The Best Things to Do In Edinburgh – 20 Fabulous Locations

I have visited Edinburgh on numerous occasions, but never really as a tourist. I served in the Royal Air Force for 8 years, which meant I was often in Scotland on exercise or visiting Edinburgh with Scottish friends. I was in my 20s, I might have popped to Princes Street to get an outfit for a night out on the town, or being force-fed deep-fried Mars bars :)

I don’t think I truly appreciated the beauty of Scotland’s capital city in my younger days. So, when we decided to visit Edinburgh for four days with our kids, I wanted to experience everything this city had to offer and cram as much in as possible.

I compiled a list of the top things to do in Edinburgh, determined to visit as many as possible on our short stay.

Edinburgh – A Quick Look

Edinburgh, Scotland’s historic capital, is a city where medieval charm meets modern sophistication. With the dramatic Edinburgh Castle perched on volcanic rock, winding cobblestone streets, and rich literary heritage, Edinburgh offers visitors an enchanting blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Whether you’re drawn by the city’s royal connections, world-class festivals, or simply the magic of its ancient streets, here’s your comprehensive guide to experiencing the best of Edinburgh.

The Best Things to Do in Edinburgh

There is a lot to see and do in Edinburgh, so it really depends on how long your visit is. We went for 4 days and managed to see everything on this list, but I will create other itineraries for shorter breaks.

A lot of locations are within walking distance, so it is best to book a hotel in the city centre to get the most out of your stay! My top 20 things to do are –

1. Edinburgh Castle
2. The Royal Mile
3. St Giles’ Cathedral
4. Palace of Holyroodhouse
5. Arthur’s Seat and Holyrood Park
6. Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
7. The Real Mary King’s Close
8. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
9. Calton Hill
10. National Museum of Scotland
11. Scotch Whisky Experience
12. Grassmarket
13. Victoria Street and West Bow
14. Greyfriars Kirkyard
15. Dean Village
16. Water of Leith Walkway
17. Stockbridge and Circus Lane
18. National Galleries of Scotland
19. Princes Street Gardens and Ross Fountain
20. Scott Monument

If you only have a day to discover Edinburgh, then the best thing to do is to head straight for Edinburgh Castle and soak up the Royal Mile. I would go with this tour >>>

1. Edinburgh Castle

No visit to Edinburgh is complete without exploring the iconic Edinburgh Castle. Perched dramatically atop Castle Rock and at the top of the Royal Mile, this ancient fortress has watched over the city for centuries and remains Scotland’s most visited attraction, welcoming over 2 million visitors annually.

It does get extremely busy, but there is plenty to see and do, so we were never waiting too long to get into the different sections of Edinburgh Castle. There is also a large cafe with plenty of seating, and again, we didn’t have to wait too long to get food and a seat.

What to See:

• The Honours of Scotland (Britain’s oldest crown jewels)
• St. Margaret’s Chapel (Edinburgh’s oldest building, dating to the 1130s)
• The National War Museum and Scottish National War Memorial
• The Great Hall with its impressive hammer-beam roof
• Mons Meg, the famous medieval cannon

Pro Tips:

• Book tickets in advance, especially during the summer months
• Visit early morning to avoid crowds
• Don’t miss the One O’Clock Gun firing (daily except Sundays). We were unaware this happened, and as we were just walking out of the castle at this time, it was quite the shock!
• Allow 2-3 hours for a thorough visit

Book a tour here >>>

2. The Royal Mile: A Journey Through Time

Stretching from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Royal Mile is the historic heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town. This UNESCO World Heritage site is lined with medieval buildings, historic churches, and hidden closes (alleyways) that reveal centuries of Scottish history.

You could literally spend a whole day on the Royal Mile; there is so much to take in.

Must-See Stops:

• St. Giles’ Cathedral with its distinctive crown spire
• John Knox’s House
• The Real Mary King’s Close (preserved 16th-century street)
• Parliament House
• Deacon’s House Café for traditional Scottish fare

Hidden Gems: Don’t just walk the main street. Explore the hidden courtyards and closes that branch off the Royal Mile. Look for open gates and venture into these peaceful oases where you’ll find historic buildings, quiet gardens, and a respite from the bustling main street.

I could have spent a whole day walking up and down the Royal Mile. Some of my favourite parts were the little alleyways that revealed hidden gardens, a walk down Cockburn Street with a stop for coffee at the famous Milkman and discovering J.K. Rowling’s handprint in the City Chambers courtyard.

If you want to get a real feel for the Edinburgh of old, take a look at this tour >>>

3. St Giles’ Cathedral

You can’t miss St Giles’ Cathedral on the Royal Mile, it is one of Edinburgh’s most important religious and historical landmarks. Known for its distinctive crown spire that dominates the city’s skyline, this beautiful Gothic church has been at the heart of Scottish religious and political life for over 900 years.

It really felt that the Cathedral was the beating heart of the city; it was busy with people taking photos, stopping to chat on its steps with a bagpiper across the road.

What to See Inside:

• The ornate Thistle Chapel with its intricate wood carvings and heraldic decorations
• Memorial plaques and monuments to notable Scots throughout history
• The impressive organ, one of the finest in Scotland
• John Knox’s traditional preaching spot (marked by a brass plate)
• Beautiful stone carvings and medieval craftsmanship throughout

For a private tour of the Cathedral and Old Town, check out this >>>

4. Palace of Holyroodhouse

At the foot of the Royal Mile stands the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the British monarchy in Scotland. This baroque palace is steeped in dramatic history, particularly the story of Mary, Queen of Scots.

Highlights:

• The State Apartments with their ornate tapestries
• Mary, Queen of Scots’ chambers (including the site of David Rizzio’s murder)
• The ruins of Holyrood Abbey
• The beautiful palace gardens
• Portrait Gallery featuring 89 Scottish kings and queens

Get your tickets for the Palace of Holyroodhouse here >>>

5. Arthur’s Seat and Holyrood Park

After visiting the Palace of Holyroodhouse, we took a walk over to Holyrood Park, where you cannot fail to notice the impressive Arthur’s Seat and what a sight! Rising 251 meters above sea level, Arthur’s Seat offers some of the most spectacular views in Edinburgh.

This extinct volcano provides a Highland experience right in the heart of the city, with multiple hiking trails suitable for different fitness levels.

Hiking Tips:

• Allow 1-2 hours for the round trip
• Wear sturdy footwear as the final ascent is rocky
• The best views are from the main summit
• Visit during clear weather for optimal photography
• Sunrise and sunset offer particularly magical lighting

Holyrood Park: The surrounding park offers additional trails, including easier walks around Duddingston Loch and St. Margaret’s Loch, perfect for families or those preferring gentler terrain.

Unfortunately, my kids didn’t fancy the climb up to the top of Arthur’s Seat, so we admired it from the park and had a picnic. However, I highly recommend fitting in time to do the walk to the main summit for the incredible views over Edinburgh.

Arthur’s Seat Hike with Local Guide information here >>>

6. Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

This was a huge hit with my 10 and 11-year-olds. It’s a quirky attraction that’s been entertaining visitors since 1853. In 1827, Maria Short arrived in Edinburgh claiming to be the daughter of Thomas Short (brother to James Short – a scientific instrument maker) and wanted somewhere to put a telescope to provide views of the Edinburgh skyline – the Camera Obscura.

This six-floor building offers optical illusions, interactive exhibits, and stunning city views from the rooftop. Our highlights included:

• Original camera obscura with live city views
• Mirror maze and optical illusions
• Vortex tunnel and holograms
• 360-degree city views from the rooftop

Get your tickets here >>>

7. The Real Mary King’s Close

Step back in time by exploring this remarkably preserved 16th-century street, sealed beneath the Royal Mile for over 400 years. It was originally open to the skies with residents and market traders, but when the Royal Exchange was built in 1760, the close was partly demolished and buried beneath the new building’s foundations.

In 2003, Mary King’s Close opened as a tourist attraction with guided tours revealing stories of plague, murder, and daily life in medieval Edinburgh.

8. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

If you are one for all things nature, like me, then the Royal Botanic Garden is a real treat. You can escape the city bustle (and tourist crowds) in this 70-acre oasis featuring over 13,000 plant species from around the world, including an amazing collection of redwoods, rhododendrons and Himalayan plants.

Highlights:

• The Victorian Palm Houses
• Chinese Pavilion
• Scottish Heath Garden
• Inverleith House Gallery for contemporary art
• Terrace Café with panoramic city views

9. Calton Hill

I escaped early whilst the kids were eating breakfast one morning and headed straight for Calton Hill before the crowds turned up. I can easily see why it is one of the most popular places for people to take photos of the Edinburgh skyline.

This prominent hill offers 360-degree views of the city and is crowned with several iconic monuments, one of the reasons why Edinburgh has earned its nickname “Athens of the North.”

Notable Monuments:

• National Monument (unfinished Parthenon replica, due to lack of funds)
• Nelson Monument (time ball drops daily at 1 PM)
• Dugald Stewart Monument – a memorial to the Scottish philosopher Dugald Stewart (1753–1828)
• City Observatory

For a private guided hike and tour of Calton Hill and Arthur’s Seat, check this out >>>

10. National Museum of Scotland

This world-class museum combines Scottish history with international collections, all housed in a stunning Victorian building with modern additions. Best of all, the admission is free.

Must-See Exhibits:

• Dolly the Sheep (the world’s first cloned mammal)
• Scottish History galleries
• Natural World galleries with T Rex skeleton
• Science and Technology exhibitions
• Rooftop terrace with panoramic city views

11. Scotch Whisky Experience

Located just steps from Edinburgh Castle, this immersive attraction offers visitors a journey through Scotland’s national drink. From educational tours to premium tastings, it’s perfect for whisky novices and connoisseurs alike.

Tour Options:

• Silver Tour: Basic introduction with one tasting
• Gold Tour: Enhanced experience with multiple tastings
• Platinum Tour: Premium experience with rare whiskies
• Taste of Scotland: Includes dinner pairing

12. Grassmarket

Grassmarket felt vaguely familiar as we walked around in the late Spring sunshine, and after I mentioned it to my Edinburgh born and bred friend, she reminded me we had spent a very drunk New Year’s Eve here back in 2003 (everything looks different when you’ve got your beer goggles on!)

Once the site of public executions and livestock markets, Grassmarket has transformed into one of Edinburgh’s most vibrant areas. The cobblestone square is surrounded by colourful pubs, independent shops, and restaurants, all overlooked by the imposing Edinburgh Castle.

This is an area you really shouldn’t miss when visiting Edinburgh. It has some of the most beautiful spots, including the Vennel Viewpoint with Instagram-famous views of Edinburgh Castle, Mary’s Milk Bar (the queue was about 20 deep to get a milkshake, not surprisingly, my kids didn’t want to wait, even though they apparently serve the best milkshakes in Edinburgh), and the adjacent West Bow.

13. Victoria Street and West Bow

Which leads me onto Victoria Street and West Bow. If you’re a keen traveller and haven’t seen images of this iconic area of Edinburgh, where have you been?

It’s notoriously famous among Harry Potter fans, as the street was the inspiration for Diagon Alley. J.K. Rowling wrote the books in The Elephant House cafe, which was around the corner until it burnt down in August 2024.

We had to queue to get into Museum Context, a shop full of Harry Potter merchandise, which is vastly overpriced, but my Harry Potter loving daughter enjoyed it.

14. Greyfriars Kirkyard

Just around the corner from Victoria Street is Greyfriars Kirkyard. This atmospheric cemetery is famous for its connection to Harry Potter (J.K. Rowling found inspiration for some of the character names here).

The Elephant House cafe has views over Greyfriars Kirkyard, so it probably played an important part when J.K. Rowling was writing her books. It is also home to the legendary story of Greyfriars Bobby, the faithful dog who guarded his master’s grave.

Notable Features:

• Historic gravestones dating back centuries
• Greyfriars Bobby statue and pub
• Gothic atmosphere, perfect for photography

15. Dean Village

Tucked away along the Water of Leith, Dean Village feels like a secret hamlet within the city. This former milling community features beautifully preserved historic buildings, ancient stone bridges and peaceful riverside walks. It really is worth a visit.

It’s perfect for:

• Photography enthusiasts
• Quiet contemplation
• Short riverside walks
• Architecture appreciation

16. Water of Leith Walkway

This is a beautiful walk along the Water of Leith, which I stumbled upon after my visit to Dean Village. I wanted to head towards the nearby Stockbridge, and I couldn’t have asked for a better way to get there.

It is a 12-mile traffic-free path that follows the river from the Pentland Hills to the port of Leith. This green corridor offers a completely different perspective of the city, taking you through diverse neighbourhoods, past historic mills, and alongside tranquil waterways.

If you are only visiting the city for a few days, you may not find time to do the whole walk, but the section from Dean Village to Stockbridge took me about 20 minutes.

17. Stockbridge and Circus Lane

A photographer’s paradise! The Stockbridge area of Edinburgh has a wealth of Victorian terraces, converted warehouses, independent shops and cafes, including the famous Lannan Bakery.

For an iconic Edinburgh view, take a walk down Circus Lane. It’s a picturesque cobbled lane built in the late 18th century as stables and carriage houses for the Georgian homes close by.

18. National Galleries of Scotland

Edinburgh is home to four exceptional art galleries that collectively house one of Europe’s finest art collections. Each gallery has its own distinct character and focus, offering visitors a comprehensive journey through art history from ancient times to contemporary works.

Scottish National Gallery

Located on The Mound between the Old and New Towns, this neoclassical building houses Scotland’s national collection of fine art from the Renaissance to the early 20th century. The beauty is it’s free to enter and has many temporary exhibitions to visit.

Collection Highlights:

• Scottish Masters: Works by Sir Henry Raeburn, Allan Ramsay, and David Wilkie
• European Masters: Paintings by Raphael, Titian, El Greco, Velázquez, and Poussin
• Impressionists: Works by Monet, Degas, Gauguin, and Cézanne
• The Trinity Altarpiece: A rare surviving work by Hugo van der Goes from the 15th century
• Botticelli’s The Virgin Adoring the Sleeping Christ Child

Scottish National Portrait Gallery

Housed in a stunning Gothic Revival building on Queen Street, this gallery celebrates Scottish history through portraits of famous Scots from all walks of life. The building itself is a work of art with elaborate murals and decorative schemes.

Notable Portraits:

• Mary, Queen of Scots: Historical and romantic depictions
• Robert Burns: Multiple portraits of Scotland’s national poet
• Sir Walter Scott: Various representations of the famous novelist
• Contemporary Scots: Including actors, musicians, and cultural figures
• The Great Hall: Features a spectacular processional frieze depicting Scottish history

Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art

Split between two locations (Modern One and Modern Two) in the Belford area, this gallery showcases the world’s best modern and contemporary art.

Modern One Highlights:

• European Modernists: Works by Picasso, Matisse, and Kirchner
• Scottish Colourists: J.D. Fergusson, S.J. Peploe, F.C.B. Cadell, and Leslie Hunter
• Contemporary Scottish Art: Including works by Peter Howson and Ken Currie
• Sculpture Garden: Featuring works by Henry Moore and Barbara Hepworth
• Café Modern One: Award-winning restaurant in a beautiful setting

Modern Two (Dean Gallery):

• Dada and Surrealism: Extensive collection including works by Salvador Dalí
• Eduardo Paolozzi Collection: Comprehensive display of the Scottish sculptor’s work
• Library and Archive: Research facilities for art historians
• Beautiful Grounds: Historic mansion setting with sculpture displays

19. Princes Street Gardens and Ross Fountain

Stretching along the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town, Princes Street Gardens forms a magnificent green valley between the historic Old Town and the Georgian elegance of Princes Street.

This 38-acre public park, built on the site of the former Nor Loch, provides one of the most spectacular urban park settings in Europe, with Edinburgh Castle dramatically perched on the volcanic rock above.

The Gardens’ History: Originally, this area was home to the Nor Loch, an artificial lake created in the 15th century that served as both the city’s water supply and a defensive barrier. When the New Town was planned in the 18th century, the loch was drained and the area transformed into the elegant parkland we see today.

The gardens were split into East and West sections by The Mound, an artificial hill created from earth excavated during New Town construction.

Ross Fountain: The crown jewel of West Princes Street Gardens is the magnificent Ross Fountain, one of the most ornate and beautiful fountains in Scotland. This cast-iron masterpiece stands as a testament to Victorian engineering and artistic achievement.

20. Scott Monument

In the East Princes Street Gardens stands one of the most prominent features in Edinburgh, the Gothic Revival Scott Monument, a 200-foot spire honouring Sir Walter Scott.

Visitors can climb the 287 steps inside for panoramic city views, while the monument’s base features a marble statue of Scott with his beloved deerhound, Maida. It is one of the largest monuments to a writer in the world, highlighting the importance of Edinburgh as a writer’s destination.

Restaurants in Edinburgh

It would be rude not to mention a few food and drink experiences not to be missed in Edinburgh. We were bemused by the huge amount of Italian restaurants in Edinburgh, much to our kids’ delight!

It really is best to do your research before going and book ahead. The city gets extremely busy (especially in August, throughout the Edinburgh Fringe Festival). Here are a few ideas;

Traditional Scottish Cuisine

Must-Try Dishes:

• Haggis, neeps, and tatties – try The Haggis Box
• Fresh Scottish salmon – try Fishers in the City
• Cullen Skink (smoked haddock soup) – Luckenbooths on the Royal Mile
• Shortbread and tablet (Scottish confections) – everywhere! :)
• Fish and chips from award-winning chippies – you can’t go wrong with Bertie’s Proper Fish & Chips

Fine Dining

Edinburgh’s culinary scene has evolved dramatically, now featuring Michelin-starred restaurants and innovative Scottish cuisine.

Notable Restaurants:

• Lyla: Recently awarded its first Michelin star
• The Witchery by the Castle: Gothic atmosphere with Scottish cuisine (and by the looks of people continuously trying to get a table, hugely popular!)
• Fhior: Modern Scottish cuisine with foraged ingredients

Traditional Pubs and Whisky Bars

• Deacon Brodie’s Tavern: Historic pub on the Royal Mile
• The Bow Bar: Extensive whisky selection in a cosy setting
• Sandy Bell’s: Traditional music sessions
• The Oxford Bar: Made famous by Inspector Rebus author Ian Rankin

Practical Tips for Your Visit

Best Times to Visit

• Summer (June-August): Festival season with long days but crowds and higher prices
• Spring (April-May): Mild weather with fewer crowds
• Autumn (September-November): Beautiful colours and harvest season
• Winter (December-March): Fewer tourists, cosy pub atmosphere, possible snow

Money-Saving Tips

• Many museums offer free admission
• Look for lunch deals at restaurants
• Buy advance tickets for major attractions
• Consider the Edinburgh City Pass for multiple attractions
• Pack layers for unpredictable Scottish weather

Edinburgh is a city that rewards exploration, whether you’re drawn to its royal palaces, ancient closes, vibrant festivals, or stunning natural setting. I made a point of getting up early every morning (6 am), putting my walking shoes on and going for a wander through the streets and parks before it got too busy. The early starts were definitely worth it.

From the grandeur of Edinburgh Castle to the tranquil beauty of Dean Village, from world-class museums to cosy traditional pubs, there are plenty of things to do in Edinburgh with experiences for all, whether you’re travelling as a couple, a lone traveller or have kids.

The city’s compact size means you can easily walk between major attractions, while its rich history ensures that every street corner has a story to tell.

Whether you’re seeking adventure on Arthur’s Seat, cultural enrichment in its many museums, or simply the pleasure of wandering medieval streets, Edinburgh delivers an unforgettable Scottish experience that captures both the nation’s proud heritage and its dynamic present.

Edinburgh FAQs

How many days do you need in Edinburgh?

A: 3-4 days is ideal for first-time visitors to see the main attractions. 2 days minimum for highlights, 5-7 days if you want to explore thoroughly and take day trips.

What is the best time of year to visit Edinburgh?

A: May-September for warmest weather and longest days. August is the busiest due to the Festival. April-May and September-October offer good weather with fewer crowds. Winter is cold but atmospheric with Christmas markets.

Is Edinburgh expensive to visit?

A: Edinburgh is moderately expensive. Budget £80-120/day including accommodation, meals, and attractions. August (Festival time) is the most expensive. Free attractions and budget accommodation can reduce costs significantly.

How does public transport work in Edinburgh?

A: Lothian Buses run throughout the city (£1.80 single, £4.50 day ticket). Exact change required or use contactless payment. The tram runs from the airport to York Place.

What food is Edinburgh famous for?

A: Haggis, neeps and tatties; fresh seafood; shortbread; tablet (sweet confection); fish and chips; and excellent whisky. Try a traditional Scottish breakfast and afternoon tea.

Is Edinburgh safe for tourists?

A: Very safe overall. Standard precautions apply – watch for pickpockets in crowded areas, be cautious at night, especially around Grassmarket area after pub closing time.

What are the best day trips from Edinburgh?

A: Stirling Castle (1 hour), Loch Lomond (1.5 hours), St. Andrews (1.5 hours), Scottish Borders, or Highland tours. All accessible by car or organised tours.