20 of the best things to do in Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh; the capital of Scotland and a city that effortlessly blends history, culture, and breath-taking scenery. From the iconic Edinburgh Castle, to the Georgian streets and abundance of museums, green spaces and attractions, it offers something for all types of traveller. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a foodie, an art lover, or simply looking to soak up the city’s upbeat atmosphere, you’ll never run out of incredible places to explore.

In this guide, we’ve rounded up 20 of the best places to visit in Edinburgh, from attractions like the castle and the Royal Mile, to beautiful parks, fascinating museums, and lesser-known spots such as Dean Village. Get ready to discover why Edinburgh continues to be ranked as one of the top places to visit in the UK.

Find inspiration for an upcoming trip to Edinburgh and post a comment if you have any questions.

Google Map of all locations in our guide

Calton Hill

We’re starting our guide with our favourite place in Edinburgh, Calton Hill. Nestled right next to the city centre, this 103 metre-high hill is the best place to get a view of the city’s gorgeous skyline. Like the rest of Edinburgh’s landscape, Calton Hill has formed on the edge of an extinct volcano.

It’s home to the iconic National Monument you’ve probably seen on pictures and postcards, along with an observatory and Nelson Monument. Calton Hill has a lot of history and has long been a place where people escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. We visited the hill for sunset and enjoyed the spectacular views of Edinburgh while listening to a local violinist.

Princess Street Gardens

Princess Street Gardens is another tranquil escape in the city centre. Located right next to Princess Street, Edinburgh’s main shopping street, it’s a nice place to go for a walk, a picnic, or to get a good view of some iconic sites. The gardens sit just below Edinburgh Castle, giving you a unique perspective of the city’s most popular attraction.

There’s also the beautiful 1800’s fountain, Ross Fountain, and several garden trails, memorials and monuments. Princess Street Gardens is a great place to visit in Edinburgh for a morning walk with a coffee.

Princess Street shopping

Just above Princess Gardens is its neighbour we mentioned earlier, Princess Street. It’s the bustling centre of the city, featuring beautiful architecture, several museums and galleries, and countless high street shops and restaurants. If you want to do some retail therapy in Edinburgh, this is the place to visit.

You’ll find high street fashion brands, souvenir stores and specialist whisky shops. Even if you don’t want to shop, walking along Princess Street and soaking in the atmosphere is a must-do whilst in Edinburgh.

Edinburgh Castle

We can’t go any further in our guide without mentioning the top place to visit in the city, Edinburgh Castle. Strategically positioned on a hill in the city centre, the castle is the centre of all the action. It hosts annual events such as the Royal Edinburgh Tattoo and Hogmanay celebrations. It’s also the backdrop of frequent summer music concerts.

It goes without saying Edinburgh Castle has a lot of history. It has endured a surprising 26 sieges in its 1000+ year history and has origins dating back to the Iron Age.

You can see the beauty of the Castle from various points in the city. However, to gain a true appreciation of its history and castle wall views, you’ll need to book a ticket. Entry to Edinburgh Castle gives you access to its inner courtyards, rooms, Great Hall and a chance to watch the military marches.

Royal Mile

Leading up to the castle is Edinburgh’s most famous street, The Royal Mile. Connecting the castle with Holyrood Palace, it’s a long street of historic buildings, churches, shops and attractions. It’s also the busiest street in the city. Visit in the summer months and you’ll find wall-to-wall tourists.

Visit the Royal Mile to gaze up at its beautiful buildings, enjoy the upbeat atmosphere in a local pub or recreate the steps of many famous royal processions. You can visit Royal Mile on a free walking tour to gain a background into its history. Alternatively, do what we did and explore the street yourself, pinpointing key sites on your Google Maps app.

St Giles Cathedral

One of the most instantly recognisable sites on the Royal Mile is St Giles’ Cathedral, the spiritual heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town. This 15th-century architectural masterpiece has existed for over 900 years and has hosted important events for kings and queens. Admire the grand façade of the cathedral from the outside before steeping inside to see its ornate ceiling, stained glass windows and imposing organ.

Royal Botanical Garden

We’re now heading north of the city centre to an Edinburgh attraction that’s sometimes overlooked. Located a 20-minute walk north of the centre, the Royal Botanic Garden is a sprawling park of walkways, greenhouses and international gardens. You’ll find plant species from all over the world, along with local Scottish greenery and several seasonal exhibits.

We spent 2 hours wandering around the Edinburgh Royal Botanic Garden and enjoyed every minute. It’s free to visit and is very well maintained. We particularly enjoyed the Chinese Hillside garden, rock garden and labyrinth of pine trees. It’s Edinburgh nature at its very best and we highly recommend adding it to your itinerary.

Edinburgh’s Grassmarket

Wandering around the old streets, bridges and alleyways of the city centre is one of the main things to do in Edinburgh. Its historic architecture has been beautifully preserved and the whole city has a fun, upbeat atmosphere, especially in the summer months. Take time to look up at the buildings, listen to street performers playing bagpipes and soak in the atmosphere on a pub terrace.

Edinburgh’s Grassmarket is one of the oldest areas of the city. It’s a great spot for grabbing a beer and people watching. It’s also the hub for the city’s nightlife, restaurants and walking tours.

National Museum of Scotland

Just like any capital city, Edinburgh has some excellent museums, many of which are free to visit. If you only have time for one museum, stop by the National Museum of Scotland. Spread out over 6 levels, this goldmine of artefacts has history and science exhibits across a variety of cultures and eras.

Learn about prehistoric Scotland and the country’s volcanic origins. You can also discover its impact on world industry and invention, or see the culture and dress style of the country throughout the ages. The National Museum of Scotland has something for all interests and you can spend as much time as you desire, from a quick one hour stop of the highlights, to a full day or discovery.

Royal Scotsman Train

The next recommendation in our guide is a unique attraction that can only be found on specific days of the year. We’ve all heard of the elusive Flying Scotsman train, a world-famous stream train. The Royal Scotsman is another impressive train, but this one is easier to see in person.

Throughout the year, and more frequently in the summer months, The Belmond Royal Scotsman train leaves Edinburgh Waverley Station for a multi-day tour of the country. The departure involves a red carpet, a full-dress bagpipe ceremony and a chance to catch the crimson-red design of the train as you wave goodbye to its passengers.

Check the official website for the latest schedule. If you’re lucky like us, you might be able to see the train depart during your visit.

Dean Village

Dean Village is an area to the west of Edinburgh that has quickly caught the attention of tourists. Once a sleepy, riverside residential area, Dean Village is now a photo spot for those that want to see a peaceful, historic area of Edinburgh, away from the city. Featuring cobblestone streets, rows of Mews houses and colourful 19^th-century architecture is a nice place to go for a walk on a warm day.

The river walk to get to Dean Village is just as nice as the village. Take this scenic route and you’ll pass by St Bernard’s Well monument and under Dean Bridge. Allocate a couple of hours for sightseeing in Dean Village; you can walk there in 20 minutes from the centre of Edinburgh.

Greyfriars Kirkyard Cemetery

It might be a little unusual to have a cemetery on our list of recommendations. However, Greyfriars Kirkyard isn’t just any cemetery. It has existed since the 16^th-century and is the burial site of famous poets and historical figures. Most recently, it was where JK Rowling is said to have found inspiration for several characters in her Harry Potter books, including Professor McGonagall, Harry Potter, Tom Riddle, Professor Moody and Sirius Black.

Challenge yourself to find the headstones that inspired these classic characters as you wander around the cemetery. Another area of Greyfriars Kirkyard you can’t miss is the memorial of Bobby the Dog, a Yorkshire Terrier that was famously loyal to his owner. Visit the memorial to read about the heart-warming story.

The Elephant House Café

Another site made famous by Harry Potter author J.K Rowling is The Elephant House Café, which has a self-proclaimed title of the ‘Birthplace of Harry Potter’. The author found inspiration for her book as she enjoyed a drink and looked out at the castle on the café’s terrace. Take photos of the award-wining café from outside or book a table for brunch.

Victoria Street

We’re not done with Harry Potter just yet! Victoria Street is undoubtedly one of Edinburgh’s most beautiful streets. Its colourful rows of neo-classical buildings and terraces make it a great spot for photos. Just like other areas of the city, J.K Rowling found is said to have found inspiration for her books here, basing Harry Potter’s ‘Diagon Alley’ on Victoria Street.

Even if you aren’t a Harry Potter fan, a stroll down Victoria Street is a must-do during your time in the city. Enjoy a drink on one of the terraces or browse the colourful shops.

The Fudge House

Speaking of shops, you can’t visit Edinburgh without trying one of its local sweet treats, homemade fudge! Speciality fudge shops can be found throughout the city centre, with some of them being better than others. We personally recommend The Fudge House of Edinburgh (view on Google Maps). The Fudge Kitchen is a another good option.

We enjoyed peering through the window to see the fudge being made before buying a selection of different flavours. It’s unlike any other fudge we’ve tasted, melting in your mouth instantly.

Whisky tasting

One of Scotland’s most popular exports is whisky. Originating in the 15^th-century, Scotch Whisky is world famous, and there’s no better place to taste it than Edinburgh. You’ll find specialist whisky shops scattered around the city. If you’re a lover of the drink or just want a fun tasting experience, why not book a whisky tour?

Tours such as The Scotch Whisky Experience and The Johnnie Walker Experience will give you an in-depth look at one of the world’s most beloved alcoholic drinks. Tours generally involve an explanation of the whisky-making process, a history lesson and a chance to sample different blends.

National Gallery

Edinburgh has several impressive galleries and exhibitions worth seeing. However, if you only have time for one, a visit to the National Gallery is what we recommend. Housed in a striking building designed by William Henry Playfair, this world-class gallery lets you stand face-to-face with masterpieces by Rembrandt, Monet, and Van Gogh. Best of all, it’s completely free of charge. It’s a relaxing place to wander around after exploring the busy streets of the city centre.

Holyrood Palace

Holyrood Palace is one of Edinburgh’s most recognised buildings. Located at the opposite end of the Royal Mile to Edinburgh Castle, the palace has stood as a royal residence for over 500 years. It has housed monarchs such as Mary, Queen of Scots. Today, it’s the official residence of King Charles when he visits Scotland.

Holyrood Palace is open to the public on specific days and times throughout the year. Everyone can see the grand entrance and exterior of the palace from the outside. However, to explore its inner throne rooms, gardens and grand staircases, you’ll need to buy an entrance ticket. Visit the palace’s official website for the latest opening hours and ticket prices.

Holyrood Park

Right next to Holyrood Palace is Edinburgh’s biggest park. Holyrood Park is a sprawling 650-acre green space with several cliffs, lakes, old ruins and walking trails. This place is huge! It’s one of the best places to visit in Edinburgh for hikes and walks, with some routes taking a few hours to complete.

If you’re not an avid hiker, Holyrood Park is still worth visiting for its beautiful picnic areas and viewpoints. It’s a peaceful, relaxing place to visit, a short stroll from the city centre.

Arthur’s Seat

Arthur’s Seat is the highest point of Holyrood Park. Created as a result of volcanic activity and part of an extinct, 340-million-year-old volcano, this towering basalt cliff is where you can find the most impressive views of Edinburgh City Centre. It’s the highest point in Edinburgh, rising 251-metres above sea level.

If you fancy a brisk hike or just want to gaze out from this epic viewpoint, a visit to Arthur’s Seat is a rewarding, memorable experience. Allocate around 1 hour to reach the viewpoint, and another 50-minutes to hike back down.

That wraps up our guide on the top things to do in Edinburgh. We hope we’ve inspired you with sightseeing ideas and you can now explore the historic Scottish capital city yourself. If you have any questions about any of our recommendations or have your own suggestions, be sure to post a comment.