edinburgh map tourist attractions

The Ultimate FREE Edinburgh Tourist Map (Things to Do, Photo Spots & More!)

Last Updated: April 25, 2024

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Looking for an Edinburgh tourist map that covers all the main sights?

Great news! Hi – I’m Christina, a shameless travel nerd who has already made one. WITH cute stamp icons… that are colour coded.

So yes, below, you’ll find a handy Google Map that you can use on your phone that includes…

• Top Edinburgh museums & sights
• The prettiest photo spots and views in Edinburgh
• Edinburgh food & drink recommendations
• Fun shops to visit in Edinburgh

I hope you find it helpful!

Save this Free Edinburgh Map for Later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

My Free Edinburgh Tourist Map

On mobile? Click this link here and the map should automatically open on your Google Maps app.

NOTE: Free sights are marked with a green background – be sure to expand the Map Legend to see the different layers and categories I’ve included!

Edinburgh Travel Tips Video

First time in Edinburgh? Here’s a video that explains some of the important must-knows to keep in mind before your trip.

More Edinburgh Travel Resources

Finally, if you’re a bit more old school, then here are some articles and blog posts to help you out with your Edinburgh planning!

• Things to do in Edinburgh
• Edinburgh Travel Tips
• How to Visit Edinburgh Castle
• Scotland Travel Tips

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

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17 Best Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Edinburgh (+ Map!)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: January 27, 2023

Visiting Scotland’s capital city and wondering what are the best things to do in Edinburgh ? In this article, we share all the musts-sees. Take a look!

Edinburgh is one of the most beautiful cities in the UK and the most beautiful city in Scotland. There’s so much charm, so much history here… But Edinburgh is also a very lively city with a great mix of history and contemporary lifestyle.

There is so much to see and do in Edinburgh that the choice of where to go and what to skip might be really overwhelming. Especially if you are visiting for the first time and only have a day or two…

So in this guide, we selected only the most unique experiences, the very best things to do in Edinburgh . This list features the most famous landmarks and best tourist attractions in Edinburgh that are worth your time the most. Depending on how much time you have, simply start with the attractions on the top of this list, and work your way down.

If you have the time to cover everything from this ‘best of Edinburgh’ list, you’ll have seen the very best that the city has to offer. Even if you just see half of these places, you’ll have a very good idea of what Edinburgh is truly about. Find out!

To help you plan your visit, we created this map of the best things to do in Edinburgh that are mentioned in this article.

If you are short on time and are wondering how to best plan your time in the city, please check our guide to one day in Edinburgh . It has a suggested 1-day itinerary that covers the main attractions of Edinburgh in a day.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

These are the top tourist attractions, absolute best things to do in Edinburgh:

1. Edinburgh Castle

No visit to Edinburgh would be complete without a visit to its magnificent Castle , which overlooks the city from atop an extinct volcano. It is, of course, steeped in history. Many exhibitions focus on the long-running Wars of Independence when the Scots fought with the English for control of their country.

On arrival at the Castle, head straight for the Honours of Scotland , which are the Scottish crown jewels. They are the most popular part of the Castle for most visitors, so try to beat the crowds and long queues by visiting here in the morning.

Another popular spot is St. Margaret’s Chapel , the oldest surviving building in Edinburgh. Serene and beautiful, it’s a lovely spot to linger and think about the Scottish Royals who would kneel for worship within its walls.

You can get a real glimpse of what life at the Castle must have been like in times gone by, particularly when you pay a visit to the Great Hall . With one of the best wooden roofs to be found in Britain, the Hall was used for magnificent banquets and ceremonial events. Its high, wood-paneled walls are lined with suits of armor and weapons. You can easily imagine important dignitaries warming themselves in front of the roaring logs in Great Hall’s beautiful fireplace.

TIP: At 1 pm be sure to join the crowd gathered outside the Redcoat Cafe in order to see (and hear!) the firing of the One O’Clock gun . This tradition started in 1861 when it was used for time-keeping, and the gun is now fired at 1 pm every day (except Sundays).

Practical info: For opening times and tickets, please check the official website of Edinburgh Castle . Or you can also opt to visit with this highly-rated tour that includes skip-the-line tickets and a local guide.

2. Views from Calton Hill

For the very best views of Edinburgh and beyond – and for some stunning photos by which to remember your visit – you must take a stroll up Calton Hill . It’s just a short walk from the East End of Princes Street. The walk itself is not too demanding, but absolutely worth the effort. On a clear day, you can see for miles, taking in the city’s skyline and Arthur’s Seat, across to Leith, and the Firth of Forth.

The 360-degree views are breathtaking at whatever time of day you choose to visit but are simply spectacular at sunrise or at sunset. It’s also a great spot to stand at night, when you can see the lights twinkling across the city and when certain monuments are beautifully illuminated.

There’s more to Calton Hill than just the views! At the summit, there are some amazing buildings, including the Nelson Monument , with its Time Ball that drops daily at 1 pm, and the City Observatory , a beautiful building that looks just like a Greek temple.

You’ll also see the 12 columns of the National Monument – a commemorative building inspired by the Parthenon in Athens that was – sadly – never completed.

TIP: If you are lucky enough to be celebrating Hogmanay in Edinburgh (the Scottish celebration of the New Year), head up Calton Hill to enjoy a bird’s eye view of the fireworks!

3. Walking the Royal Mile

Extending from the Castle and all the way down to Holyrood Palace, the Royal Mile is the name given to the succession of streets that make up the main thoroughfare of the city’s Old Town. The Royal Mile functioned as a processional route for kings and queens and is 1.81 km long (1 Scots mile long), thus the name.

Lined with cobbles and bustling with visitors, it has a vibrant atmosphere and is one of the most famous streets in Britain.

The area is quintessentially Scottish and the best place to see men in kilts (along with the shops selling them) plus buskers dressed in traditional clothing and playing bagpipes. There are scores of historical sites – including St. Giles Cathedral and the Real Mary King’s Close (see below) – and dozens of lively cafes, restaurants, and pubs.

The Royal Mile is a great place to buy souvenirs, although it’s best to avoid the tourist traps and look for shops selling authentic Scottish merchandise. These include specialist whisky from Cadenheads, luxurious cashmere from Elgin Cashmere, and a genuine kilt from Geoffrey Tailor!

It’s easy to spend a full day walking the Royal Mile, particularly when you take the time to explore every little staircase, alley, and courtyard you pass along its length. Taking your time here is the best way to discover wonderful little boutiques, antique shops, and eateries that you may otherwise have missed. This is also an excellent place to find traditional pubs serving typical British dishes .

4. Palace of Holyroodhouse and Holyrood Abbey

Often referred to as Holyrood Palace , this is the official residence of the Queen of England when she comes to visit Scotland. The ruins of the Holyrood Abbey are connected to the Palace on one corner.

Despite its city-center location, the Palace of Holyroodhouse – set in beautiful parkland and overlooking Arthur’s Seat – feels a million miles away from Edinburgh’s hustle and bustle.

The Palace is open to visitors all year round. It gives you a fantastic opportunity to take a glimpse into history without battling the crowds that you tend to find at Edinburgh Castle.

The State Apartments are truly gorgeous, lavishly decorated, and with beautiful ceilings and tapestries. You can climb a narrow winding staircase that leads to the chambers of Mary, Queen of Scots’. Don’t miss the sumptuous Great Gallery which was used for balls and receptions by Bonnie Prince Charlie. The Palace gardens are also worth a visit.

Holyrood Abbey was one of the Scotlands’ grandest medieval abbeys. It was the site of the marriage of James IV to Margaret Tudor in 1503 and the coronation of Charles I in 1633. Whilst it may be in ruins, it remains one of the best places to see in Edinburgh. It has a somewhat ethereal atmosphere and – with its incredible stonework – is hauntingly beautiful.

Practical info: You can find more information and book Palace of Holyroodhouse tickets here .

5. Harry Potter Tours

J. K. Rowling’s beloved Harry Potter books are intrinsically bound to Edinburgh. This place not only inspired many of the characters and scenes but some of the books were actually written in Edinburgh.

Harry Potter tours are great for the whole family; Harry Potter fans and non-fans alike. They visit sites like the High Street that inspired Diagon Alley and the spot where Lord Voldemort is buried. You can also see the real Grave of Tom Riddle in Greyfriars Kirkyard and even JK Rowling’s golden handprints outside the City Chambers!

Sadly, Nicolsons – the cafe in which J.K. Rowling did the majority of her writing – has since closed down. But most tours will include a visit to the location, where you will see a plaque on the wall recognizing the area’s connection to one of the world’s best-loved literary characters.

6. National Museum of Scotland

Located on the south side of the center of Edinburgh and just a short walk from the Royal Mile, Scotland’s National Museum is the UK’s most popular tourist attraction outside of London. And it certainly lives up to its reputation! With thousands of exhibits and displays in galleries devoted to art and design, fashion, science and technology, the natural world, and Scottish history and archaeology, this museum is a must-see in Edinburgh!

Free to visit, this is very much a hands-on, interactive museum, making it just as fascinating for children as it is for adults! Its highlights include the 800,000-year-old iron-type Muonionalusta Meteorite , which weighs 170 kg (375 lbs) and which you can actually touch.

Fans of Harry Potter will recognize the enigmatic Lewis chess pieces . Consisting of 93 12th-century chess pieces carved from walrus ivory, this is one of Scotland’s best archaeological finds. These chess pieces were brought to life in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone .

An even stranger Scottish discovery are the spooky Arthur’s Seat Coffins , which you can find tucked away on the museum’s upper floor. These tiny coffins containing wooden figures were found on Arthur’s Seat in 1837. No one knows what they represented, or why they were made!

You can also visit Dolly the Sheep , the world’s first-ever mammal to be cloned from an adult cell. Dolly was born in 1996 and died in 2003, but her legacy lives on and she’s still attracting crowds from all over the world.

7. Princes Street and Gardens

Princes Street marks a clear division between Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns. On one side, you’ll find all the high street stores you’d expect in a big city, along with countless coffee bars and eateries. Whilst on the other side, you’ll find the steps that take you down to the Gardens and, further, to the Old Town.

The Princes Street Gardens are yet another of Edinburgh’s many spots where you can experience the tranquility and beauty of nature within a distinctly urban setting! This is the place where both visitors and locals come to relax, to roller-skate, or to simply enjoy the gorgeous floral displays and tiered gardens.

At one end of the Gardens, you’ll find the Victorian ‘Gardener’s Lodge’ cottage, which looks like something straight out of a fairytale.

At the other end, sits the splendid Ross Fountain . Recently refurbished, this cast iron fountain is one of only three Grade A-listed fountains in Scotland. Its stunning colors look striking by day, whereas the subtle illumination placed around it makes this fountain look equally beautiful by night. Get the angle just right as you photograph the fountain, and you can use the Edinburgh Castle perched atop its hill as a striking backdrop!

8. St. Giles’ Cathedral

St Giles’ is a working church in the city’s Old Town and is the High Kirk (church) of Edinburgh. Interestingly, though, it’s not technically a cathedral, because it doesn’t have a bishop! Nevertheless, it’s wonderful to visit, with its varying architecture representing many reformations throughout the ages.

One of the Cathedral’s best features is its stained glass windows. They flood the inside of the building with gloriously colored light. The rich purple hues of the north window – which show Christ calming a storm – are especially stunning.

From the windows, your eyes are drawn upwards to the high ceiling. It is tierceron-vaulted (rib-vaulted) and the effect is simply spectacular, especially set against the beautiful blue background.

The atmosphere is one of serenity and peace, and you are welcome to spend as long as you like admiring the beauty of the building and visiting the many memorials dotted throughout. Don’t miss the bronze memorial of the writer Robert Louis Stevenson, which is located in the Moray Aisle.

9. The Real Mary King’s Close

Edinburgh is full of hidden gems – and The Real Mary King’s Close is one of its most popular. Located beneath buildings on the Royal Mile, just across from St Giles Cathedral, the Close is a subterranean maze of preserved 17th-century streets, homes, and alleyways.

Taking the tour of the Real Mary King’s Close connects you to history in a way you’ve never experienced before! It’s easy to picture the people that lived, worked, and died here. It’s also easy to imagine – as you look at the cramped tenements and learn about hygiene standards at the time – just why the plague swept so quickly through the population.

The knowledgeable guides – dressed in character costumes – will share with you all kinds of stories connected to these streets, including fascinating myths and macabre legends. You’ll learn all about the ghost of Annie, to which people from all over the world bring dolls and toys. And you’ll meet a whole host of colorful characters from the past and hear their fascinating stories!

Myths and legends aside, The Real Mary King’s Close gives a very authentic glimpse into Edinburgh’s history. It also forms the perfect contrast to the tourist-packed thoroughfare overhead! It’s definitely one of the most authentic, unique things to do in Edinburgh!

10. Camera Obscura & World of Illusions

Camera Obscura & World of Illusions is a quirky little museum just down the hill from the Castle. It’s one of the most popular Edinburgh attractions and great fun for the whole family.

The museum is set over 5 floors and contains hundreds of illusions, many of which are interactive . Sit on the opposite side of a screen to your travel companion and watch as your faces merge together. Or enter a special booth and watch as your face morphs into that of a monkey or even of the last person to use the booth!

The Mirror Maze is great fun too – and surprisingly difficult to find your way out of. One of the most disorienting exhibits is the incredible Light Tunnel , a walk through which you’ll never quite forget!

The star of the show is the Camera Obscura itself. A Victorian ancestor of the modern cameras we use today, it projects an image of Edinburgh onto a large, bowl-shaped screen. It may not sound exciting, but it’s actually quite amazing to witness first-hand!

TIP: You can also get some fantastic views of the city from the roof of the museum. There are also powerful telescopes here that will help you make out the smallest details, right up to the horizon!

Practical info : For more information, opening times, and tickets, check here .

11. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

Just half an hour’s walk from the crowds of the city center is the 350-year-old Royal Botanic Garden . This is the place to lose yourself for a few hours among the beautiful floral displays, following secret winding paths that take you through wooded areas and past thousands of spectacular plants.

There are too many photogenic spots to list here. But one of the best places for a truly memorable shot is in front of the rock garden waterfall, with the varying hues of the surrounding foliage providing a heavenly backdrop.

The gardens contain 10 different glasshouses. They all have different climatic zones and are filled with exotic plants from all over the world. Highlights include a 200-year-old palm tree in the tropical zone and the massive lily pads which almost look too big to be real!

The Botanic Gardens are free to enter and a wonderful place to unwind. They are also the perfect spot for a delicious lunch, with a cafe and a restaurant that prepare amazing meals from ingredients grown in the on-site Market Garden.

12. Royal Yacht Britannia

If you’d like a taste of how the other half lives, then step aboard the Royal Yacht Brittania , the personal ship of the Royal family from 1953 to 1997. Located in the harbor of Leith, which is easily accessible from Edinburgh’s city center, the ship has 5 decks just waiting to be explored.

The rooms in which the Royals spent the majority of their time are on the upper decks. You can stand just where they used to relax in the Sun Lounge or entertain their guests in the impressive State Dining Room . You can even see the Royal Bedrooms and learn more about all the places the yacht has visited.

Of course, life aboard the Royal Brittania wasn’t quite so luxurious for everyone. So you also get to see the engine room and all the other areas of the ship where the Royal Yachtsmen both worked and lived.

TIP: The Yacht is the ideal place to enjoy a cream tea, which is served in the Royal Deck Tea Room. This beautiful cafe on the top deck of the ship gives you a taste of how it feels to dine like a Royal, whilst the glass walls allow you to enjoy the beautiful views across the water.

Practical info: You can easily visit Royal Yacht Britannia by taking a hop-on hop-off bus and booking a ticket for the yacht in advance.

TIP: If you have at least two days in Edinburgh, consider this popular combination ticket that includes the bus for 48 hours, and the tickets to the main Royal attractions in Edinburgh such as Edinburgh Castle, Holyroodhouse, and the Royal Yacht Britannia. It’s a great way to see some of the best places of Edinburgh and save money.

13. Arthur’s Seat

Arthur’s Seat is a hill, the highest point in Holyrood Park. It’s actually a volcano sitting 251 m above sea level. A trip up the hill and back takes a couple of hours and some parts can be fairly strenuous, with loose rock underfoot. But you are ultimately rewarded with some of the best views of Edinburgh the city has to offer.

If you’re not feeling up to the challenge to climb all the way to the top, there’s an easier path you can follow. Whilst it may not go all the way to the summit, you will still find countless opportunities to take exceptional photographs of the breathtaking scenery.

Yet the fantastic views are only part of the reason for taking the climb here. The journey takes you past some fascinating volcanic geology and you can actually walk through the crater and over old lava flows. Wildflowers abound and the area has several Sites of Special Scientific Interest.

When you sit at the summit of Arthur’s Seat surveying the jaw-dropping landscape all around you, it’s easy to forget that all this natural beauty is just a short distance from the heart of a busy and vibrant capital city!

14. Scottish National Gallery

Scottish National Gallery is located right on the mound that separates the two sides of Princes Street Gardens. Free to enter, it is truly an art lover’s paradise, containing one of the world’s finest collections.

Here you’ll find everything from Scottish art – featuring the works of local artists like McTaggart, and Ramsay – to incredible pieces by the Old Masters, including Raphael, Vermeer, Van Dyck and Rubens.

The staff are knowledgeable and only too happy to discuss the artwork with you. There is plenty of room to stand back and admire the exhibits, or simply sit and reflect on them.

Depending on the day you visit, you can also take part in one of the Gallery’s events or activities – just visit the website ahead of time to see what’s available. These will sometimes include fascinating storytelling sessions and the Gallery’s very popular life drawing classes.

Not all the art is housed inside the museum. The building itself is well worth appreciating and is a stunning example of neo-Classical architecture.

Practical info : For more information, opening times, and special events, please check the website of the museum .

15. Get to Know the Darkside of Edinburgh

Few cities have a history as dark, grisly, and rich in skulduggery as Edinburgh! And you can get to know it all by taking one of the many dark-side tours .

Take a tour that goes beyond tartan and bagpipes to get to the grimly fascinating facts. Learn why the city may have felt less than safe in times gone by when medical schools were happy to pay for dead bodies and murderers roamed the streets in search of likely victims! Hear about Edinburgh’s famous serial killers Burke and Hare, who cold-bloodedly killed 16 people in 10 months and sold them to Dr. Knox for dissection in his anatomy classes.

This was also a time when witch hunts were rampant, and anyone could be accused of witchcraft and burnt at the stake. You can visit the spot at Calton Hill where the burnings took place (which these days is used instead to admire the Edinburgh skyline).

Edinburgh also had its share of graverobbers, body snatchers, and even cannibals. Some tours include visits to cemeteries and Kirkyards, where you can see for yourself the caged graves and mausoleums that families used to protect their departed loved ones.

You’ll also hear the chilling story behind the death of the husband of Mary Queen of Scots and learn about the tiny, creepy coffins discovered at Arthur’s Seat that you can now see in the National Museum of Scotland.

16. Dynamic Earth

Located at the foot of the Salisbury Crags, Dynamic Earth is a five-star museum that takes you on an incredible journey through Earth’s history. Using a combination of interactive exhibits, you can see, feel, and hear the momentous events that shaped our planet.

Try standing beneath the Aurora Borealis in the Polar zone, where it’s so cold that you can see your breath, while your fingers and toes go numb. You can even touch an iceberg! Use the Time Machine to travel back to where it all began. And feel the ground shaking as volcanoes erupt, sending streams of molten lava your way.

Alternatively, enjoy the aquatic views from the portholes of the Yellow Submarine, where you can look for whales or man the periscope as you learn all about the oceans and their importance to life on Earth.

One of the highlights of the museum is its 360-degree full-dome film theater with surround sound – the only one of its kind in Scotland. It provides a totally immersive movie experience, taking you on a trek across the globe or whizzing through the solar system.

This museum is an unforgettable adventure for the whole family, combining a fantastic educational experience with lots of fun.

For practical information and opening times, see here .

17. The Museum of Childhood

The Museum of Childhood in Edinburgh was the first museum in the world to focus solely on childhood. Recently completely renewed, the result is a celebration of books, toys, games and dolls all the way from the early 1800s to the present day.

Free to enter, this one-of-a-kind museum is located on the grounds of Sudbury Hall on the Royal Mile. It’s a small museum and you can see most of it in about half an hour. While not a must-see, it’s something nice to do in Edinburgh with kids. Also a great place to visit when it rains.

Children love to see what their parents and grandparents would have played with in the past, marveling at the comparison between the electronic gadgets of today and the more simple pleasures of times gone by. For adults, this is a great place for nostalgia. You’re likely to come across many exhibits that you remember from your childhood and had completely forgotten about!

One of the highlights is the incredible 21-roomed dollhouse . It contains over 2,000 objects including tiny bathroom towels and little skittles in the nursery!

There are also some rare exhibits to enjoy, such as the Queen Anne Doll made around 1740. Also the Kindertransport bear – a little Steiff bear that, poignantly, traveled on the last Kindertransport train out of Vienna in 1939 to rescue Jewish children from Nazi Germany.

For opening times and practical info, please see here .

So, this is our guide to the very best things to do in Edinburgh and top attractions for first-time visitors.

If you are traveling to Edinburgh for the first time, be sure to also read our top tips for visiting Edinburgh . It contains more practical information and important advice for your first visit. Take a look!

You may also like our guide to the best way to see Edinburgh in one day and our similar guide to the best of Glasgow in one day .

TIP: If you are planning on staying in Edinburgh for a few days, be sure to book your accommodation asap. It often happens that the most affordable hotels are fully booked leaving you with very expensive options. Using the map below, you can compare hotels, apartments, and short-term rental accommodations in Edinburgh . Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see what’s available for your stay. Check it out!

READ ALSO: Isle of Skye – Best things to do & suggested itinerary for one of the most beautiful areas in Scotland

If you are also visiting London, check these guides for travel inspiration and useful tips:

• Tips for Visiting London
• Best Sights & Tourist Attractions in London
• Where to Stay in London
• Hidden Gems of London
• Best Views in London
• 2-day London Itinerary
• Best Things to Do in Greenwich
• London with Kids
• Things to Do in Camden Town

More destinations in the UK:

• Best Places to See in Yorkshire
• Best Places to See in Cornwall
• Best Things to Do in Manchester
• Best Things to Do in Liverpool
• Day Trip to Liverpool from London
• Top Things to Do in Blackpool
• UK Travel Guide

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

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21 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Edinburgh

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 27, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

One of the most beautiful cities in all of the UK, Edinburgh rises from the wide Firth of Forth to a high, rocky pinnacle crowned by the stone walls and towers of Edinburgh Castle.

The Scottish capital is a center of culture and the arts, and is especially well-known for its festivals. These include the Edinburgh International Book Festival , which welcomes more than 1,000 authors, to the sparkling Christmas Markets and the Edinburgh Fringe , the world's largest festival of the arts.

Between these and internationally known events such as the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo , there are always plenty of fun events and entertainment opportunities here.

Edinburgh may seem at times to be two separate cities, so different are the 18th-century New Town 's elegant Georgian neighborhoods of stately terraces from the Old Town 's narrow winding lanes, steep staircases, and hidden passageways.

While many of the most popular tourist attractions are along the Royal Mile, which follows the crest of the hill between the castle and Holyrood Palace and Princes Street, be sure to explore the other side of the hill, where you'll find the picturesque Grassmarket . One of Edinburgh's most important market squares since the Middle Ages, it rings with history. In this pedestrian-friendly area of shops and cafés look for the White Hart Inn, where Robbie Burns once wrote poetry.

To make sure you get the most out of your visit to this extremely romantic Scottish city, be sure to read our list of the top attractions and things to do in Edinburgh.

1. Edinburgh Castle

2. palace of holyroodhouse and holyrood abbey, 3. stroll the royal mile, 4. climb to arthur's seat and the salisbury crags, 5. set sail for royal yacht britannia, 6. explore the past at the national museum of scotland, 7. see the flowers bloom at royal botanic garden edinburgh, 8. walk the length of princes street, 9. see the camera obscura & world of illusions, 10. tour the scottish national gallery & portrait gallery, 11. scottish national gallery of modern art (modern one), 12. st. giles cathedral, 13. take in the views from calton hill and the scottish national monument, 14. learn about the city's past at the museum of edinburgh, 15. greyfriars church and greyfriars bobby, 16. edinburgh zoo, 17. the museum of childhood, 18. explore dynamic earth: edinburgh's science centre, 19. visit the real mary king's close, 20. john knox house & scottish storytelling centre, 21. the surgeons' hall museums, where to stay in edinburgh for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to edinburgh, map of tourist attractions in edinburgh, frequently asked questions, how do you get from edinburgh airport to the city center, what are the best shopping areas in edinburgh, what are the must-visit destinations near edinburgh.

Scotland's most famous landmark, Edinburgh Castle is one of Britain's most visited tourist attractions. Highlights of a visit include hearing the famous One O'clock Salute from Half Moon Battery (cannon fire commemorates the tradition of helping ships synchronize their clocks), the impressive Scottish National War Memorial and National War Museum , and the stunning collection of Crown Jewels housed in the Royal Palace.

Another notable feature is the Stone of Destiny (aka, the Stone of Scone) , famously stolen by Edward I and placed under the English throne in London - only returned to Scotland 700 years later in 1996.

If you want to save time, consider purchasing a Skip the Line: Edinburgh Castle Entrance Ticket , so you can spend more time touring the castle instead of waiting in the long lines.

Address: Castle Hill, Edinburgh, Scotland

Official site: www.edinburghcastle.scot

The Palace of Holyroodhouse – usually simply referred to as Holyrood Palace – is the Queen's official Edinburgh residence and has frequently been at the center of Scottish history. Built in 1678, it was where James II and James IV were each married, where James V and Charles I were crowned, and where "Bonnie Prince Charlie" held court in 1745.

When the Queen is away – which is typically 51 weeks of the year, as she's only here for "Royal Week" each summer – public access is permitted. At such times, access is granted to the stunning Historic Apartments (former home of Mary Queen of Scots) and the State Apartments, famous for their fine furnishings, tapestries, and plasterwork.

The Great Gallery displays portraits of Scottish kings, both legendary and real. The Queen's Gallery, opened in 2002 as part of the Golden Jubilee celebrations, hosts changing exhibitions from the Royal Collection. The neighboring 12th-century Holyrood Abbey was founded by King David I.

If you're traveling with kids, be sure to allow them to enjoy dressing up in the costumes in the Family Room; and if you've got time, linger a little longer in the charming café and enjoy a proper afternoon tea. Guided tours are available.

Location: Royal Mile, Canongate, Edinburgh

The Royal Mile refers to the streets linking Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Lined with charming townhouses, churches, and historic landmarks, this splendid thoroughfare is a great place to stroll for its shops (including kiltmakers), inns, museums, cafés, and restaurants.

Many of the buildings are tall, averaging six to 15 stories and are referred to locally as "lands." Narrow little alleys, called "winds," with their quaint hidden backyard "closes," weave in and around them.

Some of the most popular attractions are at the upper end of the Royal Mile – commonly called Castle Hill – and include Outlook Tower and the Camera Obscura and the Tolbooth (St. John's Highland Church) with the city's tallest church tower. It houses the interesting People's Story Museum and Gladstone's Land , a six-story merchant's house with pretty ceiling paintings and original furniture.

Also worthy of a visit is Lady Stair's Close, home to The Writer's Museum . Here, you'll find displays of manuscripts, portraits, etchings, and memorabilia of the poet Robert Burns and writers Sir Walter Scott and Robert Louis Stevenson.

Just around the corner and overlooking Princes Park, the Museum on the Mound is worth checking out for its displays relating to the history of money and economics.

At 820 feet, Arthur's Seat is the highest point in the 640-acre Holyrood Park. The spectacular views from the top encompass the whole city all the way to the mouth of the Forth. The easiest way up is from Dunsapie Loch, where there's a good-sized car park. Alternatively, you can walk from the Old Town, heading up past the Dynamic Earth science center onto a path that leads from Queen's Drive.

Also easy to climb are the dramatic Salisbury Crags, a series of 151-foot cliffs adjacent to Arthur's Seat. Other features in this huge park are the ancient cultivation terraces, some of the earliest and best-preserved examples of ancient farming practices in Scotland, and the picturesque ruins of the medieval St. Anthony's Chapel.

The Royal Yacht Britannia is one of Britain's most popular attractions associated with the monarchy. Over the years, the Queen has welcomed heads of state and famous people from around the world to this luxurious vessel. After more than 40 years serving the Royal Family, the 60-year-old yacht was sent to Leith, Edinburgh's port area, as the centerpiece of the Britannia Visitor Centre.

Once aboard, you'll learn about the history of this and other royal yachts as you explore the ship's five main decks. Highlights include the Royal Apartments and bedrooms; the lovely sun lounge; and the onboard Royal Deck Tea Room, where you can stop for tea and cakes.

For those wanting to spoil themselves with a luxury getaway, consider a stay aboard the former lighthouse ship, the Fingal , docked adjacent to the royal yacht.

Address: Ocean Drive, Leith, Edinburgh

Since opening in 2011, the National Museum of Scotland has become one of Scotland's most popular attractions , and one of the best things to do for free in Edinburgh.

Welcoming over two million visitors each year, it incorporates collections from a number of Edinburgh's older museums, with highlights including national archaeological collections; medieval artifacts; and displays focusing on natural history, geology, art, science, and technology.

In its 16 galleries, containing more than 8,000 artifacts, are Dolly the sheep – the world's first cloned mammal – as well as some of Elton John's more elaborate stage costumes. Traditional museum displays also include material from Ancient Egypt and the infamous Maiden, an early form of guillotine.

There's plenty to see and do here, so expect to spend at least three or four hours exploring. Guided tours are available, and two restaurants are located on-site.

Address: Chambers Street, Edinburgh, Scotland

Founded in 1670, the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (RBGE) is the second oldest such garden in Britain. It's also one of the largest, and boasts an impressive 13,200 different plant species.

Within its magnificent 70 acres are a herbarium with a collection of over three million specimens, Britain's biggest palm house, and a tropical house with exotic orchids. There's also an alpine house; a terraced moorland garden; a heather garden; and an extensive arboretum with rare giant trees from the Himalayas, North America, and China.

Other highlights include the woodland garden with its colorful azaleas, hydrangeas, camellias, and rhododendrons. There's also an aquatic house with tropical water plants, such as the pink water lily from India. Touring displays can be enjoyed in the Exhibition Hall.

For a special festive treat, visit for the spectacular light displays over the Christmas period. A variety of educational programs are also available for those wanting a more immersive experience.

Address: Arboretum Place, Edinburgh

Busy Princes Street is the New Town's main thoroughfare. It extends for almost a mile and is lined with colorful gardens and elegant shops, including the tradition-conscious Jenners of Edinburgh, founded in 1838 and one of the world's oldest department stores.

Also good for shopping is the Princes Mall, popular with its small shops set among fountains and cafés and plenty of places to browse. As well as these temples to consumerism, you'll find restaurants, from fast food to gourmet bistros.

Of interest to those keen on genealogy is New Register House, home to the Scottish National Archives , some of which date as far back as the 13th century. Princes Street's historic landmarks include the 200-foot-tall Sir Walter Scott Monument and the David Livingstone Memorial, a memorial to the missionary and African explorer.

When you're done with all that shopping and history, head for Princes Street Gardens , home to the world's oldest floral clock (1903). From here, you're also afforded spectacular views of Edinburgh Castle, which overlooks the gardens.

A combination of Edinburgh history, city views from a new perspective, and experience with optical illusions, the Camera Obscura & World of Illusions is an attraction that certainly appeals to all ages.

The centerpiece, set in a Victorian rooftop room, is a pinhole camera that projects live moving images of Edinburgh onto a viewing table. The panorama is created by a combination of mirror and lenses, and it has been entertaining people here since 1853.

The rest of the experience will challenge your faith in your own vision, with a hall of mirrors, a vertigo-inspiring spinning vortex, 3-D holograms, and a whole range of optical experiences

Address: 549 Castlehill, Edinburgh

Paintings of Scotland's leading historic figures from the 16th century to the present day can be seen in the Scottish National Portrait Gallery , one of Edinburgh's three major art galleries.

The highlight of the gallery's 65,000-plus pieces is the huge processional frieze showing Scotland's most famous personalities, including Robbie Burns, Sir Walter Scott, Sean Connery, Robert Louis Stevenson, Mary Stuart, and Bonnie Prince Charlie, among others. The gallery is also home to the Scottish National Photography Collection .

Founded in 1859, the Scottish National Gallery is the country's second major art collection and displays Scotland's biggest collection of European paintings and sculptures. Its collection includes works from the Renaissance period right up to the Post-Impressionists.

Tours, lectures, and even art classes are available for visitors to enjoy, along with a restaurant. A handy shuttle bus service is also available that connects these two galleries with the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art (see below).

Address: The Mound, Edinburgh

Official site: www.nationalgalleries.org/

The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art – also known as "Modern One" – is another must-visit for art enthusiasts. Here, you'll find displays of paintings by Henri Matisse and Pablo Picasso; surrealistic works by Rene Magritte, Joan Miró, and Max Ernst; and contemporary paintings by Bruce McLean, Callum Innes, and Gwen Hardie.

The gallery is also well-known for its impressive collection of sculptures. Notable examples are works by Henry Moore, Barbara Hepworth, and David Hockney. The extensive grounds of this impressive gallery are also worth exploring.

Across the road is what's come to be known as "Modern Two," housed in an old hospital built in the 1830s. Here, you'll see works by Surrealists, including sculptor Eduardo Paolozzi, as well as an impressive recreation of his original London studio. A number of works by Dada are also on display.

If you plan on seeing both locations, as well as the National Gallery and Portrait Gallery, there's a lot of art (and walking) to experience, so you may want to spread your visits over a couple of days.

Address: 75 Belford Road, Edinburgh

Consecrated in 1243, St. Giles Cathedral – also known as the High Kirk of Edinburgh – is Edinburgh's principal church. It's also one of the city's most popular places to visit, attracting upwards of a million visitors each year.

The current structure was built in the 1300s and is notable for its impressive 161-foot-tall central tower with its eight arched buttresses. These form a huge crown (the Crown Steeple), which has become a favorite backdrop for photos and selfies. Interior highlights include memorials to the dead of WWI; lovely stained-glass windows; and a statue of John Knox, leader of the Protestant Reformation (his former home, 45 High Street, is close by and contains a museum).

The Thistle Chapel is also worth checking out and is best known for its oak carvings; heraldic emblems; and seals of the "Knights of the Thistle," Scotland's oldest order of knights. Sir Robert Lorimer designed the chapel in 1911, and it's a superb example of the modern Gothic style. Fun things to do while visiting the cathedral include joining a rooftop tour, or enjoying an afternoon choir concert.

Address: High Street, Edinburgh

Calton Hill provides a panoramic view of the city, with Princes Street, the castle, and the Old Town silhouetted against Arthur's Seat. To the east and north you can see the Firth of Forth and the docks at Leith. At the foot of the hill stands the 13th-century Royal High School, where Sir Walter Scott was once a pupil.

Perhaps the most important of Edinburgh's many memorials is the impressive National Monument on Calton Hill, erected to remember the dead from the Napoleonic Wars. Henry Playfair designed the memorial using the Parthenon in Athens as his inspiration.

Work began in 1822, but the project had to be abandoned due to lack of money. Nelson's Monument was unveiled in 1816 after Horatio Nelson's victory at the Battle of Trafalgar.

Opposite Calton Hill stands a memorial to famed Scottish poet, Robert Burns. For a spectacular memento of your Edinburgh vacation, be sure to snap a few shots from here over the city at sunset.

Located on historic Canongate, the Museum of Edinburgh is also worth a look for those with an interest in digging a little deeper into this fascinating city's rich and storied history. The building itself is well worth seeing and was constructed in the late 1500s.

Its fascinating exhibits tell of Edinburgh's origins through artifacts and original documents, as well as tales of its heroes and everyday life. Of note is its important collection of decorative arts, including finely crafted glassware and silverware, 18th-century porcelain, and clocks.

Fans of the popular Outlander TV show should also pay a visit. The museum building and neighboring Bakehouse Close were featured in the show's third series, and make for a great selfie opportunity.

Address: 142-146 Canongate, Edinburgh

Located at the south end of picturesque Candlemakers Row, Greyfriars Church is a must-visit when in Edinburgh. Here, you'll find the city's oldest graveyard, the final resting place for a number of celebrated Scots, including poet Allan Ramsay (1686-1758).

The first "National Covenant," directed against Charles I's attempt to impose the constitution of the Anglican Church on Scotland, was signed here in 1638, under which framework the church would be subjected to the power of the state. Buried within the Covenanters Prison is James Hutton, considered by many as the father of modern geology.

Perhaps the most famous name associated with the church, however, is Greyfriars Bobby. In 1858, this Skye terrier loyally followed the coffin of his master, John Gray, to the graveyard and until his death 14 years later refused to leave. A kennel was built for him to shelter in, and a famous landmark outside the church is a statue of Bobby erected in 1873.

If visiting on Thursday, be sure to spend time enjoying one of the regular afternoon concerts. A museum is located on-site, and guided tours are available.

Address: 1 Greyfriars, Edinburgh

Set on 82 acres of land on the edge of Edinburgh, Edinburgh Zoo was established in 1913 and remains one of the top things to do for families visiting the city.

The zoo boasts a diversity of creatures from around the globe, some of whom were born and raised here through its successful breeding programs. Edinburgh Zoo has the distinction of being the only UK zoo park to house koalas and pandas, and was the first to breed penguins. Among its other "star" animals are a troop of chimps and wallabies, as well as an exhibit of smaller creatures, such as amphibians and insects, in an area called "Wee Beasties."

Those wanting to broaden their zoo experience can opt to participate in a variety of special events and animal interaction opportunities, including the popular "keeper experiences," which offer a fun behind-the-scenes look at the day-to-day care of animals.

Also fun are the "Animal Antics" shows, which provide a fascinating insight into the training and care of a variety of species. There's a great garden area to explore, too, plus a number of casual food options and a gift shop.

Address: Royal Zoological Society of Scotland, 134 Corstorphine Road, Edinburgh

Not just for kids, the Museum of Childhood includes excellent collections of old toys, including model trains, dolls, and games from around the world. But it's more than just a place full of old toys (as much fun as they are). The museum – the first of its kind when it opened in the early 1900s – explores other aspects of growing up, including a fun look at schooldays, trends, and fashions.

Adding to the authenticity is a re-creation of a Victorian streetscape complete with outdoor toys, as well as an opportunity to dress up in period costumes and play the kinds of games our ancestors would have enjoyed.

Address: 42 High Street, Edinburgh

Dynamic Earth is a multi-media presentation that takes visitors on a 500-million-year journey through the Earth's history. Using hi-tech gadgetry and superb special effects, its displays realistically portray natural events such as volcanoes, tropical rainstorms, and glaciation.

Located at the foot of Arthur's Seat near Holyrood Park, this unique science center is housed in an ultra-modern tent-like structure and is particularly fun for kids. And thanks to facilities like the excellent 360-degree Showdome, with its 3D movies, it's as entertaining as it is educational.

The museum's latest addition is 4Dventure flight simulator , where visitors explore evolution and the diversity of the world's climates by "flying" through time and space.

Address: Holyrood Road, Edinburgh

One of the newest attractions in Edinburgh, The Real Mary King's Close offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into one of the oldest sections of the Royal Mile.

Located under the historic Old Town area, Mary King's Close was buried and closed after being partly dismantled in the 1700s to make way for the Royal Exchange. This network of narrow streets, now underground, was once a vibrant neighborhood lined with tenement homes, and has long been the subject of myths of ghosts and murder.

Visitors can now join fun tours led by costumed guides that lead you to some of the best preserved areas of this fascinating underground world. Along the way, you'll learn how, during the time of the plague, some 300 residents were sealed up and forgotten about, so legend has it.

Displays and exhibits are also used to show what the area once would have looked like, as well as sharing details of life during the 17th century. ( Editor's Note : Advanced booking is recommended, especially during the busy summer season.)

Ghost tours can also be booked at the Edinburgh Vaults , a series of underground storage chambers built in the 1780s. You can also get a taste for life during medieval times at the popular Edinburgh Dungeon, another underground attraction, this time located on East Market Street.

Address: Warriston's Close, 2, High Street, Edinburgh

Located on the Royal Mile a short distance from the castle, the John Knox House & Scottish Storytelling Centre attraction is a treat for anyone interested in Scotland's rich cultural heritage. It was built in 1470 and is said to be the one time home of the protestant reformer after which it's named.

A highlight of a visit is exploring the exhibits and displays related to the Scottish Reformation, a pivotal moment in the country's history. Other notable features include a well-preserved hand-painted ceiling from this period and carvings from the 1800s. Guided tours are available.

The adjoining Scottish Storytelling Centre is also worth a visit. Billed as a "home for Scotland's stories," this popular venue hosts regular performances by musicians and actors, as well as readings by leading Scottish writers. A variety of workshops and learning opportunities are also available, with programs aimed at all ages. For a truly memorable experience, book one of the venue's professional storytellers for a personalized story-telling session or workshop. A café is also located on-site.

Address: Scottish Storytelling Centre, High Street, Edinburgh

The Surgeons' Hall Museums consist of three fascinating attractions in one, all of them dealing with important advancements in medicine and medical procedures. These include the Wohl Pathology Museum, the History of Surgery Museum, and the Techniques and Technologies Dental Collection.

Set in the impressive Royal College of Surgeons building, these fascinating museums feature collections of tools and material relating to medicine and surgical procedures. Workshops and other learning opportunities are held here frequently, along with the occasional themed special events at Halloween and Christmas.

Address: Nicolson Street, Edinburgh

If you're visiting Edinburgh for the first time and want to see all the best places to visit in this beautiful part of Scotland, the city center makes a great base, especially the areas of Old Town, with the Royal Mile, and New Town, with the fabulous shops of Princes Street. The more affordable West End is also a popular and convenient place to stay. These areas put you in close range of the city's top historic attractions, such as Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse and Holyrood Abbey, as well as museums, galleries, and restaurants. Here are some highly rated hotels in these central locations:

Luxury Hotels :

• Set in one of the most picturesque corners of Edinburgh, The Balmoral Hotel is perhaps the poshest place to stay in the city. Just two minutes' walk from Waverley station and close to Edinburgh Castle, its bright, contemporary-styled rooms and suites feature classy marble bathrooms, and a great breakfast. Amenities include a fine-dining restaurant, afternoon tea, a full-service spa, indoor swimming pool, and a fitness center.
• Just steps away from the Royal Mile, Cheval Old Town Chambers offers fantastic value – especially for families and extended-stay travelers – with its luxurious contemporary apartments. Each is unique, with features such as exposed stone from the 15th century and gabled ceilings. Amenities include a 24-hour front desk and concierge services, laundry facilities, and luggage storage.
• For those who prefer a large chain hotel, the Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa is a great choice of luxury accommodations. Only 10 minutes on foot from Edinburgh Castle, its well-appointed rooms feature media hubs and glass-walled bathrooms, along with free Wi-Fi. Larger suites are also available (be sure to request one that overlooks the castle). On-site amenities include a good-size indoor swimming pool and a full-service, rooftop spa.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Sitting right on the Royal Mile in a historic old bank building, The Inn on the Mile offers great-value, stylish rooms with iPod docks, and wonderful city views, all just five-minutes' walk from the castle and Princes Street. This charming boutique hotel also features a restaurant that's popular with guests and locals alike and known to serve great locally sourced dishes, including freshly caught fish.
• Located in the heart of Edinburgh New Town, the Ibis Styles Edinburgh Centre St. Andrew Square features bold, colorful décor throughout, along with plush bedding and a great breakfast (some pet-friendly rooms are available). Just 12-minutes' stroll from the Royal Mile, the hotel is popular with families for its kids programs.
• Another excellent mid-range chain option located in the heart of the city is the Premier Inn Edinburgh City Centre (Princes Street) Hotel , featuring clean, bright rooms with comfortable beds and bedding. You're also within easy walking distance of the castle and the Royal Mile, as well as Edinburgh's best museums and galleries. The hotel's on-site restaurant features excellent views of the castle.

Budget Hotels:

• The great-value Travelodge Edinburgh Central Princes Street is set in a fantastic location opposite Edinburgh-Waverley train station and close to shops, restaurants, and the Royal Mile. Popular with families, this budget hotel offers clean, comfortable rooms with free Wi-Fi and HD TVs.
• Also popular in this category, the Cairn Hotel Edinburgh features compact, clean rooms within the theater district and less than a 10-minute walk from the city center. A breakfast buffet is available, along with a lounge area and coffee shop.
• About a 15-minute walk from the Royal Mile, Regent House Hotel offers a mix of brightly decorated guest rooms and family rooms with period furniture, comfy beds, large screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi. Amenities include a 24-hour front desk, luggage storage, and a hearty free breakfast buffet.
• Sightseeing Tours: If you're planning to see the city's top attractions, the Royal Edinburgh Ticket Including Hop-On Hop-Off Tours and Edinburgh Castle Admission will save you the hassle of finding your way around the city. Hop aboard the open-top, double-decker sightseeing bus and cruise around the sites, listening to the audio commentary and jumping off at your favorite attractions. The tour is valid for 48 hours. Best of all, it includes admission to prime sights such as the Palace of Holyroodhouse and the Royal Yacht Britannia, as well as fast-track entry to Edinburgh Castle.
• Day Trip Tours: Breathtaking countryside, quaint villages, and the famous Scottish Highlands beckon not far from Edinburgh. And you can save time and trouble if you explore the surroundings on a day trip tour. Let an experienced driver take you through the countryside in the comfort of a Mercedes van on the Loch Ness, Glencoe and the Highlands Small-Group Day Trip from Edinburgh . This full-day guided tour includes a visit to beautiful forested lochs, tiny villages, Glencoe, Cairngorms National Park, Fort Augustus, and the chance to search for the Loch Ness monster. Also focusing on the Scottish Highlands is the West Highland Lochs and Castles Small Group Day Trip from Edinburgh . Castles, lakes, breathtaking scenery, and small villages are the highlights on this full-day guided tour, which includes discounts at select local restaurants, shops, and attractions. You don't have to be a golfer to enjoy the St. Andrews and Fife Small Group Day Trip from Edinburgh . It includes a visit to the fishing villages of East Neuk, Falkland Palace, and, of course, a visit to St. Andrews, known as the home of golf as well as Scotland's oldest university. If you have more time and want to see the dramatic scenery of Scotland's northwest coast, consider the 3-Day Isle of Skye Small-Group Tour from Edinburgh . In the comfort of a Mercedes van, you'll visit the Scottish Highlands, with stops at Glencoe and Loch Ness, and the Isle of Skye. Included in the tour are a professional driver and guide, two nights at a B&B or three-star hotel, and two breakfasts.
• Free in Edinburgh: A surprising number of Edinburgh attractions are free. Top things to do for free in Edinburgh include the National Museum, the Botanic Garden, the National Galleries, and the city's many churches. Also free is the sightseeing bus that shuttles visitors between the various National Galleries.

Located just eight miles west of the city center, Edinburgh Airport is well served by public transit. From here, an easy journey by Edinburgh Trams and a change to the mainline train will get you to Waverley station in under 30 minutes. The same journey by car (taxis are plentiful, and Uber is available) takes around 25 minutes. Buses are available and offer good connections to other parts of the city.

Whether you're looking for souvenirs or traditional Scottish crafts and clothing – and who wouldn't want to buy a kilt? – Princes Street and the Royal Mile are your best bets. Both are home to a number of large department stores. If you're looking for the big-name fashion outlets, head to Waverley Mall , just steps from the city's train station – you'll find shops in a bright, modern-looking building.

If you're planning on visiting the Royal Yacht Britannia, be sure to add the Ocean Terminal , in the old docklands area, to your list of places to shop. There are also many great restaurants and entertainment options here, too.

Some of the best places to visit in Scotland can be enjoyed on easy day trips from Edinburgh . Highlights include several castles, including famous Stirling Castle , which is easy to get to by train or by road. Scotland's cultural capital, Glasgow , is also only a short train ride to the west. From here, you can grab a quick bus connection to Loch Lomond . Said to be the country's prettiest loch, it's a great area for outdoorsy-types to explore, thanks to its many hiking and biking trails.

Also within reach is one of Europe's most scenic train rides. Made famous by the Harry Potter movie franchise, the journey from Balloch to Oban , gateway to the Isle of Skye and the Hebrides , travels over the spectacular Glenfinnan viaduct. North of Edinburgh, St. Andrews is of interest not just to golfers, but to history enthusiasts. But wherever you plan to travel in Scotland , you'll find Edinburgh a good starting point.

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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.

6 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.

Love this, thank you!

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Mapa of Edinburgh - Interactive Edinburgh Map

Information about the map.

Check out the main monuments, museums, squares, churches and attractions in our map of Edinburgh. Click on each icon to see what it is.

To help you find your way once you get to your destination, the map you print out will have numbers on the various icons that correspond to a list with the most interesting tourist attractions. This way, you’ll be able to see where each attraction is.

Icons on the Edinburgh interactive map

The map is very easy to use:

• Check out information about the destination: click on the color indicators.
• Move across the map: shift your mouse across the map.
• Zoom in: double click on the left-hand side of the mouse on the map or move the scroll wheel upwards.
• Zoom out: double click on the right-hand side of the mouse on the map or move the scroll wheel downwards.

You may also be interested in

2-Day Edinburgh Itinerary

Make the most of your time in Scotland’s capital with our 48-hour itinerary, supposing you arrive Friday afternoon and leave on Sunday evening. This guide will show you the must-see places in the city.

General Information

Here we will tell you all you need to know to prepare for your trip to Edinburgh: money, language, history, the dates of the famous festival and much more.

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The 15 best attractions in Edinburgh

This city brims with incredible things to do. These are the best attractions in Edinburgh, for locals and visitors alike

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If you’re new to Edinburgh, it can be hard to know where to start. From a castle in the middle of the city to a palace a mere mile away, it can feel like there’s something worth exploring everywhere you turn. Even for locals, it’s sometimes easy to forget exactly what’s on your doorstep, whether it’s  museums  and  art galleries packed with history, penguin parades or tea with waterfront views. So here’s our pick of the best attractions in Edinburgh – whether you’re a first-time visitor or if you’ve lived here all your life.

RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best  things to do in Edinburgh

This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click  here .

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best Edinburgh attractions

1.  edinburgh castle: guided tour with live guide.

• Attractions
• Historic buildings and sites

Edinburgh Castle is the most popular paid-for tourist attraction in Scotland. Your expert guide will take you around the most significant parts of the Castle while sharing the hidden histories of the site using their in-depth knowledge of the main buildings and attractions. The  Castle dungeons and military prison  will also feature on the tour, as well as St Margret's Chapel and Mons Meg. 

2.  National Museum of Scotland

Reopened after an extensive refurbishment in 2011, the National Museum has become an extremely popular destination for tourists and locals alike, with children particularly well catered for. There’s a large, all-ages play area to the rear of the first floor and a more educational play space for older children on the top level, while many exhibits boast a significant degree of interactivity. 

3.  Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

• Parks and gardens

Founded in 1670 near Holyrood Park, the Botanic Garden has since moved to a site near the old Nor Loch, now the location of Waverley Station, and then again to its current home in 1820. A peaceful spot away from the bustle of the city, it’s become a destination for various reasons. There are two dining areas – the Terrace Café in the heart of the Garden, whose lawn has a good view of Edinburgh Castle in the distance, and the Gateway Restaurant, in the new education centre at the west entrance – while Inverleith House is a highly regarded contemporary art gallery and the former site of the city’s Gallery of Modern Art.

4.  Royal Yacht Britannia

Not for nothing is the Royal Yacht Britannia one of Edinburgh’s most popular attractions. Whether you’re a royalist or not, as the Queen’s former floating royal residence for more than 40 years, there’s heaps to enjoy here. The State apartments, the crew’s quarters, the honeymoon suite and the engine room prove genuine highlights. Should you fancy a pit stop, you can round things off in style with a pot of tea and scones or sandwiches at the decent-value Royal Deck Tea Room, which offers some lovely waterfront views.

5.  Arthur’s Seat

• Things to do

At any time of the year, Arthur’s Seat will provide a perfect moment of respite away from the city-centre bustle. Whether there’s a gentle snowfall or it’s a bright, sunny day, a short walk around Holyrood Park and up to this landmark will make you feel like you’ve landed in a painting. Enjoy views of Edinburgh’s skyline from the Salisbury Crags, visit the medieval St Anthony’s Chapel or do a bit of birdwatching by Duddingston Loch with this private tour in Edinburgh. 

6.  The Scottish Parliament

The Scottish Parliament building was not built without controversy, arriving several years late and millions of pounds over budget. However, since its construction it’s proven to be both an efficient seat of government and a popular tourist attraction, noted by many for its architectural features. Outside of Parliamentary recess times the building is accessible to the public, both for those who wish to view the democratic process at work in the debating chamber and for those who simply fancy looking around the building. The guided tours are free. 

7.  Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

A suitably gothic tourist attraction to mirror the feel of Edinburgh’s Old Town, the Camera Obscura houses a visual live ‘tour’ of the city, using the famous camera obscura optical illusion to allow visitors to view a panorama of the surrounding area. The building is also home to a range of interactive optical tricks, including the World of Illusions, the Light Fantastic collection of holograms, a light corridor and a display of photographs of Edinburgh stretching back to photography’s earliest days. 

8.  Dynamic Earth

Opened in 1999, Dynamic Earth is a Millennium Commission project and an element of the regeneration process that invigorated the Holyrood area of Edinburgh ahead of the Scottish Parliament Building being built there around the same time. A distinctive landmark in its own right, with a tented roof that mimics the sailmasts of a ship, it’s a world-class science centre whose principal aim is to educate visitors about the geological formation of the Earth.

9.  Palace of Holyroodhouse

• Event spaces

While the Castle is the more famous of the two landmarks that top and tail the Royal Mile, the Palace, the Queen’s official residence in Scotland, enjoys suitable kudos with the droves of visitors who flock here. It’s largely used in its official capacity these days for state ceremonies and official entertaining, including the annual Garden Party (aka Hat Watch for locals). Today, there’s plenty to see here, including 14 historic and State Apartments, as well as the ruins of Holyrood Abbey.

10.  Scott Monument

Built to commemorate ‘Ivanhoe’, ‘Waverley’ and ‘Rob Roy’ writer Sir Walter Scott, the Scott Monument is the world’s biggest monument to a writer and remains a rather touching reminder of how proud the city can be of its own. You can simply wonder at it from below or, for just a few pounds, visitors are invited to climb the 287 steps to the top. It’s a bit of a slog, but the sight of Edinburgh Castle, just across the Gardens, and the views over to the Forth of Fife make it more than worth the effort.

11.  National Gallery Of Scotland

The Scottish National Gallery and the adjoining Royal Scottish Academy form a complex in the heart of Edinburgh, just off Princes Street and in the shadow of Edinburgh Castle. It consists of two distinct buildings, opened in 1828 and 1859 respectively, both from the designs of the renowned architect William Playfair. While the more (relatively) modest Scottish National Gallery at the rear of this building hosts a permanent collection of classical art and occasional small-scale temporary exhibitions, the RSA is used for large-scale temporary shows of contemporary work.

12.  Edinburgh Zoo

• Zoos and aquariums

Opened in 1913 on a large site occupying part of Corstorphine Hill in the west of the city, Edinburgh Zoo has long been established as a major visitor attraction. Many come for the giant pandas who arrived from China in 2011, but the daily penguin parade – where the birds leave their enclosure and wander around – has been going on for more than half a century and still draws a crowd. Elsewhere there are impressive beasts like leopards and lions, cute ones like chimps, koalas and meerkats, and many more besides, from armadillos to zebras.

13.  Edinburgh Vaults

If you've got a soft spot for all things spooky, then get yourself down to Edinburgh Vaults. This underground attraction is made up of a series of chambers, formed in the nineteen arches of the South Bridge in Edinburgh. Tours of the vaults take many forms, with some taking place at night, some featuring a whisky tasting, and others angled towards its haunted reputation – where you'll hear tales of murder and witchcraft and maybe even spot a ghost if you're lucky (or unlucky...).

14.  Scottish Highlands

Scotland's Highlands have a lot to offer – so to make the most out of your visit to this breathtaking landscape, your best bet is to join a tour with a particularly knowledgeable guide. There are eco-certified all-day trips involving air-conditioned coaches and add-ons including a Loch Ness boat cruise and Urquhart Castle ticket.

15.  Jonnie Walker Princes Street

Fans of Scottish whisky would do well to know about this boozy tour of one of Scotland's pride and joys. Jonnie Walker HQ can be found in Edinburgh city centre, housing a world of world-class libations that will have you tipsy in no time. Guided tours include quizzes, cocktails and overall a one-of-a-kind experience.  

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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. 

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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City of Edinburgh Printable Tourist Map

City of Edinburgh Map: The Attractions

Edinburgh Castle

Imperial dock lock.

Calton Hill

Scott Monument

Palace of Holyroodhouse

St Giles' Cathedral

Arthur's Seat

Greyfriars Bobby

West Princes Street Gardens

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Map of Edinburgh — Best attractions, restaurants, and transportation info

What’s on this map.

We’ve made the ultimate tourist map of Edinburgh, United Kingdom for travelers! Check out Edinburgh’s top things to do, attractions, restaurants, and major transportation hubs all in one interactive map.

Visiting Edinburgh? See our Edinburgh Trip Planner.

How to use the map

Use this interactive map to plan your trip before and while in Edinburgh. Learn about each place by clicking it on the map or read more in the article below. Here’s more ways to perfect your trip using our Edinburgh map:

• Explore the best restaurants, shopping, and things to do in Edinburgh by categories
• Get directions in Google Maps to each place
• Export all places to save to your Google Maps
• Plan your travels by turning on metro and bus lines
• Create a Wanderlog trip plan (link to create a trip plan for the city) that keep all the places on the map in your phone
• Print a physical map to bring it on your trip

Top 20 attractions in Edinburgh

National museum of scotland, edinburgh castle.

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Palace of Holyroodhouse

Royal botanic garden edinburgh, arthur's seat, the royal yacht britannia, camera obscura & world of illusions, the real mary king's close, holyrood park, scott monument, st giles' cathedral, national galleries of scotland: national, the scotch whisky experience, greyfriars kirkyard edinburgh, princes street gardens, scottish parliament building, edinburgh old town, edinburgh gin distillery, top 10 restaurants in edinburgh.

The Kitchin

The little chartroom, dishoom edinburgh, restaurant martin wishart, six by nico edinburgh, transportation in edinburgh, nearby airports, edinburgh airport, highways and major roads.

• A720 (City Bypass)
• A1 (Great North Road)
• A7 (Old Dalkeith Road)
• A90 (Queensferry Road)
• A8 (Great Western Road)
• A70 (Lanark Road)
• A702 (Biggar Road)
• A71 (Kilmarnock Road)
• A702 (Crawford Road)
• A703 (Liberton Brae)

Top searches in Edinburgh

Popular road trips from edinburgh, what's the weather like in edinburgh.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Edinburgh for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Edinburgh in January
• Weather in Edinburgh in February
• Weather in Edinburgh in March
• Weather in Edinburgh in April
• Weather in Edinburgh in May
• Weather in Edinburgh in June
• Weather in Edinburgh in July
• Weather in Edinburgh in August
• Weather in Edinburgh in September
• Weather in Edinburgh in October
• Weather in Edinburgh in November
• Weather in Edinburgh in December

All road trips from Edinburgh

• Edinburgh to London drive
• Edinburgh to Paris drive
• Edinburgh to Dublin drive
• Edinburgh to Amsterdam drive
• Edinburgh to York drive
• Edinburgh to Rome drive
• Edinburgh to Barcelona drive
• Edinburgh to Blackpool drive
• Edinburgh to Liverpool drive
• Edinburgh to Berlin drive
• Edinburgh to Belfast drive
• Edinburgh to Prague drive
• Edinburgh to Madrid drive
• Edinburgh to Manchester drive
• Edinburgh to Florence drive
• Edinburgh to Brussels drive
• Edinburgh to Birmingham drive
• Edinburgh to Milan drive
• Edinburgh to Vienna drive
• Edinburgh to Budapest drive
• Edinburgh to Lisbon drive
• Edinburgh to Newcastle upon Tyne drive
• Edinburgh to Venice drive
• Edinburgh to Bath drive
• Edinburgh to Bruges drive
• Edinburgh to Copenhagen drive
• Edinburgh to Keswick drive
• Edinburgh to Munich drive
• Edinburgh to Cardiff drive

Explore nearby places

• Musselburgh
• Milton Bridge
• Burntisland
• Newtongrange
• Prestonpans
• South Queensferry
• Dalgety Bay
• North Queensferry
• Inverkeithing
• Cowdenbeath

All related maps of Edinburgh

• Map of Musselburgh
• Map of Loanhead
• Map of Lasswade
• Map of Dalkeith
• Map of Bonnyrigg
• Map of Roslin
• Map of Rosewell
• Map of Milton Bridge
• Map of Burntisland
• Map of Newtongrange
• Map of Kinghorn
• Map of Aberdour
• Map of Prestonpans
• Map of South Queensferry
• Map of Mayfield
• Map of Penicuik
• Map of Dalgety Bay
• Map of Newbridge
• Map of North Queensferry
• Map of Cockenzie
• Map of Tranent
• Map of Inverkeithing
• Map of Gorebridge
• Map of Kirknewton
• Map of Temple
• Map of Pathhead
• Map of Rosyth
• Map of Kirkcaldy
• Map of Cowdenbeath
• Map of Carlops

Edinburgh throughout the year

• Edinburgh in January
• Edinburgh in February
• Edinburgh in March
• Edinburgh in April
• Edinburgh in May
• Edinburgh in June
• Edinburgh in July
• Edinburgh in August
• Edinburgh in September
• Edinburgh in October
• Edinburgh in November
• Edinburgh in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Edinburgh?

Get inspired for your trip to Edinburgh with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Edinburgh Itinerary
• 2-Day Edinburgh Itinerary
• 3-Day Edinburgh Itinerary
• 4-Day Edinburgh Itinerary
• 5-Day Edinburgh Itinerary

• Itinerary + map in one view
• Live collaboration
• Auto-import hotels and reservations
• Optimize your route
• Offline access on mobile
• See time and distance between all your places

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.

Edinburgh printable map of top tourist attractions & city travel guide

Edinburgh city centre free travel guide - top 10 must-see sights & best destinations - edinburgh top tourist attractions map.

Maps of best attractions in Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh maps will guide you to the best destinations in the city. Because of its narrow streets, you can only explore the Old Town by walking. The city doesn't have a metro / subway system, but most of the major attractions are located along the Royal Mile, Princes Street, or one of the major streets of New Town. It’s very easy to find your way around Edinburgh. The city is centered on its old street, the Royal Mile, which runs downhill between Old and New Town from Edinburgh Castle in the west to the Palace of Holyroodhouse in the east. Edinburgh's top sights, plus hotels, shopping centres, and many of the city’s key landmarks are plotted on our detailed city plans. Public transportation points are also marked, and indicated by the symbols listed in the maps key. Armed with these maps, you should be able to find the accurate location of must-see places. Mapping out a trip to explore Edinburgh can be far from the usual. This page includes a range of maps and plans which will help you make the most of your visit to Edinburgh. If you are either a first-time tourist looking for the top 10 must-do sights or if you are returning to Edinburgh to discover something new - all you need to ensure an enjoyable trip is some advance planning. For some help in narrowing down the options, we present you with a range of high resolution maps which will help you find the detailed locations of the must-see sights - just click on a selected map to access a large version that can be downloaded and printed, or saved onto your mobile device. When in Edinburgh, you can also get free pocket-size maps of the city from the tourist information centres.

Central Edinburgh, Scotland visitor's 3d interactive printable map showing inner city tourist attractions, main points of interest, museums, landmarks including Royal Mile, Old & New Town, Castle, Princess Street - Edinburgh top tourist attractions map

You can view, download or print a full, high resolution (detailed, large) version of this image by clicking on the plan itself

Edinburgh city centre 3 days itinerary planner - Travel layout guide free download - Offline map showing attractions & places to visit - Inner city plan showing places of interest along with street names & must-see destinations including Royal Mile - Edinburgh top tourist attractions map

Edinburgh on the detailed map of Scotland, England and United Kingdom - Driving guide & urban navigation directions - Edinburgh top tourist attractions map

Top attractions in the Greater Edinburgh metro area in Scotland - Virtual map showing surrounding area & towns, best historical buildings - What to see, where to go, directions to fun things to do in the region - Edinburgh top tourist attractions map

Greater Edinburgh tourist information guide map of attractions, rail network public transportation, railway stations, routes, stops, train lines network - Edinburgh top tourist attractions map

Edinburgh inner city center printable map with top attractions in Old & New Town district area neighbourhoods - List of points of interest - Public transport Waverley stations - Locations of the official tourist information centre - High quality road guide & street names large scale plan - Edinburgh top tourist attractions map

Simple & easy to navigate 3d aerial graphical satellite view map of Edinburgh inner city centre showing holiday top points of interest, central walkable sites, city-break historical places to visit including Royal Mile, Castle, Cathedral - Edinburgh top tourist attractions map

Hop-on hop-off bus map of Edinburgh City sightseeing tour - Double decker open top couch visitors' plan showing tour routes - Bird's eye graphical overview of the city trip highlights - Edinburgh top tourist attractions map

Central Edinburgh bus and tram map to download - Updated public transport diagram showing Lothian Buses, Airport Airlink - Edinburgh top tourist attractions map

Royal Mile attractions list including downtown shopping destinations, restaurants, pubs, Waverley Train Station, Scottish Parliament, museums - Edinburgh top tourist attractions map

Princess Street guide map showing best destinations to visit in Edinburgh - Interactive walking map to print - Central district area outline layout map of best locations - Edinburgh top tourist attractions map

Old Town & Royal Mile Printable walking tour guide itinerary planner map with favourite attractions & points of interest to visit by tourists - City center great Scottish historic spots & best must-see sights - Edinburgh top tourist attractions map

New Town walking tour guide itinerary planner showing layout of best things to do - 1-day trip travel map showing locations to visit, must-see tourist attractions, famous destinations, must-do spots & landmark destinations - Edinburgh top tourist attractions map

Holyrood and Arthur's Seat visitors map showing park Holyroodhouse Palace - Main tourist attractions walking tour printable pop-up map with key places to visit - Edinburgh top tourist attractions map

Water of Leith walkway map - Download the virtual explorer plan showing interesting sites & hot spots worth visiting - Edinburgh top tourist attractions map

Leith walking tour guide itinerary planner with best sights to visit - Edinburgh top tourist attractions map

Central Edinburgh hotels and accommodation map with downtown city attractions - Best sights in a week detailed street plan - Edinburgh top tourist attractions map

Best restaurants, cafes dining map of Edinburgh - Edinburgh top tourist attractions map

Shopping street map showing major department stores, list of most popular shops, favourite shopping destinations itinerary planner with navigation guide map - Edinburgh top tourist attractions map

Nightlife & Entertainment map of Edinburgh Royal Mile, New & Town with night clubs, pubs, bars, theatres, cinemas - Edinburgh top tourist attractions map

Edinburgh Festival all venues map showing fun & easy to access places within walking distance - Edinburgh top tourist attractions map

Free to download street & road names detailed hd map - Edinburgh top tourist attractions map

Beautifully illustrated map for children showing fun & easy to access places within walking distance - Edinburgh top tourist attractions map

Central Edinburgh main neighbourhoods free download plan on the map of Scotland - Great family things to do and explore with kids - Fun & interesting ideas where to go around central Edinburgh area - Edinburgh top tourist attractions map

Greater Edinburgh top attractions & highlights detailed map showing famous sites to explore including Royal Yacht Britannia, Holyrood Park, Arthur's Seat - Edinburgh top tourist attractions map

New map showing travel sites, landmarks, top sights in Central Edinburgh including Edinburgh Castle, National Gallery, Royal Museum, Calton Hill, Old Town - Greater metro area with Airport, Waverley train railway station and coach bus station, official tourist information centre - Edinburgh top tourist attractions map

Best of Edinburgh in 1, 2 & 3 days - Interactive walking map to print - Central district area outline layout map of best locations to visit - Edinburgh top tourist attractions map

New Town map with must-see sights, the most iconic locations - Printable detailed travel visitors' orientation & navigation walking guide - Edinburgh top tourist attractions map

Calton Hill dining and shopping tourist guide map showing best sites including Nelson Monument, churches, Regent Gardens - Edinburgh top tourist attractions map

Water of Leith river map showing Scottish National Modern Art Gallery, Royal Botanic Gardens - Edinburgh top tourist attractions map

Arthur's Seat & Holyrood Park visitors map showing Holyroodhouse Palace - Edinburgh top tourist attractions map

Leith travel guide showing best eateries and popular places including Royal Yacht Britannia, Links, Docks - Edinburgh top tourist attractions map

Central Edinburgh attractions jpg map including Meadows, Calton Hill, Georgian House, Museum of Scotland, National Gallery - Edinburgh top tourist attractions map

Map of top 10 attractions in Edinburgh

The typical top ten attractions are listed below. You can find the detailed locations of these places on the maps above.

• Arthur's Seat and Holyrood Park - It's rare to find a hike of such natural beauty in any city. But Edinburgh is no ordinary metropolis. You can walk to the top of Arthur's Seat or cheat and drive to the park — either way, you find great views.
• Edinburgh Castle - This mighty historic fortress, perched atop its impregnable rock, is compelling from all angles as well as from within.
• Calton Hill - Studded with a bizarre collection of Neoclassical architecture, this is the best of many great viewpoints from which to gaze out over the city.
• The Royal Mile - One of the world's most famous streets, with every cobbled inch resonant with history and atmosphere. The Royal Mile is, in fact, one mile 110 yards in length, measuring from the castle drawbridge to the gates of Holyroodhouse. It has different names at various points along its length: the short, narrow section from the castle to the roundabout outside The Hub is called Castle Hill. At this point it becomes the Lawnmarket; while east of the main junction with the Mound and George IV Bridge it is the High Street. The fi nal section, after the junction with St Mary's Street, is the Canongate. With its historic old buildings, closely packed tenements and shadowy closes, the Royal Mile ranks as one of the great streets of the world. Running downhill along a ridge from the cliff-skirted castle above the city to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Royal Mile remains medieval in character (if not always in reality), and is still the most resonant part of the Old Town, with a palpable sense that over the centuries most of Scottish history has passed this way. Even today it's at the heart of Scottish affairs, with politicians, judges and journalists mixing with the throngs of tourists ambling between the sights and souvenir shops.
• Royal Yacht Britannia - Moored alongside Terence Conran's huge Ocean Terminal shopping and entertainment centre, Britannia is one of the world's most famous ships. Launched in 1953, she was used by the royal family over 44 years for state visits, diplomatic functions, honeymoons and holidays.
• National Museum of Scotland - This impressive piece of contemporary design is a worthy home for Scotland's national historic treasures.
• Palace of Holyroodhouse - An impressive introduction into the lives and loves of the Scottish kings and queens. Compared to most royal palaces, visitor access to Holyroodhouse is extensive.
• Forth Rail Bridge - The gigantic girders of this iconic monument to Victorian engineering span the Firth of Forth just north of Edinburgh.
• Scottish Parliament - Overflowing with imagery, quirky design and controversy, and now one of the city's star attractions.
• Princess Street and Old Town - Princes Street is very much the centre of Edinburgh, with trains pulling into Waverley Station, buses and taxis arriving from all points and the pavements thick with tourists and shoppers. The latter are found in their droves along the north side of the street, where chain stores and a hotch-potch of architectural styles create an unlovely prospect. This is immediately redeemed to the south via a swathe of gardens as well as monuments, grand galleries and an unforgettable vista of the castle and Old Town.
• New Town - From its outset, the New Town was planned as a total contrast to the Old Town: the layout was to be symmetrical, the streets broad and straight, and the architecture unashamedly grand and spacious. Though originally intended as a residential area, the central part of the New Town is now the bustling hub of the city's professional and business life, dominated by shops, banks and offices. Its unique historic character, however, is obvious at every turn, especially if you head for the dignified Georgian streets to the north, which remain one of the best-planned, elegant quarters of any European city.
• Leith - Leith is Edinburgh's historic port where the Water of Leith meets the Firth of Forth. Although Leith is generally known as the port of Edinburgh, it developed independently of the city up the hill. While the stand-alone attractions are few, Leith is an intriguing place to explore, worth visiting not just for the contrasts to central Edinburgh, but also for its nautical air and the excellent eating and drinking scene, which majors on seafood but also includes haute cuisine and well-worn, friendly pubs.
• Other popular attractions include: Bruntsfield Links, City Observatory, Edinburgh Zoo, The Fruitmarket Gallery, The Meadows, Museum of Childhood, Museum of Edinburgh, National Gallery of Scotland, National Monument, National Museum of Scotland, Nelson Monument, Princes Street Gardens, Royal Scottish Academy, Royal Botanic Garden, St. Giles' Cathedral, Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre, Scott Monument, Scottish National Portrait Gallery, Scottish Parliament Building, Writers' Museum, Holyrood Park, Camera Obscura and World of Illusions, Real Mary King's Close, The Edinburgh Dungeon.

What are some interesting facts about Edinburgh?

Getting around - Walking is the best way to explore Edinburgh, particularly the Old Town's closes and wynds. If you'd rather not walk there are taxi ranks all along the Royal Mile. Private vehicles are restricted on the upper section of the Royal Mile; there are parking areas on Castle Terrace and New Street. If driving, pay particular attention to parking regulations – the city's black jacketed traffic wardens come with a fearsome reputation!

Orientation - It's fairly easy to find your bearings around Edinburgh. The city is centered on its oldest street, the Royal Mile, which runs downhill from Edinburgh Castle in the west to the Palace of Holyroodhouse in the east. The Royal Mile is actually just over a mile and changes name several times during its course (Castlehill, Lawnmarket, High Street and Canongate). To the north of the Royal Mile is Princes Street, Edinburgh's principal shopping street, which also marks the demarcation between the Old and New Towns. North of Princes Street is the Georgian New Town with its elegant houses and streets. South of Princes Street is the Old Town, the original medieval city, with its narrow closes and wynds (pronounced as in 'wind your watch,' these are alleys or narrow streets) spilling down from the Royal Mile.

City layout - Central Edinburgh is divided into the Old Town, where the city began, and the larger New Town, where it expanded in the 1700s. Many visitors find lodgings in New Town and tend to visit Old Town for sightseeing, dining, and drinking. There are hotels, however, in the historic core of the city on High Street and in the Grassmarket.

Old Town - This is the core of historic Edinburgh, with the centrepiece Royal Mile and its string of key attractions running east from the castle down to Holyrood, home of the royal palace and brand-new parliament. The tangled passageways and courtyards which lead off the Mile are far less touristy, and remain evocative of the area's medieval character. Royal Mile stretches for about 1.6km (1 mile) from Edinburgh Castle downhill to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. The Royal Mile is one boulevard with four segments bearing different names: Castlehill, Lawnmarket, High Street, and Canongate.An infamous street at the southern base of the castle is the Grassmarket, both a street and a district, where convicted criminals were once hanged on the gallows. Today it's home to restaurants, pubs, and hotels.

New Town - A masterpiece of early town planning, with row upon elegant row of impressive Georgian houses intermixed with haughty Neoclassical monuments, the New Town's oldest quarter has been colonized by department stores and offices. Explore further and you'll discover attractive residential enclaves as well as bohemian Broughton, the focus of Edinburgh's gay scene. New Town is the city's main shopping precinct today, with broad sidewalks and smart shops, bars, and restaurants. Its busiest boulevard, Princes Street, offers panoramic views of Old Town and Edinburgh Castle. Parallel to Princes Street is New Town's second great boulevard, George Street, which begins at St. Andrew Square and runs west to Charlotte Square.

Leith - The port of Edinburgh, Leith is just as historic as the city – if rather less well preserved and fringed by some grim housing estates. The old harbour, however, now holds some fine seafood restaurants, while the redeveloped former docklands are the retirement home of that epitome of the British establishment, the Royal Yacht Britannia.

Stockbridge - Today part of the New Town area, Stockbridge is a one-time village that still feels rather like a small town because of its tightly-knit community.

Holyrood Park - Just half a mile from the city centre, this vast public park covers as large an area as the Old and New Towns combined. Mostly made up of rough, hilly terrain that offers some terrific walks, it incorporates the 823-foot peak of Arthur's Seat as well as the striking Salisbury Crags cliffs.

Calton - Encompassing Calton Hill with its Regent and Royal terraces (streets), this district borders the so-called Pink Triangle, Edinburgh's version of a gay-friendly district.

Water of Leith - Edinburgh's fairly placid Water of Leith is little more than a stream, but as it meanders through the city's northern suburbs, its course links various important sights, including the city's most dynamic art galleries, the tranquil Botanic Garden and the suburban villages of Dean and Stockbridge. Within walking distance of the city centre, and with a pleasant walkway running along the banks of the river, this stretch of the city makes a delightfully verdant escape from uptown's bustle and traffic, with both indoor and outdoor attractions, a good mixture of culture and nature, and plenty of attractive cafés, bars and restaurants.

Shopping - Jenners is the grande dame of Edinburgh shops, this old-fashioned department store has overseen the comings and goings of Princes Street for more than a century. The city's quaintest shopping street is the Victoria Street. With a string of unusual one-off shops that include a portmanteau maker and a cheesemonger. St Stephen Street is an intriguing Stockbridge side street that has a low-key collection of pubs, places to eat, secondhand clothes boutiques and craft shops.

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Edinburgh Tourist Attractions Map PDF

Printable Map of Edinburgh Attractions, Walking Tours Map

Home / Edinburgh Tours / Attractions Map

Edinburgh Tourist Attractions Maps | City Tours Map

Edinburgh is a truly beautiful city, especially in the Old Town area, which is dotted with gorgeous medieval buildings. It's not really that difficult to find your way through the beautiful cobblestone streets of Edinburgh. But if you have a copy of the Edinburgh tour map, you'll have an even more enjoyable time in the city.

In order to help you in easily exploring Edinburgh, Tripindicator has provided the Edinburgh interactive map, which you can download for free. This is a great map to use in discovering Edinburgh's most famous attractions , such as the Edinburgh Castle , Holyrood Abbey , The Royal Mile , The Royal Botanic Garden, and many more. If you plan on exploring the Old Town by foot, then you need to have the Edinburgh tourist map walking as your guide.

The Edinburgh Trams is Edinburgh's public transportation system that will take you to explore the city in a more comfortable and convenient way. When using the tram, check out our Edinburgh tram map with attractions. Having a copy of the Edinburgh tourist map pdf is also important if you are visiting the city for the first time. Edinburgh is one of the most visited cities in Europe, thanks to its Gothic buildings and medieval architecture. It could take a while to get familiar with the city and this is why the Edinburgh tourist map printable will surely be a big help. We also have free copies of the Edinburgh city sightseeing maps that feature all the information that every tourist needs to know when exploring the city. The printable map of Edinburgh contains information of the city's most famous attractions and landmarks, which is a great way to familiarize the city.

Our free copy of the map of Edinburgh is easy to use and includes detailed instructions on how to get from one place to another. If you're taking the hop on hop off bus, then do check out our Edinburgh hop on hop off bus map for more information about the bus routes.

So before you get too excited to see the beautiful city of Edinburgh, take time to print a copy of our printable tourist map Edinburgh.

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Edinburgh Hop on Hop Off Bus Tour

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3 Days in Edinburgh Itinerary: Best Things To Do

Welcome to JetSetting Fools, here you will find our best travel tips for destinations worldwide. Some of the links on this site are Affiliate Links and if you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy .

Edinburgh, Scotland is one of the best destinations in Europe – and with 3 days visitors can experience all the top sights! The magnificent medieval city is steeped in history and surrounded by lush, green hills. Visiting the picture-perfect castle, hiking to epic viewpoints, listening to intriguing tales and indulging in the local cuisine are some of the best things to do in Edinburgh for 3 days.

To help fellow travelers plan their vacation to Scotland, we wrap up the top attractions into a perfect 3 Days in Edinburgh Itinerary!

3 Days in Edinburgh, Scotland

When traveling to Scotland, visiting Edinburgh is a must. The capital boasts an enthralling past that is riddled with ghost stories, yet it is one of the most welcoming destinations in the United Kingdom. The locals are friendly, the food is delicious and the sights are nothing short of incredible. Visiting Edinburgh in 3 days is just enough time to get properly acquainted with the city.

Edinburgh appeals to a wide range of travelers. While some of the top Edinburgh things to do are visiting the iconic sights and sipping Scotch Whisky, there are lesser-known gems that are well worth discovering. We highlight what to see, do and eat in our 3 Day Itinerary for Edinburgh.

In addition to the must-see sights that we squeeze into our 3-Day Edinburgh Itinerary, we feature additional attractions that visitors may want to include in their trip plan.

How To Plan a Trip to Edinburgh for 3 Days

We know that there is more to planning your vacation than deciding what to see in Edinburgh, Scotland. Therefore, in addition to our outline of Things To Do in 3 Days in Edinburgh, we also share where to stay, how to get there and what to pack.

Travelers heading to Europe for the first time (or the first time in a while), should start with our Guide to Planning a European Vacation . We include all the need-to-know tips for planning a trip abroad.

Whether you are going to visit Scotland in 10 days or 3, organization is key when planning a trip to Edinburgh. Our Travel Planner contains 26 printable pages that will help you keep track of the details of your trip!

FAQs for Spending 3 Days in Edinburgh, Scotland

Before we jump into our itinerary for how to spend 3 days in Edinburgh, we want to cover a few of the frequently asked questions.

How Do You Pronounce Edinburgh? 

One of the first things to know before you visit Edinburgh, Scotland is how to pronounce it! Unlike Pittsburgh in the United States, there is no hard G in Edinburgh. Instead, locals say Edin-burah .

Is Edinburgh Expensive?

The term ‘expensive’ is relative – but generally speaking, it is on the pricey side. Paying for attractions, accommodations and meals during your Edinburgh 3 Day Vacation can quickly add up. That said, it is possible to visit Edinburgh on a budget. We share money-saving tips throughout our Edinburgh Itinerary.

Are there Free Things To Do in Edinburgh?

Absolutely! In fact, some of the very best things to do in Edinburgh are free. From outdoor activities to world-class museums, there are heaps of free things to do in the city. We highlight free attractions throughout our Edinburgh 3 Day Tour Itinerary. 

Are there Things To Do in Edinburgh, Scotland with Kids?

Yes, it’s also a family-friendly destination. While not all of the Edinburgh attractions are geared towards kids, we feature many fun family things to do in Edinburgh.

What if I Only Have 48 Hours in Edinburgh?

Planning a weekend in Edinburgh? No problem! At the end of our trip plan for 72 hours in Edinburgh, we offer additional ideas for how to plan a shorter – or longer – stay.  

How Many Days to Spend in Edinburgh?

Not yet sure how many days in Edinburgh are enough? No worries! With our suggestions you can determine how many days to stay in Edinburgh is ideal for your vacation.

3 DAYS IN EDINBURGH ITINERARY

Our detailed itinerary for how to spend three days in Edinburgh highlights the prime attractions, fun districts and top eats. Plus, we include a Map of Edinburgh Sights so that you can plot your course through town.

Save, Pin or Bookmark our Edinburgh Travel Guide for your trip to Scotland!

DAY 1 of your Edinburgh 3 Day Itinerary

Today you’ll explore the buzzing Royal Mile, then make the trek up to Calton Hill for iconic Edinburgh views and end your day sipping whisky and eating classic Scottish food.

Kick off your Edinburgh 3 Day Itinerary in the heart of the Old Town on the famous Royal Mile. Home to many of the top tourist attractions, the Royal Mile is the historic thoroughfare – and an absolute must on your Edinburgh trip itinerary. The cobblestone street in the Edinburgh city centre, which connects the castle and the palace, has served as a royal procession route for hundreds of years.

The castle sits perched on a rocky hill (aptly named Castle Rock) on the west end of the Edinburgh Royal Mile. From the castle, the street slopes downhill to the east (and changes names from Castlehill to Lawnmarket to High Street to Canongate to Abbey Strand) ending at the Palace of Holyrood.

The one-mile street is lined with souvenir shops, museums, churches and pubs – and is the epicenter of Edinburgh tourist activities. Walking the entirety of the Royal Mile is a must do in Edinburgh – and we are highlighting the top attractions along the route.

Prefer a personal introduction to the Royal Mile? Join this highly-rated tour and get an local’s perspective.

Edinburgh Castle

Visiting the Castle is one of the best things to do in the city and a great place to start your 3 Day Trip to Edinburgh. The building has served as a royal residence, as well as a military stronghold. Dating to the 11th century, it has come under siege 26 times and is one of the most attacked castles in the world. 

A ticket is required and it is wise to purchase them in advance. Top things to see at the Edinburgh Castle are the Great Hall and Royal Apartments, the Crown Jewels, St. Margaret’s Chapel, the Battery and One O’clock Gun, the prison, the Scottish National War Memorial and the National War Museum.

For a more in depth introduction to Edinburgh Castle, join this tour that includes skip-the-line tickets and a knowledgeable guide to lead the way.

Pro Tip: As you exit, look for the Witches Well on the building to your left. It marks the execution site of those accused of witchcraft. The building that it’s attached to is the Tartan Weaving Mill, which is actually a giant souvenir shop, but does has a weaving exhibition inside.

Lady Stair’s Close and the Writers’ Museum

The alleyways that branch off the Royal Mile are called Closes – and Lady Stair’s Close is one of the best. The lanes – often with steep staircases – connect the Royal Mile to parallel streets or lead into the courtyards of residences. In the case of Lady Stair’s Close, the narrow and nearly hidden alleyway opens onto the entrance of the Edinburgh Writers’ Museum.

The Writers’ Museum (which is one of the free things to do in 3 days in Edinburgh) is an interesting place for both fans of literature and architecture. The house dates to the year 1622 and features some original elements. The displays in the museum, however, showcase personal objects belonging to the three most famous Scottish writers: Sir Walter Scott, Robert Burns and Robert Louis Stevenson.

St. Giles’ Cathedral

The Gothic St. Giles’ Cathedral is one of the best places to visit in Edinburgh. Established by King David I in 1124, St. Giles’ became a Protestant church after the Scottish Reformation and John Knox served as the minister.

Top features of the church are the stunning stained-glass windows, an elegant organ and the opulent Thistle Chapel. It’s free to step inside and take a look around. Additionally, visitors can join a free tour, purchase an audio tour or enjoy a free afternoon concert.

Sights on the Royal Mile near the Cathedral

While the Cathedral is one of the top things to see in Edinburgh, there are a few gems in the immediate vicinity, too. Look down on the ground near the church entrance for the Heart of Midlothian Mosaic, which once marked the spot of the Old Tolbooth (similar to a Town Hall). Locals even spit on it for good luck, so watch out for that!

At the back of the church is the Mercat Cross, a pillar topped with a unicorn, that marked the spot of the local market. The unicorn – a symbol which you will see throughout Edinburgh – is Scotland’s national animal. Across the street is Advocates Close. Step inside to see the Scott Monument perfectly framed in the archway.

Lunch on Cockburn Street

There are no shortage of restaurants, pubs and cafes along the Royal Mile. However, for a quick lunch in an atmospheric space, we recommend detouring off the Royal Mile onto picturesque Cockburn Street. The curving street features Victorian era buildings and independent, but not necessarily Scottish, shops.

Pop into The Wall Coffee and Design for a light lunch of toasties, salads, bagels or paninis (we suggest the Avocado and Brie!)

Museums on the Royal Mile

Some of the best museums in Edinburgh are located along the Royal Mile. Stopping by one – or more – of these is one of the interesting Edinburgh, Scotland things to do.

John Knox House and Storytelling Center Museum

A 15th century home detailing the life of John Knox and his part in the Scottish Reformation. Tickets are required to enter.

Museum of Childhood

Five floors of old toys and games, the Museum of Childhood evokes nostalgia for adults and wonder in kids. Free to enter.

People’s Story Museum

Detailing some of the social and lifestyle aspects of Edinburgh from the 1700s, the People’s Story Museum offers insight into daily life of the citizens. Free entry.

Museum of Edinburgh

Featuring exhibits that detail the history of the city, the Museum of Edinburgh also contains collections and artifacts of the culture and it’s people. Free to enter.

Canongate Kirk

Canongate Kirk – recognizable by the stag’s antlers and cross – is a historic Presbyterian Church that is often used by the Royal Family. The interior features eye-catching banners and a front pew marked with the Honors of Scotland. Behind the church is a small graveyard, where many prominent citizens have been laid to rest.

Pro Tip: Just down the street is Dunbar’s Close – a narrow passageway that leads into a secret garden. While not an Edinburgh must do, it is a pleasant place to rest and escape the crowds. 

Scottish Parliament

Near the end of the Royal Mile is the modern (and seemingly out of place) Scottish Parliament Building – and it is definitely a must see Edinburgh sight. 

The New Scottish Parliament has only existed since 1999 (and the building since 2004). The original Parliament of Scotland was the legislature for the Kingdom of Scotland. When they merged with the Kingdom of England in 1707, forming Great Britain, the Parliament of Scotland was abolished.

Today, the Scottish Parliament has broad powers to govern – but is still under the Parliament of Great Britain (although independence is a hot topic). Visitors are able to enter the Scottish Parliament Building for tours and sessions (and it’s free!).

Palace of Holyroodhouse and The Queen’s Gallery

Marking the east end of the Royal Mile and home to the late Queen Elizabeth II when she visited Edinburgh, the Holyrood Palace has a long history as an official royal residence. It’s certainly a must see for your 3 Day Edinburgh Travel Itinerary.

Visitors (with a ticket) can tour the lavishly decorated State Apartments, the grand Throne Room, the Great Gallery, and the Chambers of Mary, Queen of Scots. Each room is decorated with fine furnishings and artwork. Outside, the medieval Holyrood Abbey and palace gardens can also be explored.

The Queen’s Gallery is another one of the top things to see in Edinburgh – and it’s on the grounds of the palace. The small gallery hosts a selection of the royal collection of art, including works by masters.

Pro Tip: Next to the palace is the Physic Garden, where plants traditionally used for medicinal purposes are grown. When monks lived in the Holyrood Abbey, they would have tended to a similar garden. The garden is open to the public for free.

Calton Hill

Rising 338 feet, Calton Hill is one of the Seven Hills of Edinburgh – and the most impressive to visit. The area is dotted with fantastic monuments and is a short walk from east end of the Royal Mile. We believe climbing Calton Hill is one of the things you must do in Edinburgh in 3 days!

Top things to see on Calton Hill are the National Monument (which resembles the Parthenon in Athens ), the Nelson Monument (which hosts a Time Ball and is open for visits) and the City Observatory. The nearby Old Calton Cemetery features the Scottish-American Soldiers Monument, topped with a statue of Abraham Lincoln.

However, the real reason most make the trek up Calton Hill is for the spectacular Edinburgh views. The 360-degree vista encompasses the Old Town and Royal Mile, the posh homes of New Town, Arthur’s Seat, Holyrood Palace, and all the way out to Leith and the Firth of Forth.

Scotch Whisky Tasting

Wind down the first day of your Edinburgh Itinerary with an introduction to Scotch Whisky, the national drink of Scotland. You can, of course, go into any bar and order whisky, but one of the fun things to do in Edinburgh is to join a guided tasting. We are highlighting a few of the top places for whisky tastings in Edinburgh.

The Scotch Whisky Experience

Get a whirlwind introduction to the world of whisky, where you are literally whisked away in a whisky barrel through a replica distillery and on to the tasting room. The short, amusement park style tour (dubbed Malt Disney for a reason) is ideal for novice whisky drinkers. Book it in advance!

Whisky and Folklore

A private tour in a long-standing, family-run pub, the Whisky and Folklore Tasting allows visitors to sample 4 Single Malt Scotch Whiskies from different whisky-producing regions in Scotland. In addition to learning about whisky, participants are regaled with classic Scottish storytelling. The experience is often rated as a top highlight of a 3 days in Edinburgh trip! Reserve your seat!

Johnnie Walker Princes Street

Johnnie Walker on Princes Street offers a stylish whisky tasting experience. The establishment features a variety of engaging and creative Scotch Whisky tours – plus they have a rooftop bar if the weather happens to be cooperating!

Holyrood Distillery

Sitting at the base of the Salisbury Crags, below Arthur’s Seat at Holyrood Park, the Holyrood Distillery offers informational tours on the production of both Scottish gin and whisky. Those not interested in taking a tour can partake in a self-guided flight tasting. Find out more!

Whiski Rooms

Whiski Rooms – along with Whiski Bar and Restaurant – offer set tasting flights with information cards to guide you through your experience. Additionally, you can choose to upgrade to a Whisky and Cheese or a Whisky and Chocolate tasting!

The Black Cat

A small, cozy pub that regularly hosts great traditional Scottish music, The Black Cat is also an excellent place to get an introduction to whisky. Let the bartender know what kind of whisky you like and they will create a personalized whisky tasting board. They even go one step further and explain the history of Scotch whisky and specific information about each of the selected whiskies in your tasting. 

Dinner at a Scottish Pub

Getting a taste of the local cuisine is essential during your 3 Days Edinburgh Trip. After getting warmed up with whisky, saunter into one of the famous pubs on the Royal Mile for a classic pub meal. 

We advise booking a table in advance at Deacon Brodies Tavern or The World’s End – and you can find all of our top recommendations in our Guide to Edinburgh Food !

Day 2 of your 3 Day Edinburgh Itinerary

Now discover more top sights along with excellent neighborhoods. Amble through New Town, take a peek at Dean Village, stroll through Stockbridge and wander around the Edinburgh Botanical Gardens.

New Town is a must see district during your 3 Day Itinerary Edinburgh, Scotland. Both graceful and grand, the architecture is astounding. 

The development of New Town dates to the late 1700s. The Old Town was overcrowded with residents that packed into the multi-storied tenements within the confines of the walls. Chimney smoke filled the air and the foul smell of sewage from the lake wafted through the streets, earning Edinburgh the unflattering nickname, Auld Reekie (Old Smokey).  

Thus, it was decided that Edinburgh should expand to the north – and architect James Craig won the honors to design the elegant New Town. The district was planned in a grid and was developed with grand Georgian homes lining the streets.

Today, discovering New Town – complete with neo-classical, fine Georgian architecture, loads of entertainment venues along with lovely gardens – is one of the top Things To Do in Edinburgh for tourist.

We are highlighting some of the best sights to see in New Town, but also recommend ambling through the district without a set plan to see what you can find!

Fun Fact: The Medieval Old Town and Georgian New Town sit in striking contrast – and together (along with Calton Hill and West End) are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Princes Street Gardens

Marking the boundary between Old Town and New Town Edinburgh, Princes Street Gardens is a sprawling green, gathering space. The park was created when Nor’ Loch (or North Loch) – the lake filled with waste and creating a stench – was drained in the early 1800s.

Taking a walk through Princes Street Garden is one of the leisurely activities in Edinburgh. Sights to see in the park include the Floral Clock, the ornate Ross Fountain and the many memorials scattered throughout the landscape.

Pro Tip: Free, local events and live music often take place at the Ross Band Stand.

Scottish National Gallery

The Scottish National Gallery art museum is next up on our Edinburgh 72 Hours Itinerary. This museum packs a punch with an impressive collection of fine art and is organized in a timeline with each piece on display featuring a small plaque of information. 

The building was designed by Scottish architect William Henry Playfair in the neoclassical style…more than 100 years after New Town was first planned.

Visiting the Scottish National Gallery Museum is one of the top things to do in Edinburgh for free!

Scott Monument

A striking Gothic monument to Scottish writer, Sir Walter Scott, the Scott Monument is one of the interesting attractions in Edinburgh. Standing at 200.5 feet, the monument ranks as the second-largest memorial to a writer in the world.

There are a multitude of statues on the monument – including Scott and his dog, various other Scottish poets and writers and recognizable royal figures. Visitors (with a ticket) can climb the steps – 287 of them – for epic views over Edinburgh.

St. Andrew Square

The first part of New Town to be built in 1772, St. Andrew Square quickly became the most coveted place to live in the city. The Melville Monument stands in the center of the square, which is ringed by mansions (many of which are now repurposed as banks, hotels and other commercial buildings).

Scottish National Portrait Gallery

Standing one block north of St. Andrew Square is a grand, red Gothic Revival building that houses the National Portrait Gallery of Scotland. Inside the museum is a collection of portraits featuring Scotland’s most famous and important figures.

That said, a highlight of the museum is the lavish Grand Hall at the entry. Make time during your three days in Edinburgh, Scotland to at least step inside and view the entryway. 

Pro Tip: The scones at the museum café are delicious! In fact, eating scones at the Scottish National Portrait Gallery is one of the Edinburgh things to do that was recommended to us by locals.

Lunch in New Town

For lunch in New Town, decide what kind of fare you would like: Homemade, hog or high class.

For a simple, inexpensive and tasty homemade meal, head to the Undercroft Café in the basement of St. Andrew’s and St. George’s West Church. Soups, breads and scones are typically on the menu.

If a pulled pork sandwich – or a hog roast roll, as it’s called in Scotland – is what you’re craving, stop in at Oink on Hanover Street. Diners at the counter-service spot get to choose their toppings, but the traditional way to eat it is with a haggis spread, chunky apple sauce and crackling.

Afternoon tea at The Dome is a high-class affair. Served in the gorgeous Georgian Tea Room, the lunch of finger sandwiches can be upgraded to include champagne, as well!

Rose Street, Thistle Street and George Street

Continue your 3 perfect days in Edinburgh and weave your way through the heart of New Town. Start on Thistle Street, cut over to George Street and complete the four-block stretch on Rose Street. The atmospheric area is home to boutique shops, fun bars and popular eateries.

Pro Tip: The streets of New Town were named with purpose. Rose Street was named for the national flower of England, Thistle Street for the national flower of Scotland and George Street for the reigning King George III.

Historic Georgian House on Charlotte Square

Charlotte Square, a private garden, along with the domed West Register House, mark the west end of New Town – at the opposite side of the planned community from St. Andrew Square. The houses ringing the square have long been occupied by Edinburgh’s elite.

The Georgian House, a ticketed tourist attraction, sits on the north side of the park – and it’s one of the best places to see in Edinburgh for a peek into the past. The house is furnished as it would have been in the 18th century and guides are on hand to share details of the history.

Pro Tip: Just a few doors down from the Georgian House at Number 5 is Bute House, which is the official residence of the First Minister of Scotland, the head of the Scottish government.

Dean Village

The pleasant Dean Village looks like a page out of a fairytale. Cottages and stone dwellings line the banks of the curving Water of Leith River, creating the bucolic scene. Once filled with working mills, today, Dean is one of the fun Edinburgh places to visit.

The top attractions in Dean – beyond the picturesque landscape – are St. Bernard’s Well, Dean Bridge, the Water of Leith Wier (which creates a waterfall) and the nearby Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art.

Pro Tip: The best views of Dean Village are from the two bridges that cross the river to the center of town.

Water of Leith Walkway Path

To get to the next stop on our 3 Days Edinburgh Itinerary, use the Water of Leith Walkway. The pedestrian path follows the river, extending for more than 12 miles from the port town of Leith to the village of Balerno.

Much of the path is under the shade of trees and away from the hustle and bustle of central Edinburgh.

Pro Tip: One of the great things to do in Edinburgh, Scotland is to hop on a bike and cycle the entire length of the path.

Stockbridge

The charming neighborhood of Stockbridge is a fantastic area and a must see district when you visit Edinburgh in 3 days.

Quiet cobblestone lanes lined with Georgian architecture appealingly curve toward flowering gardens. The district boasts specialty shops (like IJ Mellis Cheesemongers – stop by for a free sample!), and locally-owned cafes – but on Sundays, the Stockbridge Market is the best place to get a bite to eat and enjoy the atmosphere.

Explore the area on foot – but be sure to seek out Circus Lane, which features the best mews houses in Edinburgh. Another photogenic spot is the Old Stockbridge Market Arch on St. Stephen Street.

Edinburgh Botanical Garden

Using the Water of Leith Walkway, make your way north to the Royal Botanic Garden – another must see in Edinburgh, Scotland.

The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh encompasses 70 acres of beautifully planned gardens. The inviting and peaceful green space – known to locals as The Botanics – is perfect for a sunny day stroll. Entry into the gardens is free, but a ticket is required to enter the greenhouse.

Dinner in New Town

Dine in New Town this evening, as the neighborhood is home to several of the top Edinburgh restaurants that offer visitors a local experience.

We recommend enjoying a meal at The Ox or The Magnum. Both eateries feature classic Scottish fare in intimate settings.

For flavorful Indian cuisine, however, try the ever-popular Dishoom on St. Andrew Square. Just be sure to make reservations, as it gets fully booked well in advance.

Looking for a more casual scene? Check out ESF (Edinburgh Street Food) or head back to Stockbridge to The Neighbourgood Market – an open-air food and drink market featuring live music and local eats on summer evenings until 9pm.

Day 3 of your Edinburgh 3 Days Itinerary

To complete your fabulous Edinburgh Itinerary, explore the area directly south of Old Town. Make the climb to Arthur’s Seat, creep around a cemetery, visit Edinburgh’s best museum, see the University of Edinburgh campus, learn the city’s haunted past and enjoy a lively night in Grassmarket!

Arthur’s Seat for Views over Edinburgh

Climbing to Arthur’s Seat in Holyrood Park is one of the fun (and challenging) Edinburgh activities. The ancient volcano has an elevation of 822 feet – and the summit provides unparalleled panoramic views of Edinburgh. You’ll want to wear proper shoes, bring plenty of water and a raincoat. No matter how sunny it looks, it is Scotland!

The route that we recommend is the longer, sloping path that begins on Queen’s Drive and passes the St. Anthony’s Chapel ruins before heading uphill to the summit. After taking in the views from Arthur’s Seat, loop around toward Crow Hill and take the path along the top of Salisbury Crags before trekking back down to Queen’s Drive. Plan for the hike to take about 2 hours.

Pro Tip: After hiking Arthur’s Hill, continue south of Holyrood Park to the Duddingston neighborhood to visit the Sheep Heid Inn (which is one of the oldest pubs in Edinburgh). Other sights in the area are Dr. Neil’s Garden, the Duddingston Loch and Bird Sanctuary and be sure to pop into The Bizzy Lizzy for a divine curry pie!

National Museum of Scotland

An Edinburgh must see and one of the best free attractions in the city, the National Museum of Scotland is a massive space featuring displays on Scottish history, natural history, science and technology. The building was designed by William Henry Playfair (the renowned Scottish architect who also designed the National Gallery).

Visitors could easily spend the better part of a day here – but with only 3 days in Edinburgh, we recommend seeking out the top exhibits.

Not to be missed are Dolly the Sheep (the first cloned sheep), the Skull of Moby the Whale, the famous Lewis chess pieces, the Mary Queen of Scots exhibit, the World Cultures displays and the rooftop terrace.

Best Pizza in Edinburgh

Swing into Civerinos for a quick and incredibly satisfying slice of pizza, which we rate as the best pizza in Edinburgh. The slices are huge (seriously, one slice makes a meal!) – but the fries are hard to pass up.

We like the spicy, signature Civerinos, but the Caprese in Love is excellent, too. Eat in or grab it to go on the way to the next stop on our itinerary for Edinburgh. 

The University of Edinburgh

The University of Edinburgh was established in 1583 – making it one of the oldest universities in the world. The campus is dotted with historic buildings and beautiful green spaces. The top sights to see on campus are McEwan Hall, Teviot Row House, the Labyrinth in George Square Gardens and The Meadow. 

Greyfriars Cemetery

Continue your Edinburgh sightseeing at an unlikely location: a cemetery. The Greyfriars Kirkyard, now a major tourist attraction in Edinburgh, dates to the 16th century and is fraught with ghost stories. Visitors can creep around the graves on their own or join a tour . 

While the extravagant tombstones are quite impressive, many people visit the cemetery to see the memorial to Greyfriars Bobby, the cemetery’s legendary dog. According to the heartwarming tale, Bobby was distraught after his owner’s death and spent every day of the last 14 years of his life visiting his grave.

Pro Tip: Harry Potter fans will want to keep a keen eye out for the gravesites that feature names used in the Harry Potter series – like McGonagall, Moodie, Thomas Riddle (Voldemort) and Potter. Harry Potter author, JK Rowling, was inspired by the names on these graves and often used the nearby café, The Elephant House, as a place to write.

Victoria Street

Wind your way up the curving cobblestoned Victoria Street – one of the most colorful and vibrant streets in the Old Town. The area is home to independent shops and an array of Edinburgh Restaurants (stop by Bertie’s Proper Fish and Chips if you are feeling peckish!).

Be sure to take the stairs up to the Victoria Terrace – the view is one of the best things to see in Edinburgh, Scotland!

Pro Tip : Potterheads might recognize Victoria Street as Diagon Alley from the Harry Potter books. Pop into the Diagon House at 40 Victoria Street for Harry Potter souvenirs.

Underground Edinburgh

Up to this point, your Edinburgh in 3 Days adventure has revolved around the sights on the surface. This afternoon, descend into the underground to see the ancient, hidden streets. A guided tour is the only way to access this unique and secret side of Edinburgh – and there are a few different ones to choose from. 

Underground Walking Tour

Follow a guide underground into the dark and hidden secret Edinburgh vaults. Learn why the vaults were built and their gruesome history as you creep through the subterranean space. Book in advance to ensure a space!

The Real Mary King’s Close

Join costumed characters in the concealed and mysterious Real Mary King’s Close on a one-hour tour. Learn real stories about people who lived on the 17th century street. Book it now!

Edinburgh Ghost Tour

Alternatively, stay above ground and learn more about the ghosts that haunt Edinburgh.

The Ghost and Gore Walking Tour delves into the city’s past of witches and ghosts – while the Darkside Tour goes into gory detail about mysterious murders and legendary tales.

Or give your feet a much-deserved rest and hop on the popular Ghost Bus Tour .

Harry Potter Tour

Harry Potter fans might want to skip the ghosts and instead join a local guide for a visit to Edinburgh’s best Harry Potter sights. This popular tour gets rave reviews!

Grassmarket

Dating to the 14th century, Grassmarket – like so many other parts of Edinburgh – has a historic past. There have been markets, executions, murders and slums in Grassmarket since its inception. Today, the area is a revitalized hub for nightlife – and a fun place to spend the last of your 3 nights in Edinburgh. 

Take a seat at the Cold Town House Rooftop Bar for a refreshing craft beer and views of Edinburgh Castle. Then meander around the square until you find a place that looks inviting for dinner. The White Hart Inn (a haunted pub that often has live music), The Last Drop (where the executions took place) and Fiddler’s Arms are all popular choices.

Pro Tip: For one last epic view of the Edinburgh Castle, climb The Vennel Stairs (next to Mary’s Milk Bar) up to the Flodden Wall. Taking in the picture-perfect view is an ideal way to end your three days in Edinburgh Itinerary!

Edinburgh Attractions Map

Use this Google Map for an interactive version of our Edinburgh Map below. This map is color-coded with markers of what to do in Edinburgh in three days. Day 1 is Blue; Day 2 is Purple and Day 3 is Maroon. 

More Top Things To Do in Edinburgh

We have outlined our top picks for what to do in Edinburgh, Scotland – but there is much more to see and do. In addition to the above things to see in Edinburgh in 3 days, we are sharing a few more top attractions that can help you create your Best Itinerary for Scotland!

Royal Yacht Britannia

The Royal Yacht Britannia – the royal family’s famous ocean liner – is docked in the Edinburgh port of Leith. Step aboard the iconic ship to tour the spacious rooms, see the on-board Rolls-Royce and learn the fascinating history of the ship that was used by the royal family for more than 40 years. Cap off your time on the Britannia with a proper cup of tea.

Pro Tip : Tickets can be purchased at the Ocean Terminal mall, which is the entrance for the yacht, as well. While in the mall, stop by the Wee Museum of Memory to see an array of everyday objects from the past. 

Rosslyn Chapel

Visiting Rosslyn Chapel is one of the unique things to do in Edinburgh. The historic chapel, which is just a short bus ride away, dates to the 15th century and is embellished in exquisitely detailed carvings. Many of the symbols used in the chapel are shrouded in mystery.

Pro Tip: The chapel is recognizable to many fans of the movie The Da Vinci Code – as it was featured in the end of the film.

Craigmillar Castle

Just 3 miles from the Edinburgh Castle, Craigmillar Castle is a decaying castle that visitors are able to roam around (with a ticket at entry). Guests can tromp up to the top of towers or get lost in the maze of rooms.

Edinburgh Zoo

A fabulous attraction for kids and adults alike, the Edinburgh Zoo features more than 1,000 animals – including pandas, penguins and koalas. Tickets required!

More Edinburgh Museums

In our Edinburgh 3 Days Itinerary, we showcased some of the best museums…but not all of them! Fellow travelers may want to add one of the following museums in Edinburgh to their trip itinerary. Plus, these museums are great ideas for rainy days in Edinburgh.

Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

One of the unusual things to do in Edinburgh, the family-friendly Camera Obscura Show offers visitors 5 floors of mind games, puzzles and optical illusions. Tickets required.

Dynamic Earth

A state-of-the-art science museum, Dynamic Earth offers interactive exhibits and fascinating displays. The museum is dedicated to the history of the universe and the Big Bang Theory – covering a 350 million years timeline. Tickets required.

Museum on the Mound

All about money, the Museum on the Mound is a free attraction that delves deep into the history of currency in the United Kingdom. Top attractions are the £1 million display and historic bank notes.

Chocolatarium

A unique place to learn about, sample and create your own chocolates, the Chocolatarium is engaging and fun! Tickets required. Find out more!

More Edinburgh Districts to Explore

Edinburgh has many fabulous neighborhoods – all of which can be reached on foot or a short bus ride. If any of these districts piques your interest, see if you can fit them into your 3 Day Edinburgh Travel Itinerary.

West End and Fountainbridge

The jumbled districts to the west of Edinburgh are some of the most fascinating to discover on foot.

The West End is one of the most affluent districts in the city. Architecturally beautiful, the West End boasts high-end hotels and classy restaurants – along with a few gems, like the Edinburgh Filmhouse, the Calendonian Hotel, the Edinburgh Gin Distillery and the Gothic St. Mary’s Cathedral.

Fountainbridge – once home to numerous breweries – is where the late actor Sir Sean Connery was born and raised. The best attractions in the district are the Union Canal and Leamington Lift Bridge.

Bruntsfiled and Morningside are two more affluent residential areas packed with restaurants, cafes, parks and boutique shops. It’s fun to simply wander – or try Salt Café for Brunch in Morningside!

Leith is the busy port in Edinburgh and a fun place to spend an afternoon (or longer!). The Royal Yacht Britannia lures many travelers to the docks in Leith – but it’s not the only reason to visit the district. The area is bursting with fantastic eateries and loads of fun bars, too!

The Kitchin – a Michelin star restaurant in Edinburgh – features a phenomenal tasting menu, while Fisher’s – situated in a 17th century watchtower doles out fresh, locally-caught seafood. We also love Burger Mama at the Lioness of Leith and cullen skink from Teuchters Landing.

Lost in Leith, Campervan Brewery and Moonwake Beer Co. are top places to stop for Scottish craft beer. However, liquor fans should check out the Lind and Lime Gin Distillery and The Scotch Malt Whisky Society for a wee fancy nip!

Portobello Beach

If your 3 days in Edinburgh visit coincides with sunny weather, join the locals at Portobello Beach (or just Porty). The coastal community features a wide, sandy beach and the 1-mile Portobello Promenade that fronts the shoreline.

Highlights of visiting Portobello – besides the beach, of course – is the Georgian and Victorian architecture, lovely seaside eateries, beach volleyball and the shops and restaurants along Portobello High Street.

Hikes South of Edinburgh

Edinburgh is surrounded by rolling, green hills, making it fairly easy for active travelers to add hiking to their Edinburgh Itinerary. Calton Hill and Arthur’s Seat are two prime places to get out in nature, but we have a few more suggestions for the best places to hike in Edinburgh.

Blackford Hill

The 538-foot-tall Blackford Hill sits south and encompasses 149 acres of land and is crisscrossed with hiking paths that lead to stellar views. The best things to see at the Blackford Hill Local Nature Reserve are the Hermitage of Braid, the foundations of an ancient fort at the summit and the Royal Observatory.

Pentland Hills

Even further south are the remarkable Pentland Hills. Sometimes described as a mini-Highlands, Pentland Hills offers a variety of hikes – from easy to challenging – and you may even spot Highland Cattle!

We like the Capital View Walk, with a detour up to both Caerketton Hill and Allermuir Hill (which offer panoramic views and the best chance to see the hairy Highland Cows). The area can be reached by bus from Edinburgh. More info

Colinton Tunnel

A hidden gem in Edinburgh, the Colinton Tunnel is a unique place to visit that can be reached by bus or via the Water of Leith Walkway. The old train tunnel has been converted to a walking path – and the inside is decorated by artist murals that tell the story of a famous Scottish poem by Robert Louis Stevenson, From a Railway Carriage.

Edinburgh Day Trips

Even with just 72 hours in Edinburgh, you may have time to squeeze in a day trip – especially if it is not your first time. We are highlighting what we think are the best day trips from Edinburgh.

Scottish Highlands, Glen Coe and Loch Ness

On a full day Edinburgh tour, set off to explore the astounding beauty of the dramatic Scottish Highlands. Visit a castle, opt to take a cruise in search of the Loch Ness Monster, and wind through the wild wilderness of Scotland. Reserve your seat!

Pro Tip: The Highlands Highlights Tour just touches the surface of the beautiful landscapes. With more time, consider taking a 3 Day Tour from Edinburgh to the Highlands. On 3 Day Highland Tours from Edinburgh visitors see the Isle of Skye, Loch Ness and the astounding beauty at a more leisurely pace. Get the details!

Embark on a DIY day trip from Edinburgh to Glasgow, Scotland’s biggest city. Hop on a train or bus to see the ‘Dear Green Place’ that is marked by parks, historic sites and street art. Read details of how to plan your trip in our article, Glasgow in a Day !

St. Andrews and Villages of Fife

North of Edinburgh across the Firth of Forth, St. Andrews and the villages of Fife make great day trip destinations. See the fishing villages of East Neuk, spend time in St. Andrews (known for its famous golf course and university) and visit Falkland Palace. Get the details!

An easy DIY Edinburgh day trip, Dunbar is a coastal village just a 20 minute train ride away. Proudly proclaiming to be one of the sunniest places in Scotland, Dunbar is an absolute gem!

A few of the best things to see in Dunbar are the three harbors, a crumbling castle, a Bridge to Nowhere and the birthplace of John Muir. Visitors can also walk The Glebe (a clifftop path) and drink Scottish craft beer at two of Dunbar’s breweries. Read all about how to plan a fun Day Trip to Dunbar !

How Many Days in Edinburgh

In our Itinerary for Edinburgh is just 3 days…but is 3 days enough? We think spending three days in Edinburgh, Scotland provides a good introduction to the area – but visitors could easily stay a week and still not see and experience it all.

How many days you need in Edinburgh really comes down to your overall trip plans, allotted time for travel, interests and budget.

Sample Edinburgh Itineraries

We believe we outlined a perfect 3 day trip to Edinburgh – but what if you are planning to spend more or less time in Scotland? No stress! We are sharing our suggested itineraries for Edinburgh in 1 to 7 days.  

Edinburgh Itinerary 1 Day

Travelers limited to spending just one day in Edinburgh will want to make the most of every moment!

For first time visitors, we think the best Edinburgh 1 Day Itinerary would be to simply follow the first day of our outline. Sightseeing includes the Royal Mile from the castle to the palace – plus Calton Hill, a whisky experience and dinner at a classic pub.

That said, you could just as easily create an Edinburgh One Day Itinerary from any of the days on our 3-Day Itinerary for Edinburgh.

Edinburgh Itinerary 2 Days

With 2 days in Edinburgh travelers have a little more flexibility. A simple way to plan an Edinburgh 2 Day Itinerary is to follow any two of our three days from above.

However, those aiming to get a sweeping overview of Scotland could also plan a 2 Days in Edinburgh Itinerary following Day 1 of our trip plan – and then taking an organized day trip to the Highlands on Day 2 – like this one!

Edinburgh Itinerary 4 Days

Visitors have a variety of options for how to spend 4 days in Edinburgh. If in your first three days you cover all the top sights, then the fourth day can be used to take a day trip.

In our opinion, a 4 Day Edinburgh Itinerary would be best with a day trip – either on your own to Glasgow or Dunbar or further into the Highlands .

That said, those who are interested in the royal family could step aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia or going to Craigmillar Castle. Meanwhile, active travelers could spend the fourth day hiking in the Pentland Hills.

Edinburgh Itinerary 5 Days

If we were creating a 5 Days in Edinburgh Itinerary, it would look like this. Using our 3-day trip plan to start, spend the fourth day on a day trip and the last day exploring another district.

If you are preparing a 5 Day Edinburgh Itinerary for families, consider adding the Zoo , Camera Obscura or Dynamic Earth.

Edinburgh Itinerary 7 Days

Travelers fortunate enough to spend One Week in Edinburgh will find that there are plenty of things to do!

We suggest slowing your pace so that you can fully appreciate the sights. Rather than rushing through museums to only see the highlights, take the time to better understand the displays and exhibits.

For a solid One Week Edinburgh Itinerary, we recommend following our tips on 5 days in Edinburgh – then visit any of the museums that you skipped. On the last day, going shopping for souvenirs (like a custom kilt or tweed jacket) or engaging in a unique experience (like High Tea) can be a fun way to spend your last day in Edinburgh!

Multi City Scotland Itineraries

For many Scotland visitors, Edinburgh is not their only destination. Travelers going to multiple cities should start with our guide for how to spend 3 perfect days in Edinburgh – but we have tips for how to combine the trip with nearby destinations, too!

Glasgow and Edinburgh Itinerary

A classic Scotland Itinerary includes both Edinburgh and Glasgow. The two cities, while close in proximity, each have a very distinct vibe.

Creating a One Week Edinburgh and Glasgow Itinerary is ideal – as each city has so much to offer (plus so many options for day trips!).

For visitors limited to spending just 3 days in Edinburgh and Glasgow, however, we recommend spending 2 days in Edinburgh and 1 Day in Glasgow .

Edinburgh and Highlands Itinerary

To create an itinerary that includes both Edinburgh and the Highlands, we recommend our 10 Day Scotland Itinerary . Start with Edinburgh in three days, then add on using our guides to Inverness and Isle of Skye (including cute Plockton  and pretty Portree ). Alternatively, join an organized 3 day tour to the Highlands or walk a portion of the West Highland Way !

London Edinburgh Itinerary

We have tons of tips for travelers creating a London and Edinburgh Itinerary! We think it is best to plan an entire week to properly see the two cities. To create your trip plan, use our outline for what to see in three days in Edinburgh, Scotland – and then jump over to our London Itinerary for a day-by-day detailed guide to the City of London (including the Best London Food and why we love London at Christmas ).

Edinburgh, London, Paris Itinerary

Adding Paris to your trip plan? Oui oui! An ideal trip plan would include 3 days in Edinburgh, 3 days in London and at least 3 days in Paris. You can use our advice in our Paris Itineraries article for complete details.

Dublin and Edinburgh Itinerary

Edinburgh and Dublin are two cities that are well paired together for international travelers. We suggest starting out with our Dublin Walking Tour before tucking into the Best Dublin Pubs . Additionally, on our recent visit to the region, we tagged on 3 Days in Belfast as well!

Edinburgh Itinerary Travel Tips

Now that you know how to visit Edinburgh in 3 days (or longer), we have top travel tips that will help you plan your trip.

Edinburgh City Passes

The Royal Edinburgh Ticket is valid for 48 hours and includes admission to the Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood Palace and the Royal Yacht Britannia – plus a city bus tour. Buy it!

The Edinburgh 3 Day Pass   – which is actually good for 1, 2 or 3 days – includes top attractions, tram rides and tours.

When is the Best Time to Go To Edinburgh, Scotland

Scotland weather is notoriously unpredictable. Therefore, deciding when to visit Edinburgh based on weather is a difficult task.

Visit Edinburgh in Summertime

Generally speaking, the summer months – from May through September – offer the best chance for good weather. Although it will rain at some point during your visit, the sun does come out more often. High temperatures typically top out in the upper 60s Fahrenheit (19 C).

Furthermore, summer days are long; Edinburgh gets almost 17 hours of daylight during the middle of the summer! 

August marks the city’s season of festivals. The Edinburgh Art Festival, International Festival, Edinburgh Fringe Festival and Film Festival all take place in August. Additionally, the famous Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo event takes place in August, as well.

Just be aware that with the influx of summer travelers and festival-goers, it will get extremely crowded. Accommodations fill up quickly (as do restaurants) and prices are at their absolute peak.

Visiting Edinburgh in the Off Season

There are spectacular reasons to visit Edinburgh in every season! While autumn, winter and spring bringer cooler temperatures, there are benefits to visiting Edinburgh outside the summer season. There are far fewer tourists, it will cost less and the landscapes are still beautiful.

Pro Tip: Spending the holidays in Europe? Read about the Best Places to Spend Christmas !

Getting To Edinburgh

The capital of Scotland is well-connected to the UK, Europe and North America. Travelers can arrive to Edinburgh by plane, train, boat, bus or car.

Edinburgh Airport

The Edinburgh International Airport (EDI) has heaps of flights to and from other top European destinations as well as seasonal direct flights from US gateways (such as Chicago , Boston , NYC and DC ).

Top Tip: Read our tricks for Finding the Best Flight Fares – and then start your search on Skyscanner .

Edinburgh Airport to Edinburgh City Center

The airport in Edinburgh is just 8 miles from the city center. Travelers can easily get to the center of the city by taxi, bus, tram or rental car .

Pro Tip: Buy roundtrip tickets for the Edinburgh to Edinburgh Airport Bus or Tram and save money!

Waverley Train Station

The Edinburgh Waverley Station on Princes Street is the main train station. Trains can be used to reach a number of destinations throughout the UK. There is a second transportation hub and station in Haymarket.

Cruise Ships in Edinburgh

There are several places that cruise ships dock for visitors to Edinburgh. South Queensferry, Leith, Newhaven and Rosyth are where most ships will dock or anchor off shore from.

Getting Around Edinburgh

We think the best way to get around Edinburgh is on your own two feet! Those going further distances, however, can use the network of public transportation routes – including buses and trams. Tourists might also find the Hop On Hop Off Bus to be useful – as it makes stops at all of the top Edinburgh tourist destinations. 

Accommodation in Edinburgh

If you are spending 3 nights in Edinburgh, then you will need to find a place to stay! On a short 3-day trip to Edinburgh, we think it is best to stay in the center and close to the top attractions.

Edinburgh Hotels

There are many hotels in Edinburgh with a range of price points. The luxury Balmoral Hotel is one of the 5 Star Hotels near Edinburgh Castle where guests are treated like royalty. On the other end of the spectrum, the colorful Castle Rock Hostel Edinburgh offers affordable dorm beds.

Visitors with a mid-range budget might find a room that fits the bill at the centrally located Hotel Indigo or the historic Elder York Guesthouse.

Choosing the best place to stay in Edinburgh will depend on your style and budget. Read all our tips for Finding the Best Hotels at Cheap Prices and then start your search on Booking.com – like we do! 

Edinburgh Vacation Apartments

While we typically like to stay in vacation rentals, it may not be the best option for your Edinburgh 3-day trip. Checking in and out can sometimes be a hassle in Airbnb Apartments – and the additional fees and rules can be a drag. 

Watch Before You Go to Edinburgh

As you prepare for your trip to Edinburgh, get a little travel inspiration and learn some of the history of Scotland.

• Men in Kilts – Two men (lead actors from Outlander) traveling around Scotland learning about the food, culture and history.
• Outlander – Time-travel series set in Scotland in the year 1743.
• Harry Potter – While not set in Edinburgh, many of the scenes were based on locations in the city.
• Braveheart – The story of William Wallace, a Scottish patriot who spurred a revolution against the English.
• Mary, Queen of Scots (2018) – The true story of two queens – Mary, Queen of Scotts and Elizabeth I, Queen of England – turned rivals.

What To Pack for your Trip to Edinburgh

Now that you are well on your way to planning your Edinburgh, Scotland Itinerary, it’s time to think about what to pack in your suitcase or backpack . Find all of our hacks on our Travel Packing page, but for now grab your Free Packing Checklist !

Rainy Weather Gear and Layers

Have we mentioned that the weather in Edinburgh is fickle? Be sure to pack a good travel umbrella and a waterproof and windproof raincoat . It’s also a good idea to pack clothes that can be layered – as the temperature can fluctuate throughout the day.

Comfortable Travel Shoes

We cover a lot of ground in our 3-Day Edinburgh Itinerary – so you need to pack good travel shoes for your trip! I like lightweight and versatile trainers for everyday adventures and Kris prefers to wear Merrell Trail Shoes .

Travel Camera

Edinburgh is incredibly photogenic – so upgrade to a real camera for your trip that will take high quality photos. We use a Canon Rebel with a 18-135mm lens . It captures excellent pictures and is a great camera for budget travelers – as it comes in a kit with heaps of accessories. 

Edinburgh Map, Guidebook and Travel Planner

While we have outlined the top sights to see and provided a map, it’s a good idea to carry a paper map , too. Reading a  guidebook prior to your trip could also help throughout the planning process. Get our Travel Planner , as well. It will help you keep track of all your trip details!

With long days of sightseeing, we feel a good day pack is essential. We carry lightweight backpacks – which are perfect for storing our camera, phones, keys, wallet, maps, umbrella and extra layers. We detail other options in our article for the Best Day Packs .

UK Travel Insurance

Trip Insurance may cover irritating travel issues, like lost luggage or cancelled flights – but could be invaluable if you get sick or injured while abroad. Check the affordable rates on plans at a trusted insurer, like World Nomads .

Start planning your trip to the UK ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page !

Pin it! See all of our travel pins on our JetSetting Fools Pinterest Board .

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All About Edinburgh 

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The Royal Mile during the Edinburgh Fringe festival, Edinburgh

With an abundance of history, top quality attractions and beautiful architecture, Edinburgh is an incredible capital city. Spend your time there at unforgettable historic sites, world-class festivals and incredible cafes and restaurants. This is a UNESCO City of Literature, UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Time Out's best top cities in the world.

Find experiences

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Things to do in Edinburgh

Learn more about Edinburgh's history, explore beautiful outdoor spaces and go behind-the-scenes on a guided tour.

14 hidden gems and things to do in Edinburgh

Explore some of Edinburgh's best hidden gems from stunning city views to a tranquil Japanese Friendship garden.

Top 14 Things to Do in Edinburgh

Find a range of things to do, including top attractions like the National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh Castle, Arthur's Seat and many more.

Museums & galleries in Edinburgh

From science to medicine museums to portrait galleries, there's sure to be a place that will thrill you.

Scotland Loves Local Edinburgh Gift Card

Sample all that the city has to offer using the Scotland Loves Local Edinburgh Gift Card.

10 Amazing Free Attractions in Edinburgh

Find free things to do and places to go in Edinburgh, including the National Museum of Scotland, Botanic Gardens and more.

Inspiration for Edinburgh city breaks

The Balmoral Hotel in Edinburgh

Places to stay

Whether you’re looking for an elegant 5-star hotel, a quirky B&B, a self-catering apartment or a budget friendly hostel, there are lots of accommodation options throughout Edinburgh.

Rosslyn Chapel

Tours, Routes & Trails

Edinburgh offers a fantastic range of tours, including walking, ghost and history tours around the city centre.

Get ideas for how to spend your time here with our itineraries, or head out for a city walk to soak up the sights.

Dancers performing at the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

What is Edinburgh known for?

There are many things Edinburgh is famous for like its world-famous summer festivals, and amazing Hogmanay celebrations. It's also recognised for its literary heritage, and incredible Old and New Town history through UNESCO.

The Forth Bridge seen from North Queensferry

© VisitScotland/ Kenny Lam

New & unique experiences in Edinburgh

There's always something new to discover in Edinburgh. From original events to new museums, see what's happening this year in the capital.

Map of Edinburgh

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How to Travel to and around Edinburgh

Edinburgh is linked to by an extensive network of roads, rail services and flights which makes travel to the city possible from every corner of the world, while the city's compact size makes exploring easy.

Bus and coach

There are many frequent and affordable bus services that travel from various main cities to Edinburgh daily. Most buses to Edinburgh arrive at the Edinburgh Bus Station that is located on St Andrew Square in the city centre.

• National Express to Edinburgh
• Megabus to Edinburgh
• Scottish Citylink to Edinburgh
• Flixbus to Edinburgh

Edinburgh Airport is directly linked through the west of the city, into the city centre and north and east down to Leith and Newhaven via a quick and convenient tram network.

Pre-book your tram ticket online via the Edinburgh Tram Ticket website so you’re ready to go as soon as you arrive. You can access lots of offers and money saving discounts by showing your Edinburgh Ticket at a range of attractions too.

Find out more on travel from the airport by tram

There are fast and frequent services to Edinburgh from major UK cities. LNER trains run along the east coast from London, York and Newcastle, while Avanti West Coast run along the west coast from London, Birmingham, Milton Keynes and Carlisle. Transpennine Express run from Manchester to Edinburgh.

There are two stations - Edinburgh Haymarket to the west of the city centre, and Edinburgh Waverley sits at the east end of Princes Street.

Book with LNER

Book with Avanti West Coast

Book with Transpennine Express

Travel overnight on the Caledonian Sleeper

ScotRail provides an express rail service direct to Edinburgh from many major Scottish cities.

Check ScotRail timetables

Edinburgh Airport is situated only 5 miles (8 km) to the west of Edinburgh. You can travel from the airport to the city centre in around 30 minutes by bus, tram, taxi or car.

• Find out more on airport buses to Edinburgh
• Book a taxi to and from the airport
• Hire a car from Edinburgh airport
• Cycle back to Edinburgh from the airport

Edinburgh is well linked to the rest of Scotland and UK through an extensive road network, making access to the capital easy by car.

• From Newcastle - 2.5 hours
• From Manchester - 4 hours
• From Birmingham - 6 hours

Plan your trip with Traveline

Getting around

Edinburgh is easily explored on foot with most key attractions within walking distance of each other. Attractions beyond the city centre can be reached cost effectively by public transport and again explored further by foot.

Find walks in and around Edinburgh

Lothian Buses run a service across the city 24 hours a day, while First Buses connect Edinburgh with towns and villages in the Lothians.

Plan your journey within Edinburgh with Lothian Buses  

Plan your journey further afield with First Group

New self-driving bus route to Fife

Sit back and take in the views across the Firth of Forth on a self-driving bus! Having launched in 2023, you can travel between two transport exchanges across the Forth Road Bridge.

It’s the most ambitious and complex autonomous bus pilot in the world!

Find out more and book your journey

Trams run from Newhaven through Leith to York Place in the city centre and onto Edinburgh Airport which takes just under an hour.

Find ticket prices and plan your journey with Edinburgh Trams

Want to relax and let someone else drive?

Book a tour and hear from a knowledgeable local tour guide as they highlight points of interest, stop off at the best hidden gems and visit the iconic landmarks you’ve heard all about.

Search for tours in Edinburgh

There are over 1,000 cabs circulating around the city. You can hail one in the street or pick it up from one of the taxi ranks within the city centre. 

Find out more on getting around Edinburgh

What's on in Edinburgh

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo 2022

Discover Edinburgh's packed programme of events from music to art, theatre to science, literature to dance.

Places to Eat in Edinburgh

From Michelin-star meals to incredible independent eateries, Edinburgh offers an amazing selection of places to eat.

10 Quirky Places to Eat in Edinburgh

Check out Edinburgh's most unique and quirky dining experiences and discover your new favourite places to eat in the city.

12 of the best vegan restaurants in Edinburgh

Discover some of the best vegan restaurants in Edinburgh to book.

6 of the Best Pizza Places in Edinburgh, recommended by an Italian

What better way to visit a city than to combine food and sightseeing?

9 best coffee shops to try in Edinburgh

Discover the best coffee shops to try in Edinburgh. Including Machina Espresso, William & Johnson, Brew Lab, Lowdown, Fortitude and more.

Top 9 Whisky Tasting Bars in Edinburgh

Edinburgh has an amazing history which is soaked in the whisky industry.

Guide to Restaurants in Edinburgh

Read this practical guide to restaurants in Edinburgh.

The Willow Tea Rooms

Inspired by Charles Rennie Mackintosh, book a table at The Willow Tea Rooms for breakfast, lunch or afternoon tea.

Gin Cocktails to Try in Edinburgh

Discover the gin cocktail and cheese experience at Pickerings Gin in Edinburgh, including a distillery tour and making your own seasonal cocktails.

Explore further

Dunbar Cliff Top Trail

Edinburgh & The Lothians

It's really simple to take time out of Edinburgh and explore the nearby Lothians. Head to the beach or forest parks, discover more about the heritage of the area, or enjoy some incredible outdoor activities.

Anstruther Harbour, Fife

Nearby regions

Edinburgh & The Lothians is surrouned by other interesting regions. Head to the coastal towns of Fife, explore the colourful history of the Scottish Borders, or enjoy the scenery around Loch Lomond & The Trossachs. You can easily pop over to Glasgow, Scotland's largest city too.

A tip from your local expert

The Georgian House

Fancy a spot of time travel? Visit The Georgian House and join an expert guide through the sumptuous 18th century interiors reminiscent of Jane Austen novels. Use the dressing up box to get into Regency character, too! A fascinating gem.

Assistant iCentre Manager, Edinburgh

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