillar Castle

• Hours of Operation: Daily from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
• Tickets: £7 adults, £4 child
• Address: Craigmillar Castle Rd, Edinburgh EH16 4SY, UK

Another famous Scottish castle is Craigmillar Castle. Craigmillar is home to Mary Queen of Scots and other royals and remains one of the best-preserved castles in Scotland.

Located just a few miles from Edinburgh, Craigmillar was built as a small towerhouse that was gradually added to over the centuries to produce the structure you see today.

Unlike most historic sites, Craigmillar castle is a place where you are encouraged to explore, with little to no areas off limits. Explore the many rooms, including the great hall and prison. You can also see Mary Queen of Scot’s living chambers.

VISIT | Purchase Entrance Tickets

 

Edinburgh Vaults

One of the most extraordinary experiences is taking a trip deep into the city’s depth with an underground tour. The Edinburgh Vaults are a collection of chambers used by tradesmen, merchants, and workshops.

Unfortunately, soon after their construction, the vaults became overrun by the poor and a hotspot for gambling and illegal activity.

But why were there shops constructed underground in the first place? Just like with the Real Mary King’s Close, these chambers were built under the South Bridge as a way to combat crowded conditions. With little space for expansion outwards, it was decided to build under the newly constructed bridge.

Unfortunately, the vaults were abandoned entirely in less than 30 years due to bad conditions, flooding, and sanitation issues. It was in 1985 that they were found by excavators and are now open to the public for tours.

Ghost tours are especially popular in these hidden chambers as the vaults are said to be one of the most haunted places in Scotland, and from their chaotic past, it is not hard to wonder what transpired there so many years ago.

Check out some popular underground tours

Scott Monument

The Scott Monument was built in 1844 to dedicate the Scottish author Sir Walter Scott. Standing at 61 meters in height, the iconic landmark is a popular attraction intricately decorated with figures of other important figures and writers. 

At the base of the monument sits the white marble statue of Sir Walter Scott, a striking contrast to the dark-colored monument.

If you’d like, you can climb the 287 steps to the top of the memorial for views of the Princes Street Gardens below. 

 

The Georgian House

• Hours of Operation: Hours change depending on time of year.
• Tickets: £10 adults, £1 children
• Address: 7 Charlotte Square, Edinburgh EH2 4DR, UK

In the center of the city is the 1796 Georgian Hall in New Town. This part of the city was designated for the wealthy, which is evident as soon as you walk inside the lavish residence.

Throughout the house, you will see luxurious furnishings, art, and everyday items used by the upper class in Edinburgh. To make your visit even more exciting, you can dress up in replica costumes as you explore the house. 

Visit as part of a self-guided tour through the luxuriously decorated drawing rooms, down to the kitchen and servant’s quarters. The Georgian House is one of the best places to see how people of all social classes lived back in the 18th and 19th centuries.

VISIT | Purchase Entrance Tickets

Blackness Castle

• Hours of Operation: Open daily from 10:00am to 4:00pm (April – Sept.until 5:00 pm)
• Tickets: £7 adults, £4 children
• Address: Blackness, Linlithgow EH49 7NH, UK

Although Blackness Castle is technically not in Edinburgh, it is just a 30-minute drive from the city. Made famous as being the setting of Fort William in the Outlander TV series. This stronghold has held many jobs since its construction. 

The medieval 15th-century castle sits on the Firth of Forth and was built as a noble residence by the Crichton family. Unfortunately for them, it was quickly turned into a military stronghold to be used by the crown. 

Most of the time, the castle was used as a high-security prison and military storage facility. The majority of the prisoners where were from noble or wealthy families.

Blackness Castle was passed to the Office of Works and underwent restorations from 1926 to 1935 to restore it to its original state. 

VISIT | Purchase Entrance Tickets

 

Gladstone’s Land

• Hours of Operation: Daily from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Tickets: £7.50 adults, £5 children
• Address: 477B Lawnmarket, Edinburgh EH1 2NT, UK

Gladstone’s Land is one place you should visit while strolling along the Royal Mile. The gold hawk outside the front door can easily spot it. The building is six stories tall and was used as a tenement in the 1600s.

Thomas Gladstone, a wealthy merchant, bought the property in 1617 for his family to live close to his shop. However, he subleased some of the building’s apartments to other merchants. A visit will surely transport you back in time as you walk through the old room.

At first, the people who lived in the apartments were of a wealthier class. However, once the New Town began to be developed, many of these tenets left, and Gladstone’s Land became extremely rundown.

Thankfully, the National Trust of Scotland stepped in to keep the building from being demolished and, after intensive restorations, opened the property up to the public.

The immersive experience takes you through three centuries of history and features the living quarters of the people who lived with its walls.

VISIT | Purchase Entrance Tickets

Leith

The charming neighborhood of Leith has recently gained popularity. Leith’s important port was vital for Edinburgh’s trading in the 18th century. The area sits right on the water and is a great place to wine and dine after a long day of exploring the city. 

The only main attraction in Leith is the Royal Yacht Britannia, now docked at Leith’s harbor. So why the popularity? People come to the neighborhood to walk the charming streets and soak in the vibrant nightlife and food scene. Just over two miles, the rapidly growing community is where you want to go for a local experience.

 

Royal Yacht Brittania

• Hours of Operation: Daily from 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
• Tickets: £18.50 adults, £9.25 children
• Address: Ocean Dr, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 6JJ, UK

The Royal Yacht Britannia was used by Queen Elizabeth II and the British Royal family for over 40 years before being retired in 1997. With over one million miles sailed across the world, the Britannia is permanently docked at the Port of Leith.

A self-guided tour allows access to Queen Elizabeth II’s private rooms, the main living areas, and the crew’s quarter.

You will receive an audio guide with your entry ticket explaining each room you visit. Once you have explored the yacht, grab lunch at the Royal Deck Tea Room.

VISIT | Purchase Entrance Tickets

Conclusion

This guide to the best things to do in Edinburgh scratches the surface of ways to experience the vibrant city.

From the top attractions for first-time visitors to some more unique and lesser-known experiences, there is no shortage of exciting and unique things to do.

Know of some other interesting places to see that are not on the list? Leave a comment below about it.

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Travel Planning Resources

BOOK YOUR FLIGHT | Skyscanner is the top search engine for finding and booking flights. They price check over 1,200 travel sites to help you find the best prices. 

VIEW ACCOMMODATIONS | For booking hotels and vacation rentals Booking.com is a top resource . They offer some of the cheapest rates and different payment options.

PLAN TRANSPORTATION | Discover Cars is my go-to site when booking rentals. They work with hundreds of companies worldwide to help you find the best car for your needs and budget.

SCHEDULE YOUR TOURS | There are many top companies available in Europe. Get Your Guide is one of the best sites for tours, excursions, and activities. Viator is another terrific website for all types of experiences.

GET TRAVEL INSURANCE | Having travel insurance is always a good idea. World Nomads is one of the top travel insurance companies.  It will cover you if you must cancel your trip or if something unexpected happens. 

Check out the resource page for additional travel planning resources.

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