Edinburgh is one of those cities where you immediately feel like you’ve stepped into another world. The castles perched on rocky hills, the alleyways of the Royal Mile, and the blend of history, literature, and culture make it one of Europe’s most unique capitals. Even if you only have a few days, the Scottish capital will effortlessly surprise you with its many mysteries and legends. Read on and discover the best things to see and do in Edinburgh, Scotland !
About Edinburgh
Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland, and what a beautiful capital it is. Over the centuries, many famous writers, poets, and thinkers have called this city home. Just think of Adam Smith, the founder of modern economics, or Sir Walter Scott. J.K. Rowling also found plenty of inspiration in Edinburgh for the Harry Potter books. It’s no coincidence that Edinburgh became the world’s first UNESCO City of Literature in 2004.
But Edinburgh also has a mystical side, and you can really feel it when walking its streets. Beneath and around the Royal Mile lie hidden medieval alleyways and cellars, known as “closes.” Here, stories of the plague, poverty, and mystery have been circulating for centuries. If you visit in August, the city is absolutely bursting at the seams during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the world’s largest performing arts festival. This blend of history, literature, and legends makes Edinburgh a fantastic city to explore!
12 best things to do in Edinburgh, Scotland
There’s plenty to see and do in Edinburgh. It’s also the perfect base if you want to explore more of Scotland, since you can reach the Highlands or Loch Lomond easily. We recommend spending at least two full days in Edinburgh, but trust us, you’ll want to stay longer! Most of the city’s attractions are within walking distance of each other, but there’s also a good bus network to help you get around.
1) The Royal Mile
The Royal Mile is the historic heart of Edinburgh and exudes history at every step. This street connects Edinburgh Castle with the Palace of Holyroodhouse, two royal buildings located one mile apart (hence the name). This bustling street has been a hub of activity since the Middle Ages, and its oldest buildings date back to the 12th and 13th centuries. Even today, there’s always something to see and do. Among other things, you’ll find St. Giles’ Cathedral, Mary King’s Close, and numerous local shops and pubs. On a sunny day, you’ll also see street performers and bagpipers putting on their best performance, which really adds to the atmosphere.
Mary King’s Close
On either side of the Royal Mile, you’ll find plenty of narrow alleys that lead to hidden courtyards, cozy cafes, and centuries-old staircases that take you to a different elevation in the city. These alleys are called “closes” and are often named after an important person or the craft that was practiced there. One of the best things to do in Edinburgh is therefore visiting the Real Mary King’s Close. This interactive tour takes you underground and gives you a glimpse into what life was like on the Royal Mile during the Middle Ages and the plague.
2) Edinburgh Castle
On an extinct volcano, high above the city, you can find Edinburgh Castle. It’s the starting point of the Royal Mile and one of Scotland’s most impressive landmarks. Over the centuries, the castle has served as a royal palace, a military base, and a prison. Today, it’s a popular attraction that you shouldn’t miss during a visit to Edinburgh. The square in front of the castle served for years as a place of execution during the witch hunts, and legend has it that the ghosts of these witches still haunt the castle. Explore Edinburgh Castle with a guide and buy your castle ticket online in advance, as time slots fill up quickly.
Edinburgh Castle Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (summer) or 5:00 p.m. (winter) | Admission: £23.50 | Buy your tickets online here
TRAVEL TIP: Right next to the castle gate, you’ll find The Witchery. One of Edinburgh’s most charming restaurants, housed in a 16th-century building.
3) Palace of Holyroodhouse
At the other end of the Royal Mile lies the Palace of Holyroodhouse. This is the British monarch’s official residence in Scotland. Visitors who step inside will discover a series of state rooms steeped in history. Keep in mind that there are many rooms, and a visit can easily take half a day. Holyrood Park stretches out around the palace. It’s a green and peaceful slice of nature right in the middle of the city. A stroll to the nearby pond (St. Margaret’s Loch), where swans float peacefully, is a pleasant way to escape the hustle and bustle for a while. This side of the park is also where the accessible trail for the climb up Arthur’s Seat begins.
Palace of Holyroodhouse Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (summer) or 4:30 p.m. (winter) | Admission: £22 online | Buy your tickets for the Palace of Holyroodhouse here
4) Hike up to Arthur’s Seat
Arthur’s Seat is an extinct volcano of 251 meters high, right in the middle of the city. The hill is located in Holyrood Park, right next to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. It gives you almost the feeling of being in the Scottish Highlands. The climb to the top of Arthur’s Seat takes about 45 to 60 minutes and is sometimes a bit steep but definitely manageable. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with a full 360° panoramic view of Edinburgh, the Firth of Forth, and the rolling Scottish hills.
TRAVEL TIP: Wear sturdy shoes, as the trails can be slippery. It rains often in Edinburgh, so a raincoat is also a good idea.
5) Dean Village (best thing to do in Edinburgh)
Just a 25-minute walk from the city center, you’ll find yourself in a whole other world. Dean Village is a picturesque suburb of Edinburgh where time seems to have stood still. Here you’ll find idyllic streets and old mills along the water. The walk to Dean Village is just as enjoyable as the destination itself. Along the way, you’ll pass the Scott Monument and stroll through Princes Gardens, home to the impressive Ross Fountain.
6) St. Giles’ Cathedral
Halfway down the Royal Mile, you’ll find the Gothic St. Giles’ Cathedral. The church dates back to 1124 and played an important role during the Scottish Reformation, led by John Knox. Be sure to walk all the way to the Thistle Chapel at the back. It’s one of the most beautiful parts of the cathedral. If you look closely in that chapel, you’ll find two little angels playing the bagpipes. Be sure to look up at the impressive ceiling in this chapel, too! Admission to the cathedral is free, though a small donation is requested at the entrance.
7) Visit a museum (for free)
Edinburgh has a surprising number of free museums. The National Museum of Scotland is a must-see. with its six floors filled with Scottish history and culture. This is also where you’ll find Dolly the Sheep, the first mammal ever to be cloned. Other highlights include the Writers Museum, dedicated to great Scottish writers such as Robert Burns and Sir Walter Scott; the Scottish National Gallery for art lovers; and the Museum of Childhood. Looking for a more interactive experience? The Scotch Whisky Experience takes you on a journey into the world of Scotch whisky!
8) Shopping on Victoria Street & Grassmarket
Victoria Street is one of the most photographed streets in Edinburgh. Its colorful facades, winding street, and charming shops served as the inspiration for Diagon Alley in J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter books. Are you a Harry Potter fan? On Victoria Street, you’ll find an amazing store with three floors full of Harry Potter wizarding supplies. If you continue walking down Victoria Street, you’ll come to the Grassmarket. This former market square is now a lively neighborhood full of pubs, restaurants, and charming shops.
9) Greyfriars Kirkyard
Greyfriars Kirkyard is reputed to be the most haunted cemetery in the world. The cemetery is best known for Greyfriars Bobby, the loyal little dog who returned to his deceased owner’s grave every day for fourteen years. Bobby was so popular that he was eventually laid to rest alongside his owner in the cemetery and was honored with a statue. Harry Potter fans should definitely take some time to explore Greyfriars Kirkyard as well. J.K. Rowling found inspiration here for names in the books, such as Tom Riddle, and if you look closely, you can actually find them on the gravestones.
TRAVEL TIP: Right next to the cemetery, you’ll find The Elephant House. For Harry Potter fans, this is an absolute must-see. J.K. Rowling wrote the first books in the series at this coffeehouse. The walls are covered with fan mail.
10) Armchair Bookshop
Edinburgh is the City of Literature and has been a place where great writers and poets have come for inspiration for centuries. If you love books, you should definitely visit one of Edinburgh’s charming bookstores. The Armchair Bookshop is one of the most unique bookstores in Edinburgh. It’s easy to overlook this little shop, but once you step inside, you’ll be immersed in books. The aisles are filled with used books, stacked from floor to ceiling. Go ahead and loose yourself in the books!
11) Join a (free) walking tour
Exploring Edinburgh with a guide is highly recommended. On our first day, we took a free walking tour where you walk past the main sights while an enthusiastic guide takes you through the city’s history. Just pay what you think it’s worth afterward (its definitely worth a tip!). But Edinburgh also has a dark side. Ghost tours take you through the city’s darkest chapters, past the creepiest closes, and with stories that will stay with you long after nightfall. And for Harry Potter fans: there are special Harry Potter tours that visit all the places that inspired J.K. Rowling for her books.
12) Sunset on Calton Hill
In addition to Arthur’s Seat, Calton Hill offers a beautiful and more accessible way to admire Edinburgh from above. The climb takes barely 15 minutes and is suitable for all ages. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with a 360° panoramic view of the city, the castle, and the Scottish hills. It’s best to go at sunset for the most beautiful photos. The National Monument also stands atop Calton Hill. It is an unfinished replica of the Parthenon in Athens, built as a tribute to the Scottish soldiers who fell during the Napoleonic Wars.
Bonus: Day trip to the Isle of May
Would you like to see puffins (I mean, who wouldn’t)? Then the Isle of May is a must visit! This small island in the Firth of Forth attracts thousands of nature lovers every year because of its rich bird life. There is no public ferry, but boats depart from Anstruther, North Berwick, or Dunbar to the island on most days during the high season (weather permitting). The best time to visit is during the seabirds’ breeding season, from April through July. Be sure to book your boat trip well in advance. Space is limited, and the island is very popular during the season.
Best restaurants in Edinburgh
Haggis, black pudding, and whiskey, Scotland’s most famous dishes are definitely not for the faint of heart. Fortunately, Edinburgh has plenty of delicious restaurants and cozy pubs that offer so much more on their menus. Two classic pubs along the Royal Mile that you definitely shouldn’t miss are The World’s End and Deacon Brodie’s Tavern. Both have a rich history behind their names. For a genuine Scottish meal, head to Makars Mash Bar. This restaurant is a classic known for its mashed potato dishes. Be sure to make a reservation in advance, as finding a table isn’t always easy.
Where to stay in Edinburgh
Edinburgh consists of an Old Town and a New Town. The Old Town is the most beautiful part of the city, and all of the sights described here are located there. The New Town lies just to the north, and from there it’s a 10-minute walk to the Old Town. Edinburgh is compact enough to explore most of its attractions on foot. During peak season, and especially during the Fringe Festival in August, prices rise significantly, so booking in advance is recommended. If you’re looking for more affordable lodging, the suburbs are a good alternative. Public transportation makes it very easy to get to and from the city center.
- Budget (€): Argyle Backpackers
- Comfort (€€): Hotel Ceilidh-Donia
- Luxury (€€€): Radisson Blu Hotel
How to visit Edinburgh in Scotland
Edinburgh is easily accessible by plane, with direct flights from various European cities. The airport is located about 12 km from the city center and the Airlink 100 bus will take you to the city center in less than half an hour. You can also visit Edinburgh by train: take the Eurostar to London. From London, there’s a direct train that will take you to Edinburgh in 4.5 hours.
Edinburgh is also an ideal starting point for a road trip through Scotland! You don’t need a car in Edinburgh itself, but if you want to explore more of Scotland on a day trip or a longer trip, then it’s best to rent a car with DiscoverCars.
Best time to visit Edinburgh
The best time to visit Edinburgh is in May, June, and September. In the spring, you’re least likely to encounter prolonged rainfall, and the temperatures are pleasant. In July and August, the city is at its liveliest thanks to the many festivals, such as the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, but it’s also much more crowded and everything becomes more expensive. Winters are cold and wet but have a special charm, especially around the holidays.
Do you have any questions about what to do in Edinburgh, Scotland? Let us know in the comments below! Looking for more information for your next trip? Don’t hesitate to contact or feel free to email info@snoezelsontheroad.com
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