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12 Reasons Why You Need to Visit Edinburgh

Destinations Europe

Who hasn’t dreamt of visiting Scotland and its famous and beautiful landscapes? Edinburgh should in your bucket list if you decide to travel around the northernmost country of the UK! Here are some reasons why you should definitely plan a trip to Edinburgh :

It’s world’s leading festival city

hogmanay-edinburgh

There’s 12 major annual festivals throughout the seasons but most of them are on August when over 25,000 artists populate the city with over 1,000 shows per day. Some of the best festivals are: Edinburgh International film festival, Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Edinburgh International Book Festival and Edinburgh’s Hogmanay.

The iconic Edinburgh Castle

edinburgh-castle

A source of inspiration to filmmakers

Map by This is Edinburgh.com

Recreate your favourite movie scenes and visit the most iconic filming locations of movies like The Illusionist, Trainspotting or Da Vinci Code.

Feel like royalty in the Queen’s Royal Yacht, Britannia

britannia-uk

Amazing views at Calton Hill

calton-hill

Take a stroll down The Royal Mile, the tail of a long-extinct volcano

royal-mile

Visit  St Gilles Cathedral,  the physical and spiritual heart of Scotland’s capital

St-Gilles-Cathedral

Get cultured at the National gallery of Scotland

National-gallery-scotland

Keep the heid at The Edinburgh Dungeon

edinburgh-dungeon

You’re a train ride away from North Berwick

north-berwick

Stroll around Holyrood park

holyrood-palace1

Visit Arthur’s seat, a dormant volcano

arthurs-seat

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12 Edinburgh Residents Explain Why You Should Visit

Sam Peet /

With castles, restaurants and galleries, there’s always something to do in Edinburgh. However, the true character of the Scottish capital can’t be measured by its attractions. It’s measured by the warmth of its people, the tranquillity of its green spaces and the places just waiting to be discovered in the labyrinth of side streets. You won’t find this in a guide book – instead, it’s Edinburgh’s residents who hold the key.

What makes a city? It’s not the shops or bars, nor is it the sights – even in a place like Edinburgh, which is home to many monuments, grand Georgian buildings and, at the centre of it all, an imposing castle perched atop a rugged hill.

No, the true heartbeat of Edinburgh is its people. The people who know the city’s streets like the back of their hands. The people who, when the fun of the Fringe has quietened for another year, continue to populate its comedy clubs, galleries, traditional pubs and refined restaurants. The people who greet weary travellers like old friends. These folks are the gatekeepers to a truly authentic Edinburgh experience. Below you’ll find, in their own words, the reasons why they think you should visit the Scottish capital at least once in your lifetime.

‘Everyone goes at a slower pace’

Rory Mellis, director of IJ Mellis Cheesemonger

There’s something about a Sunday in Edinburgh that I just love. It’s still busy, but everyone goes at a slower pace. I like to start at Stockbridge Market where you can stock up on seasonal veg, cakes – just about any food you can think of. I’ll grab a cheese toastie, sit by the river and let the day pass me by. Then I’ll make my way to Cowan & Sons for coffee or Brauhaus for a glass of natural wine – it’s the perfect way to relax and unwind after a long week.

‘I love taking detours along side streets and alleyways’

Brian Malloch, co-owner of Logan Malloch

When I first moved to Edinburgh, I would walk the Royal Mile and find myself getting lost, taking detours along side streets and alleyways. It was such a great experience and is a great way to see a different side of the city – you never know what you’ll stumble upon next. One day, I came across a hidden garden, and it’s since become my go-to reading spot. It’s just off Dunbars Close, next to the Ye Olde Christmas Shoppe. On second thoughts, maybe I’m not ready for the world to know about it.

‘The exhibitions are excellent’

Iona Angus, pharmacology graduate

You’re never short of things to do in Edinburgh. Even if it pours with rain, you can always escape to one of the many galleries or museums. My favourite is the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art , where I recently saw an exhibit on the works of Eduardo Paolozzi, a Scottish Pop art sculptor. The exhibitions are excellent and bring different parts of the world right to my doorstep. I’m very thankful for that.

edinburgh why visit

‘There’s more to Edinburgh than the Fringe’

Rizvi Khaleque, founder of Tuk Tuk Restaurants

I firmly believe Edinburgh is one of the most amazing cities in the world, and there’s so much more to it than the Fringe Festival and Hogmanay . It’s a place of year-round creativity. There’s an incredibly diverse community of local craftspeople – Custom Lane, a series of artists workshops in Leith, being a prime example. The independent galleries, concept shops and restaurants keep everyone – myself included – coming back for more.

‘The views are incredible’

John Dunn, taxi driver

As I’m behind the wheel for my job, when I’m off, I like to travel on foot – it’s the best way to explore Edinburgh as it’s easy to navigate. I know this is going to sound predictable, but I really think everyone should see Edinburgh Castle – even if you just walk up to it. The views are incredible, and I find out something new and interesting every time I go. It’s so historically important. You could spend an entire day up there and not tire of it.

edinburgh why visit

‘There’s something very wholesome about it’

Snick Konganuntragul, petroleum engineering student

Edinburgh has so many lovely areas, but Morningside is my favourite. There’s something very wholesome about it that I love. That and the fact it’s where you’ll find Salt – a café that, in my opinion, does the best brunch in Edinburgh. I’d eat there every day if I could. Order the bacon and poached eggs, with avocado on the side.

‘It’s wonderful to cycle along the riverside pathway’

Rea Kenkel, manager and barista at Williams & Johnson Coffee Co.

Edinburgh is incredibly bike-friendly, and my favourite cycle is along the Water of Leith, the city’s main river. I’d start from Dean Village, which is near the city centre, and follow the riverside pathway through Stockbridge, all the way down to where it meets the sea in Leith. It’s a gorgeous, leafy cycle that makes me feel peaceful – like I’m in the countryside.

‘Go to Portobello Beach at sunset – the views are breathtaking’

Chloe Bramwell, gallery assistant at Scottish National Portrait Gallery

I spend as much of my free time as possible at Portobello Beach. I feel so lucky to live in a coastal city, so I’ll do the 20-minute bus journey and spend the entire day there. It’s so nice to see people walking dogs of all shapes and sizes along it. If you can’t make it during the day, go at sunset – the views are breathtaking. Along the promenade is The Espy, a casual pub that serves tasty food and the perfect pint. The staff are so friendly – from the moment you walk in, you feel like a local.

‘Calton Hill is the ideal escape from the busy streets’

Mhairi Fisher, freelance recruitment officer and charity campaigner

As a travel enthusiast, I’m always looking for fun, free things to do when I’m away – which is why I always take visitors on a walk up Calton Hill. It’s close to Princes Street – so chances are you’ll be in the area – and is the ideal escape from the busy streets below. From the top, the panoramic city views are stunning. There’s also an observatory at its peak, which is fascinating to look around, too.

‘It’s very romantic’

Arthur Burrows, technical manager

As much as I love the social scene in Edinburgh, the place I feel most defines the city – for me anyway – is the Botanic Garden . I took my girlfriend there on our first date – it’s very romantic and makes for a great day out when people visit, too. The glass buildings are a welcome change to the stone you see throughout the centre. I feel calm as soon as I step into the grounds.

edinburgh why visit

‘You can sit for hours on end at The Meadows – if the weather allows’

James Hargreeves, doctor

The city’s green spaces give Edinburgh a village-like feel. My favourite is The Meadows – a sprawling park just south of Old Town, with tree-lined paths and tennis courts where you can hire rackets. I’ll grab a coffee and a sandwich from 27 Elliott’s, find a bench in the shade and sit for hours on end – if the weather allows.

‘There’s a sanctuary in the middle of the city’

Celia Hodson, founder of Hey Girls

Edinburgh has many great restaurants, but none are quite like The Gardener’s Cottage. Formerly the home to the gardener of the Royal Terrace Gardens, it’s now a sanctuary of authenticity right in the middle of the city and an end-to-end wonderfully nostalgic experience. From the moment you walk up the gravel garden path and brush past the herbs to sitting down to social dining of the most exquisitely prepared local seasonal food – most of the veg picked just for you from the garden – it’s a treat for all the senses.

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6 Reasons Why You Should Visit Edinburgh

Never been to Edinburgh? You're missing out

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edinburgh why visit

  • 09 January 2019
  • • 6 min read

Thinking about your travel bucket list for 2021? One city you should seriously consider visiting is Edinburgh. The city is a charming destination that flaunts both the old and new. The quaint medieval Old Town will win you over with its quaint Scottish pubs and bars, narrow, winding streets and centuries old buildings. Then there’s the New Town where you’ll find a buzzing atmosphere, plenty of shopping opportunities, beautiful Georgian townhouses and fantastic museums. It’s the majestic city that offers something for everyone, and known as one of Europe's most beautiful destinations for good reason. Whether you’re looking for a culture fix, buzzing nightlife, rolling hills or delicious food, this city has it all.

Here are 6 reasons why you should visit Edinburgh...

1. The fascinating Scottish history

Edinburgh has a rich history that dates back to before the Roman times. Battles, forts, weapons and armies; the city was once a battleground. On a trip to Edinburgh, wander the grounds of Edinburgh castle. The historic fortress is built high on an impressive 700 million year old extinct volcano called Castle Rock. Visit the castle, explore the different rooms and learn more about Edinburgh’s history including everything you can know about the War of Scottish Independence.

Head to some of Edinburgh’s most prestigious museums including the Scottish National Galleries where you can come face to face with portraits of important people in Scottish history. For free admission, you can see some of the greatest art in the world just behind the doors.

There’s also a darker side of Edinburgh to discover at the Edinburgh Dungeons where you can learn all about the haunted past of the medieval city. Just walk around the Old Town and you’ll find a piece of Edinburgh’s history lurking around every corner.

2. The awesome nightlife and festivals

Whilst Edinburgh is medieval and historic, there’s another side to the city that comes to life at night. The city is brimming with cool underground bars, traditional Scottish pubs, fun nightclubs and sophisticated whisky bars. Being a student city, we’re really not surprised at how awesome the night outs are in Edinburgh. Discover the secret bars where the locals hang out; Hoot the Redeemer is our favourite underground bar serving up quirky cocktails, boozy slushies, adult ice cream and a fun vibe.

Then there’s the Secret Arcade, an underground vodka bar. Stick to the Old Town if you’re going out because it’s considerably cheaper than the New Town. For a fun night out where you can dance, drink shots and let your hair down, student-favourite Belushi’s won’t let you down!

The Devil’s Advocate is one of our favourite , located in the sophisticated Old Town where you can find the best cocktail makers in the city.

There are also cool events that take place around Edinburgh. The Fringe Festival is the biggest and best event in the city, the busiest time of the year. It’s the world’s largest arts festival where theatre, dance and music become the city’s focus for 25 days! Here are

3. The incredible architecture

Edinburgh is home to some world-class architecture. A short stroll down the Royal Mile and through the narrow Old Town alleys and you’ll quickly see the mix of architectural styles that make up Edinburgh. Admire St Giles Cathedral that dates back to 1124, visit the oldest part of Edinburgh Castle, St Margaret’s Cathedral or admire the Gothic architecture at Scott’s Monument.

Wander through the New Town which is occupied by beautiful Georgian architecture. Check out Calton Hill where you can get a look at the several different monuments which are located there. There’s plenty of interesting architecture in Edinburgh that’s it’s almost impossible to see it all. There’s a reason JK Rowling found inspiration for the Harry Potter books in the Scottish capital with all of the dark, cobbled alleys and passageways.

Check out these you simply have to visit during your stay

4. The highland views and hikes

The lush green spaces and rolling hills of Edinburgh make it the perfect destination for the outdoorsy type who love to be at one with nature. If you’re up for a beautiful walk, then head up to Arthur’s Seat, an area that makes up the largest part of Holyrood Park. Sitting 251 metres above sea level on an ancient volcano, you’ll gain incredible views of Edinburgh if you hike up to the top of Arthur’s Seat.

There are different routes you can take whether you’re looking for a nice easy stroll or something more strenuous. You can also head to Nelson’s Monument for incredible views of the city for just £5.

5. The Scottish food scene

Edinburgh has an underrated food scene. Not only will you find countless cosy Scottish pubs and restaurants, you’ll also find plenty of other worldwide cuisines. You name it, Indian, Italian, Thai, English, Scottish, Chinese, Edinburgh has it. Not to mention the incredible farmer’s markets where you can grab a tasty, affordable lunch (try Edinburgh’s Farmer’s Market on the weekends or Stockbridge Market).

If you're looking for a Scottish pub where you can indulge in authentic local food, the Halfway House is always a fantastic and affordable choice.

And while you’re in the pubs you have to try some Scottish delicacies such as haggis. Or if you have a sweet tooth, try the Scottish invention that is the deep-fried Mars bar. And you simply cannot start your morning with a traditional Scottish breakfast.

For dessert, don’t forget to order a Sticky Toffee Pudding.  Our favourite kind of local foods are the heartwarming pies and mash potato, broths and bangers and mash.

6. The beer, the whisky and the gin

Yup, Edinburgh specialises in all three. Scotland has been producing beer for the past 5000 years and the best places to try get a taste is at the Scottish pubs. Try some of the locally brewed beers, ales and craft beers which have a special unique flavour compared to English beers and others from around the world. We recommend having a drink in The Doric, a very old pub in the Old Town. With several Scottish beers on tap, real ales and over 50 single malts, it’s a place not to miss if you really want to experience the real Edinburgh. The Doric even hosts live folk music.

Then of course, the city’s most famous drink which you simply must try is whisky. Edinburgh is booming with whisky bars and whisky tasting experiences.

If whisky isn’t your thing, did you know Edinburgh even has has a gin making heritage? If you’re a gin lover, you will really enjoy the city’s very own distilled gin ‘Edinburgh Gin’. You can even visit the distillery!

Convinced yet? Check out our located right in the heart of the city

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Top 14 Things to Do in Edinburgh

There are plenty of exciting things to do in Edinburgh, from stunning architecture and endless winding streets to an awe-inspiring castle perched on a dormant volcano. By day you can admire artworks in galleries and treasured wonders in museums, and by night you can enjoy tours, musical and theatre performances, or find your favourite dram in a charming whisky pub.

Explore Edinburgh Castle Edinburgh

edinburgh why visit

Edinburgh Castle and city

Perched atop Castle Rock overlooking the city, this should be a must-see on your list of places to visit in Edinburgh. Edinburgh Castle houses important Scottish artefacts, such as the Honours of Scotland -  which are the oldest crown jewels in the UK - and The Stone of Destiny, an ancient symbol of the Scottish monarchy. Explore the vast castle grounds, take a guided tour with a castle steward, or listen to the audio guide, which is available in eight languages.

Top tip: Tickets often sell out quickly, especially during the summer months. Make sure to book early to avoid disappointment! Listen out for the firing of the One O'Clock Gun from the castle grounds, which can be heard daily (except on Sundays). Ships in the Firth of Forth once set their maritime clocks according to the sound of the shot.

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Discover the treasures of the National Museum of Scotland Edinburgh

edinburgh why visit

The National Museum of Scotland

© VisitScotland / Peter Dibdin

Scotland is known for having unpredictable weather, and if you happen to get caught in the rain you might be wondering what to do in Edinburgh. Visit the National Museum of Scotland, one of the best indoor attractions in Edinburgh - and entry is free! With over 20,000 unique artefacts to see, there's something for everyone and fun for all the family. Spend the day learning about the catacombs of Egypt, the wonders of nature and even modern-day technology.

Top tip: If the sun makes an appearance, head up to the rooftop terrace to enjoy amazing views of Edinburgh.

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Climb Arthur's Seat and stroll through Holyrood Park Edinburgh

edinburgh why visit

Friends on Salisbury Crags in Edinburgh

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

Perhaps one of the most iconic places to go in Edinburgh is Arthur's Seat, located within Holyrood Park. This ancient volcano sits 251m above sea level and offers 360-degree views of Edinburgh and the Lothians. You can see the medieval remains of St Anthony's Chapel or feed the ducks and swans on Duddingston Loch. There's an array of paths and trails to follow, suitable for all, including the trail to St Margaret's Loch which is both wheelchair and buggy accessible.

Top tip: Climbing up to the top of this dormant volcano is hungry work! Why not pack a picnic and enjoy it from the best 'seat' in Edinburgh?

Be amazed at Camera Obscura and World of Illusions Edinburgh

edinburgh why visit

Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

This top attraction in Edinburgh is fun for all the family - we dare you not to be amazed, whatever your age. There are five floors of interactive curiosities and illusions to explore, so lose yourself in the puzzling mirror maze or try to keep your balance in the exhilarating Vortex Tunnel.

Top tip: Be sure to get an allocated show time so you don't miss out on seeing the 169-year-old Camera Obscura in action. This Victorian spectacle is a truly unique way to see Edinburgh and takes sightseeing to the next level. 

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Ascend Calton Hill to the National Monument Edinburgh

edinburgh why visit

The Edinburgh skyline viewed from Calton Hill

For outstanding views, get up early and climb to the top of Calton Hill to enjoy the sunrise over the city. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to a collection of historic monuments, most notably the National Monument, which was inspired by the Parthenon in Athens.

Top tip: Thinking of staying in Scotland this New Year's Eve? One of the best things to do in Edinburgh at night on Hogmanay is to climb Calton Hill and enjoy the annual firework display above the castle. Many festivals in Edinburgh, such as the Celtic Beltane Fire Festival, are also celebrated here.

Explore the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art Edinburgh

edinburgh why visit

The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art

A trip to the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art won't leave you disappointed - whether you're an art lover or not. Comprising two impressive buildings, this top Edinburgh attraction contains masterpieces from the 1900s to present day. Admire art by Matisse, Picasso and Emin, as well as Scottish contemporaries. The landscaped grounds of the galleries feature sculptures by Tony Cragg and Barbara Hepworth, amongst others.

Top tip: After enjoying coffee and a slice of cake in the gallery's cafe, don't miss the recreation of Scottish artist Eduardo Paolozzi's original studio in Modern Two.

Taste the finest drams at Johnnie Walker Princes Street Edinburgh

edinburgh why visit

Johnnie Walker Princes Street in Edinburgh

© VisitScotland / Luigi Di Pasquale

The flagship Johnnie Walker Princes Street is spread across eight floors and is the capital's newest hotspot, perfect for whisky lovers and novices alike. Complete with dining experiences, bars and a whisky retail area, book your personalised whisky experience where you can explore the flavours of Scotland. 

Top tip: Enjoy world-class cocktails and incredible views of the Edinburgh skyline at the 1820 rooftop bar.

Stroll through Lauriston Castle and Gardens Edinburgh & The Lothians

edinburgh why visit

Lauriston Castle and Gardens

There are plenty of attractions around Edinburgh away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre. Lauriston Castle and Gardens is the perfect place to go for anyone visiting Edinburgh looking for a piece of Scottish history, as well as peace and quiet. Step back in time as you explore the castle's impressive Edwardian interiors, and don't miss the daily guided tour to learn more about its fascinating history.

Top tip: Enjoy the woodland walk that surrounds the castle, then retreat to the tranquil Japanese Garden, a true hidden gem in Edinburgh.

Brave the Edinburgh Dungeon Edinburgh - City Centre

edinburgh why visit

Edinburgh Dungeon 2021

© Edinburgh Dungeon 2021

Looking for things to do in Edinburgh that are a little unusual? For a thrilling alternative adventure, visit The Edinburgh Dungeons, where you'll learn about the city's gruesome history. Walk the plague-ridden streets of 1645, evade the murderous duo Burke and Hare, and even face trial - good luck! With live actors, underground rides and special effects, you're guaranteed a 'spooktacular' time.

Top tip: The Edinburgh Dungeon often holds Dungeon Late events for adults, so if you're looking for things to do in Edinburgh at night, this could be it.

Launch into space at Dynamic Earth Edinburgh

edinburgh why visit

Dynamic Earth

Looking for somewhere fun to take the kids that's also educational? Dynamic Earth is a fantastic attraction for the whole family to enjoy. The interactive adventure takes brave young explorers on a journey through space and time to learn how the forces of nature shaped Earth over millions of years. 

Top tip: Dynamic Earth is part of the National STEM Engagement Campaign and has a whole host of events for kids to enjoy; check out their website to find out what's on in Edinburgh.

See a show at the Festival Theatre Edinburgh

edinburgh why visit

Edinburgh's Festival Theatre

Edinburgh's Festival Theatre is one of the largest stages in the UK, hosting show-stopping opera, ballet and musical events all year round. Many famous performers have graced its stage, including Charlie Chaplin, Laurel & Hardy and David Bowie.

Top tip: Legend has it that the Festival Theatre is haunted by famous illusionist 'The Great Lafayette'. Lafayette lost his life in a fire at the theatre in 1911 and is said to roam the stage to this day.

Enjoy a wee dram at the Scotch Whisky Experience Edinburgh - City Centre

edinburgh why visit

The stunning Diageo Claive Vidiz Whisky Collection

No trip to the Royal Mile is complete without a visit to the Scotch Whisky Experience for a dram of fine Scottish whisky. The attraction offers a range of tour experiences that will suit first timers and whisky lovers alike. Take a tour of the virtual distillery and learn about the distilling process, then discover the art of whisky blending in a guided sensory presentation.

Top tip: After you become somewhat of a whisky connoisseur, why not continue into the attraction's Amber Restaurant, where you can enjoy modern Scottish cuisine with another dram.

Go sightseeing from the Scott Monument Edinburgh

edinburgh why visit

The Scott Monument in Princes Street Gardens

The Scott Monument was built in 1832 to commemorate the death of one of Scotland's best loved writers, Sir Walter Scott, and is decorated with carvings of characters from his novels. The Gothic spire stands at the eastern end of Princes Street Gardens and is the largest memorial to a writer in the world, standing at just over 200 feet high. Climb the 287 steps to the top for beautiful views of the city and visit the Museum Room inside the monument, which holds an exhibition on Scott's life and work.

Top tip: Not a fan of heights? Not to worry, you can get a great view of the monument with your feet firmly on the ground from the bottom of the Playfair Steps on The Mound. At the base of the monument, you'll also find a statue of Scott himself with his beloved dog.

Indulge in sweet treats at The Chocolatarium Edinburgh

edinburgh why visit

Chocolatarium visitors with their finished chocolate bars

Looking to add a bit more sweetness to your trip? Just off the Royal Mile you’ll find The Edinburgh Chocolatarium, a place dedicated to all things chocolate. Enjoy a 90-minute guided tour of the chocolate-making process before making your very own chocolate bar where you’ll have lots of toppings to choose from. To finish off, head to the chocolate Tasting Room where you’ll taste a variety of Scottish and international chocolates. Now that sounds like chocolate heaven!

Top tip: Make sure to stock up on your favourite chocolate bars at the gift shop. You'll find all the classics including some interesting flavours such as gin and tonic dark chocolate and haggis.

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Your Trip to Edinburgh: The Complete Guide

Known sometimes as "The Athens of the North" or "Auld Reekie," the Scottish capital is one of the country's most popular destinations, and is a great place to spend a long weekend or to include in a larger Scotland itinerary . Edinburgh is relatively compact and walkable, but there's a lot to see and do in this historic and culturally vibrant capital, including exploring Edinburgh Castle, visiting one of the city's top museums, going on a nearby hike, or hitting up the annual Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

Whether you are looking to explore Edinburgh's food and bar scene or to travel back in time through its history, here are a few things to keep in mind while planning your trip.

Planning Your Trip

  • Best Time to Visit: Based purely on the weather, June through August is the best time of year to travel to Edinburgh. Scotland can be notoriously gloomy and wet during the winter, but summer brings moderate temperatures and some sun, making it ideal for outdoor sightseeing. Do keep in mind that summer is also peak tourist season; if you want to avoid the crowds, consider planning your trip for either May or September. No matter what time of year you visit, be sure to pack layers of clothing.
  • Language: English is the primary language spoken in Scotland and the rest of the U.K. However, because Edinburgh is a fairly large, international city, you may hear other languages spoken around town. Gaelic is also spoken in some parts of Scotland.
  • Currency: The currency in the U.K. is the pound sterling , which is also known as GBP or just "the pound." Cents are known as pence.
  • Getting Around : While Edinburgh is a highly walkable city, especially in the city center, there are good public transportation options, including the Lothian Buses and Edinburgh Trams. Taxis and Ubers are also available. Car rentals are another option, though we don't recommend driving or parking in the city center of Edinburgh.
  • Travel Tip : Make your visit to Edinburgh part of a larger exploration of Scotland, taking advantage of the trains if you prefer not to drive through the winding roads. Glasgow is less than an hour away from Edinburgh, while Dundee and St. Andrews are a quick journey north. But you don't have to pick just the bigger destinations to better understand Scottish culture. Nearby, look for day trips to the Scottish Borders, North Berwick and Stirling, when planning an itinerary.

Things to Do

Edinburgh has a lot of history, culture, and art available to explore, as well as expansive shopping areas. Touring Edinburgh Castle , one of the oldest fortified palaces in Europe, is a must-do for all visitors, as is hiking Arthur's Seat , the highest point in Edinburgh. Another popular attraction is Palace of Holyroodhouse; the Scottish residence of Queen Elizabeth II, it welcomes visitors whenever the British Royal Family is not in town. Here are some of the top things to do during your trip to Edinburgh:

  • Tour The National Art Gallery of Scotland ; consisting of three galleries, this vast art museum showcases works from both Scotland and around the world.
  • Dine at The Kitchin , a renowned Michelin-starred restaurant that highlights local ingredients.
  • Attend the annual Edinburgh Festival Fringe , the world's largest arts festival , to see performances ranging from plays and comedy shows to live music.

For more, explore our full-length articles on the top things to do in Edinburgh and the best museums in Edinburgh . And, be sure to check out our guide to spending 48 hours in the Scottish capital .

Iain Masterton/Getty Images 

What to Eat and Drink

Edinburgh is an international city that boasts cuisine from all over the world, but of course you'll want to experience Scottish fare while visiting. Haggis, a meaty pudding cooked in a sheep's stomach, is Scotland's most famous dish and broadly available around Edinburgh, especially at pubs. Other local dishes include Stornoway black pudding, Cullen skink, Cranachan, and smoked salmon. And if you're wanting to imbibe on Scottish whisky, you can sample it at any number of places, including The Abbey Bar and The Balmoral Whisky Bar .

Because the city is so diverse, travelers will find not just pubs, but also fancy Michelin-starred restaurants, quirky burger joints, and outdoor food stalls. While many restaurants and pubs can be found in the city center, be sure to venture into Leith to try pizza at La Favorita or Scottish-French fusion at Restaurant Martin Wishart .

For more, check out the best restaurants in Edinburgh and our guide to Edinburgh nightlife .

Where to Stay

While each of Edinburgh's 12 neighborhoods is distinctly charming, you might find some more convenient than others depending on your itinerary, Most travelers opt to stay in the city center, which includes the Royal Mile and New Town. Many of the popular hotels, including both chain and boutique options, are located in these two areas alongside the popular attractions and shopping streets. If you prefer to stay somewhere close to the water, look for a hotel or apartment rental in Leith, a cool neighborhood with lots of independent cafés, stores, and bookshops. For something a little off-center, head to Portobello, a seaside resort neighborhood only 20 minutes from central Princes Street. Some iconic Edinburgh hotels include The Balmoral , The Witchery by the Castle , The Royal Scots Club , and Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh .

Read our roundup of the best hotels in Edinburgh to learn more and find the right accommodation for you.

Getting There

Most international travelers arrive in Edinburgh by flying into Edinburgh Airport , a fairly busy airport with one main terminal. The airport services several cities in the U.S., mostly on the East Coast, as well as Europe and the Middle East. It also has numerous flights that connect from London's Heathrow Airport.

Alternatively, you can take a train from London or one of the U.K.'s other large cities; trains operate regularly and arrive at Edinburgh Waverley station. If you're driving, be sure to include a GPS in your rental car to help navigate the unfamiliar roads.

Culture and Customs

Tipping isn't as frequent in Scotland as it is in America, but it's still customary to tip in restaurants or taxis, especially when you receive good service. The typical amount is 10 percent, but you can use your best judgment. In a pub, leave a pound or two when ordering drinks at the bar. And while it may be slightly jarring to some visitors, the legal drinking age in Scotland is 18.

 Joe Daniel Price/Getty Images

Money Saving Tips

  • The best way to save a few bucks is to walk. Edinburgh is a very walkable city and it's central area is compact enough that you shouldn't need a rental car or to take many taxis. Plan out your itinerary to take advantage of walking everywhere you can.
  • Many of the museums offer free entry, including The National Museum of Scotland, The Museum of Childhood, and The Museum on the Mound. Historic cathedrals like St. Giles' Cathedral are also free to enter.
  • Tour the Scottish Parliament for a glimpse inside Scotland's political landscape. It's open to the public six days a week and tours are free.
  • To save money on meals, pay a visit to one of Edinburgh's food markets. The Pitt Market, which takes place every Saturday in Leith, is one of the most popular. Travelers arriving at Waverley Station will also find more than 40 food stalls at Waverley Market @ Platform 2.
  • Two discount attraction passes are available for tourists in Edinburgh: Royal Edinburgh Ticket and Edinburgh City Pass .

Visit Scotland. "Frequently Asked Questions About Scotland."

VisitScotland. "Frequently Asked Questions About Scotland."

This Is Edinburgh. "Edinburgh Fringe Festival."

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35+ Best things to do in Edinburgh (Scotland)

Last updated on November 10, 2023 by Claire Robinson - this article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I get a small commission ( more )

Planning to visit Edinburgh, the magnificent capital of Scotland? History, architecture, culture and 3 hills for amazing views! Below is my guide with the best things to do in Edinburgh and pictures to help you decide what to do.

Before my tips + photos, here are my favorites for Scotland:

edinburgh why visit

My favorite platform to rent a car in Scotland: DiscoverCars

The unmissable boat tour: Seal spotting on Loch Linnhe from Fort William

My favorite excursion from Edinburgh: Glenfinnan and Glencoe

My favorite places to stay:

  • Edinburgh: see best rated hotels – e.g. Balmoral Hotel
  • Glencoe: see best rated hotels – e.g. The Glencoe House Hotel
  • Portree: see best rated hotels – e.g. The Cuillin Hills Hotel
  • Inverness: see best rated hotels – e.g. Kingsmills Hotel

attractions Photos of Edinburgh Scotland travel

Visiting Edinburgh – Video + Top Tips

Why visit edinburgh.

It is the most fascinating town in Scotland: castles, monuments, beautiful parks, historical buildings… And with 3 hills, you can admire wonderful views!

Why visit Edinburgh

Below is a short video, to give you a feel of what it is like to visit Edinburgh and many of the things to do in Edinburgh.

How to get around Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a city that is very walkable. A lot of the points of interest are gathered in the center.

However, one of my favorite ways to discover a city (after walking) is to take a hop on hop off bus. Because it tours all the major highlights, you can sit and enjoy a full loop with explanations and when sitting in the top deck you enjoy great views of the monuments.

I did it in Edinburgh and it was great!

Edinburgh hop on Hop off

Get your 24h or 48h Pass and make the most of your time

Where to stay

I recommend you choose an accommodation in the city center to be able to work anywhere. Check out the best rated accommodations in Edinburgh . See all my suggestions at the end of the article.

  • If you start or finish your Scotland trip in Edinburgh, make sure you do not keep your rental car while in Edinburgh. Parking places are very limited and expensive.
  • Edinburgh is a great city to just walk around
  •  But if you are tired, the hop on hop off busses offer great

Best things to do in Edinburgh – photos & intro

Let’s start with the Edinburgh attractions considered as ‘must-see’. Below are photos and info about the  top attractions with photos of Edinburgh.

#1 – Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh things to do - Castle

Right in the heart of the city, you cannot miss it. Climb the Hill and discover one of the Scottish landmarks: the Edinburgh Castle. From there you can admire the city, explore the medieval city and marvel in front of the crown jewels.

Many photos and practical info on the article dedicated to the Edinburgh Castle

And you can buy your ticket now online to skip the line .

#2 – Royal Mile

Edinburgh attractions - Royal Mile

The spine of the city of Edinburgh is the Royal Mile. This long street takes you from the Castle to the Holyroodhouse palace in the heart of the old town. It is now too touristy for my taste, but the side small passages are interesting to explore.

Many photos and practical info on the article dedicated to the Royal Mile .

#3 – St Giles Cathedral

attractions Edinburgh - St Giles

Located on the Royal Mile, the St Giles Cathedral is not the most beautiful from the outside. But once inside you can admire colorful stained-glass windows, the internal system of the organ and the famous Thistle Chapel.

Many photos and practical info on the article dedicated to the St Giles Cathedral .

#4 – Holyroodhouse Palace

Things to do in Edinburgh - Holyroodhouse palace

The Holyroodhouse Palace is the official residence of the Her Majesty the Queen in Scotland. It is standing at the end of the Royal Mile opposite the Castle. You can visit some of the apartments, the ruins of the Holyrood Abbey and the Royal Gardens.

#5 –  Calton Hill

PLaces to visit in Edinburgh - Calton Hill

Calton Hill is one of the 3 hills in the city. I think it is one of the top things to do in Edinburgh with many monuments of Greek inspiration and incredible views all around.

Many photos and practical info on the article dedicated to Calton Hill .

#6 –  Princes Street Garden

Edinburgh things to do - Princes st gardens

In the heart of Edinburgh, separating the old and new towns, the Princes Street Garden is a great place to escape the busy street and go relax on the grass under the magnificent trees. One of the most relaxing Edinburgh things to do.

#7 –  Royal Botanic Garden

Like many big cities, Edinburgh has its own Botanic Gardens. If you want to escape the narrow streets and dark buildings, head to the Gardens to enjoy the greenery.

#8 – Royal Yacht Britannia

Further from the city of Edinburgh, fans of the Royal family or of ships, can enjoy a visit of the Royal Yacht Britannia.

#9 – Old and New Towns

Edinburgh things to do - Old town New Town

But maybe more than visit all those Edinburgh things to do, my recommendation is to just walk around or take a bus around the city. It definitively has a unique atmosphere.

#10 – Harry Potter locations in Edinburgh

And for the Harry Potter fans, there are many things to do. The most famous location is probably the Elephant House, were J.K. Rowling wrote The Chamber of Secrets and The Prisoner of Azkaban .

The Culturetrip has an article with the top places in Edinburgh for Harry Potter fans .

More photos of Edinburgh Scotland – Best viewpoints

One of the best things to do in Edinburgh is actually to just admire the skyline and façades. The succession of old and narrow facades is intriguing. Here are some of the best spots for the best views of Edinburgh Scotland.

#11 – View from Calton Hill

Best Views of Edinburgh - Calton Hill

Calton Hill is definitively one of the best spots for views of Edinburgh and I think the absolute top 1 Edinburgh things to do. You get clear views all the way to the castle and great front row seat to the Arthur’s seat formation.

#12 – View from behind the information center

Top Views of Edinburgh - City center

Behind the information center and the Waverley Mall, you can see the top of the train station and an unobstructed view of the old town.

#13 – View from Edinburgh Castle

Best Edinburgh Views - Castle

The only thing missing on the view from the Edinburgh castle is the castle itself… But you get beautiful views of the Balmoral Hotel and behind Calton Hill with its many monuments.

#14 – View from Arthur’s Seat & Scott’s Monument

Edinburgh view Arthur Seat

You can also enjoy nice views from the top of Arthur’s Seat after hiking to the top of this volcanic Hill Different trails take you to the top. Plan 2 to 3h. Some climb straight up. Another path goes around with a gentler slope but the end is still steep.

Top Edinburgh Views - Arthur's seat

 #14 – Scott’s Monument

It is also possible to climb to the top of the Scott Monument for more up-close views of the city.

Top Edinburgh Views - Scott monument

I don’t drink coffee

But I also like other drinks and sweets! Do you like the free content you find on my blog? All my tips and practical information, without intrusive advertising…

edinburgh why visit

11 Best Edinburgh Museums

Amongst the Edinburgh things to do are many museums: art, history, astronomy or quirky subjects… Here is a list of the most popular museums in Edinburgh for you to choose from:

Scottish National Library

Fun tours in Edinburgh

There is a lot that you can discover by yourself in Edinburgh, especially with the Hop On Hop Off bus , but you can also explore it with a guide for a more in-depth experience:

  • GHOSTS – Enjoy a Ghost Tour in the Old Town – learn about the legends and stories surrounding the small alleys – See options
  • HARRY POTTER – big fan of the wizard’s stories? Discover all the stops related to JK Rowling and the story of Harry Potter – Check program and price
  • The Boutique Adventurer blogger also recommends the Vault Tours to discover Edinburgh Underground – check out her recommendations

Top Places to visit near Edinburgh

This section has just a few suggestions, you can see my full article with the Top 10-day trips from Edinburgh

Stirling Castle

Places to visit near Edinburgh - Stirling castle

Stirling Castle is similar to Edinburgh castle: an old medieval city on top of a hill. If that is your thing, it is only a 1h to 1H30 drive (depending on traffic). Parking at the top is not free and limited.

Dirleton and Tantallon Castles

Places to visit near Edinburgh - Dirleton and Tantallon

East of Edinburgh, along the coast are 2 fascinating ruins of castles to explore less than 1h drive from the city. Dirleton is a 13th century fortress with lots of rooms to explore while Tantallon is an imposing 14th century structure along the cliffs where you can climb to the top. Many photos and practical info on the articles dedicated to Dirleton Castle and Tantallon Castle .

The Borders Abbeys

Day trips from Edinburgh - Borders

Some of my favorite places to visit near Edinburgh are the Abbeys of the Borders region: Melrose, Jedburgh, Kelso, Dryburgh… My favorite is Jedburgh with all its arches still standing. The loop starts at Melrose, just 1h drive from Edinbrugh.

Many photos and practical info on the articles dedicated to Melrose Abbey and Jedburgh Abbey .

St Andrews day trips from Edinburgh - places to see near Edinburgh

One of the most famous places to visit near Edinburgh is St Andrews and the ruins of the cathedral. Built in 1158, it was the largest church built in Scotland. You need to plan 1h30 driving from Edinburgh.

Blackness Castle

45 minutes East of Edinburgh, along the river Forth, Blackness castle stands on a promontory. Much of what is seen is from the reconstruction during the 16th century. Thanks to its location, the fort has a special atmosphere appreciated by visitors.0

Longer Day Trips from Edinburgh

This section has just a few suggestions, you can see my full article with the Top 10-day trips from Edinburgh .

The Trossachs National Park

road trips from Edinburgh - Trossachs

The Loch Lomond and Trossachs area is the most famous national Park in Scotland. With less than 3-hour drive from Glasgow or Edinburgh, it is a great area to enjoy lochs and mountains in the lower part of the Highlands. You can also enjoy a cruise on Loch Katrine aboard the historical Sir Water Scott Steamboat.

Many photos and practical info on the articles dedicated to Loch Lomond and Loch Katrine .

Cairngorms National Park

road trips from Edinburgh - Cairngorms

You can also head North towards Inverness and drive through the Cairngorms National Park. The Balmoral and Braemar Castles are just a couple of hours drive away but the best part is the scenery and the vast expanses of nature.

Many photos and practical info on the article dedicated to Cairngorms National Park .

road trips from Edinburgh - Glasgow

But if you like cities, you can simply head west to Glasgow and discover a vastly different town. Better to avoid the car, and enjoy a train ride between both centers.

Many photos and practical info on the article dedicated to Glasgow .

Where to stay in Edinburgh – accommodations

  • There are all types of accommodations in Edinburgh. I personally stayed in an Airbnb apartment (see my Scotland Accommodations page)

Here are some of my suggestions for you to have a great stay:

  • First price – Best rated hostel is the High Street Hostel located in the old town – Check photos and prices
  • MID-RANGE – The Inn place will offer you good comfort with a great location in the old town – Check photos and prices
  • APART HOTEL – The Princes Street Suites are close to everything but more modern than the old town. A great combination – Check photos and prices
  • LUXURY and HISTORY – Since 1902, the Balmoral Hotel welcomes guests in Edinburgh – Check photos and prices
  • LUXURY and BEST VIEWS – The Waldorf Astoria The Caledonian offers rooms with an unobstructed view of the Castle and the old town. Amazing to wake up to see it – Check photos and prices
  • and here is a link to the best rated Edinburgh accommodations in Booking.com  for Edinburgh

Planning a trip around Scotland? Check out my eBooks:

Plan your dream trip to Scotland with my guides!

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edinburgh why visit

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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.

Old Town Edinburgh and Edinburgh Castle

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.

Edinburgh Castle

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

Palace of Holyroodhouse and Holyrood Abbey

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

Palace of Holyroodhouse - Floor plan map

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.

Climb to Arthur's Seat and the Salisbury Crags

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.

Royal Yacht Britannia

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

National Museum of Scotland

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

Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

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

Princes Street and Gardens

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.

Camera Obscura & World of Illusions

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

The National Galleries of Scotland

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/

Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art

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

St. Giles Cathedral

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

St.Giles Cathedral - Floor plan map

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.

Museum of Edinburgh

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

Greyfriars Church and Greyfriars Bobby

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

Giant panda at the Edinburgh Zoo

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

The Museum of Childhood

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

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

The Real Mary King's Close

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

John Knox House

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 Museum

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.

Edinburgh Map - Tourist Attractions

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Must-see attractions in Edinburgh

Looking up the hill at Edinburgh Castle. Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle has played a pivotal role in Scottish history, both as a royal residence – King Malcolm Canmore (r 1058–93) and Queen Margaret first made…

Bell on the Roal Yacht Britannia.

Royal Yacht Britannia

Built on Clydeside, the former Royal Yacht Britannia was the British Royal Family's floating holiday home during their foreign travels from the time of…

Detail of main facade of Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art.

Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art

Edinburgh's gallery of modern art is split between two impressive neoclassical buildings surrounded by landscaped grounds some 500m west of Dean Village…

edinburgh why visit

Scottish Parliament Building

Holyrood & Arthur’s Seat

The Scottish Parliament Building, on the site of a former brewery and designed by Catalan architect Enric Miralles (1955–2000), was opened by the Queen in…

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Royal Botanic Garden

Edinburgh's Royal Botanic Garden is the second-oldest institution of its kind in Britain (after Oxford), and one of the most respected in the world…

Palace of Holyroodhouse

This palace is the royal family's official residence in Scotland but is more famous as the 16th-century home of the ill-fated Mary, Queen of Scots. The…

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Arthur's Seat

The rocky peak of Arthur’s Seat (251m), carved by ice sheets from the deeply eroded stump of a long-extinct volcano, is a distinctive feature of Edinburgh…

Real Mary King's Close

Edinburgh's 18th-century City Chambers were built over the sealed-off remains of Mary King's Close, and the lower levels of this medieval Old Town alley…

National Museum of Scotland

Elegant Chambers St is dominated by the long facade of the National Museum of Scotland. Its extensive collections are spread between two buildings: one…

Surgeons' Hall Museums

Housed in a grand Ionic temple designed by William Playfair in 1832, these three fascinating museums were originally established as teaching collections…

Scottish National Portrait Gallery

The Venetian Gothic palace of the Scottish National Portrait Gallery is one of the city's top attractions. Its galleries illustrate Scottish history…

Princes Street Gardens

These beautiful gardens lie in a valley that was once occupied by the Nor’ Loch (North Loch), a boggy depression that was drained in the early 19th…

Looking down across Dr Neil's Garden and Duddingston Loch

Dr Neil's Garden

Edinburgh’s quintessential secret garden, in the shadow of a 12th-century kirk, is one of the most peaceful green spaces in Scotland. Cultivated in the…

Lauriston Castle, parts of which date back to the 15th century

Lauriston Castle

Lauriston Castle has one of the most remarkable Edwardian interiors in Scotland, with elements dating back to the 16th century. Gifted to the nation in…

Edinburgh Zoo

Opened in 1913, Edinburgh Zoo is one of the world's leading conservation zoos. Edinburgh's captive breeding program has helped save many endangered…

St Gile's Cathedral on the Royal Mile.

St Giles Cathedral

The great grey bulk of St Giles Cathedral dates largely from the 15th century, but much of it was restored in the 19th century. One of the most…

National Gallery of Scotland, The Mound.

Scottish National Gallery

Designed by William Playfair, this imposing classical building with its Ionic porticoes dates from 1850. Its octagonal rooms, lit by skylights, have been…

Cramond Anti Submarine Defences.

With its moored yachts, stately swans and whitewashed houses spilling down the hillside at the mouth of the River Almond, Cramond is the most picturesque…

Monument to Dugald Stewart on Calton Hill.

Calton Hill

Calton Hill (100m), which rises dramatically above the eastern end of Princes St, is Edinburgh's acropolis, its summit scattered with grandiose memorials…

EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND - MARCH 19:  Members of the public view the Diageo Claive Vidiz Collection, the world's largest collection of Scottish Whisky on display at The Scotch Whisky Experience on March 19, 2014 in Edinburgh, Scotland. Chancellor of the Exchequer, George Osborne announced today in his final budget before the Scottish independence referendum, that duty on Scotch whisky is to be frozen.  (Photo by Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images)

Scotch Whisky Experience

A former school houses this multimedia centre that takes you through the making of whisky, from barley to bottle, in a series of exhibits, demonstrations…

Gorgie City Farm

Gorgie City Farm

A working community smallholding with a range of farm animals (including woolly pigs!), a wildlife garden, a play park, a mini farm shop, and a pet lodge…

The Tron Kirk on the Royal Mile.

Built in 1637 and taking its name from the tron (public weighbridge) that once stood on the site, this church is famous for its magnificent oak hammer…

Outside the entrance to Edinburgh Sculpture Workshop

Edinburgh Sculpture Workshop

This state-of-the-art building located on an old railway siding is the first purpose-built centre dedicated to sculpture in the UK. There are regular…

The shop and gallery at Dovecot Studios

Dovecot Studios

A world-class tapestry studio and contemporary arts-and-crafts centre housed in what was once Edinburgh’s oldest public baths, Dovecot has a remarkable…

500px Photo ID: 105478949 - Sunrise taken in early spring from Blackford Hill in Edinburgh...You can buy prints or licence images on my website:.<a href="http://www.philipcormack.com/Photography/Edinburgh-Pictures/Classic-Edinburgh/i-jLHZfP6">Philip Cormack Photography</a>

Blackford Hill

A patch of countryside enclosed by the city’s southern suburbs, craggy Blackford Hill (164m) offers pleasant walking and splendid views. The panorama to…

Grassmarket

The site of a cattle market from the 15th century until the start of the 20th century, the Grassmarket has always been a focal point of the Old Town. It…

Greyfriars Bobby Statue

Probably the most popular photo opportunity in Edinburgh, the life-size statue of Greyfriars Bobby, a Skye terrier who captured the hearts of the British…

Royal Scottish Academy

This Greek Doric temple, with its northern pediment crowned by a seated figure of Queen Victoria, is the home of the Royal Scottish Academy. Designed by…

Greyfriars Kirkyard

Greyfriars Kirkyard is one of Edinburgh's most evocative cemeteries, a peaceful green oasis dotted with elaborate monuments. Many famous Edinburgh names…

City Chambers

The imposing Georgian City Chambers, home to the City of Edinburgh Council, were originally built by John Adam (brother of Robert) between 1753 and 1761…

Greyfriars Kirk

One of Edinburgh's most famous churches, Greyfriars Kirk was built on the site of a Franciscan friary and opened for worship on Christmas Day 1620…

Old Calton Burial Ground

One of Edinburgh’s many atmospheric old cemeteries, Old Calton is dominated by the tall black obelisk of the Political Martyrs’ Monument, which…

Craigmillar Castle

If you want to explore a Scottish fortress away from the crowds that throng Edinburgh Castle, try Craigmillar. Dating from the 15th century, the tower…

Canongate Kirkyard

The attractive curved gable of the Canongate Kirk, built in 1688, overlooks a kirkyard that contains the graves of several famous people, including…

St Andrew Square

Though not as architecturally distinguished as its sister Charlotte Sq, at the opposite end of George St, St Andrew Sq is dominated by the fluted column…

Duddingston Kirk

Poised on a promontory overlooking Duddingston Loch, this church is one of the oldest buildings in Edinburgh, with some interesting medieval relics at the…

People's Story

One of the surviving symbols of the Canongate district's former independence is the Canongate Tolbooth. Built in 1591, it served successively as a…

Holyrood Abbey

David I founded this abbey in the shadow of Salisbury Crags in 1128. It was probably named after a fragment of the True Cross (rood is an old Scots word…

Our Dynamic Earth

Housed in a modernistic white marquee, Our Dynamic Earth is an interactive, multimedia journey of discovery through Earth's history from the Big Bang to…

Museum of Edinburgh

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edinburgh why visit

OUR CROSSINGS

Travel and photography blog

8 Incredible Reasons Why You Should Visit Edinburgh At Least Once

edinburgh why visit

Last Updated on the 3rd of March, 2024

A great destination for a day trip or a longer holiday, Edinburgh has a lot to offer in terms of things to do and sights to see. The city is especially appealing to those seeking architectural beauty, curious landmarks , and immersion in the Scottish way to be .

When it comes to things to do in the capital city, you’re really only limited by your imagination – the historic part of Edinburgh is filled with many charming street scenes. The medieval Old Town will win you over with its quaint Scottish pubs and bars, narrow, winding streets and centuries-old buildings.

There is always a huge amount going on to welcome and entertain visitors from all over the world, so join me on a tour around Edinburgh’s best bits and discover eight of the many reasons to visit Scotland’s capital city.

Read More: Some Of The Best Things To See At The National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh

edinburgh why visit

#1. Edinburg’s Art Scene

Home to the biggest art festival in the world, and many unique contemporary Art Galleries, Edinburgh’s art scene is truly incredible and ahead of the game .

Visit the National Portrait Gallery where you’ll find masterpieces from Turner, Rembrandt and Botticelli, and a huge selection of portraits of Scots. It’s filled with various artists and you could easily spend hours wandering around not only looking at the art but also amazing details of the building itself.

Many contemporary art galleries around the city showcase the best and brightest work in Scotland and beyond. Here are a few worth checking out:

  • Arusha Gallery – The Arusha Gallery prides itself on exhibiting beautiful images and objects covering a range of mediums, including architecture, theatre design, and cinematography, as well as music and literature.
  • Fruitmarket Gallery – Located in the centre of the city, the Fruitmarket Gallery showcases the work of some of the world’s most renowned contemporary artists. Admission is free, with the gallery stating that it wants to provide visitors with an intimate encounter at no cost.
  • Dovecot Studios – This century-old tapestry studio is set in the heart of Edinburgh and comes with a rich history. Today, it works with a range of contemporary tapestry artists, who create rugs and textiles for exhibitions and private collections.

Read More: Your Guide To Some Of The Best Edinburgh’s Neighbourhoods

edinburgh why visit

#2. The Incredible Architecture

Edinburgh is recognised around the world for its beautiful architecture .

Century-old castles, cobbled streets and old houses make the city a truly unique and one-of-a-kind experience if you are an architecture lover.

You can Admire St Giles Cathedral which dates back to 1124, visit the oldest part of Edinburgh Castle, St Margaret’s Cathedral or be in awe of the Gothic architecture at Scott’s Monument, affectionately dubbed the Gothic Rocket by Edinburgh natives.

  • Wander around Royal Mile and make sure you explore the enclosed courtyards with some of the quirkiest and oldest buildings in the city like Tweedale Court dating back to 1576 which you can recognise from Outlander was the location of the bustling marketplace visited by Clare and Jamie.
  • Take a walk around New Town which was built out of necessity due to the overcrowding of the Old Town to see an asymmetrical arrangement of wide streets and row after row of Georgian buildings with wrought-iron balconies , attic room windows, balustrades and fanlights.

You’ll see that most of the buildings in New Town are made from white sandstone and once were the homes of the elite, with doctors and lawyers residing here.

Step inside a former bank building on George Street, now a Wetherspoons pub to admire its ceiling, make sure you wander around the most stunning streets, designed by Gillespie Graham – Moray Place and check out Thistle Court.

Read More: What To See And Do In Edinburgh: 12 Amazing Ideas For The First Time Visitors

edinburgh why visit

#3. The thriving food & drink scene

The Scottish capital is one of Europe’s most award-winning cities from a culinary standpoint , and with its long history and contemporary flair, Edinburgh offers a plethora of gastronomic experiences to choose from.

Local restaurants are moving with the times and embracing the fine regional produce on offer.  Scotland’s capital city also boasts an impressive range of dining options with more restaurants per head than any other city in the UK. This includes five Michelin-starred restaurants – second only to London.

First-time travellers should try the traditional dishes that are a source of Scottish pride such as Scotch Pie, potato Scone or Lorne Sausage.

And don’t forget to try haggis , a warm meaty dish made from sheep pluck, which, is banned in the US, but in Scotland, it’s a fine-dining treat.

Read More: Top 11 Things To Do In Edinburgh This Autumn That Are Good For Your Soul

edinburgh why visit

#4. Haunted Places

Edinburgh has long been associated with supernatural spectres and ghost sightings .

Taking part in a walking tour is one of the best ways to find out about the gruesome tales that have been passed down through the generations.

While most of them are more myths than hard facts, it’s a great way to understand more about the city.

Visit Greyfriars Kirkyard, often described as “one of the scariest places on earth” and “Scotland’s most haunted cemetery,” which contains the Covenanters’ Prison and the tombstone of Thomas Riddell Esquire, the real inspiration behind a famous Harry Potter villain, Voldemort.

You can also take a tour of the  Edinburgh Vaults to see the series of chambers under the South Bridge, which dates back to the 1700s. Having been home to notorious criminals, as well as the poorest within society, the vaults are rife with legends and paranormal activity.

Read More: A Short Guide To The Best Attractions Along The Royal Mile In Edinburgh

edinburgh why visit

#5. Authentic Scottish Culture

What is it that makes the Scots Scottish? Is it the clans, the beautiful landscape, the bagpipes or is it whisky?

Scotland’s culture can be traced back almost a thousand years and it’s just as alive today as it has ever been.

Whether you choose to see traditional Scottish Highland and ceilidh dancing, experience the breath-taking reality of a hundred pipers skirling in uplifting unison or marvel at Victorian tenements, Edinburgh won’t let you leave without experiencing a sizeable dose of good old Scottish culture.

To experience true Scottish culture, you can take part in many cultural events such as:

  • Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo – a spectacular show of military bands, dancing and piping performances, set against the unforgettable backdrop of Edinburgh Castle.
  • Burns Night – every year on January 25th annual celebration of Robert Burns’ life takes place in venues around the city.
  • The  Loony Dook  – on New Year’s Day, thousands of people don fancy dresses and make their way down to the Firth of Forth River. The costumed crowd of people then plunge themselves into the freezing waters.

Read More: Your Essential Guide To Planning The Best Edinburgh Holiday In Scotland

edinburgh why visit

#6. Edinburgh’s Museums

If you are looking for a fun day out that includes history, culture and adventure all in one, you should check out one of the many excellent museums in Edinburgh.

The city has museums which celebrate everything from childhood and money to famous local authors and notorious graverobbers.

  • The National Museum of Scotland  underwent an extensive refurbishment which restored the original splendour of a Grade A listed Victorian building and introduced new, modern detailing such as cast-iron balconies and a soaring glass roof which, together, create an awe-inspiring ‘birdcage’ structure.
  • Head to St Cecilia’s Hall & Music Museum which is a  concert hall that is also home to one of the most important historic musical instrument collections in the world. While the Concert Room regularly hosts concerts, the Music Museum has 400 instruments from across the globe.
  • Edinburgh is proud of its writing and publishing heritage, and it has a museum celebrating the lives of some of its leading literary lights. The Writers Museum , accessed via the Makar’s Court, is a museum dedicated to the lives of Sir Walter Scott, Robert Louis Stevenson and Robert Burns.

Read More: The Perfect Road Trip Itinerary For A Spellbinding 5 Days In Scotland

edinburgh why visit

#7. Edinburgh Festivals

There are 12 big festivals held in Edinburgh every year, and the biggest event is The Edinburgh Festival Fringe .

Edinburgh’s population swells to more than double when people come from all over the world for the summer festivals. During August, everything from small side-street venues to large concert halls brims with artists and festival-goers. This is because Edinburgh is home to the world’s largest arts festival – the Festival Fring e !

Established in 1947, the Fringe has become a world-class cultural event, taking place annually, over August and drawing artists and visitors from all around the world. The festival’s open access policy allows anyone to participate and the shows range from comedy to dance to theatre to music and much more.

Hogmanay , which is the Scottish word for the last day of the year or New Year’s Eve , is also an amazing time of year to visit Edinburgh when the world’s biggest celebrations take place and play host to some of the world’s biggest parties! It dates back to 1993 and has evolved to become one of the greatest outdoor celebrations of New Year’s Eve in the world, lasting for about 3 days.

edinburgh why visit

#8. The Fascinating Scottish History

Edinburgh has a rich history that dates back to the 7th century AD. Every street in the city is crammed with character , and there are so many hidden nooks and crannies that you’ll never be short of surprises. 

Being over 900 hundred years old and brooding atop an impressive 700 million-year-old extinct volcano called Castle Rock Edinburgh Castle is the most sieged castle in all of Europe . It’s where Mary Queen of Scots gave birth to her only child and it’s a place brimming with history.

This iconic symbol of Scotland is a must-see on a trip to the city as it is a great place to start in understanding the region’s rich history. As you walk around its many rooms and corridors, don’t be surprised if you sense eerie vibes or hear ghosty whispers – Edinburgh Castle is one of  Scotland’s most haunted places.

edinburgh why visit

#9. Well Maintained Green Spaces

With an abundance of city centre gardens and local parks, it’s safe to say that nature abounds in the Scottish capital, and if you are an outdoors person, there are lots of green spaces you can visit as well as a distinct volcano known as Arthur’s Seat you can climb during your visit.

The location is featured in many books and films including T2 Trainspotting and One Day. It is relatively easy to climb and there are different routes, depending on ability level. The fastest ascent is from the east, where a slope rises above Dunsapie Loch.

The International Green Flag Award, the equivalent of a Blue Flag Award for beaches, is granted to parks around Scotland that enable exercise and benefit mental well-being, as well as provide a safe space for playing.

In 2019, the Capital impressively scooped the largest number of green flags of any local authority in Scotland, which were welcomed news to all the outstanding parks staff and communities who look after one of Edinburgh’s most treasured assets.

edinburgh why visit

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Now, over to you!

Have you been to Edinburgh?  Let us know in the comments below!

Let us know if you are plotting a visit to Edinburgh and have travel-related questions.

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78 thoughts on “ 8 Incredible Reasons Why You Should Visit Edinburgh At Least Once ”

A very persuasive list! I’ve been to Edinburgh a number of times and concur with your suggestions.

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Thanks so much, Sheree 🙂 Scotland’s capital is one of the most stunning cities in the world and there’s so much to see and do – from its imposing castle to the otherworldly setting of Cramond Beach. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva

Pleasure Aiva

I was in Edinburgh in August 2020. It’s lovely! 😊

I am glad to hear you’ve been to Edinburgh. In my humble opinion, it is an amazing city to explore and photograph. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva

Yes. It’s amazing. You are welcome, Aiva 😊

One of my sons used to be a student in Edinburgh, so I visited a couple times in those years. Among other things, we went to an opera performance at the Festival Theatre. https://operasandcycling.com/opera-in-edinburgh/

An opera performance at the Festival Theatre must have been an amazing experience. Thanks for sharing the link, I look forward to reading your post about it. From what I’ve heard, Edinburgh is the perfect backdrop for a brilliant student experience. The city is full of things to do, with daily events in comedy, theatre, literature, film, dance, music, sporting events and so much more there’s a never-ending choice of places to unwind with friends after a hard day’s study. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva

A good list that is hard to deny from the city of my heritage. We have been lucky enough to visit twice and it never disappoints. The city of Edmonton near us has the 2nd largest Fringe Festival ion the world. Only Edinburgh’s is larger. Have a happy week Aiva. Allan

I love its spectacular collection of medieval and classic architecture, including numerous stone decorations. This is the very reason for people calling it the liveliest city in Europe. I was fortunate to experience the Fringe for three consecutive years and I can safely say, it’s a festival unlike any other. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva

I lived in Edinburgh for a year, it’s a fabulous city. So much history and so much to do and yet the hills, beach and villages are just a stones throw away.

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Living in Edinburgh is an experience unlike any other. I was fortunate enough to live there for a few years too, and I found that one of the wonders of living in Edinburgh is its intimate atmosphere. In its suburbs, in particular, it feels more like a friendly, cosy village than a sprawling metropolis. The central areas lie close to one another, and it’s a great city to get around on foot. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva

Great list! I’ve visited a few times over the years but never for long enough to fully immerse myself in its history – I’d love to go back. The vantage point of that last photo is stunning!

Thank you very much, Casey! From the atmospheric cobbled streets of the Old Town to the beautiful Georgian avenues of the New Town, Edinburgh is a city of contrasts blending shopping, historic attractions, gardens and plenty of restaurants and cafes where you can relax. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

I just love visiting Edinburgh and never tire of the city whatever the season. Whenever we are visiting around Christmas we like to have lunch in The Dome in George Street as a special treat and to marvel at its magnificent interior and beautiful decorations. A great list with lots of good suggestions of things to see and do Aiva. Have a good week. Marion xx

Same here, Marion! I’ve been revisiting Edinburgh for the past decade and still find plenty of things to see and do. Having lunch at the Dome is an experience to remember, especially around Christmas time when the venue is decorated and the tree is up. It’s a truly spectacular sight to see. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

It’s high on my list, even more so now!

I am glad to hear you would be interested in visiting Edinburgh. Edinburgh’s stunning cityscape is one of the dramatic contrasts. From the refined elegance of the New Town to the Old Town’s tangled web of medieval streets, these two complementary parts of the city offer visitors an ever-changing perspective alongside countless fascinating historical and cultural attractions. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva

That’s a great summary of reasons to visit Edinburgh. We will be visiting this spring, so we are definitely saving and revisiting all of your wonderful articles about the city. I love haggis, so I am quite happy to dive into authentic Scottish cuisine. The Dome, however, sounds more like Sladja’s place. We also love to walk around cemeteries, so the haunted graveyard will surely be on our list.

Hi, Leighton! I am glad to hear you are planning on visiting Edinburgh soon! I am also gal to hear that I am not the only one who’s fascinated by graveyards – in Edinburgh, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to old and haunted cemeteries. I find that there’s no better way to grasp a city’s history than to tour its churchyards and cemeteries. From the Soldiers’ Dog Cemetery and the Mackenzie poltergeist of Greyfriars Kirkyard to the Canongate Kirk where Robert Burns’ famous mistress Clarinda is buried, you are sure to have a memorable time exploring the city’s burial grounds, and I can’t wait to read all about it. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva

I haven’t been to Edinburgh since I was a kid. Your guide has piqued my interest, with it’s history and Scottish charm. Maggie

Edinburgh’s bustling city centre is a sight to behold offering visitors an extraordinary blend of shopping and fascinating historical and cultural attractions alongside magnificent architecture. We are fortunate to live nearby – it only takes 40 minutes to get there from Ireland West Airport which means I can easily catch an early morning flight, meet my friends for lunch, visit a few museums and be back home by 9 pm. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

Looks like you tacked on an extra point for Edinburgh…more of a reason to go! My two-night stay in the Scottish capital hardly did the city justice, so I’ll need to make a return someday!

Thanks so much, Rebecca 🙂 Edinburgh’s city centre ranks as one of the most handsome in Europe. With its elegant streets set against the dramatic silhouette of Edinburgh Castle and the medieval turrets and spires of the Old Town, Edinburgh’s city centre offers visitors an exciting fusion of shopping, dining and architectural splendour. I hope you get to return one day 🙂 Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

Well I’m convinced that I need to visit Edinburgh. The architecture really does look beautiful and oh so charming. It would be neat to participate in the Hogmanay festivities.

Thank you kindly, Linda 🙂 Edinburgh is recognised around the world for its beautiful architecture, from the medieval characteristics of the Old Town to the classical Georgian New Town and more recent developments like the Quartermile and New Waverly Arches and they are all a sight to behold 🙂 I hope you get to visit Edinburgh one day 🙂 Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

I’ve never been, but each one of your Edinburgh posts always reminds me that I need to add this to a future itinerary.

You would love to explore Edinburgh, Diana 🙂 Edinburgh is small for a capital, which means there’s a real village feel here. With a towering castle overlooking the city as well as the cobbled-stoned streets of the Royal Mile, Edinburgh is also the perfect blend of old and new – a city full of adventure waiting to be discovered around every corner. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva

What a great number of reasons to visit – I am particularly taken with Edinburgh’s architecture and museums, plus I never say no to a nice meal and lots of wine 🙂 It really is such a beautiful city and your photos capture that.

Thanks so much 🙂 One of the main reasons why I love visiting Edinburgh is its variety of museums and galleries. It’s one of the things I miss the most on Ireland’s West Coast. In Edinburgh, you’re spoilt for choice by the enormous range of museums located in and around the city centre, easily accessible on foot. There are more than enough to keep you busy for days on end, whether you’re into art, science, history museums or all three, the city has all you could want and more. You might also be surprised at just how many free museums Edinburgh is home to. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

It’s a city that has everything, isn’t it? And if the weather’s kind, what a bonus!

Thanks so much, Jo 🙂 Edinburgh truly is an astonishing city when it comes to the comforting atmosphere it provides. With its old historic buildings, small alleys, cosy pubs and Cafés, it feels like home…away from home. And no matter where you are from, with so many nationalities present, you will never be alone. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

Thanks darlin! We are just recovering from our UK trip 🤗💟

I hope you had a great trip 😘

Your love of Edinburgh is evident in your writing. I’ll skip the haggis, but yes to everything else! 🙂

I don’t think I can hide it anymore. There is just something about Edinburgh that constantly pulls me back. I think the process of learning to love a city is a lot like learning to love another human: It doesn’t always happen right away. Sometimes you’re not sure. But if you’re patient, persistent, and willing to be a little bit vulnerable, you might just fall head over heels. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva

I love Edinburgh, we went in 2019 and it’s one of my favorite memories! We did a ghost tour that was a lot of fun, my favorite was exploring the castle.

I am so glad to hear you had a fantastic time in Edinburgh! Thanks to its spectacular rocks, rustic buildings and a huge collection of medieval and classic architecture, including numerous stone decorations, it is one of the most stunning cities in Europe! Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

A great list Aiva, although I’ve not been there, reading your post has left me wanting to visit. Take good care and all the best!

Thanks so much, Francisco. Many different cultures, nationalities and ethnicities are melting together and creating the unique multicultural vibe of Edinburgh. Reflected in the diverse art scene, infamous Festivals, vibrant fairs and markets the city deserves its title “the beating heart of Scotland”. No matter where you are from, or when you come to visit, there is always something going on. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

Sounds like a smashing good place indeed! You’re very welcome Aiva, it is always such a pleasure to learn from your posts. All the best, Francis

Nice! Planning to visit Edinburgh too!

Thanks so much. You would love it as Edinburgh is not only one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, it is a city with a fantastic position. The view falls on all sides – green hills, the hint of the blue sea, the silhouettes of the buildings and the red cliffs. It is a city that calls you to explore it by foot – narrow streets, passageways, stairs and hidden churchyards on every step will pull you away from the main streets. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva

Oh, I’ve read so many times about Scotland’s capital city, Edinburgh … and your post is just reiterating how beautiful it really is 😊. Lovely picture of the Edinburgh Castle at night, as well as The Dome. It’s truly a city with a rich history (wow, over 900 years old)! Thanks for all the exciting info and beautiful pictures!

Thanks so much, Corna. Edinburgh still remains one of my favourite cities! A visit here will be well worth it, considering the numerous things you can do and see. Most of the structures in the Old Town have remained in their original form over the years. Charming medieval relics are plenty in this section of the city. In contrast, orderly Georgian terraces line the streets of the New Town. The general urban scenery is a blend of ancient structures and modern architecture, which gives the city a unique character. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

Magnificent Edinburgh. So much beautiful surprises. Thank you for such a wonderful adventure. Motivates me to travel again outside the U.S. Have a happy weekend my friend. Blessings to you and your family.

Thanks so much 🙂 Edinburgh is a beautiful city filled with stunning geology. Its diverse landscape is worth seeing, as it transforms from the volcanic Pentland Hills in the south to the seaside resort of Portobello in the East. To get a birds-ey view of the city, you can scale Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano, which is one of the most popular attractions. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day. I hope all is well with you and your family. Sending you warm greetings from Ireland 🙂 Aiva xx

It’s absolutely beautiful! Definitely lots of reasons to visit it, except the haunted places (for me) 😆 but I guess everything has it’s fashion! ☺️

Thanks so much, Ribana. Edinburgh is nothing short of a picture-perfect postcard when it comes to pretty city skylines and dramatic sweeping views. If there’s one thing, I haven’t tried yet, it’s the famous ghost tours, I just can’t bring myself to do it! On our last trip, I tried to persuade my husband to join a tour, after all, Edinburgh is often considered one of the most haunted cities in the entire world — and anyone who has been will be hard-pressed to argue, but he refused! Maybe next time. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva

What a beautiful place to visit.

Thank you kindly 🙂 The proud Scottish capital boasts stunning architecture, endless winding streets, full of flowers, and majestic castles. You can take a stroll through the city and be charmed by its own blend of tradition and modernity. Outside the city, incredible nature awaits, which you simply mustn’t miss. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva

The year I was there for Hogmanay, we didn’t know about Loony Dook. Wish I had known!

Given how cold and miserable it is in Scotland in January, it always amazes me that there are plenty of hardy souls who brave the elements to take part in this annual tradition by dressing up in the wackiest outfits they can find, marching through the streets of South Queensferry and then throwing themselves into the Firth of Forth. The cold water would for sure cure a hangover. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva

They’ve probably been out most of the night and, yes, fighting a hangover! Oh well, it’s only once a year. 😆

Loved exploring Edinburg through your blog. A lovely, comprehensive list! Hope I get to see all the wonderful places you describe😀

Thanks so much and I hope you get to visit Edinburgh one day as the beautiful capital of Scotland has plenty to offer. The hub of attraction provides exciting events and welcomes visitors all year round. In winter snow often covers the historic architecture, which can be observed from various hills surrounding the city. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva

You describe it so beautifully. You have a great day too😀

I would LOVE Edinburgh, thanks for showing the best!

Thank you, Glenys! Yes, you would love Edinburgh as the Scottish capital is a centre of culture and the arts, and is especially well-known for its festivals. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

Exciting adventure lists. So many magnificent discoveries, Art, Architecture, culture. A dream travel indeed. Thank for sharing Europe through your eyes and experience. I hope to see some of these one day. Thanks. Take care.

Thanks so much 🙂 Edinburgh, a magical city with winding cobblestone streets, medieval castles, and colourful shops that inspired the Harry Potter books is a must-visit for anyone interested in history, lovely architecture, and culture. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

I’ve been several times and your list is spot-on, Aiva. Next time I will check out the haunted aspect of the city, which I have not done. Great post! Alisa

Thanks so much, Alisa. The haunted aspects of the city are something I cannot bring myself to explore deeper; the graveyards are spooky enough during the daytime and so are the little alleyways! The last time we were in Edinburgh, I tried to persuade my husband to go on a ghost tour, but he refused! Maybe one day. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

I’ve been several times and your list is spot on. Next trip I will check out the haunted aspect, which I have not done. Great post! Alisa

They say that Edinburgh Underground Vaults are one of the spookiest places to see and during your visit, you can learn about murders, witches and the people who inhabited this scary place ( if you are brave enough, of course)

I’ve always wanted to visit Scotland! Thank you for this post I’ll definitely make it my reference 😍

I hope you get to visit Scotland one day as the rolling countryside, bustling cities, icy mountain peaks and charming villages all combine to provide an excellent destination for your cottage holiday in the UK, whether you’re looking for an action-packed break, a cultural adventure or a relaxing retreat. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

Beautiful post! I really want to finally visit Edinburgh this year

Thanks so much, Aida 🙂 There are plenty of exciting things to do in Edinburgh, from stunning architecture and endless winding streets to an awe-inspiring castle perched on a dormant volcano. By day you can admire artworks in galleries and treasured wonders in museums, and by night you can enjoy tours, musical and theatre performances, or find your favourite dram in a charming whisky pub. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

I enjoyed so much reading your posts about Edinburgh since I am visiting next month for the first time and I am looking forward to discover it

Wow, that’s fantastic! I hope you had a wonderful time in the city. I have to pop over to your blog to see if you wrote about your trip. Have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

I loved Edinburgh so much when I went last December! It was so cold but so special and just a stunning city.

I am glad to hear you enjoyed Edinburgh despite the cold weather. I lived in the city for three years and had a chance to experience three Scottish winters. I still remember those bitterly cold early mornings as I was rushing to work, eager to escape the biting frost. Nevertheless, it’s that time of the year when the atmosphere transforms into a magical playground with the pleasant smell of yuletide treats infusing the air, telling you that Christmas is around the corner. Thanks for stopping by, and have a wonderful day 🙂 Aiva xx

Thank you for sharing this wonderful article: I visited Edinburgh more than once, and every time I was totally fascinated by it❣️❣️❣️

Imagine a beautiful city spread across seven hills. Add an enchanting history, an unparalleled culture and a creative population. The result is Edinburgh, Scotland’s bustling, picturesque capital. Thanks for stopping by, and have wonderful day 🙂 Aiva xx

Thank you very much for this very kind reply, dear Aiva 💞

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Why is Edinburgh so famous?

Why is Edinburgh so famous?

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Located in southeastern Scotland , Edinburgh is a preferred destination for many travelers all around the world. Apart from being the country’s capital, the city has plenty of other features that make it attractive to visitors. If you’re considering which place to put next on your itinerary list, we truly believe this is well worth the trip. So, in this blog, we’ll answer “Why is Edinburgh so famous?” and hopefully inspire your next travel plan!

Why is Edinburgh so famous?

So, why is Edinburgh so famous?

As we said, many things make Edinburgh, Scotland, so timelessly popular. From its rich heritage and historic castles to cobblestone streets, magnificent architecture, and so much more, visiting this gem at least once in your life is a must. Apart from its rich legacy, people also love to come here to witness the world-famous festivals and whisky walks. And, of course, who hasn’t heard about the stoic Edinburgh castle ? The uphill palace dominated both the earthly and celestial realms. 

Edinburgh Hop on Hop off bus

Below are the top reasons why you should plan your next adventure here!

Top reasons why you should visit Edinburgh

  • Fascinating history

This city’s history dates back to Roman times. It used to be a battleground which has now so magnificently risen into a world-famous metropolis. Here, you will discover many museums and historic sites that will help you learn more about the country’s rich heritage. 

Underground walking tour of Edinburgh

  • Incredible architecture

Apart from the infamous Edinburgh Castle , the city can boast many other architectural marvels. Just a short walk down the Royal Mile and through the Old Town, you’ll witness a medley of styles that blend together oddly, but seamlessly. Some of the best places to visit are St Margaret’s Cathedral, St Giles Cathedral, Scott’s Monument, and more.

Edinburgh Old Town

  • Delicious food

If you’ve never had Scottish food before, Edinburgh, Scotland is the best place to have a taste. Apart from the popular whisky, the Scottish are also known for their delicious meals. From cozy bakeries, pubs , and steakhouses, to one of the UK’s best Michelin-star restaurants, there is a great blend of textures and taste that will leave you breathless. 

Edinburgh Food and drink tour

  • Nightlife and festivals 

If you thought Edinburgh is one of those dull historic places, you are most certainly wrong, the city is home to underground bars, fun nightclubs, and traditional Scottish pubs , as well as many seasonal and annual festivals. This ensures you’ll be having a great time after a day spent learning about its cultural heritage.

Finally, we come to the most important reason why Edinburgh is so famous, its people . Scots are known for being some of the most vibrant and passionate humans, known for their generous welcome and hospitality. Their friendly and kind character will surely make you feel like you’re in a home away from home. In fact, we are quite sure no one has left Edinburgh without at least one new friendship made!

Sean Connery’s Edinburgh: A Captivating City Built for the Silver Screen

We hope that this blog answers why Edinburgh is so famous, inspiring you to plan your trip to Edinburgh Scotland as soon as you can. And if you want to learn more about this magnificent city, we invite you to read the other blogs we have on the website!

What’s the Most Beautiful Spot in Edinburgh?

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Planning a trip to Edinburgh? In Introducingedinburgh.com you’ll find all the necessary and up to date information on the best places to visit in the city, where to stay or the top neighbourhoods to go out for dinner and a night out , among a lot more interesting facts and figures. 

Edinburgh Travel Guide

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  • Getting around Edinburgh
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  • 2-Day Edinburgh Itinerary

Why visit Edinburgh?

Scotland’s capital is one of the most unique and memorable cities in Europe . Edinburgh has a rare charm with narrow and cobbled passageways , called closes in Scots . The town is also known for its dark corners where terrifying events have taken place , its majestic buildings and gardens , countless fascinating museums , which are free to visit,  and, especially, the city's  kind and open locals . All the above-mentioned make this city a favorite among those who have seen it.

Edinburgh is fondly known as “Auld Reekie,”  which means “Old Smokey” in Scots. This is because of all the smoke and chimneys the city had in the past, creating smog over the city. The weather in Edinburgh is normally rainy and windy , but far from being an inconvenience, the bitter weather gives the town an extra charm, creating a mysterious and somber atmosphere.

The capital has a unique radiance when the rays of sun stream through the clouds, and when the night falls, the ghosts that refuse to leave Edinburgh  come out to haunt the streets and buildings while guides accompany curious tourists to see crypts, alleyways, and graveyards to discover the mysteries that besiege the heart of the city.

As well as countless ghost stories, Edinburgh also offers its visitors and locals a wide variety of attractions, including museums , most of which are free. Tourists can also visit a whisky distillery and learn how Scotland’s national drink is made in   the   Scotch Whisky Experience ,  discover how the Scottish people lived during the Middle Ages in the People’s Story Museum , or explore the evolution of medicine in the Surgeon’s Hall Museums .

The country’s hearty dishes combined with the traditional Scottish breakfast will probably mean you’ll go home a few pounds heavier but happy and full of extremely fond memories of the city.

With our guide, you’ll discover why Edinburgh is the second most visited city in the UK after London . Every year, over two million tourists visit Scotland’s capital city.

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If you still don’t have a hotel, hostel, or apartment booked, we recommend checking out the link below, where you’ll find all types of accommodation with the best rates guaranteed. If you book in advance, you’ll be able to get up to 75% discount and pay once you get to your destination.

  • Hotels in Edinburgh – Book online for the best rates guaranteed.

top activities

Edinburgh: Loch Ness, Highlands & Glencoe Day Trip Travel from Edinburgh to Loch Ness on this tour of some of the  Scottish Highlands ' most stunning attractions - an unforgettable day trip at the best price!

Edinburgh Free Tour Discover Edinburgh's Old Town with this free walking tour of one of Scotland's most beloved cities. This tour is perfect for any first-visitors to Edinburgh!

Edinburgh Castle Guided Tour Edinburgh Castle is the most visited monument in Scotland ; an unmissable sight in the Scottish capital. Don't miss this Edinburgh Castle Guided Tour!

Holyrood Palace Tickets Coronations, weddings, betrayal, assassination... discover the secrets of Holyrood Palace: the official residence of the queen of England and Scotland .

Ghost Tour of Edinburgh The Scottish capital is famously haunted and there have been countless sightings of phantoms. Are you brave enough to take our ghost tour of Edinburgh ?

Edinburgh Underground Ghost Tour Embark on a haunting journey into Edinburgh's eerie depths . Uncover the secrets within the haunted underground vaults and Greyfriars Kirkyard by night !

Dinner and Traditional Scottish Show Looking for fun things to do in Edinburgh ? Spend a unique evening with this Scottish folk dinner and concert , complete with lively music and local dishes.

West Highland Lochs, Mountains & Castles Day Trip This day trip lets you enjoy a taste of all things Scottish , as we take you on a fascinating journey through the Highlands. Lochs, castles and mountains await.

Edinburgh Hop On Hop Off Bus Explore top Edinburgh attractions with our flexible hop-on hop-off bus tour without getting tired . Enjoy audio commentary in multiple languages!

Harry Potter Train Tour Want to travel on the Hogwarts Express ? Travel through Scotland's breathtaking scenery on board the Jacobite with this  Harry Potter Train Tour .

Whisky Distillery Tour Discover the secrets of Scotch whisky on this  tour of the Dewar's and Glenturret distilleries from Edinburgh ​. The ideal excursion for any whisky lover!

Royal Edinburgh Ticket Book this Royal Edinburgh Ticket and enjoy the best of the Scottish capital city for 48 hours. Visit the Castle, the Royal Yacht and the Palace .

Holy Island & Alnwick Castle Day Trip Discover the Medieval Kingdom of Northumbria: explore the ruined castles, quaint villages and wild coastline of North-East England on this tour from Edinburgh.

Day Trip: Stirling, Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park Get a slice of Highland life on this day trip to western Scotland, witht scenic lochs, the old capital of Stirling, and the Trossachs: land of William Wallace.

Edinburgh Outlander Tour Imposing castles, palaces and mythical mansions ... Discover a new side of Scotland by exploring the filming locations of the legendary TV series  Outlander .

Rosslyn Chapel and the Borders Day Trip On this trip, you'll explore the mysterious Rosslyn Chapel and the border town of Melrose & its Abbey , plus a tour of a malt whisky distillery .

Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond & The Kelpies Explore the Scottish Highlands on this day trip from Edinburgh to Stirling, Loch Lomond and the Kelpies! You'll discover history and nature!

Edinburgh Food Tour On this Edinburgh Food Tour, you'll explore the Scottish capital through its gastronomy. You'll try traditional dishes such as haggis, neeps and tatties!

Scottish Highlands Tour Explore the Scottish Highlands on this excursion from Edinburgh and discover natural landscapes, a whisky distillery and historical monuments!

Forth Boat Tour Make the most of your time in Edinburgh admiring one of the most emblematic feats of civil engineering on this boat tour of three Forth bridges .

Get lost in the lively Scottish nightlife with this route across five of the capital's best pubs . Pints of beer, live music... let's get this party started!

Loch Ness & the Scottish Highlands: 2 Day Tour Delve deep into the delights of Scotland. Discover spectacular mountains, rivers and lochs as you immerse yourself in the legendary history of the Highlands.

St. Andrews & Fife's Fishing Villages Day Trip Make the most of your stay in Edinburgh with this St. Andrews & Fife's Fishing Villages Day Trip. Explore the famous golfing town and quaint coastal towns.

3-Day Tour of Skye and the Highlands See the very north of Scotland , where the winds whip the wild edge of the United Kingdom. We'll see highlands highlights such as Loch Ness, Ben Nevis  and more.

Edinburgh Private Tour Discover the architecture, history & everyday life of Edinburgh accompanied by a private tour guide . The best way to explore Scotland's capital city!

Edinburgh Hard Rock Cafe Enjoy a delicious lunch or dinner at Edinburgh's Hard Rock Cafe, a restaurant full of rock and roll. Choose your menu and enjoy a fun dining experience!

Blackness Castle & Forth Bridges Cruise Enjoy a cruise to the three famous Forth bridges and the historic Blackness Castle on this  boat tour on the Firth of Forth .

Edinburgh Shore Excursion If you're arriving in the Scottish capital by cruise, don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the city's history with this Edinburgh Shore Excursion.

Edinburgh Christmas Tour We'll admire Christmas markets and dreamy lights  on this Christmas Tour in Edinburgh . Explore the Scottish capital at this magical time of year!

Outlander Tour While in the Scottish capital , take a page from Jamie Fraser 's book and embark on our Outlander tour through Edinburgh to see iconic sites from the hit series !

This guide has been made by exploring each street, taking photos of every nook and cranny, and paying attention to each and every little detail to help you prepare your trip in the best way possible .

All the information in this guide was updated in March 2023 . If you see any errors or anything we should change, we would be delighted to hear from you .

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2018 Primetime Emmy & James Beard Award Winner

21 Things to Know Before You Go To Edinburgh

Apr 27 2015.

Don’t be a numpty: our guide to Scotland’s capital from disco-playing chip shops to semi-secret shortcuts.

Edinburgh is the perfect city—almost. It looks like no other place: smoky, gothic buildings grafted onto the shoulder of an extinct volcano, an imposing castle on rocky ramparts in the center, and the rest spilling out over seven hills. As Scotland’s capital, it’s open-minded and dynamic, but small enough to walk almost anywhere you need to go. Its winding, often cobbled streets are loaded  with excellent, non-pretentious restaurants, and cozy pubs you’ll want to live in. But, the weather. Wet, grey, and windy (and that’s just June). A taxi driver put it nicely once when he remarked on the downpour on a recent midsummer afternoon: “Just another miserable day in paradise!” But, when the sun does shine, and a late-summer sunset bathes the charcoal-colored buildings in orange and pink, it is perhaps the most glorious place on earth—and one I found difficult to leave after seven years of studying and working there.  Just prepare for all weather every time you leave the house. And wear good shoes; cobblestones and hills are not kind to the unsupported ankle.

edinburgh why visit

Expect crowds. Edinburgh is popular. It’s the UK’s second most-visited city (after London) and gets busier every year. It’s also a small city, so there are bottleneck areas. From June-September, the city center, and especially the Royal Mile and Princes Street—the shopping avenue that forms a border between the castle gardens and the New Town—get busy with tartan-drunk visitors. The city is even considering the U.K’s first “tourist tax”—like the one implemented in Berlin and Venice—to cope with the surge in demand.  The good news is that in Edinburgh, you’re never more than a few minutes’ walk away from quieter pockets—hidden gardens, squares, cemeteries, neighborhoods.  Still, try to book restaurants in advance on weekends to avoid disappointment and hunger. When it comes to nightlife, the Cowgate is ground zero for students, cheap vodka shots, and what locals politely term “meat-market” clubs. If you’re looking for a quiet, atmospheric pub, look elsewhere.

edinburgh why visit

The best time to visit is May. Hotels are cheaper, it’s not quite as crowded with summer visitors and festival-goers, and the weather is mild for Scotland. Also, May is usually better weather (read: dryer) than the June-August period.

edinburgh why visit

Walk. Edinburgh is winding and steep in places, but most areas of interest are within walking distance. Skip the car: thanks to Edinburgh’s central layout—an awkward rectangle of busy streets laid around the castle and the gardens around it—traffic is a carousel of frustration, made even worse in the last few years with the new tram lines that locals love to complain about.   Edinburgh is on the Uber map too, but check a map before ordering one: it might be much faster on foot.

[Read: Here’s how to do a walking tour in Edinburgh]

edinburgh why visit

Pick a side. Edinburgh is really two cities, split down the middle by the castle and its ramparts. The Old Town is the network of medieval streets south of the castle; the New Town is everything on the other side, which begins at the Castle’s former moat (and former city sewer), now the lush Princes Street Gardens. The Old Town’s distinctive, stacked look is rooted in the time residents were forced to live crammed together behind the moat for protection. After a disastrous defeat at the hands of the English at the Battle of Flodden, Edinburgh’s residents built walls around the city to keep out the English, and as its population grew, they had nowhere to build but down.  

The New Town started to be laid in 1765 with a modern grid design—considered a masterpiece of city planning in its time—that fit with ideas of the Enlightenment. The professional and businesses classes deserted the medieval Old Town and moved to the shiny, broad boulevards of the New Town, and the social character of the city was changed forever. Before, rich and poor lived next to each other, in the same tenements. Now, the New Town is still known as the ‘posher’ end of town. For visitors, New Town is quieter, calmer, but feels far from the action if you want to stumble around the steep, narrow streets of Old Town. On the other hand, there are tranquil, beautiful neighborhoods down the hill on the New Town side, such as Stockbridge and Dean Village, which make ideal city bases. Also, know that the South Side—particularly the areas of Marchmont, Newington, and parts of Bruntsfield—is where most of the city’s tens of thousands of students live.

edinburgh why visit

Plan ahead. The Edinburgh Festival , which is really several festivals running simultaneously, is one of the best experiences you can have in the U.K., if you’ve planned well: over six weeks in the summer, the city is an all-day and all-night bacchanal of authors, actors, comedians. But for non-festival travelers this is a mixed experience: there are 1,000 shows a day, but also the deluge of flyers and pamphlets that are pressed into your hand when you’re taking a walk or getting coffee. Cabs and beds are equally hard to find in August. Unless you’re up for that challenge, consider visiting some other time. If you’re really looking for deep, loamy Scottishness, go on Burns Night on January 25, when the Scots celebrate the national poet (and author of Auld Lang Syne) Robert Burns the best way they know how—with poetry, whisky, and offal. At a Burns Night supper, a guest of honor reads his 1787 poem, Address to a Haggis , before ceremoniously slicing it open with a sword . A carving knife works too.

edinburgh why visit

Embrace the smell.   Edinburgh has a unique smell —depending on the wind, it can smell like the nearby sea, but it’s just as likely to smell a little stronger. (Someone once described it to me as redolent of dog food.) It’s booze , kind of—malted barley from the city’s breweries, and roasted malt from the North British Grain Distillery , the last of the city’s great distilleries. Founded in 1885, it still produces whisky destined for blends, but it’s not open to the public. There have been efforts to suppress the odour, with mixed success, but people generally accept it as part of the city’s charm. It tends to be strongest in the west side of the city, where the distillery is.

[Read: Everything you need to know about Scotland’s other national drink]

edinburgh why visit

Take the shortcuts. On the map, it seems that there are only two large roads connecting Edinburgh’s Old Town and New Town, but the city’s hills and closes (a small alleyway or even a courtyard) hide many alternative routes suitable only for pedestrians. Instead of joining the masses walking up the Mound from Princes Street Gardens up into the Old Town, try the Playfair Steps . Instead of negotiating winding streets and traffic, take the steep  Scotsman Steps from Waverley train station straight up to South Bridge (next to the Scotsman Hotel) or the News Steps directly from Waverley Station to the Royal Mile. Use Jacob’s Ladder to ascend Calton Hill from the Old Town. On the Royal Mile, take a shortcut via Advocate’s Close or Fleshmarket Close down to Cockburn Street, and enjoy the view on the way. Investigate narrow alleys; there might be a shortcut or some hidden gardens. When in New Town, find the smaller, narrower alleys, such as Rose Street and Thistle Street.

edinburgh why visit

Cockburn Street is pronounced CO-burn Street. You’re welcome.

edinburgh why visit

Eat.  Edinburgh has more bars and restaurants per capita than any other city in the U.K outside of London, and it’s home to five of Scotland’s 12 Michelin-starred restaurants, but it’s not hard to find reasonably-priced, good food—and serious fine dining for a lot less than it would cost in London or New York.  Just make sure you venture off the Royal Mile, and steer clear of chains. Some old and new highlights: the newly-opened Fhior on Broughton Street is the place to go for a fine showing-off of Scottish ingredients, from beremeal bread and smoked butter to halibut—but you’ll need to book. Seafood-lovers are spoiled in this city, but try Fisher’s  (which has branches in the center and in Leith), The Mussel Inn ,  and The Ship on the Shore . Chop Chop , a Chinese restaurant near Haymarket train station, has superlative dumplings and a generous happy hour (3-6 p.m.) in which to devour them. Don’t miss the lamb and cumin dumplings. The casual  Mother India’s Cafe  is consistently busy, thanks to its reasonable prices and excellent food.

[Read: Oatcakes to offal: Edinburgh explained in 10 dishes]

edinburgh why visit

Visit the Mosque Kitchen. If you’re on a tight budget you can’t beat the Mosque Kitchen , next to Edinburgh Central Mosque right by the university, for the city’s best value meal: a heaped plate of curry and rice. After 9/11, the mosque opened up the small kitchen that fed its congregation to the public as a way to raise awareness about Islam—at first only after Friday prayers, but soon they opened the kitchen daily to keep up with demand. When I was a student, we would line up for a big plate of only two dish options for 2 pounds (US$2.50). This humble operation has grown into a brick-and-mortar restaurant next door with a larger menu.  (Though the original mosque kitchen is still open.) It’s still delicious, and fantastic value for money. Thousands of broke, hungry students can’t be wrong.

edinburgh why visit

Don’t fear the haggis. Scotland’s national dish is a softball-sized mass of sheep’s pluck (heart, liver, lungs) minced with spices, onion, and oatmeal. It has a nutty texture and is savory, like sausage. It may have a fearsome reputation, but for those who are not fans of British offal-based specialities, haggis might be one of the easiest to stomach, so to speak. Most bars, cafes and restaurants will serve a basic one, but the Arcade Bar , a “haggis house” and whisky restaurant on Cockburn Street, specializes in it. Enjoy, but just don’t mention that haggis has possible English or even Scandinavian origins. It’s traditionally served with mashed potatoes and turnip puree, so on the plate, it’s just three piles of mush: yellow, orange, and brown. (I’ve always enjoyed observing how restaurants solve the puzzle of presenting this uninspiring-looking tri-colore mess. Often, they opt for forcing the three components into a layered stack. If you see a particularly creative haggis presentation, please take a photo and send it to me .)

edinburgh why visit

Look beyond whisky. Whisky bars in Edinburgh are like Starbucks in other cities, and most pubs and restaurants have a decent selection. There many great whisky joints around the center and Royal Mile, but I’d recommend the Kaleidoscope Bar at the Scotch Malt Whisky Society, the Usquabae in the West End for good tastings, and, a little further out (but this pub is worth it, trust me) the Canny Man ’s in Morningside, decorated with a museum’s worth of treasure. But Edinburgh is also a gin town: Edinburgh drinks more gin than any other British city. The Edinburgh Gin Distillery in the West End has a bar where you can custom-make make your own version. Edinburgh is also a great beer (and ale) town. Beer-hunters in search of local Scottish brews should check out Lothian Road’s The Hanging Bat, or visit Brewdog , Scotland’s largest independent brewery, the scrappy Pilot brewery  in Leith, or Innis & Gunn ’s Beer Kitchen. Look out for Innis & Gunn beers in pubs: this company is headquartered in Edinburgh ( their brewery is in Perth) and their lager and Scottish ale—aged in bourbon barrels—have quickly become city favorites. And let’s not forget Scotland’s other national drink, Irn-Bru .

edinburgh why visit

Take refuge indoors. Edinburgh’s great solace in winter is its more than 700 pubs. It’s an excellent beer and ale town.  It’s tough—though not impossible—to go wrong in the city’s boozers. But these are the ones I like to return to when I visit: The Brass Monkey on Drummond Street, an ale pub with a carpeted back room for daily movie screenings; the Royal Oak for some live Scottish folk music in a casual setting (feel free to join in if you brought your own harmonica); the beautiful, Victorian Cafe Royal for a very reasonably priced Guinness and oysters snack; Cloisters , in Tollcross, a tranquil place with a big beer menu that they change, and tweet , regularly. Escape the city center to Duddingston (on the far side of Arthur’s Seat) and the Sheep Heid Inn —where there has been a public house/inn in some form since 1360. If you want to drink really cheaply, look out for “ Scream ” pubs (with a version of the Edvard Munch painting hanging outside.) This is a chain of student-oriented bars with limited charm, but with abundant cheap beer and food. The Tron off the Royal Mile is one of these. (Of course, many pubs near Edinburgh University’s campus—a catchments area that includes a large chunk of the south of the city—will be geared towards the student population, and will be cheap but busy.)

edinburgh why visit

Mind your drinking manners. Scottish people have a well-deserved reputation for being friendly and welcoming, and Edinburgh is certainly no stranger to visitors, but pub etiquette is never useless. Take your empty glasses back to the bar if possible. In groups, people generally take it in turns to pay for a round of drinks; it might not always work out fairly, but it’s just how it’s done. Don’t have your whole group stand at the bar; you only need one person to order. If the bartender asks the people waiting at the bar who’s next, you’d better be honest and not try to push ahead of the line. It will be very uncomfortable for everyone. There are all kinds of pubs—quiet, pint with a book places and boisterous sports screen places—behave according to the vibe. Bonus: pubs in Scotland stay open later than their English counterparts.

edinburgh why visit

Say yes to salt and sauce. The post-pub ritual of a kebab, a curry, or fish and chips is deeply ingrained in U.K. culture. Scotland does a nice line in deep-frying things—such as the Mars Bars —for late-night revelers. (I have never seen a Scottish person eat a deep-fried Mars Bar. The deep-fried delicacy to try is the deep-fried pizza, at L’Alba D’Oro on Henderson Row.) When you order anything that comes with chips (thick-cut fries) they will ask if you want “salt and sauce”: this sauce is Edinburgh’s special version of vinegar-spiked brown sauce, and it’s beloved. Give it a try. (To make the chip shop visit an experience, head to Edinburgh’s “Disco Chippie”. Broughton Street’s Caffé Piccante is is open until the wee hours and even has its own DJ and its own range of t-shirts.)

[Read: A love letter to an Edinburgh chip chop]

edinburgh why visit

Know the football colors. Edinburgh’s two professional soccer clubs, Hearts of Midlothian and Hibernian Football Club (“Hearts” and “Hibs”) have one of the longest rivalries in world soccer, dating back to their founding in the 1870s. Hibs colors are green and white, while Hearts (also known as “Jam Tarts” by rhyming slang) wear maroon and light blue. Edinburgh’s soccer allegiances aren’t comparable to the scale of Glasgow’s sectarianism, where Irish-Catholic Celtic and Protestant Rangers fight for soccer supremacy, but Hibernian (the Latin word for Ireland) was founded by Irish Catholic migrants, and initially the team met with some sectarian resistance in Scotland. Edinburgh’s supporters tend to be more closely aligned with geography, such as the location of the stadiums. Hearts and Hibs play each other occasionally, but have only ever met twice in the Scottish Cup Finals, in 1896 and 2012; Hearts won both matches.

edinburgh why visit

Don’t call it fog. You might hear people talking about haar,  which is a Scottish word for the cold mist—a kind of coastal fog—that drifts in from the North Sea, especially during spring and summer, and can blanket the city for days. Edinburgh tends to get more of it than many other places in Britain, because easterly winds from the sea push it over the east coast of Scotland.

edinburgh why visit

Get high in the right places. Most people head to the castle esplanade and the castle itself to look down on the city, but there is an equally good, if not better view, from the roof terrace of the Camera Obscura , just next to it—a science museum and temple to optical illusions and oddities. Arthurs’ Seat, the dormant volcano overlooking the city, can be climbed from any direction, but the simplest ascent is from the east, heading up the slope that rises above Dunsapie Loch. Calton Hill is a ridiculously short walk from the East End of Princes Street, and you can see pretty much every corner of the city from up there. There are also great views from indoors: probably the best city view of the Castle is from back room of the Elephant House coffee shop (where J.K. Rowling wrote some early drafts of “Harry Potter”). The Tower restaurant on the roof of the National Museum of Scotland has an excellent view and and a little further out, there is a great, wide view of the Castle from Inverleith Park.

edinburgh why visit

Don’t miss Leith. If you want to get off the carousel of the Old and New Town, venture farther north downhill to Leith, Edinburgh’s maritime center, made famous by Irvine Welsh’s Trainspotting (and the music of The Proclaimers .) Leith has a separate identity and soul from the rest of the city, and not all were thrilled when Edinburgh and Leith merged in 1920 into the City of Edinburgh. Its long-awaited regeneration has been patchy, but spend some time on the pleasant Shore, wander around the historic docks, have a look at the Leith Theatre (recently restored) eat at some of the city’s best restaurants,  and stop in at Teuchters Bar or the Port o’Leith for a pint.

RK-line-20

Shop in Stockbridge. The Royal Mile and Princes Street have plenty of overpriced Scottish souvenirs, ranging from the tasteful to the not. (I  have to admit I have a soft spot for those kilt towels .) But there is plenty of treasure—books, records, antiques—in the scores of charity/second-hand stores in Stockbridge, a well-heeled but welcoming residential neighborhood a short walk down the hill from the New Town.

edinburgh why visit

Master the urban dictionary. A survey once said that numpty is Scotland’s favorite word, so learn that one: “the term implies general idiocy, often accompanied by windbaggery”. Although the Edinburgh accent is one of the most forgiving to the uninitiated, Scots actually use different words for  some things, so a cheat-sheet of terms relevant to city-exploring and imbibing will be useful: A dram or wee dram is a measure of whisky; scran is food; a close or wynd is a minor street, like an alley; loch is lake; a law is a hill; a burn is a stream, and a kirk is a church. To ‘greet’ is actually to cry, not to say hello; when you say you are ‘on the peeve’ you are getting your drink on. In Edinburgh, the area between Lothian Road and the Grassmarket—containing mostly strip bars, saunas, and antique bookstores—is known as the ‘pubic triangle’.  Also: if you see a business calling itself a sauna, it’s not usually a sauna, but a brothel.

RK-line-22

GTFO.  Only 20 minutes outside the city is the striking  Forth Rail Bridge, built over the Firth of Forth in 1890. The best view of this bridge, which is the height of St Paul’s cathedral to let the Navy ships pass underneath, is from the shores of North Queensferry. And for a more pronounced change of pace, the largest city in Scotland, Glasgow, is only an hour away by train. Glasgow has a different feel, in soul and architecture. If Edinburgh can be twee, small, and staid, Glasgow is the antidote: no-nonsense, sprawling, and boisterous. (And here’s what you should eat there .)

Ready to Explore Edinburgh? Let us help.

[Read: how to get around the city]

[Read: Edinburgh, explained in 10 dishes]

[Read: A guide to Edinburgh’s best music and local musicians]

[Whisky, hog roast, gin, curry: A food and booze-heavy walking tour of Edinburgh]

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A History of Edinburgh in 10 Dishes

Featured city guides.

A weekend in Edinburgh: travel guide, attractions and things to do

Everything you need to know for a city break in Scotland’s buzzing capital

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The city skyline with Edinburgh Castle in the background

1. Why you should visit Edinburgh

2. top attractions: things to see and do, 3. hotels and accommodation: where to stay, 4. restaurants, pubs and whisky: where to eat and drink, 5. transport: how to get there, 6. what the locals say….

There used to be a “down season” in Edinburgh, when Scotland’s capital city “caught a slight breather” from tourists, said Condé Nast Traveler . But “no longer”, the crowds “keep coming, all year long”. Most famous for its “wild” arts and performance festival, Edinburgh also has a “buzzing” dining scene and is a city that “artfully balances the (very) old with the new”. This might be “Europe’s hottest capital right now”.

A weekend in Belfast: travel guide, attractions and things to do A weekend in Cardiff: travel guide, attractions and things to do

It’s certainly one of Europe’s most beautiful cities and “has its way of charming you”, said Jessica Wright on Bon Traveler . With its castle “towering over the city” and the contrast of the New Town and the Old, “the transition between the two is seamless”. Edinburgh has a way of “savouring the old and fuelling the new”.

With narrow and cobbled passageways, the city has “a rare charm”, said IntroducingEdinbugh.com . As well as its beautiful buildings, gardens and museums, it’s also known for its “dark corners”, where terrifying events have taken place.

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Edinburgh Castle, Old Town and Royal Mile

A great place to start a weekend in Edinburgh is to explore the historic Old Town. Here you will find some of the city’s best attractions including Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile. A “labyrinth of cobblestone streets and dimly lit closes”, Edinburgh’s Old Town has seen centuries of history, said Helen Arnold on Culture Trip . Auld Reekie Tours hosts tours of the Greyfriars Graveyard, haunted underground vaults and “hidden secrets” of the Royal Mile.

Arthur’s Seat and Holyrood Park

Located within Holyrood Park, a short walk from the city, Arthur’s Seat is one of Edinburgh’s most iconic landmarks. Sitting 251m above sea level, this ancient volcano offers 360-degree views of the city and the Lothians. Climbing up to the top is “hungry work”, said VisitScotland.com . One “top tip” is to pack a picnic and enjoy it from the best “seat” in Edinburgh.

Museums, culture and art

Edinburgh’s New Town is the “artistic centre of the capital”, said Alexa Smith on Culture Trip . Here you will find the Scottish National Portrait Gallery and Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art.

In 2004 Edinburgh was designated as the world’s first Unesco City of Literature. It is the birthplace and home to world-famous writers, poets and playwrights including Arthur Conan Doyle ( Sherlock Holmes ), Ian Rankin ( Inspector Rebus ), Irvine Welsh ( Trainspotting ) and Val McDermid ( Kate Brannigan ). Edinburgh boasts more than 50 bookshops and the National Library of Scotland is home to more than 24 million printed items. Book lovers should also visit the Scottish Poetry Library and the Scottish Storytelling Centre .

The National Museum of Scotland on Chambers Street is one of the best indoor attractions in the city. Free to enter, it is home to more than 20,000 unique artefacts.

Festivals and events

Edinburgh is one of the world’s great festival cities with major events taking place throughout the year. Must-visit events include the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, Science Festival, Film Festival, International Book Festival, Jazz & Blues Festival, International Festival and the Fringe.

Edinburgh’s Hogmanay

Another major annual attraction which has put Edinburgh on the global map is Hogmanay , Scotland’s New Year’s Eve celebrations. One of the world’s most famous events, it brings thousands of party-goers to the streets of the Scottish capital. Visitors can enjoy the iconic torchlight procession, street parties, Edinburgh Castle fireworks and the traditional singing of Auld Lang Syne .

Figuring out where to stay in Edinburgh is a “real puzzle” as “competition is fierce”, said long-time resident Mike MacEacheran on The Independent . Picking out his favourite places that combine “trendsetting style with enough tartan trim to remind you why you came to Scotland in the first place”, MacEacheran selected The Balmoral as “best for glamour”, Prestonfield House as “best for a Highland fling”, Cheval the Edinburgh Grand as “best for luxury”, and The Raeburn as “best for families”.

Cheval Old Town Chambers review: a modern stay in Edinburgh’s historic Old Town

Rock House, a “heavenly” 18th-century house hidden on Calton Hill, received a 9/10 expert rating by The Telegraph . Cheval Old Town Chambers, The Balmoral, and The Witchery by the Castle were also among the best hotels in Edinburgh that achieved a 9/10 Telegraph rating.

The Rutland Hotel & Apartments and Hapimag Resort Edinburgh both received a 9.3 “superb” rating on LuxuryHotel.guru . Other highly-rated hotels on the site include Kimpton Charlotte Square (9 – superb), Black Ivy (8.8 – fabulous), and Rabble (8.6 – fabulous).

Restaurants and fine dining

Edinburgh’s restaurant scene is famous worldwide – and “not just for haggis, fried mars bars and whichever place does the best fish and chips on the Royal Mile”, said the Love From Scotland blog. It is full of tiny “one old pop and a couple of stool” places, brunch hangouts and hipster start-ups.

The city also offers some of the “most opulent and luxurious dining experiences you can find in the UK”, said Forever Edinburgh . The Witchery on Castlehill, The Royal Mile, has Scottish seafood, lamb, game and a “legendary” Angus beef steak tartare on its “inspirational menu”, while the “very best” of Scottish cooking can be found at James Thomson’s Rhubarb Restaurant in Prestonfield House.

The Michelin stars for 2022 were announced in February and included three of the city’s eateries, the Edinburgh Evening News reported. Edinburgh restaurants that retained their stars were Condita, Restaurant Martin Wishart, and The Kitchin.

Whisky experiences

You can’t visit Scotland, or its capital, without enjoying a wee dram of Scotch. Edinburgh has a host of whisky attractions including the eight-floor Johnnie Walker Princes Street, which features shops, a whisky cellar and two rooftop bars, and the Scotch Whisky Experience, home to the world’s largest whisky collection. Edinburgh has an amazing history which is “soaked in the whisky industry”, said Jason Thomson on VisitScotland.com . From distilleries and bars to walking tours, there’s plenty to drink in for whisky lovers.

Pubs and bars

Whether you’re after the finest single malts or locally-brewed craft beers, Edinburgh “does not disappoint when it comes to its many pub offerings”, said Time Out . Included on its best pubs in Edinburgh guide are The Sheep Heid Inn, Salt Horse, Malt & Hops, The Royal Dick, and Nauticus.

Edinburgh Waverley is the main railway station and located on Princes Street in the city centre. There are regular direct trains to and from many UK destinations, including Glasgow, Aberdeen, London, Newcastle and Manchester. Haymarket is Edinburgh’s second-largest station and located in the west end of town.

Caledonian Sleeper review: taking the slow train to Scotland

If you are including both Edinburgh and London on your UK trip, then a unique way to travel between the two cities is by the Caledonian Sleeper train. Departing from London’s Euston Station, the Caledonian Sleeper Lowlander route runs to Edinburgh Waverley. Passengers can book a Caledonian Double room (double bed and en-suite with shower), Club room (twin bunk beds, en-suite with toilet and shower), Classic room (twin bunk beds with in-room washbasin), or Comfort seat.

Domestic and international visitors can fly into Edinburgh Airport, which is located approximately eight miles away from the city centre. To travel to the city, take the Airlink 100 bus to St Andrew Square or a tram to York Place.

Ferries and cruises

Edinburgh’s principal cruise port is Port Leith, said CruiseMapper.com . A Unesco World Heritage site, Forth Ports Leith is home to the modern Leith Cruise Terminal and only three miles from the city centre.

In her local’s guide to Edinburgh on The Guardian , food writer Caroline Eden picked out her favourite neighbourhood. “Photogenic Stockbridge, on the Water of Leith, is often recommended as a place to shop and eat, but it’s always worth revisiting, as new places open regularly,” she said. “The bookshop scene in particular keeps getting stronger.”

Travel writer, foodie and photographer Hannah Henderson lived in Edinburgh for 16 years. On her HH Lifestyle Travel blog she recommends visiting Victoria Street in the Old Town. “This iconic street is an Instagram-ready shot of Edinburgh,” she said. “It also has some fab shops and restaurants along it. Make sure you try the whisky at the Bow Bar.”

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Mike Starling is the digital features editor at The Week, where he writes content and edits the Arts & Life and Sport website sections and the Food & Drink and Travel newsletters. He started his career in 2001 in Gloucestershire as a sports reporter and sub-editor and has held various roles as a writer and editor at news, travel and B2B publications. He has spoken at a number of sports business conferences and also worked as a consultant creating sports travel content for tourism boards. International experience includes spells living and working in Dubai, UAE; Brisbane, Australia; and Beirut, Lebanon. 

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A Guide to Historic Attractions in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is one of the world’s top tourist destinations, and each year, over 4 million people flood into the city to explore places like Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood Palace, and St. Giles Cathedral. There’s much more to these beautiful buildings than first meets the eye, and many of the city’s buildings have fascinating histories.

Discover the stories behind the top historic attractions in Edinburgh with this article, which delves into the beginnings of the city as Scotland’s capital and its transformation into a tourist hotspot.

Historic attractions in Edinburgh

Historic Attractions in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is frequently voted among the world’s top ten tourist destinations, and if you ever get the chance to visit it, you’ll soon understand why so many travel writers like to wax lyrical about this atmospheric city nestled in the southeast corner of Scotland.

From the dramatic peaks of Holyrood Park (a long-extinct volcanic plug) to the impressive Edinburgh Castle, the city offers a dazzling collection of tourist attractions, many of which are hundreds of years old.

There are two parts to the city: the Old Town and the New Town, and while the New Town is worth visiting for its shopping, bars, and restaurants, it’s the Old Town that’s the main draw for tourists. This part of Edinburgh oozes history from every nook and cranny, with The Royal Mile (the mediaeval street that connects the palace to the castle) housing the majority of Edinburgh’s most historic buildings.

While the summit of Holyrood Park offered ancient Scottish tribes some protection, it was the mighty Castle Rock that proved to be the ultimate defensive position, which is why one of the most powerful tribes in Scotland, the Gododdin, built a fort there over 1,300 years ago.

By the 12th century, the beginnings of Edinburgh Castle as we now know it were under construction, and shortly afterwards, David I, the first king of Scotland, established Edinburgh as a royal borough. From then on, the city grew around the castle, with the royal palace being constructed one mile away and the cathedral positioned between them.

There are over one thousand years of history in Edinburgh’s Old Town, and even today it remains one of the best-preserved mediaeval city districts in the world, with most of the antiquated buildings open to the public as tourist attractions,some of which are detailed below.

Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh wouldn’t be the city it is today without the enormous castle that dominates the surrounding streets from the top of Castle Rock. Not only is it one of the oldest places in Edinburgh, but it’s also the most-visited tourist attraction in Scotland and ranks alongside Stonehenge and York Minster as one of the most-visited historic attractions in Britain.

As mentioned earlier, there has been a fortified dwelling on top of Castle Rock for well over a thousand years and most likely even longer, though it’s the fort created by the Gododdin around the 7th century that is considered the beginnings of Edinburgh Castle.

The Gododdin named this fort ‘Etin’, which later changed to ‘Edin’, and when English forces captured the fort in the 700s, the name was once again changed to ‘the borough of Edin’, also known as ‘Edin’s borough’.

It was actually English nobles from Northumbria who first decided to use the fort on Castle Rock as a permanent home, no doubt thankful for the protection of the immense sheer-sided cliffs.

By the 10th century the fort had become strengthened with fortified walls and was described as one of the best defensive positions in the country, so by the time the first Scottish King David I was ordained, Edinburgh Castle was an obvious choice for the Scottish seat of power.

edinburgh why visit

For the next 500 years the castle was extended with various military buildings and royal accommodation, but when Holyrood Palace was built in the 1600s the castle was fully converted into a military garrison, although it changed hands between English and Scottish rule several times.

In fact, there was so much upheaval in Scotland at the time that Edinburgh Castle became one of the most besieged castles in the world, succumbing to 26 sieges in total. That’s why when you visit it today, you’ll see huge defensive turrets and cannon batteries on almost every side, with one of the biggest cannon’s in Britain, Mons Meg, glowering over the castle’s western side.

The six-tonne Mons Meg was built in the 15th century, and in its prime, was capable of firing 150 kg of cannonballs over two miles, but sadly, it was made inoperable after a misfire in 1680.

In later years, Edinburgh Castle changed its role to a military prison with the enormous vaults used to house prisoners from several wars, including the American Wars of Independence and the Napoleonic Wars, but following a mass escape of prisoners in 1811, it was decided to retire the castle as a prison and instead use it as a national monument.

Holyrood Palace

Holyrood Palace

Holyrood Palace (also known as the Palace of Holyroodhouse) is a relative youngster when compared to Edinburgh Castle, but one part of it, Holyrood Abbey, is one of the oldest buildings in the city. The abbey was founded in the early 1100s for Augustinian monks, and being so close to the castle, it soon became an administrative centre.

Some of the first Scottish parliaments were held in the abbey by Robert the Bruce, and several Scottish kings were buried there in later years, while adjacent buildings were built as an official royal residence. However, it was James IV who decided to build the first fortress, which would later become the royal palace we recognise today.

The original palace was built around a quadrangle with a chapel, a gallery, royal apartments, and a great hall. These areas can still be seen today during tours of Holyrood Palace, but the majority of the buildings were constructed in the 17th century, including new royal accommodation on the east and west sides, a large gallery, and a council chamber.

The palace housed a Catholic chapel and college in the late 1600s, but a few years later, anti-Catholic mobs destroyed them. Then, in 1707, England and Scotland were joined together as one union, and the royal family moved to London, which in turn meant Holyrood Palace lost its purpose.

After the Acts of Union, no British monarch used Holyrood Palace as their primary residence, but the royal apartments were still in use during visits to Scotland and are still in use today for one week each year by the King. For the rest of the year, the palace is open to the public for viewing courtesy of the Royal Collection Trust which also manages the excellent on-site shop and café.

The Camera Obscura

Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

In the early 18th century, Thomas Short, an Edinburgh telescope maker, built a display for his work on Calton Hill , with his largest telescope eventually passing to his daughter Maria Theresa Short in 1827.

Maria continued exhibiting her father’s instruments on Calton Hill for many years, but in 1851 she was forced to relocate the collection after the city authorities demolished her observatory. She then moved the exhibits to their present location on Castlehill, where they were a popular visitor attraction until her death in 1869.

The site then passed into the ownership of Patrick Geddes, a Scottish urban planner and entrepreneur who saw the potential of the ‘Camera Obscura’ as the centrepiece of an exhibit demonstrating the science of urban planning. The site was renamed the Outlook Tower and was rebuilt, with each floor showcasing a different theme related to the science of town planning.

At the very top was the attraction’s premier exhibit, the camera obscura, which still exists today in the same location as it did over one hundred years ago. The camera wowed crowds through its use of light and mirrors which projected an image of the city onto a whiteboard – at least on those rare days in Edinburgh that were bright and sunny!

Even so, the camera obscura pulled in thousands of visitors each year and to this day it remains the highlight of the attraction.

Thomas Geddes died in 1932 and for a time it was uncertain whether the instruments in the tower would be lost to the public forever, but in 1966 Edinburgh University took ownership and maintained the building for the next sixteen years before handing it over to private ownership in 1982.

The Patrick Geddes exhibits were scaled back, and the development of the ‘World of Illusion’ began, although there’s still an exhibit devoted to Geddes on the fourth floor. Thankfully, the current private owners have stayed true to the origins of the very first attraction, so that not only are there amazing visual illusions on every level, but there’s also an element of education about the study of light, photography, and the history of Edinburgh.

The National Galleries of Modern Art

National Gallery Modern Art

The National Gallery of Modern Art is located one mile from the west end of Princes Street on Belford Road. Although it’s a little further out than the other attractions in this article, it’s still easy to find, and you should be able to walk to it from The Georgian House (see below) in around 15 minutes. There’s also a regular free bus that takes tourists between the National Gallery on Princes Street and the Modern Art Gallery.

The gallery (actually, galleries ) are divided into the Modern One and the Modern Two, and both buildings have interesting histories. While the very first gallery of modern art was located at the Edinburgh Botanic Garden, it soon became evident that bigger premises were needed to house the growing collection.

In 1984, the gallery moved to its first location (Modern One) on Belford Road and then expanded into another building (Modern Two) in 1999. Modern One is famous for its ever-changing exhibits, and the permanent collection includes pieces from renowned artists like David Hockney, Tracey Emin, and Andy Warhol.

Like many of the grand Georgian buildings in the west end of Edinburgh, Modern One has two large wings linked by a central hall with an exterior that features Roman-style columns. Before the modern art gallery took over, it was the John Watson School, a facility for fatherless children that William Burn had designed in 1825.

Over the road, Modern Two houses artworks from the permanent collection as well as a continually updated catalogue of exhibits. The building was designed by Thomas Hamilton in 1831 as a hospital for orphans, and it was later used as an education centre before being converted into its present use as a home for modern surrealist artworks.

Both buildings have sizable grounds, but Charles Jencks’ sculpture park, which dominates the lawn of Modern One and features a sizable serpentine mound encircling a crescent-shaped pool of water, is the highlight.

While walking around the grounds, you’ll be able to get up close and personal with artworks including the bronze sculpture ‘Master of the Universe’ by Eduardo Paolozzi, which is based on a drawing of Sir Isaac Newton, and the neon installation on the façade of Modern One by the artist and musician Martin Creed.

The National Portrait Gallery

edinburgh why visit

Before the National Portrait Gallery was built, many Scottish portraits had been collected by the 11th Earl of Buchan, but having no official public home for them, it was decided that a national gallery should be built in Edinburgh so that ordinary Scots could connect with their culture and history.

Although the London government refused to step in and fund the construction of the gallery, the owner of The Scotsman newspaper, John Findlay, donated the entire cost of the gallery (£50,000) at his own expense. Note that this donation was given in 1856 and £50,000 in today’s money is over £5.5 million!

As the construction was in private hands and not under government control the architects were given free rein with its design, and it’s for this reason that one of the grandest portrait galleries in the world now resides in Edinburgh (and thanks to an extensive renovation in 2011, it’s also one of the largest).

Edinburgh’s portrait gallery opened in 1889, which makes it the oldest purpose-built portrait gallery in the world, and since that time it has been extended several times so that it now comprises 5,672 square metres and houses more than 850 portraits.

The gallery also contains one of the largest collections of early photographs in the world, and in total, there are over 38,000 photos from the earliest days of photography, many of which document the construction of some of Edinburgh’s most famous tourist attractions, such as The Scott Monument .

If you’d like to visit the Scottish National Portrait Gallery, you’ll find it on Queen Street, a couple of blocks behind St. Andrews Square. You can’t miss it as the red sandstone stands out against the dark grey granite of the surrounding buildings, but if you’re not sure where to go, you can hop on the National Gallery bus, which runs every hour between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. from the Scottish National Gallery in Princes Street Gardens.

The Scottish National Gallery

Scottish National Gallery

The present Scottish National Gallery building was designed by celebrated architect William Playfair to house the national art collection of the Royal Scottish Academy (RSA). Playfair died in March 1857, so he never got to see his completed masterpiece as the gallery didn’t officially open until 1859, but it housed the national collection until 1912, when the RSA moved into the adjacent Royal Scottish Academy building.

After extensive remodelling, the National Gallery re-opened with an emphasis on displaying a collection of Scottish and European art, and it continues to display many of the same artworks to this day.

By 1970, it was decided that additional storage space would be required for the ever-growing collection, so an extensive series of basement galleries were constructed, and in the early 2000s, an underground connection was made to the RSA so that the separate buildings in effect became one gallery complex.

This underground area is particularly popular with both tourists and locals as it houses an excellent restaurant and café along with a shop that sells copies of some of the artwork that can be seen in both galleries.

The Scottish Parliament Building

scottish parliament building pin

The Scottish Parliament Building is situated opposite Holyrood Palace at the bottom of the Royal Mile. It’s not quite a ‘historic’ building because it was only formally opened in 2004, but its history stretches all the way back to 1707 when the Acts of Union meant Scotland’s parliament moved from Edinburgh to London.

It took 290 years of political pressure to return Scotland’s parliament to its home city, but the new building was mired in controversy from the start due to its unusual design and the huge overrun of its budget, which was a ten-fold increase in its original estimate.

Initially, three sites around Edinburgh were considered as possible locations for the building, but a last-minute entry from the site of the Scottish and Newcastle brewery eventually won favour with the city council. An international competition was subsequently organised in 1998 to create a design for what would become one of the most important buildings in Scotland, and eventually the Spanish architect Enric Miralles was chosen.

Although many people were in favour of Miralle’s unusual abstract design, the cost of the building’s construction spiralled from an initial estimate of £40 million to a final cost of £430 million, with a completion date that was three years behind schedule. Even so, the building won several international awards for its architecture.

On non-sitting days (usually Monday, Friday, and weekends), visitors can view the main hall and access the public galleries of the debating chamber and the main committee rooms.

Guided tours are also available on non-sitting days which allow visitors to access the floor of the hall, the garden lobby and the committee rooms. If you’re thinking of visiting please note that due to security restrictions some areas may be cordoned off without notice.

John Knox House

John Knox House

John Knox House is one of the oldest medieval buildings on The Royal Mile, located almost midway between the castle and the palace. If you’re not aware of John Knox, he was a Protestant preacher who gave sermons at St. Giles Cathedral and he was very critical of Mary Queen of Scots.

The house contains a museum that contains artefacts from the time of Knox as well as informative displays about the house’s other famous inhabitant, James Mossman. Visitors can explore the restored building across two floors, with the bottom half containing the Scottish Storytelling Centre and exhibitions about Edinburgh in the 1500s, and the upper floor featuring restored furniture and artworks from the time of Mossman and Knox.

Knox was a religious man, so it’s unlikely that he would have commissioned the house’s numerous embellishments which were popular among the wealthy residents of Edinburgh in the 15th century. These include an ornate wooden gallery and hand-painted ceilings.

Instead, it’s more likely that they were installed by the 16th-century goldsmith James Mossman, the loyal supporter of Mary Queen of Scots, who was hung, drawn, and quartered for creating counterfeit coins during the ‘Lang Siege’ at Edinburgh Castle in 1573.

James VI of Scotland received the house as a gift after his passing, and several affluent families lived there until the 1600s and 1800s, when neglect caused it to fall apart. Thankfully, the building’s historical significance prevented its demolition in the late 1800s, and the Church of Scotland then took control of it.

Today, the house offers self-guided tours around its restored rooms, where visitors will discover the story of one of the most critical times in Scotland’s history. See the official Scottish Storytelling Centre page for the latest opening times and admission prices.

Gladstone’s Land

Gladstones Land Bedroom

You’ll find this attraction tucked away in the Lawnmarket area of the Royal Mile, near the Castlehill roundabout. Gladstone’s Land was built in 1550, but it was only after extensive refurbishment in 1617 by the merchant Thomas Gledstane that it was marked out as a home for Edinburgh’s wealthiest residents.

Gledstane had the foresight to rent out separate parts of the building, and we know from public records that merchants, ministers, and guild officers lived there before the construction of the New Town. In the cramped conditions of the 1600s, there would have been entire families crowded into single rooms, with tradespeople and merchants taking residence on the lower floors and the wealthy living on the middle levels.

The very poorest, meanwhile, had to suffer with living at the top, where every bucket of water and sewage had to be laboriously carried up and down several flights of stairs.

Due to the height of the Old Town’s buildings, the poor often threw their buckets of human waste out the window, which resulted in a cry of ‘gardyloo!’ and a flood of raw sewage. Hence the reason Edinburgh gained the nickname ‘Auld Reekie’.

By the 20th century, Gladstone’s Land had been condemned and was listed for demolition, but thankfully the National Trust recognised the importance of the building, and over the course of the following years it was fully restored.

St. Giles Cathedral

St Giles Cathedral

St. Giles Cathedral is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Edinburgh, and its huge Gothic spire is one of the most recognisable features of the city skyline. The cathedral dates back to 1124, when it was founded by King David I, and it was actually built on the very edge of Edinburgh, but of course, the ‘edge’ of Edinburgh is now several miles away.

According to legend, St. Giles was a Greek hermit who lived in the forests of the south of France before becoming a monk and then an abbot. After St. Giles was canonised, he became the patron saint of lepers, and Edinburgh’s cathedral was dedicated to him, most likely because leprosy was so prevalent in Scotland at the time.

The original building was almost entirely destroyed by a fire in the late 1300s, but the large central pillars survived, and the building that we see today was built around those original stone columns. At that time, St. Giles had not achieved cathedral status and was instead a collegiate church, and it wasn’t until 1633 that Charles I made it the cathedral of the Diocese of Edinburgh.

The building was extended several times and new chapels were added, including the Thistle Chapel, which is reserved for use by an ancient chivalrous order, and a memorial chapel for the victims of WWII. St. Giles is still an active place of worship, so entering it might not be possible during times of prayer, but during the week, tourists are free to explore its chambers and halls.

The Georgian House

georgian house

The Georgian House is located a few blocks north of the junction of Princes Street and Lothian Road on the northern edge of the private gardens of Charlotte Square. Although it was a private residence for almost 200 years, the Georgian house is now under the control of the National Trust for Scotland and is accessible to the general public.

The origins of the building began with the New Town, which was built north of the dilapidated Old Town in the 18th century. James Craig, an architect, created this area of Edinburgh using a grid system that connected the two sizable squares of St. Andrews Square and Charlotte Square with George Street, Queen Street, and Princes Street.

The Georgian House was primarily designed as an exclusive townhouse for Edinburgh’s wealthiest residents, and it’s an impressive building even by today’s standards. It was built in 1796 and is typical of townhouses of the era, with five floors including a kitchen and a servant’s room at the bottom and large dining rooms, drawing rooms, and bedrooms on the floors above.

The museum is set over five levels from the basement to the third floor and you’re free to walk around the house at your own pace and head in any direction you like, but it makes sense to start at the bottom and work your way up through each floor.

The décor and furniture on each level are just as they would have been back in the early 19th century which gives you a feeling of walking back in time as you wander through each room. Inside the Georgian House, you’ll see lots of original pieces of silverware, bone china, glassware, and paintings, and you can see just how opulent the lifestyles of the rich were, with dining and drawing rooms laid out ready for one of the many cocktail parties they would have held.

There are also glimpses into the lives of the servants who would have worked tirelessly in the basement and kitchens, and interactive touchscreen displays help to bring the stories of the servants back to life.

The Scott Monument

scott monument

Address:  East Princes St Gardens, Edinburgh, EH2 2EJ Visitor guide: The Scott Monument

In the centre of Princes Street Gardens, not far from Waverley train station, stands one of the grandest man-made landmarks in Europe – the 200-foot Scott Monument. This beautiful Gothic-inspired structure is famous for being the world’s largest monument to a writer, and it has been an integral part of the Edinburgh cityscape since its completion in 1844.

Constructed from locally mined sandstone, the monument is dedicated to the Edinburgh novelist and poet Sir Walter Scott, who created many literary classics, including Ivanhoe and Rob Roy.

The design of the monument is inspired by the intricate designs of Rosslyn Chapel and Melrose Abbey and the attention to detail in the stonework can be clearly seen as you walk around the outside and gaze up towards the spires.

The Scott Monument is the perfect place to get an overview of the city as it features 287 steps leading up a spiral staircase which leads out onto a series of viewing platforms, each of which has superb panoramic views across Edinburgh’s city centre.

It’s from the platforms that you can really appreciate the architecture of the city, with Princes Street running east to west, the Old Town stretching out to the south, and the imposing Salisbury Crags of Holyrood Park to the southeast.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should i not miss in edinburgh.

Some of the top historic tourist attractions in Edinburgh are: 1. Edinburgh Castle 2.  Holyrood Palace 3.  St. Giles Cathedral 4.  The Museum on The Mound 5.  Greyfriars Kirk 6.  John Knox House 7. The Georgian House 8.  Mary King’s Close 9.  The Scott Monument

Can you walk around Edinburgh Castle for free?

Historic Environment Scotland, which oversees Edinburgh Castle, charges a fee to enter. A HES membership allows free unlimited re-admittance throughout the year.

What is the oldest building in Edinburgh?

The oldest building in Edinburgh is St. Margaret’s Chapel, which is located in Edinburgh Castle near the Mons Meg cannon. David I, St. Margaret’s son, constructed the chapel in the 12th century.

Is Edinburgh built on an old city?

Some parts of Edinburgh were built on top of old buildings and streets due to the Flodden Wall which enclosed the Old Town.

Unable to build further outwards, the city built high-rise tenement blocks and due to the lack of building space some buildings were constructed on top of existing streets. These can still be seen at Mary King’s Close and The Vaults near The Royal Mile.

Why is Edinburgh called Auld Reekie?

Before the Nor Loch was drained to create Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh’s residents threw their waste into the loch which over time became stagnant.

Coupled with the tenement blocks where people emptied human waste into the streets below, the city became known for its bad smell – hence the name ‘Auld Reekie’.

What is the difference between Edinburgh’s Old Town and New Town?

The Old Town of Edinburgh is the earliest part of the city that extends away from Edinburgh Castle, along The Royal Mile and down to Holyrood Palace.

As the Old Town began to fall into ruin the city council built a new district between 1767 and 1850, which attracted rich and educated residents away from the Old Town.

Today, both the Old Town and the New Town are designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

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Craig Neil is the author, photographer, admin, and pretty much everything else behind Out About Scotland. He lives near Edinburgh and spends his free time exploring Scotland and writing about his experiences. Follow him on Pinterest , Facebook , and YouTube .

edinburgh why visit

UK Travel Planning

20 Practical tips for the first-time visitor to Edinburgh

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: February 4, 2024

Are you planning to visit Edinburgh for the first time? After numerous trips to the Scottish capital over the past 50 years we have learned how to make the most of our time in Edinburgh. This article shares 20 practical and essential Edinburgh tips to help you plan (and experience) the best trip possible.

Edinburgh is a must-visit on any UK itinerary. The Scottish capital attracts millions of visitors every year from all over the globe. If you’re planning a visit of your own, then checking out this list of 20 Edinburgh tips is essential! 

In fact, this list of tips for visiting Edinburgh is also very useful for those who haven’t been in a while. It’s based on our own recent experience in the city, when we picked up a load of Edinburgh tips from locals and other visitors. 

This list of Edinburgh travel tips will give you a great idea of what to expect when you arrive. Please pay particular attention to points number one, three, four, five and eight before you travel, or you might miss out! 

Here are 20 of our top Edinburgh insider tips.

Edinburgh tips for the first time visitor

1. Book Edinburgh accommodation, attractions & travel in advance

2. experience genuine scottish hospitality, 3. pack clothing for the edinburgh climate, 4. consider when to visit very carefully, 5. plot your itinerary in advance, 6. soak up the stunning city skyline, 7. discover the free attractions in edinburgh, 8. explore edinburgh transport options, 9. consider accessible edinburgh, 10. conquer arthur’s seat, 11. sample authentic scottish foods, 12. sup a wee dram or two, 13. booking accommodation with parking, 14. try a traditional afternoon tea, 15. take a guided tour, 16. don’t rub greyfriar’s bobby’s nose, 17. get ready for scottish currency, 18. consider a day trip from the city, 19. schedule some free time, 20. never, ever call scots people english, uk travel planning podcast episode #58, which edinburgh tips will you be taking, edinburgh tips – things to know before you visit.

First things first. Edinburgh isn’t a last-minute kind of city unless you really don’t mind where you stay or what you do. So above all, things to know before visiting Edinburgh is to secure your accommodation, attraction tickets and any travel or tours you really want to do in advance. 

For example, is Edinburgh castle worth visiting? It’s a resounding yes to that – not least for the views – but the queues can be legendary. Skip those by booking your ticket or tour ahead of time.

Tip – Planning to visit Edinburgh for the Fringe Festival or Hogmanay? These are popular times of year and prices reflect this so book as far ahead as possible.

Edinburgh 2

Like any city, what really makes Edinburgh special (apart from its rich history) is the people. Experiencing a genuine Scottish welcome and the warmth of the local people really can make or break your trip.

Second on our list of travel tips for Edinburgh concerns where to lay your head. We recommend staying at a guest house like the Elder York, which is owned and run by Scots. The hosts are incredibly helpful, and the location and value for money are unbeatable.

Elder York Hotel

Packing for the UK is unlike many other destinations. This is because the UK has a maritime climate, and this means the weather can be very changeable. Scotland lies to the north of England and is thus colder, for a start. 

You’ll also need comfortable, robust footwear for all that sightseeing. Layering your clothing is also a great idea, as it’s easy to adjust your outfit according to the conditions. 

It also rains a fair amount in the UK. For more guidance on what to pack for your trip to the British Isles, check out this article . (Though if you do come unprepared, shopping in Edinburgh’s Princes Street area isn’t really a hardship. But it can be expensive!)

Edinburgh Princes Street

Unless you’re actually visiting Edinburgh in Scotland to attend the main or fringe festival, avoid that time of year! The streets are choked with pedestrians and traffic and every cafe, bar and restaurant is packed out. Accommodation is also very difficult to come by.

So when’s best? In the UK the school summer holidays take place during July and August, so this is a time to avoid if you can. August is also when the festivals happen. Edinburgh in winter can be cold, however.

If you have a choice, late spring or early autumn are good times to go to Edinburgh. The weather should be fairly mild and the city less crowded. The months of May, June, September and October are good bets, though you may still experience the odd very chilly day in early May or late October.

Summer in Edinburgh Scotland

It’s not only accommodation you should book in advance for Edinburgh. Deciding what to do and when before you go is best, as certain attractions may be closed on particular days of the week. Restaurant bookings for popular places also fill up quickly.

The Palace of Holyroodhouse , for example, is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, except during the peak months of July and August.

Holyrood House

Edinburgh has a distinctive skyline quite unlike any other, so do try to see the city from above if you can. One of the lesser-known Edinburgh castle tips is that during visits to the fortress the views are thrown in for free!

Another top spot for panoramic views is Arthur’s seat, and you can climb up here for free. Any elevated location is a good bet, so you could pick where you stay and eat accordingly.

View from Calton Hill

Are the best things in life really free? Perhaps not in many cases, but what to know about Scotland, England and the rest of the UK is that many of the top sights and experiences will cost you nothing. Including a wander around Holyrood Park. 

The list of other free Edinburgh attractions in and around the city includes the Scottish National Gallery, the People’s Story Museum, the Royal Botanic Gardens, Grassmarket and the Royal Mile, Dean Village, the Museum of Childhood, St Giles Cathedral, the Pentland Hills, the Writers’ Museum and Leith. Phew!

Glasshouses at the Botanical Gardens in Edinburgh

Walking around Edinburgh is the best way to get to know the city on a more intimate level. Ideally where you stay should thus be within walking distance of the key attractions. That said, there may be times when you get tired or want a break due to inclement weather.

Other popular options for exploring Edinburgh include hop-on, hop-off bus routes , public buses and trams. All-inclusive tickets can save you time as well as cash here, such as this Royal attractions and jump-on, jump-off bus pass .

Tram in Edinburgh 1

If you have mobility problems, then it really is essential to plan as many aspects of your Edinburgh trip as possible in advance. Edinburgh has steep hills and narrow, cobbled streets, so you may need assistance to explore some areas. Check out a range of wheelchair-accessible tours of Edinburgh here .

Steps up to the Royal Mile in Edinburgh.

As touched on above when discussing viewpoints, there’s no finer in all of Edinburgh than Arthur’s Seat. If you’re able and equipped for the climb, it’s so worthwhile. The return trek should take a couple of hours or so.

This former volcano can be reached via Holyrood Palace within the park of the same name. The park starts pretty much where the Royal Mile ends. If you’re so inclined, you can even book a private tour .

Arthurs Seat

We highly recommend visiting Makar’s Gourmet Mash Bar while you’re in Edinburgh. The model is so successful that they’ve also opened a Covent Garden branch in London! The Scottish one, meanwhile, has been a Tripadvisor Traveller’s Choice award winner for four consecutive years. 

Top foods to try include Scotch egg (a boiled egg covered in sausage meat and coated in breadcrumbs), Haggis with neeps (turnip) and tatties (potato – mashed of course). You could also take an insider’s foodie tour of Edinburgh.

Haggis neeps and tatties at Makars Gourmet Mash Bar

The same goes for Scottish drinks , and whisky, of course, is number one. There are also lots of other spirits, beers and soft drinks to sample, including Edinburgh Gin . 

There are some great tours to take if you’d like to delve deeper. We recommend the Scotch Whisky Experience tasting and tour, or the tour of the Holyrood Gin Distillery .

Scotch whisky

If you’ll be driving into Edinburgh, accommodation with parking is a must. There are some good options with parking around the Old Town, New Town and west end – if you know where to look.

Book this as early as you can. You can find a selection of good Edinburgh hotels with car parks here .

Edinburgh 3

Afternoon tea is a British institution and no one does scones better than the Scots. Expect fluffy fruit or plain scones which you can heap with as much clotted cream and jam as you like, plus dainty sandwiches and pretty cakes.

Afternoon tea also makes for some great photo opportunities! We loved the Georgian Tea Room at The Dome . Other popular options include The Balmoral hotel and The Witchery.

Afternoon tea at the Dome

A guided tour is the fast-track way to see the city from a local’s perspective. As they know all the shortcuts and hacks, this can also save you time. 

We took both a vaults tour and an Old Town history tour , and thoroughly enjoyed them both. Definitely highly recommended.

Edinburgh is reputedly one of the most haunted cities in the world – if you fancy taking a ghost tour this is our selection of the best ghost tours in Edinburgh .

For a private guided tour of Edinburgh we recommend Edinburgh Black Cab Tours – listen to one of their fabulous guides Charlotte chat about the history of Greyfriars Kirkyard in episode #88 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast. Choose from a private 2/4 or 8 hour tour of Edinburgh.

Edinburgh Old Town

Greyfriars Bobby is located on George IV Bridge on the Royal Mile. Many visitors have taken to rubbing the nose of the Skye Terrier statue, in the mistaken belief that it’s a) the thing to do and b) will bring them luck.

Don’t do it.

The Scots don’t reckon it’s good luck at all and what’s more is that the statue has suffered much as a result. Even costly restoration work cannot quite restore the iconic dog to his former glory.

The statue of Greyfriars Bobby in Edinburgh

While Scotland uses the same currency as the rest of the UK – pounds sterling – the banknotes look different. In fact according to the Bank of England , English notes are not in fact even legal tender in Scotland.

The coins are, and look much the same. But a shopkeeper, restauranteur or hotelier can in fact ask you to pay in Scottish cash rather than English if they want to. Contrary to popular belief, what they accept is at their discretion.

Get around the problem by paying with a card, or withdraw some Scottish notes once you arrive if you prefer cash.

Scottish money

If you’re not planning a big tour of Scotland, then do get out of the city for at least one day if you can. There are lots of day trips you can take, and you can find 21 of the top day tours from Edinburgh in this guide . 

The most popular destinations include the Scottish Highlands, Glencoe, Loch Ness and many more. You can even take a trip on the ‘ Hogwarts Express’ steam train via the Glenfinnan viaduct, aka The Jacobite.

Glenfinnan viaduct

There’s a lot to do in Edinburgh – but you might not remember the city all that well if you rush around in a blur of activity, just to tick off a list.

Focus on what you want to do most – and leave time for some relaxing experiences like a wander down Princes Street (the famous street in Edinburgh) or from there towards Leith via the New Town. Or perhaps take a stroll around Holyrood Park. Afternoon tea or dinner with a view is also a great way to unwind after a hectic day.

Explore the ancient pubs of the Grassmarket or head to boho Stockbridge to find a lovely little cafe for lunch. Laid-back exploring like this is just as important as seeing the big sights Edinburgh is famous for. Plus you get to sample local food and drinks while meeting Scots along the way!

Edinburgh 4

There’s a long and often violent history between England and Scotland. Though they are all part of a United Kingdom, many Scots are – perhaps understandably – wary of the English.

To some Scots – like the 45% or so who voted to become an independent nation in the 2014 referendum – being called English may be seen as an insult. It’s also factually inaccurate…

The Scottish are very proud of their rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes and beguiling cities. So please at least show them the decency of calling them by their proper name. Scottish… even British…just not English!

This post isn’t intended as a list of instructions. Rather we mean it to be used as a guide, so you can hone in on what’s important to you. Whatever you do and no matter what the weather is like, Edinburgh really is one of the most enchanting cities on earth, let alone in the UK!

For more guidance on visiting Edinburgh, see our posts on getting there from London , top places to stay , the best things to do and the ultimate Edinburgh guide with a map .

  • Where to stay in Edinburgh
  • Best day trips from Edinburgh
  • Things to do in Edinburgh
  • How to get to Edinburgh from London

Espresso

20 reasons to visit Scotland at least once in your life

Posted: January 30, 2024 | Last updated: January 30, 2024

Harry Potter fans are in for a treat when they visit Scotland as J.K. Rowling drew inspiration from numerous legendary sites. Start by climbing aboard the Hogwarts Express (actually called the Jacobite Steam Train) and crossing the <a href="https://independenttravelcats.com/harry-potter-filming-locations-in-scotland/" rel="noreferrer noopener">Glenfinnan Viaduct</a> in the Highlands. From there, you’ll see Loch Shiel and the mountains over which Buckbeak and Harry Potter flew in the third film of the series. Then, for a stroll along Diagon Alley, head to Victoria Street in Edinburgh.

Home to enigmatic valleys, mountainside castles, and wild beaches, Scotland is a breathtaking destination rich in history and intrigue. From the Highlands and Edinburgh to Loch Ness, discover 20 reasons to visit Scotland at least once in your lifetime.

It’ll be love at first sight with <a href="https://www.introducingedinburgh.com/top-attractions?_ga=2.260929741.1734890816.1678222742-605574446.1678222742" rel="noreferrer noopener">Edinburgh’s</a> romantic architecture and beautiful cobblestone streets. From climbing Arthur’s Seat to strolling through Dean’s Village, you’ll never be bored in Scotland’s capital. A visit to Edinburgh Castle and a stroll along the Royal Mile are a must for those wishing to learn more about the country’s fascinating past. Finally, be sure to enjoy a picnic and breathtaking view of the city on Calton Hill.

Discover Edinburgh

It’ll be love at first sight with Edinburgh’s romantic architecture and beautiful cobblestone streets. From climbing Arthur’s Seat to strolling through Dean’s Village, you’ll never be bored in Scotland’s capital. A visit to Edinburgh Castle and a stroll along the Royal Mile are a must for those wishing to learn more about the country’s fascinating past. Finally, be sure to enjoy a picnic and breathtaking view of the city on Calton Hill.

Dive into the world of Harry Potter

Harry Potter fans are in for a treat when they visit Scotland as J.K. Rowling drew inspiration from numerous legendary sites. Start by climbing aboard the Hogwarts Express (actually called the Jacobite Steam Train) and crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct in the Highlands. From there, you’ll see Loch Shiel and the mountains over which Buckbeak and Harry Potter flew in the third film of the series. Then, for a stroll along Diagon Alley, head to Victoria Street in Edinburgh.

A destination par excellence for a Scottish road trip, the <a href="https://www.northcoast500.com/" rel="noreferrer noopener">North Coast</a> travels through the Highlands for over 800 kilometres (500 miles). Discover incomparable landscapes and enjoy many outdoor activities along the way. We recommend spreading your getaway over five to seven days. Take this extraordinary route to quaint fishing villages, pristine beaches, and stunning mountains in six Scottish regions.

Explore the Highlands on the North Coast 500

A destination par excellence for a Scottish road trip, the North Coast travels through the Highlands for over 800 kilometres (500 miles). Discover incomparable landscapes and enjoy many outdoor activities along the way. We recommend spreading your getaway over five to seven days. Take this extraordinary route to quaint fishing villages, pristine beaches, and stunning mountains in six Scottish regions.

<a href="https://www.visitscotland.com/places-to-go/glencoe" rel="noreferrer noopener">Glencoe’s lush valleys</a> will surely amaze you, while also revealing more about Scotland’s tumultuous history. Famous for its scenic beauty, Glencoe is also known for the MacDonald clan massacre of 1692. While some believe the place is haunted, its mountains and invigoratingly fresh air manifest an undeniable Zen. The popular An Torr and Glencoe Lochan trails make it a must stop for hikers as well.

Admire beautiful Glencoe

Glencoe’s lush valleys will surely amaze you, while also revealing more about Scotland’s tumultuous history. Famous for its scenic beauty, Glencoe is also known for the MacDonald clan massacre of 1692. While some believe the place is haunted, its mountains and invigoratingly fresh air manifest an undeniable Zen. The popular An Torr and Glencoe Lochan trails make it a must stop for hikers as well.

<a href="https://www.thescotchadvocate.com/" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scotch</a>, the country’s national drink, is a type of malt or grain whisky made only in Scotland. From Campbeltown to Islay, you’ll find many <a href="https://www.visitscotland.com/things-to-do/food-drink/whisky/distilleries/" rel="noreferrer noopener">distilleries</a> in whatever region you visit. Each locale offers its own version of Scotch, and you may notice some differences, such as woody versus fruity notes or a unique aging process. Edinburgh offers several exclusive tastings, including the <a href="https://www.johnniewalker.com/en-ca/" rel="noreferrer noopener">Johnnie Walker Experience</a> on Princes Street.

Taste the best Scotch

Scotch, the country’s national drink, is a type of malt or grain whisky made only in Scotland. From Campbeltown to Islay, you’ll find many distilleries in whatever region you visit. Each locale offers its own version of Scotch, and you may notice some differences, such as woody versus fruity notes or a unique aging process. Edinburgh offers several exclusive tastings, including the Johnnie Walker Experience on Princes Street.

From <a href="https://www.visitscotland.com/info/see-do/dunvegan-castle-gardens-p248681" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dunvegan</a> to <a href="https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/kilchurn-castle/" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kilchurn</a>, Scotland has no shortage of mythical castles. Among the most fascinating and famous for its epic setting, <a href="https://www.eileandonancastle.com/" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eilean Donan</a> is surrounded by nature and three large lochs. Former home of the Mackenzie and Macrae clans, it also played an important role in the Jacobite rebellions. <a href="https://www.stirlingcastle.scot/" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stirling Castle</a>, located between Glasgow and Edinburgh, has also witnessed several bloody battles, including the defeat of the English by the celebrated Robert the Bruce and William Wallace during the Middle Ages.

Visit medieval castles

From Dunvegan to Kilchurn , Scotland has no shortage of mythical castles. Among the most fascinating and famous for its epic setting, Eilean Donan is surrounded by nature and three large lochs. Former home of the Mackenzie and Macrae clans, it also played an important role in the Jacobite rebellions. Stirling Castle , located between Glasgow and Edinburgh, has also witnessed several bloody battles, including the defeat of the English by the celebrated Robert the Bruce and William Wallace during the Middle Ages.

Affectionately known as “<a href="https://www.visitscotland.com/blog/holiday-ideas/great-places-to-see-highland-cows-in-scotland/" rel="noreferrer noopener">hairy coos</a>,” these beautiful, shaggy cows are easy to spot when travelling the roads of their native region, the Highlands. Animal lovers with be happy to know that many farms will let you feed and pet them.

Meet Highlands cows

Affectionately known as “ hairy coos ,” these beautiful, shaggy cows are easy to spot when travelling the roads of their native region, the Highlands. Animal lovers with be happy to know that many farms will let you feed and pet them.

Mountain climbing adepts may be interested in scaling the <a href="https://www.isleofskye.com/skye-guide/skye-places/the-cuillin" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cuillin Hills</a> while in Scotland. Separated by the Sligachan Valley, these two mountain ranges are located on the <a href="https://www.isleofskye.com/" rel="noreferrer noopener">Isle of Skye</a>. While a long, rugged ridge makes ascending the Black Cuillin more difficult, the gentler, rounder Red Cuillin remains challenging. The Black Cuillin leads climbers across several Munros, mountains rising nearly one thousand metres (over 3,000 feet) high.

Climb the Cuillin Hills

Mountain climbing adepts may be interested in scaling the Cuillin Hills while in Scotland. Separated by the Sligachan Valley, these two mountain ranges are located on the Isle of Skye . While a long, rugged ridge makes ascending the Black Cuillin more difficult, the gentler, rounder Red Cuillin remains challenging. The Black Cuillin leads climbers across several Munros, mountains rising nearly one thousand metres (over 3,000 feet) high.

<p class="Body"><span><span><a href="https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2015/04/google-joins-the-search-for-the-loch-ness-monster/390906/" rel="noreferrer noopener">This mysterious monster is a household name across the globe.</a></span></span><span> But despite written reports, an Apple Maps sighting, and photographic stills, there is still no definitive proof that either confirms or denies the existence of the prehistoric beastie that has fascinated fans for more than a thousand years. </span></p>

Sail on the mysterious Loch Ness

Loch Ness is famous for more than its legendary underwater monster. It’s also the largest freshwater lake in the United Kingdom, stretching for over 37 kilometers (29 miles). While there, make your way to the lakeshore to visit the abandoned Urquhart Castle , one of the few to successfully repel British forces after the death of King Robert the Bruce in 1332.

Fans of the series <em>Outlander </em>are likely to put <a href="https://www.visitscotland.com/places-to-go/inverness/things-to-do" rel="noreferrer noopener">Inverness</a> on their Scottish itineraries. Indeed, the city has inspired many travellers. The Culloden Battlefield, the site of the last hand-to-hand combat in the United Kingdom, is just a quick drive away. Sitting on the banks of the River Ness, Inverness also features tours of a castle and its botanical garden. It’s also an excellent entry point for exploring the Highlands or venturing onto Loch Ness.

Visit Inverness

Fans of the series Outlander are likely to put Inverness on their Scottish itineraries. Indeed, the city has inspired many travellers. The Culloden Battlefield, the site of the last hand-to-hand combat in the United Kingdom, is just a quick drive away. Sitting on the banks of the River Ness, Inverness also features tours of a castle and its botanical garden. It’s also an excellent entry point for exploring the Highlands or venturing onto Loch Ness.

Covering more than 4,500 km<sup>2 </sup>(1,700 mi<sup>2</sup>), <a href="https://www.visitcairngorms.com/" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cairngorms</a> is the largest national park in the United Kingdom. You’ll find some of Scotland’s highest peaks, numerous sparkling lochs, and vast forests of native Caledonian pine. An ideal playground for water sports, cycling, and hiking, Cairngorms National Park is also home to <a href="https://www.visitcairngorms.com/listing/1534/balmoral-castle/" rel="noreferrer noopener">Balmoral</a>, the late Queen Elizabeth II’s favourite castle.

Explore Cairngorms National Park

Covering more than 4,500 km 2 (1,700 mi 2 ), Cairngorms is the largest national park in the United Kingdom. You’ll find some of Scotland’s highest peaks, numerous sparkling lochs, and vast forests of native Caledonian pine. An ideal playground for water sports, cycling, and hiking, Cairngorms National Park is also home to Balmoral , the late Queen Elizabeth II’s favourite castle.

<a href="https://www.visitscotland.com/places-to-go/islands/isle-skye" rel="noreferrer noopener">Skye</a> is not only the largest island of the Inner Hebrides, it’s also an incredible destination for enjoying some of Scotland’s most beautiful scenery. Among its most enchanting stops you’ll find breathtaking landscapes at <a href="https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/kilt-rock-and-mealt-falls" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kilt Rock</a>, feel like you’ve reached the end of the world at Neist Point Lighthouse, and enjoy tasty fish and chips in the colourful town of Portree.

Discover the Isle of Skye

Skye is not only the largest island of the Inner Hebrides, it’s also an incredible destination for enjoying some of Scotland’s most beautiful scenery. Among its most enchanting stops you’ll find breathtaking landscapes at Kilt Rock , feel like you’ve reached the end of the world at Neist Point Lighthouse, and enjoy tasty fish and chips in the colourful town of Portree.

Scotland has no shortage of impressive hiking spots, and the <a href="https://www.lonelyplanet.com/scotland/trotternish/attractions/quiraing/a/poi-sig/1199384/1314765" rel="noreferrer noopener">Quiraing</a> is probably its most magnificent. Located on the Isle of Skye’s Trotternish Peninsula, the site provides visitors with access to the <a href="https://www.isleofskye.com/skye-guide/top-ten-skye-walks/old-man-of-storr" rel="noreferrer noopener">Old Man of Storr</a>, a mythical rock formation adding a bit drama to the surroundings.

Explore the Quiraing

Scotland has no shortage of impressive hiking spots, and the Quiraing is probably its most magnificent. Located on the Isle of Skye’s Trotternish Peninsula, the site provides visitors with access to the Old Man of Storr , a mythical rock formation adding a bit drama to the surroundings.

In the heart of the <a href="https://explore-harris.com/" rel="noreferrer noopener">Outer Hebrides</a>, the Isle of Harris is home to spectacular scenery bordering the Atlantic Ocean. Among its many white sandy beaches, Luskentyre and <a href="https://www.visitscotland.com/info/see-do/traigh-seilebost-p2571581" rel="noreferrer noopener">Seilebost</a> offer splendid mountain views, turquoise waters, and green pastures. This island paradise is perfect for windsurfing.

Relax on the Isle of Harris

In the heart of the Outer Hebrides , the Isle of Harris is home to spectacular scenery bordering the Atlantic Ocean. Among its many white sandy beaches, Luskentyre and Seilebost offer splendid mountain views, turquoise waters, and green pastures. This island paradise is perfect for windsurfing.

The Isle of Skye is full of legends and places said to have magical properties. The <a href="https://hiddenscotland.co/the-magical-waters-by-the-sligachan-bridge/" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sligachan River</a>, for instance, supposedly grants eternal beauty to those who rinse their faces in its bewitched waters. Near the village of Glenbrittle, <a href="https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/fairy-glen" rel="noreferrer noopener">Fairy Glen</a> lies in a lush valley where wishes are granted amid the enchanting, crystal-clear waters of the <a href="https://www.isleofskye.com/skye-guide/top-ten-skye-walks/fairy-pools" rel="noreferrer noopener">Fairy Pools</a>.

Enter the world of fairies

The Isle of Skye is full of legends and places said to have magical properties. The Sligachan River , for instance, supposedly grants eternal beauty to those who rinse their faces in its bewitched waters. Near the village of Glenbrittle, Fairy Glen lies in a lush valley where wishes are granted amid the enchanting, crystal-clear waters of the Fairy Pools .

Meaning “<a href="https://www.visitscotland.com/blog/culture/gaelic-place-names/" rel="noreferrer noopener">dear green place</a>” in Gaelic, the aptly named <a href="https://peoplemakeglasgow.com/" rel="noreferrer noopener">Glasgow</a> is home to <a href="https://peoplemakeglasgow.com/see-do/outdoor-activities/parks-gardens" rel="noreferrer noopener">90 parks and natural areas</a> along the Clyde River. In addition to its superb university and the <a href="https://www.glasgowlife.org.uk/museums/venues/kelvingrove-art-gallery-and-museum" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum</a>, music lovers can visit the Scottish Opera and Royal Scottish National Orchestra. For those who prefer sports, Glasgow boasts two soccer teams and one rugby team.

Visit Glasgow

Meaning “ dear green place ” in Gaelic, the aptly named Glasgow is home to 90 parks and natural areas along the Clyde River. In addition to its superb university and the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum , music lovers can visit the Scottish Opera and Royal Scottish National Orchestra. For those who prefer sports, Glasgow boasts two soccer teams and one rugby team.

<a href="https://standrews.com/homepage/" rel="noreferrer noopener">St Andrews</a> is the perfect Scottish destination for golf enthusiasts. Founded in 1754, the town’s famous <a href="https://www.randa.org/en/the-royal-and-ancient-golf-club" rel="noreferrer noopener">Royal and Ancient Golf Club</a> hosts the British Open every other year. About an hour and 15 minutes by car from Edinburgh, St Andrews is also home to <a href="https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scotland’s oldest university</a>, the ruins of St Andrews Cathedral, and beautiful beaches like <a href="https://www.visitscotland.com/info/see-do/st-andrews-west-sands-p2571211" rel="noreferrer noopener">West Sands</a>.

Visit St Andrews

St Andrews is the perfect Scottish destination for golf enthusiasts. Founded in 1754, the town’s famous Royal and Ancient Golf Club hosts the British Open every other year. About an hour and 15 minutes by car from Edinburgh, St Andrews is also home to Scotland’s oldest university , the ruins of St Andrews Cathedral, and beautiful beaches like West Sands .

Also known as the Silver City, <a href="https://www.visitscotland.com/places-to-go/aberdeen" rel="noreferrer noopener">Aberdeen</a> is sure to please culture lovers. The summer months feature numerous plays at His Majesty’s Theatre and symphony concerts at the Music Hall. More intrepid visitors may dare to visit the Tolbooth Museum, Aberdeen’s most haunted locale. Those with a taste for castles will find nearby <a href="https://www.dunnottarcastle.co.uk/" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dunnottar</a> and <a href="https://www.visitscotland.com/info/see-do/craigievar-castle-p248301" rel="noreferrer noopener">Craigievar</a> make easy day trips.

Explore Aberdeen

Also known as the Silver City, Aberdeen is sure to please culture lovers. The summer months feature numerous plays at His Majesty’s Theatre and symphony concerts at the Music Hall. More intrepid visitors may dare to visit the Tolbooth Museum, Aberdeen’s most haunted locale. Those with a taste for castles will find nearby Dunnottar and Craigievar make easy day trips.

Located in the north of Scotland, <a href="https://www.scotland.org/live-in-scotland/where-to-live-in-scotland/the-shetland-islands" rel="noreferrer noopener">Shetland</a> borders the Atlantic Ocean and North Sea. Geographically closer to Norway than to Scotland, the island culture incorporates Scandinavian traditions. In January, for example, Viking structures are burned and locals dress up during the <a href="https://www.shetland.org/blog/shetlands-fire-festival-season-2023" rel="noreferrer noopener">fire festival</a> commemorating the sun’s return following the winter solstice. Winter also offers glimpses of the northern lights, while puffins and Shetland ponies take centre stage during the rest of the year.

Visit Shetland

Located in the north of Scotland, Shetland borders the Atlantic Ocean and North Sea. Geographically closer to Norway than to Scotland, the island culture incorporates Scandinavian traditions. In January, for example, Viking structures are burned and locals dress up during the fire festival commemorating the sun’s return following the winter solstice. Winter also offers glimpses of the northern lights, while puffins and Shetland ponies take centre stage during the rest of the year.

Enjoy several important cultural events when visiting Scotland between May and September. More than 60 <a href="https://scotlandwelcomesyou.com/scottish-highland-games/" rel="noreferrer noopener">Highlands Games</a> are held across the country, giving locals and tourists alike a chance to show off their clan colours in a series of fun, sporting, and traditional events. In August, both the <a href="https://www.edfringe.com/" rel="noreferrer noopener">Fringe Festival</a> and events surrounding the bagpipes and kilts of the <a href="https://www.edintattoo.co.uk/" rel="noreferrer noopener">Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo</a> take Edinburgh by storm.

Immerse yourself in Scottish culture

Enjoy several important cultural events when visiting Scotland between May and September. More than 60 Highlands Games are held across the country, giving locals and tourists alike a chance to show off their clan colours in a series of fun, sporting, and traditional events. In August, both the Fringe Festival and events surrounding the bagpipes and kilts of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo take Edinburgh by storm.

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  2. Edinburgh: the enchanting city

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  3. Iconic Images of Edinburgh That Will Inspire Your Next Trip

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  4. Shore Excursion: 1 day Edinburgh City Tour

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  5. Edinburgh Geheimtipps im Überblick: Empfehlungen für einen Kurztrip

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  6. Edinburgh, Scotland

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COMMENTS

  1. 12 Reasons Why You Need to Visit Edinburgh

    At the very end of the Royal Mile, you will find Holyrood park with beautiful sites like Holyrood palace, Arthur's seat, Salisbury Crags, Samson's Ribs and St Margaret's Loch. The Holyrood palace was founded by David the First in 1128 and still used by the Queen Elizabeth the Second today. Visit what can be called the "Buckimgham Palace ...

  2. 27 things to know before going to Edinburgh

    Pack waterproof gear. You'll need a jacket whenever you're visiting. Edinburgh rarely gets that cold, but it can change from bright sunshine to rain-lashed darkness in a heartbeat. You're likely to do a fair bit of walking, so a pair of comfy shoes is important. There's no need to pack anything particularly formal.

  3. 12 Edinburgh Residents Explain Why You Should Visit

    12 Edinburgh Residents Explain Why You Should Visit. With castles, restaurants and galleries, there's always something to do in Edinburgh. However, the true character of the Scottish capital can't be measured by its attractions. It's measured by the warmth of its people, the tranquillity of its green spaces and the places just waiting to ...

  4. 6 Reasons Why You Should Visit Edinburgh

    Whether you're looking for a culture fix, buzzing nightlife, rolling hills or delicious food, this city has it all. Here are 6 reasons why you should visit Edinburgh... 1. The fascinating Scottish history. Edinburgh has a rich history that dates back to before the Roman times. Battles, forts, weapons and armies; the city was once a battleground.

  5. 2 Days in Edinburgh: The Perfect Itinerary for Your First Visit

    Real Mary King's Close. This is the perfect tour to learn about medieval life in Edinburgh. Journey back in time to 1645 Edinburgh, down Mary King's Close, a real alleyway in the city. This was the year of the Black Death, when one-third of Edinburgh's population succumbed to this terrible illness.

  6. The Official Guide to Edinburgh

    Visit Edinburgh. With the city's skyline, cobbled streets and colourful characters as your backdrop, there's so many ways to embrace, explore, have fun and create lasting memories in Edinburgh. Resident or visitor, Forever Edinburgh is here to help you see Edinburgh in unexpected and exciting ways.

  7. Top 14 Things to Do in Edinburgh

    Visit The Chocolatarium. Search a wide range of accommodation, events, food & drink options and things to do from indoor and outdoor attractions to activities, tours and more. Find a range of things to do in Edinburgh, including top attractions like the National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh Castle, Arthur's Seat and many more.

  8. Edinburgh for first-timers

    Edinburgh is an unbeatable city, steeped in history, culture, nature, architecture and constantly shifting northern light. From royal ships and ancient volcanoes to dockside dining and peaceful canals, here are 10 highlights of Scotland's majestic capital that no first-time visitor should miss.

  9. Your Trip to Edinburgh: The Complete Guide

    Planning Your Trip. Best Time to Visit: Based purely on the weather, June through August is the best time of year to travel to Edinburgh. Scotland can be notoriously gloomy and wet during the winter, but summer brings moderate temperatures and some sun, making it ideal for outdoor sightseeing.

  10. 35+ Best things to do in Edinburgh (Scotland)

    Visiting Edinburgh - Video + Top Tips Why visit Edinburgh. It is the most fascinating town in Scotland: castles, monuments, beautiful parks, historical buildings… And with 3 hills, you can admire wonderful views!

  11. 21 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Edinburgh

    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.

  12. 20 unique reasons to visit Edinburgh now

    You probably know Edinburgh for its bagpipers, festivals, and its castle, which is built on a 700-year-old volcano. But more than that, Edinburgh is known worldwide for being one of the most beautiful and walkable cities in the world. Need more convincing? Here are the best reasons to visit Edinburgh. Read next: How to spend a day in Edinburgh

  13. Must-see attractions Edinburgh, Scotland

    Edinburgh's 18th-century City Chambers were built over the sealed-off remains of Mary King's Close, and the lower levels of this medieval Old Town alley… National Museum of Scotland Old Town

  14. Visit Edinburgh: Why You Should Visit Scotland's Capital City

    Here's why you (and all the Harry Potter fans you know) should book a trip to Edinburgh, Scotland now. ... Visit Edinburgh in August and you won't be able to escape the Edinburgh Festival Fringe ...

  15. 8 Incredible Reasons Why You Should Visit Edinburgh At Least Once

    Arusha Gallery, Edinburgh. #2. The Incredible Architecture. Edinburgh is recognised around the world for its beautiful architecture. Century-old castles, cobbled streets and old houses make the city a truly unique and one-of-a-kind experience if you are an architecture lover.

  16. Why is Edinburgh so famous?

    Top reasons why you should visit Edinburgh. Fascinating history; This city's history dates back to Roman times. It used to be a battleground which has now so magnificently risen into a world-famous metropolis. Here, you will discover many museums and historic sites that will help you learn more about the country's rich heritage.

  17. Edinburgh

    Why visit Edinburgh? Scotland's capital is one of the most unique and memorable cities in Europe.Edinburgh has a rare charm with narrow and cobbled passageways, called closes in Scots.The town is also known for its dark corners where terrifying events have taken place, its majestic buildings and gardens, countless fascinating museums, which are free to visit, and, especially, the city's kind ...

  18. 21 Things to Know Before You Go To Edinburgh

    Expect crowds. Edinburgh is popular. It's the UK's second most-visited city (after London) and gets busier every year. It's also a small city, so there are bottleneck areas. From June-September, the city center, and especially the Royal Mile and Princes Street—the shopping avenue that forms a border between the castle gardens and the New Town—get busy with tartan-drunk visitors.

  19. Edinburgh travel guide: things to see and do, best hotels, top

    1. Why you should visit Edinburgh . There used to be a "down season" in Edinburgh, when Scotland's capital city "caught a slight breather" from tourists, said Condé Nast Traveler.But ...

  20. A Guide to Historic Attractions in Edinburgh

    Holyrood Palace. Holyrood Palace (also known as the Palace of Holyroodhouse) is a relative youngster when compared to Edinburgh Castle, but one part of it, Holyrood Abbey, is one of the oldest buildings in the city. The abbey was founded in the early 1100s for Augustinian monks, and being so close to the castle, it soon became an administrative ...

  21. 20 Essential Edinburgh tips for the first time visitor

    Edinburgh Tips - Things to know before you visit 1. Book Edinburgh accommodation, attractions & travel in advance. First things first. Edinburgh isn't a last-minute kind of city unless you really don't mind where you stay or what you do. So above all, things to know before visiting Edinburgh is to secure your accommodation, attraction ...

  22. Things To Do

    Things To Do. A bustling and vibrant city, steeped in history and host to a variety of colourful festivals throughout the year, there is no shortage of things to do in Edinburgh. Read on to discover what this fantastic city has to offer, come rain or shine.

  23. Why Visit Edinburgh Castle in Scotland?

    Visit Edinburgh Castle When You Are in Scotland. At the top of the Royal Mile sits one of the most beautiful castles in the UK. It can be seen from just about everywhere in Edinburgh, and with its dark and mossy stone construction, it really looks and feels like a stereotypical castle. Atop the hill, it's easy to find; if you find yourself ...

  24. 20 reasons to visit Scotland at least once in your life

    1 / 21. 20 reasons to visit Scotland at least once in your life ©Shutterstock. Home to enigmatic valleys, mountainside castles, and wild beaches, Scotland is a breathtaking destination rich in ...