11 BEST THINGS TO DO IN EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND - BUCKET LIST EXPERIENCES
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This post is about the top things to see and do in Edinburgh, Scotland
So you’re planning a trip to Edinburgh and you need a little inspiration to get you started? Don’t worry - this list has you covered!
I simply love Edinburgh and I’m sure you will too! It’s a city steeped in charm and history and is one of the top cities in the UK to visit.
In my opinion, it’s the most beautiful city in Scotland with so much to do and see. With all these things to do in Edinburgh it can be overwhelming deciding what to see and what to skip especially if it’s your first visit to Edinburgh or you only have a day or two in the city.
In this guide I will share all the must-sees in Edinburgh as well as the most popular tourist sights and attractions if you have a little more time to spend in Edinburgh.
So, if you’re wondering what to do during your time in Edinburgh, keep reading!
Planning your trip? Use my favourite resources!
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Edinburgh Travel Top Picks:
Experiences: A few top-rated tours in Edinburgh include:
Enjoy the spectacular Edinburgh castle with this walking tour and entry ticket
Discover spooky Edinburgh by heading underground on an Underground Vaults tour
A must for all Harry Potter fans is to discover the sights of Edinburgh on a Harry Potter walking tour
Click here for a full list of Edinburgh tours
Accommodation: Find the best places to suit your style and budget here
Safety: Brighton is a pretty safe place for travel but you should still pack some travel safety essentials. A great item to take is a Personal Safety Alarm that can help scare away potential attackers. Other safety items you should consider are Hidden Pocket Scarves or Hidden Pocket Scrunchies and Clever Companion Hidden Pocket Pickpocket Proof Clothes.
Where is Edinburgh?
Edinburgh is the capital city of Scotland, a country located in the northern part of the United Kingdom (UK).
It is in the southeastern part of Scotland, on the southern shore of the Firth of Forth.
Edinburgh is a hugely popular city to visit in the UK and is known for its historic landmarks, cultural festivals, and picturesque landscapes.
Why is Edinburgh a great travel destination?
Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland, is a great travel destination for so many reasons. The first reason is it’s rich history with Edinburgh Castle, perched majestically on Castle Rock and the beautiful Old Town with centuries old buildings.
The city is located on the coast and has many green spaces such as Princes Street Gardens which makes Edinburgh a beautiful city. Arthur’s Seat is an extinct volcano which provides a natural escape within the city limits, offering panoramic views of Edinburgh and the surrounding landscape.
Edinburgh is also renowned for its festivals, with the Edinburgh Festival Fringe being the world's largest arts festival. The International Festival, Book Festival, and others add to the city's cultural dynamism.
There is an amazing and diverse culinary scene in Edinburgh, from traditional Scottish dishes like haggis, neeps, and tatties to international cuisines.
Scotland's capital is a whisky lover's paradise. The Scotch Whisky Experience and visits to local distilleries offer an immersive journey into the world of Scotch whisky.
Lastly Edinburgh exudes a welcoming and friendly atmosphere. Locals are known for their warmth, and the city's compact size makes it easy for visitors to navigate and feel at home.
In this guide I have selected the very best things to do in Edinburgh. The list features the most famous landmarks and the best tourist attractions in Edinburgh that are worth your time. The attractions are put in order of which ones I think are worth visiting the most so depending on how much time you have you can simply start at the top and work down so pick and choose which ones interest you the most.
Let’s check out the 11 best things to do in Edinburgh.
Things to do in Edinburgh
1) Edinburgh Castle
The first thing on the list of things to do in Edinburgh has to be the castle! No visit to Edinburgh is complete without visiting the magnificent castle.
The castle sits on an extinct volcano which overlooks the city and has a long and interesting history particularly surrounding the battles the Scots had with the English in the Wars for Independence.
The castle has many interesting things to see and do with the most popular being to see the Honours of Scotland which are the Scottish crown jewels. They are the oldest Crown Jewels in Britain. As they are the most popular things to do at Edinburgh Castle I recommend heading there first thing so you can try and beat the queues.
The oldest surviving building in Edinburgh, St Margaret’s Chapel is inside the castle and is another place that is popular with visitors to Edinburgh Castle. Scotland’s royal family once knelt to worship in this serene private chapel which continues to host weddings and christenings today.
The Great Hall is in the very heart of the Castle in Crown Square and was completed in 1511 for King James IV. Its wooden roof is one of the most spectacular in Britain. Giant beams rest on stones carved with heads and symbols such as the thistle – a badge of Scotland.
You can really get an idea of what life was like in the castle here as grand banquets and state events took place in the Great Hall.
Today the Great Hall displays weapons and armour that hint at its military past. Among the swords and shields are strangely shaped pole arms, like the dreaded Lochaber axe – feared by all.
You can’t help but stumble across the Mons Meg which is a huge canon just outside St Margaret’s Chapel. Mons Meg was once seen as cutting edge military technology. Given to King James II in 1457, the six-tonne siege gun could fire a 150kg gunstone for up to 3.2km (2 miles). She is named after the Belgian town where she was made.
When Mary Queen of Scots married in 1558, Mons Meg fired a gunstone over the city in celebration: it landed in what is now the Royal Botanic Garden. Her barrel finally burst in 1681.
Don’t miss : The One O Clock Gun. Outside the Redcoat Cafe crowds will begin to gather to see and hear the firing of the one o’clock gun.
Ships in the Firth of Forth once set their maritime clocks by the One o’Clock Gun. The firing of the gun dates back to 1861, when businessman John Hewat brought the idea to Edinburgh from Paris.
Funny tip : Watch the people down below on Princes Street when the gun goes off. The sound often startles them all and it can be quite funny!
2) Walking the Royal Mile
All the way from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace is the wonderful Royal Mile. The Royal Mile is a succession of streets that are the main walkthrough of Edinburgh Old Town.
The Royal Mile was a processional route for Kings and Queens of Scotland and is a Scots mile long. If you’ve never heard of a Scots mile it’s a strange 1.81 km which is longer than an English mile but hasn't been used since the eighteenth century.
The Royal Mile is a lovely stretch of cobbled path which many tourists flock to. It’s a very Scottish place with men in kilts, people playing bagpipes and buskers in traditional Scottish clothing.
There are many superb attractions along the Royal Mile such as The Real Mary King’s Close or the Scottish Storytelling Centre, historical sites including St Giles' Cathedral and some of the best eating and drinking spots in the city. It’s an excellent place to find pubs selling traditional British foods.
For a glimpse of recent history, be sure to visit the ultra-modern Scottish Parliament, a striking building boasting a cutting-edge design.
The Royal Mile is a great place to shop for souvenirs. There’s many shops selling authentic Scottish goods like a kilt from Geoffrey Tailor or whiskey from Cadenheads. There’s many little boutiques and antique shops you can explore as you wander every little staircase.
3) Views from Calton Hill
To get the best views of Edinburgh you have to take a walk up Calton Hill. It’s not very far from the centre of Edinburgh and it’s best accessed via the East End of Princes Street. The walk is not too demanding so most people should be able to take part.
It’s absolutely worth the short walk as the views out over Edinburgh and beyond are spectacular. It’s a great thing to do in Edinburgh anytime of day or night. The views are beautiful at sunrise and sunset, the daytime views are excellent to see all the buildings and countryside as far as the eye can see and it’s fantastic at night when you can see all the lights twinkling across the city.
At the top of Calton Hill are some wonderful buildings including the 12 columns of the National Monument which is a commemorative building inspired by the Parthenon in Athens as well as the Nelson Monument which has a Time Ball that drops daily at 1pm.
4) Holyrood Abbey and Palace of Holyrood House
Holyrood Palace belongs to the crown and was the official residence of Queen Elizabeth II when she visited Scotland. Every year in late June early July she would spent a week at the palace as she carried out engagements. The ruins of Holyrood Abbey are connected to Holyrood Palace on one corner.
The Palace of Holyroodhouse is very central in Edinburgh but when you visit you will feel a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of the busy city centre. The palace is set in beautiful gardens and parkland and it overlooks the spectacular Arthur’s Seat.
You can visit the palace all year round. There are many places not to miss including The Great Gallery which was used for balls and receptions. You can climb a long winding staircase that leads to the chambers of Mary, Queen of Scots and visit the spectacular and opulently decorated State Apartments. The Palace gardens are beautiful to wander around too.
Holyrood Abbey is a 12th century abbey that is unfortunately now ruins, although very well preserved ruins. It was one of Scotlands grandest medieval abbeys and was where James IV married Margarget Tudor in 1503 and where the coronation of Charles I in 1633 happened.
Don’t be put off by the fact that it’s now in ruins. It’s still one of the most interesting places and best things to do in Edinburgh.
Get a ticket for Holyrood Palace and Abbey here
5) Harry Potter tours
Edinburgh is forever tied to the famous Harry Potter books and is a great place for all Harry Potter fans to visit. J.K.Rowling wrote many of the books in Edinburgh and the streets and locations around Edinburgh were an inspiration to her for the scenes and the characters we’ve come to love.
There are many Harry Potter tours that you can go on around the city. On this Harry Potter walking tour around Edinburgh you will have your Harry Potter trivia tested with an audio-visual quiz, and earn points for your house. Find out which Hogwarts House you’re in, and whether you’re a pure-blood, a muggle, or a squib. You’ll also visit the Grave of Tom Riddle in Greyfriars Kirkyard, and pass JK Rowling’s golden handprints outside City Chambers.
Unfortunately, Nicolsons which is the cafe that J.K.Rowling did alot of her writing has closed down but tours will go to the spot where it used to be. There is a plaque on the wall there which recognises the areas connection to Harry Potter and J.K.Rowling.
6) National Museum of Scotland
The National Museum of Scotland is the UKs most popular tourist attraction outside London and for good reason - it’s an excellent place to visit when visiting Edinburgh. It has thousands of exhibits and displays of art, fashion, science, technology, Scottish history, the natural world and so much more.
The great thing about the National Museum of Scotland is it’s free to enter. There are so many highlights including the Grand Gallery which is one of Scotland’s most beautiful spaces and provides a spectacular start to your museum visit. You can take a photo with the noble Giant Deer skeleton, say hello to the massive skull of Moby the whale and marvel at machinery used to smash atoms.
The Scottish galleries guide you from prehistoric times to the present day. Discover a treasure trove of Celtic, Roman and Viking artefacts, including the famous Lewis chess pieces – as seen in Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone.
If you love a Lego build you should explore the museum in miniature by going to see the Lego brick model that perfectly recreates the museum - from the imposing Victorian façade to the spectacular Grand Gallery.
The museum is open daily 10am - 5pm
7) St Giles Cathedral
Interestingly, St Giles’ Cathedral is technically not a cathedral as it does not have a bishop. However, it’s a wonderful place to visit when in Edinburgh. It has various different architecture which showcase the cathedrals many reformations over the years.
St Giles’ Cathedral was founded in 1124 by King David I and has been a working church for almost 900 years. A backdrop to Scotland’s turbulent religious history, it has seen the seeds of civil war sown and been John Knox’s parish church during the Reformation. It is still an important centre for civic services such as the Kirking of the Parliament and services for Most Ancient and Most Noble Order of the Thistle.
One of the cathedrals most striking features is its stained glass windows which fill the building with streams of coloured light if you happen to be in Edinburgh on a rare Scottish sunny day.
You are welcome to visit the cathedral any day although it is a working church with services on Sunday mornings. You can spend as long as you want in the cathedral when you visit.
8) Princes Street and Gardens
Princes Street Gardens is one of the most important urban parks situated in the heart of Edinburgh. Princes Street runs right through Edinburgh and clearly defines Edinburgh’s Old Town and the newer part of the city. On one side of Princes Street is the high street stores, eateries and bars and all the other things you’d expect to find in a modern city and on the other side you’ll find steps that lead to the gardens and then to the Old Town.
The gardens are over 37 acres (150.000 m²) and are divided into two parts by The Mound, an artificial hill that connects Edinburgh’s New Town and Old Town and where the Scottish National Gallery is located.
Princes Street Gardens was created by draining Edinburgh’s largest loch, the Nor Loch.
Nor Loch, which was first a marshland on the north side of Edinburgh had initially been used as a natural Medieval defence along with Edinburgh Castle. With the north and west parts of the town protected, Edinburgh only needed a fortification on the east and south side of the city.
From the Middle Ages until the nineteenth century, it is believed that the Nor Loch was where “witch ducking” would take place (this was a way of discovering if a suspect was guilty of witchcraft), an ideal place to make dead bodies disappear, where water waste was thrown out and some historians believe that despite this many citizens would even go to the Loch for fresh water.
Princes Street Gardens were designed first in the 1770s but were inaugurated in 1820 when the lake was completely drained.
The Gardens are a great place to relax and step away from the city atmosphere. Don’t miss the Ross Fountain, the park's most important monument. This cast iron structure was installed in 1872 after having been an exhibit at the Great Exhibition of 1862 in London. It is one of only three of Scotlands Grade A listed fountains.
9) The Real Mary King’s Close
The Real Mary King’s Close is located beneath the buildings on the Royal Mile, just opposite St Giles’ Cathedral. The Close is a subterranean maze of 17th century streets, alleyways and houses.
On a visit to The Real Mary King’s Close you will discover the real history of the people who lived, worked, and died here throughout the centuries.
You will be guided around by knowledgable tour guides dressed in character costumes who share many stories of these streets from the past. The tour begins from our Admissions Office on The Royal Mile. Then you will descend into the underground to discover a warren of streets below. Your guide will lead you through over 400 years of history as you wander through former homes and shops that once brimmed with activity and trade. You will find out who Mary King was, understand why the plague spread so easily here and hear about the ghost of Annie.
A visit to The Real Mary King’s Close is one of the best things to do in Edinburgh and gives you a real authentic look into Edinburghs history.
10) Royal Botanic Garden
A short walk from the city centre is the 350 year old Royal Botanic Garden. It’s a beautiful place to while away a few hours, relax amongst the floral displays and wander around the winding paths through nature.
The gardens are set in over 70 acres of beautiful landscape and offer superb panoramic views of the city skyline featuring Edinburgh Castle. The Botanics, as the Garden is affectionately known locally, is breathtaking at any time of year.
There are numerous beautiful highlights that I recommend you visit when at the Royal Botanic Gardens including the Rock Garden, the Alpine Houses, Woodland Garden, Pond, the Arboretum or tree collection, the Chinese Hillside, the Rhododendron Collection and the Scottish Native Plants Collection in the Heath Garden.
The gardens have 10 diferent glasshouses each with a different climatic zone filled with exotic plants from all over the world.
The gardens are free to enter which is great if you’re in Edinburgh on a budget. You can take a picnic or grab a delicious meal in their cafe where they prepare meals from ingredients grown in the on-site Market Garden.
READ MORE : Traditional British foods to try
11) Camera Obscura and the World of illusions
Camera Obscura is a great little museum near Edinburgh Castle at the top of the Royal Mile and is one of the most popular things to do in Edinburgh.
The museum has five floors and over 100 interactive, hands-on exhibits. You can tour Edinburgh’s streets without moving. Test your brain against mind-bending illusions. Take spectacular cityscape photographs from our Rooftop Terrace and so much more.
You will lose yourself in the magical Mirror Maze, which is great fun and seem to stretch for miles. The Vortex Tunnel is a highlight of any visit. This discombobulating spinning tunnel will confuse and baffle everyone. The challenge is to walk through without losing your balance!
The highlight of any trip is the Camera Obscura itself. It is a Victorian camera that projects an image of Edinburgh onto a large, bowl shaped screen which is pretty amazing to see.
There are fantastic views of Edinburgh city from the roof of the museum. There are telescopes on the roof that allow you to look at the smallest of details of the city.
You can get more information and buy tickets from the official website.
Photo Credit : Camera Obscura
BONUS Arthurs Seat
Arthur’s Seat is the highest point in Holyrood Park and it a must for views of Edinburgh. It’s actually a volcano 251m above sea level.
It can be a fairly strenuous walk up to the top of Arthur’s Seat and it will take a few hours but you will be rewarded with spectacuar views over the city.
If you don’t want to take a more difficult route there is another way up Arthur’s Seat which is easier but it doesn’t take you quite to the summit. You will still get some amazing views over Edinburgh though.
As you walk up Arthur’s Seat you will walk past fascinating volcanic geology where you will walk through the crater and over old lava flows.
At the summit of Arthur’s Seat the views are simply phenomenal. You will have 360° views of the city. A mile away, sitting on the remains of another extinct volcano, is Edinburgh Castle that you can see.
Plan Your Trip to Edinburgh
Best Edinburgh and UK Travel Guides
Edinburgh Tours and Attractions
What are the best tours in Edinburgh?
The best tours in Edinburgh are:
What are the best inexpensive tours in Edinburgh?
These are the best activities when you are visiting Edinburgh on a budget:
Edinburgh FAQs
What is the best time to visit Edinburgh?
The summer months (June to August) are popular due to milder weather and festivals. However, Edinburgh's festivals, such as the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, can make accommodations more expensive. Spring (April to May) and early autumn (September to October) are also good times to visit with fewer crowds.
How do I get to Edinburgh?
Edinburgh has an international airport (Edinburgh Airport - EDI) with direct flights from major cities. You can also reach Edinburgh by train, bus, or car. The city is well-connected by road and rail.
What are the must-visit attractions in Edinburgh?
Key attractions include the Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, Holyrood Palace, Arthur's Seat, and the National Museum of Scotland. Don't forget to explore the historic Old Town and New Town areas. Read the blog post for more information on the best things to do in Edinburgh.
Is there a city pass available for attractions?
Yes, the Edinburgh Pass offers access to multiple attractions and discounts. It's worth considering if you plan to visit several museums and landmarks.
What is the weather like in Edinburgh?
Edinburgh has a maritime climate with cool summers and mild winters. Summers (June to August) average around 15-20°C (59-68°F), while winters (December to February) can be chilly with temperatures around 1-6°C (34-43°F).
Are there any cultural events or festivals in Edinburgh?
Edinburgh is renowned for its festivals. The Edinburgh Festival Fringe in August is the world's largest arts festival, but there are also events like the Edinburgh International Festival, Edinburgh International Book Festival, and the Hogmanay (New Year) celebrations.
What is the currency in Edinburgh?
The currency in Edinburgh, as in the rest of the United Kingdom, is the British Pound Sterling (GBP).
How is public transportation in Edinburgh?
Edinburgh has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and trams. The city center is also quite walkable. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available.
What are the best places to eat in Edinburgh?
Edinburgh offers a diverse culinary scene. The Royal Mile and Old Town have numerous restaurants, and Rose Street is known for its pubs. Be sure to try traditional Scottish dishes like haggis, neeps and tatties, and Scotch whisky.
Are there day trips from Edinburgh?
Yes, you can take day trips to places like Stirling Castle, Loch Ness, Rosslyn Chapel, and the Scottish Highlands. There are guided tours or you can explore on your own using public transportation or renting a car. You can check out all the day trips from Edinburgh here.
More Information about the UK
If you’re struggling to decide other places to visit in the UK read Best Cities to Visit in the UK
I also have many other UK city guides and which you can read by clicking on the links.
ENGLAND: How to visit Liverpool from London, visit best beaches near Liverpool and find out the best things to do in Liverpool, must sees in Manchester, make the most of your time in Brighton. Visit the Roman city of Chester or head to the stunning Lake District.
SCOTLAND: Discover the best things to do in Edinburgh
WALES: Llangollen
Information About London
LONDON ITINERARY: In our article The Perfect 2 Days in London you’ll find a detailed itinerary for exploring London. If you only have one day in London you can find out the most important things to fit into your day in this 1 Day London Itinerary.
LONDON TRAVEL ADVICE: Here are the important things to know if it will be your first time in London. Included in this article are all my best hints and tips for visiting London for the first time. The Best 49 Things to do in London article will help you plan your London itinerary. If you’re wondering what foods you should try when in London read this Best British Foods You Have to Try.
WHERE TO STAY: If you’re unsure on the different areas in London and where would be best to stay make sure you read this Best Places to Stay in London article.
PACKING FOR LONDON: If you’re wondering what you should pack when visiting London read this Packing for London and the Rest of the UK Guide.
LONDON AT CHRISTMAS: For an overview of the best things to do in London at Christmas here are 15 things to do in London at Christmas. I also have guides to the best Christmas lights, best London Christmas window displays and best Christmas markets in London. Learn how to put it all together in this great London Christmas Itinerary.
Read all of my articles about England in the United Kingdom Travel Guide.
TRAVEL ESSENTIALS
Planning a trip? Here are some of the resources and tools I personally use to organise my travel plans to anywhere in world.
FLIGHTS : Find the best deals on flights using Skyscanner.
VISAS : Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa for wherever you’re going to and apply for an expedited visa online. Use OneWayFly to obtain proof of onward travel/hotel reservation for your visa application if needed.
TRAVEL INSURANCE : Insure your trip with my preferred insurance for single trip and annual cover HeyMondo
AIRPORT TRANSFER : Pre-book your hotel transfers from the airport.
ACCOMMODATION : Find the best hotel deals on Booking.com.
DAY TRIPS : Find the best city tours and day excursions on your travels on Viator or Get Your Guide.
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