With its charming cobblestone streets and stunning castle, it’s no surprise that this Scottish city steals the hearts of so many visitors. Edinburgh really does a great job of blending its rich history with a special charm. It was love at first sight for me! In this guide, I will share my best tips for things to do in Edinburgh.
1. Explore Edinburgh Castle
Perched on its volcanic rock, Edinburgh Castle dominates the skyline and serves as the city’s most iconic landmark. You’ll find the Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny, and St Margaret’s Chapel (the oldest surviving building in Edinburgh) within its walls. The views across the city from the castle ramparts are spectacular. I recommend arriving early or later in the afternoon to avoid the peak crowds. Audio guides are included in admission and add useful context to your visit.
Check the official website for current ticket prices and opening times before you go.
2. Taste the Farmers’ Market at Castle Terrace
I love to take every chance I get to try local snacks and specialities. Are you also a foodie? Then make sure to visit the farmers market on Saturday from 9am to 2pm. Here you can find local produce, cheeses, hearty pies, and sweet treats. It’s right below the castle, which makes it so charming to walk here!
3. Walk the Royal Mile
The Royal Mile is a beautiful street that runs through the heart of historic Edinburgh. This one-mile stretch connects Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Unlike main streets in other cities, the bars and restaurants on this street are also quite good. So whenever you need a break, just pop into one of the local pubs or restaurants and grab a pint and a bite to eat.
Lady Stair’s Close is worth a quick detour for literature fans. It’s home to the Writers’ Museum that honors Burns, Scott, and Stevenson.
4. Climb Arthur’s Seat ⛰️
Arthur’s Seat is an extinct volcano right in the heart of the city, rising 251 metres above sea level. The climb takes about 45 minutes at a steady pace, and the panoramic views from the summit are outstanding. Wear proper footwear as the path can be steep and uneven in places. The route from Dunsapie Loch is slightly gentler than the direct ascent from Holyrood. On a clear day, you can see across to Fife and out to the Pentland Hills.
5. Visit the National Museum of Scotland
This museum covers Scottish history, world cultures, natural history, science, and technology across multiple floors. Admission is free, which makes it one of the best-value popular attractions in Edinburgh. The Grand Gallery is architecturally stunning. The rooftop terrace provides another great city viewpoint. I usually spend at least two hours here, though you could easily fill a whole day. Like to read more about this place? Visit our blog about tips for visiting this museum
6. Cockburn Street & Victoria Street
Cockburn Street, near the Royal Mile, is lined with beautiful Victorian buildings and cute shops, but I especially love it for its freshly roasted coffee cafes. Victoria Street is also one of these two streets that you always see on Instagram. It’s really lovely, with all the colourful houses and a few cool shops, mostly filled with Harry Potter merch! 🪄
7. Relax at the Royal Botanic Garden 🌿
These beautiful gardens spread across 70 acres just north of the city centre. Admission to the outdoor gardens is free, though there’s a charge for the glasshouses. The Rock Garden is particularly lovely in spring. The views back towards the city skyline from the upper paths are worth the gentle climb.
8. Tour the Palace of Holyroodhouse
The Palace of Holyroodhouse is worth visiting, especially for those interested in Scottish and royal history. It gives you a peek into the King’s official residence in Edinburgh and the historic lives of Scottish royals.
The palace closes when the Royal Family is in residence, so check availability before planning your visit.
The Palace of Holyroodhouse is open throughout the year, and stands at the end of the Royal Mile. You can save on your tickets by booking in advance through the official website.
9. Experience the Scottish National Gallery
Located between Old Town and New Town, this gallery houses an outstanding collection of European paintings and Scottish art. Entry is free to the permanent collection. Works by Vermeer, Velázquez, Titian, and Monet hang alongside Scottish masters like Ramsay and Raeburn. The building itself is elegant, and the gallery’s size feels manageable rather than overwhelming. Read more about this museum.
10. Leith and The Royal Yacht Britannia
If you have extra time in Edinburgh or are visiting for the second time, I recommend checking out Leith.
The Royal Yacht Britannia served the Royal Family for over 44 years and is now located in the Port of Leith, a few miles from the city centre. Just a perfect location allowing you to easily visit the ship and explore Leith. This place is known for its trendy bars and excellent seafood restaurants. Entry price for the Yacht is £18.50, but make sure to check out their website for current prices.
11. Explore Dean Village
This former milling village sits in a steep valley along the Water of Leith, just a short walk from the city centre. It feels remarkably peaceful and rural despite being so close to the bustle of Princes Street. The converted mill buildings are picturesque, and the riverside walk is lovely. You can continue along the Water of Leith Walkway in either direction for a longer walk.
Combine this with a visit to the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art and read more about this romantic neighborhood.
12. Sample Whisky at The Scotch Whisky Experience 🥃
Located right at the top of the Royal Mile, this place provides an accessible introduction to Scotland’s national drink. Tours range from quick overviews to in-depth tastings. The barrel ride through whisky history is a bit gimmicky but fun. The tasting element is the real highlight, and knowledgeable guides help you understand different whisky regions and styles.
If you’re serious about whisky, consider one of the premium tasting options.
13. Visit Calton Hill for Sunset Views
This hill east of Princes Street offers some of the finest views over Edinburgh. The climb is short and manageable. At the top, you’ll find several monuments including the National Monument and Nelson Monument.
Sunset is genuinely special here, with golden light illuminating the Old Town and castle. The spot is popular with photographers and couples, and you’ll often find a friendly atmosphere.
The hill is open all the time, though the individual monuments have varying opening hours and some charge admission.
14. Explore Stockbridge
This neighbourhood north of New Town has kept its village-like character. Independent shops, delis, and cafés line the main streets. The Sunday market on Saunders Street is worth a visit.Stockbridge is less touristy than central Edinburgh but still very accessible on foot or by bus. It’s a nice area for a relaxed morning or afternoon.
The charity shops here are particularly good if you enjoy that sort of thing.
15. Step Inside St Giles’ Cathedral
This medieval church on the Royal Mile serves as the Mother Church of Presbyterianism. The crown steeple is a distinctive part of the Edinburgh skyline. Inside, the Thistle Chapel is exquisitely detailed.
Entry is free, though donations are appreciated. The building has real architectural merit beyond its religious significance, and the stained glass windows are beautiful.
16. Name hunting at Greyfriars Kirkyard 🪦
Visiting a graveyard might not be on your usual city trip to-do list, but this one you can’t miss. This ancient cemetery has such a historic charm to it. On sunny days it’s so light, and on rainy days it can feel so gloomy. Which ever weather you have, just have a walk along the tombstones. You may come across some intriguing names, such as Voldemort or Sirius Black. 😉J.K. Rowling, found inspiration for Harry Potter from these tombstones in Greyfriars Kirkyard.
The kirkyard is open daily and free to visit. It’s usually quiet and peaceful.
PS: There’s a lovely local tale involving this graveyard and a🐕 dog. Bobby was a Skye Terrier dog known for his loyalty, famously associated with Greyfriars Kirkyard in Edinburgh. Make sure to read more about this place.
17. The Close
A ‘close’ is a narrow alleyway or passage, often leading off the main street (The Royal Mile) into courtyards or between buildings.
You can find many closes (alleyways) leading off of the Royal Mile, each holding a bit of Edinburgh’s past. Most well-known is Mary King’s Close, a historic close located under the Edinburgh City Chambers building on the Royal Mile. There are more closes you might want to peek at. For example Advocate’s Close, with its views of the Scott Monument.
On a guided tour of the Real Mary King’s Close, you’ll explore 17th-century streets and dimly lit rooms while hearing stories of Edinburgh’s past. Costumed guides will share tales of former residents, including merchants, tradespeople, and accounts of pandemics and hauntings.
