Edinburgh (Dùn Èideann in Gaelic) is the capital of Scotland and is located on the country’s east coast. Steeped in history, the city is a combination of the medieval (the Old Town), the Georgian (the New Town), and the modern. Because of the notable landmarks and the many things to do in Edinburgh, it has become the second most visited destination in the UK after London. Full of historical and cultural attractions, Edinburgh is a truly unique city to explore. Its opulent palaces, vibrant festivals, fascinating museums, literary traditions, and delicious food, make it a must-see.
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Amazing Things To Do In Edinburgh
Whether you’re an explorer, a history buff or simply a nature lover, Edinburgh has great things to offer. Here’s a complete guide to the best things to do in Edinburgh that will make your visit completely worthwhile.
1. Stroll Around The Edinburgh Castle
Set on the volcanic crag of Castle Rock, the imposing Edinburgh Castle dominates the city’s skyline. Built over centuries, the oldest parts of the castle date back to the 11th century. Rich in history, it has seen numerous royal ceremonies and fierce battles. It is also home to various museums as well as the Stone of Destiny and the Honors of Scotland (the crown jewels).
2. Explore The Royal Mile
Edinburgh’s most famous street, the Royal Mile runs through the old town from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace. It is home to many fascinating buildings, such as St Giles Cathedral, the Edinburgh Story Museum, the Camera Obscure, the Scotch Whisky Experience and a lot of shops and restaurants. However, be wary of tourist traps.
3. Hike Up Arthur’s Seat
Arthur’s Seat is part of a dormant volcano system in Holyrood Park. Looming over Edinburgh, it provides breathtaking views of the city. However, if you’d prefer an easier climb, head to Calton Hill. Apart from equally spectacular views of the city, it is the site of the striking National Monument inspired by the Parthenon of Athens, the City Observatory, the Nelson Monument, and various other Victorian statues and buildings.
4. Visit The National Museum Of Scotland
Located in the medieval Old Town, the National Museum of Scotland has something to interest everyone. Art, design, fashion, history, technology, and animals are just a few of the many things to see across its seven levels. Don’t miss the giant T-Rex, the Schmidt Telescope, and Dolly the Sheep. However, if art is what interests you, head to the Scottish National Gallery. Filled with amazing art by masters like Botticelli, Raphael, Titian, Rembrandt, Vermeer, Constable, Turner, Monet, Degas, Van Gogh and Gauguin, the impressive collection is worth a visit.
5. Taste Some Scotch Whisky
Scotland is often synonymous with whisky. One of the most famous spirits around the world, Scotch whisky has a fascinating history. Visit the excellent Scotch Whisky Experience to learn about how it’s made, stories behind the magical craft, and get to view and taste the world’s largest collection of whisky.
6. Relax At Royal Botanic Gardens
With hundreds of thousands of plants, a giant lily pond, a rock garden, and towering Victorian glasshouses, the magnificent Royal Botanic Gardens are beautiful to visit at any time of the year. Originally built in 1670, the gardens have over 13,302 different species of plants across various themed areas. For those who love to study more about the exotic plant collections, visiting the garden is one of the best things to do in Edinburgh.
7. Check Out The Palace of Holyroodhouse
Located at the other end of the Royal Mile from Edinburgh Castle near Arthur’s Seat is the opulent Palace of Holyroodhouse. It has been the official home of Kings and Queens of Scotland since the 16th century. Today, it is still the Queen’s official residence in Edinburgh. Don’t miss the 16th century apartments of Mary, Queen of Scots and the beautiful gardens. The palace is open throughout the year except when members of the Royal Family are in residence.
8. Get Into The World Of Illusions At Camera Obscura
A major Edinburgh attraction since 1835, the Camera Obscura and World of Illusions is a fascinating building filled with five floors of optical illusions, tricks and puzzles. There are also themed rooms with interactive exhibits, a mirror maze, a hologram exhibition, and a “tunnel of dreams”. Also, check out the large periscope that gives a panoramic view of the city. One of the best things to do in Edinburgh for kids and adults alike.
9. Attend A Mass At St Giles’ Cathedral
The majestic St Giles’ Cathedral is located on the ever busy Royal Mile. It is dedicated to the patron saint of Edinburgh, Saint Giles. The 14th-century cathedral features intricate carpentry, vibrant stained-glass windows, and vast ceilings. Its famous crowned steeple is an iconic part of the Edinburgh skyline. The cathedral holds two services on Sunday, one at 9:30am and again at 11:00am.
10. Travel Back In Time At The Real Mary King’s Close
Much of the Old Town in Edinburgh is made up of narrow, winding streets known as closes. Deep beneath the Royal Mile lies the “Real Mary King’s Close” which was submerged underground and has been frozen in time since the 17th century. This underground warren of streets is still shrouded in mystery and allows you to travel back in time to a period of plague, murder, intrigue, and ghosts.
11. Shop At Princes Street
The main street of Edinburgh’s New Town, Princes Street is the city’s favorite shopping street. It is filled with high street shops and famous department stores. Located at one end of the street are the Princes Street Gardens. Here you can see the famous Walter Scott Monument and the Ross Fountain. In the winter, the garden is transformed into an exciting Christmas Market. There is no way you can leave Edinburgh without shopping at Princes Street.
12. Taste Scotland’s Culinary Delights
Edinburgh has an array of outstanding pubs, cafes and restaurants that serve both hearty traditional fare and contemporary meals. There are many who travel to Edinburgh only for the food as this place has an awful lot to offer. Book yourself for a gastronomic adventure as the city’s finest local produce, traditional dishes, and sweet treats are best enjoyed while strolling through its iconic areas. Dishes like cullen skink, cranachan, haggis, neeps, and tatties are a must try.
How To Get Around
Edinburgh is very well connected. The Edinburgh International Airport offers a wide range of domestic and international flights. The city’s main railway station, Edinburgh Waverley Railway Station, lies at the center of the city, between the Old and New Towns. It is a major hub of the Scottish rail network with regular trains to all major destinations in Great Britain. There is also a second major station, Haymarket.
The city itself has an efficient bus system, the Lothian Buses, as well as a small number of suburban trains. There is also the newly opened Edinburgh Trams that link much of the city. Unfortunately, much of Edinburgh can be a nightmare to drive in due to the narrow medieval streets. However, most attractions are near each other and it is a delight to walk around the atmospheric streets.
There are lots of other things to do in Edinburgh, and if we’ve missed any be sure to share them in the comments below.
FAQs
Without spending a penny explore Royal Mile, Dean Village, Calton Hill and Stockbridge. Entry to the National Museum of Scotland and Royal Botanic Garden is also free of cost.
Most of the festivals happen during the month of August. The Edinburgh Festival Fringe, International Festival, and Military Tattoo brings about a festive atmosphere in the whole of Edinburgh.
Fun things to do at night are, to go on a ghost tour, stroll along the Royal Mile, enjoy a night at comedy clubs or explore the city’s live music scene.
Yes, there are plenty of companies that offer a variety of haunted tours and ghost walks. Some of the most popular tour options are Underground Vaults Tours, City of the Dead Tours, Mercat Tours and Auld Reekie Tours.
