Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland, is renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. For those pondering things to do in Edinburgh, exploring the historic Edinburgh Castle, perched atop an ancient volcano, and strolling down the Royal Mile, a historic street leading from the castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, are essential experiences.
The city’s annual Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the world’s largest arts festival, transforms Edinburgh into a hub of creativity and performance. The National Museum of Scotland and the Scottish National Gallery showcase the country’s artistic and cultural heritage.
Beyond its historical and cultural landmarks, Edinburgh is celebrated for its picturesque natural settings, including Arthur’s Seat, offering panoramic views of the city. For those exploring the best places to visit in the United Kingdom, Edinburgh’s blend of historical charm, cultural richness, and natural beauty makes it a captivating and enchanting destination.
Attractions & Things to Do in Edinburgh, United Kingdom
1. Edinburgh Castle
Perched atop an extinct volcanic rock, Edinburgh Castle dominates the city skyline and is steeped in history. Highlights include the Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny, and St. Margaret’s Chapel.
Location: Perched atop Castle Rock in central Edinburgh, accessible via the Royal Mile.
Scenic Spot: Stunning views over the city skyline, with historic architecture and landmarks.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning to avoid crowds; aim to see the One O’Clock Gun firing.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for all, but some steep paths and cobblestones may be difficult for elderly visitors.
Price: Approximately €22 for adults, €13 for children.
Travel Tip: Buy tickets online in advance to avoid long queues and try to witness the firing of the One O’Clock Gun, a tradition dating back to 1861.
2. Royal Mile
The Royal Mile runs through the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, connecting Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Lined with medieval tenements, this historic street is filled with shops, restaurants, and attractions.
Location: The historic street stretching from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
Scenic Spot: Cobblestone streets lined with medieval buildings, historic landmarks, and charming alleyways.
Best Time to Visit: Late morning or afternoon for the best atmosphere.
Suitable for All Ages: Ideal for all ages, but some parts may be uneven for strollers or wheelchairs.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: Take a walking tour to uncover the hidden secrets of the Old Town and explore the numerous closes (narrow alleys) branching off the Royal Mile.
3. Arthur’s Seat
Offering panoramic views of the city, Arthur’s Seat is an ancient volcano and the highest point in Holyrood Park. It’s a popular spot for hiking and photography.
Location: Holyrood Park, about 1.5 km from the city center. Accessible by foot or taxi.
Scenic Spot: Panoramic views of Edinburgh, the coastline, and the surrounding countryside.
Best Time to Visit: Sunrise or sunset for breathtaking views.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for active visitors; not ideal for those with mobility issues due to the steep incline.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: Wear sturdy shoes and bring a windbreaker, as the weather can change quickly at the summit.
4. Palace of Holyroodhouse
The official residence of the British monarch in Scotland, this palace is located at the end of the Royal Mile. Explore the State Apartments, Mary, Queen of Scots’ chambers, and the beautiful gardens.
Location: At the bottom of the Royal Mile, near Holyrood Park.
Scenic Spot: Elegant royal palace with stunning gardens and views of Arthur’s Seat.
Best Time to Visit: Mid-morning to avoid large tour groups.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for all ages, though young children may find the historical content less engaging.
Price: Approximately €20 for adults, €12 for children.
Travel Tip: Check the palace’s official website before visiting, as it closes when the Queen is in residence.
5. The Scotch Whisky Experience
Located near Edinburgh Castle, this attraction offers a sensational journey through the world of Scotch whisky.
Location: Near Edinburgh Castle on the Royal Mile.
Scenic Spot: Whiskey-themed exhibits and tastings with a warm Scottish ambiance.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon or early evening for a relaxing experience.
Suitable for All Ages: Best for adults; children can join tours but cannot participate in tastings.
Price: Tours start at approximately €20 per person.
Travel Tip: Book a tasting tour to sample some fine Scotch whiskies and learn about the whisky-making process.
6. National Museum of Scotland
The National Museum of Scotland houses diverse collections that cover Scottish antiquities, culture, and history, as well as international sections on natural history, world cultures, science, and technology.
Location: Chambers Street, near the Old Town.
Scenic Spot: A beautifully designed museum with a rooftop terrace offering great views.
Best Time to Visit: Morning to explore before it gets busy.
Suitable for All Ages: Perfect for all ages, with interactive exhibits for children.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: Don’t miss the rooftop terrace for one of the best views of Edinburgh’s skyline.
7. The Royal Yacht Britannia
This former royal yacht is now a floating museum, berthed at Ocean Terminal. Explore the State Apartments, crew’s quarters, and engine room to get a glimpse of the royal life at sea.
Location: Docked at Ocean Terminal, about 3 miles from the city center.
Scenic Spot: Views of the Firth of Forth from the yacht’s deck.
Best Time to Visit: Late morning for fewer crowds.
Suitable for All Ages: Ideal for all ages, with a fun audio guide for children.
Price: Approximately €20 for adults, €12 for children.
Travel Tip: The audio guide, included in the admission price, provides fascinating insights into the yacht’s history.
8. Princes Street and Princes Street Gardens
Princes Street is Edinburgh’s main shopping street, with Princes Street Gardens lying just below. The gardens offer a scenic break from the city bustle and great views of the castle.
Location: The main shopping street in Edinburgh, with gardens below the castle.
Scenic Spot: A peaceful green space with views of Edinburgh Castle and seasonal flowers.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for a relaxing stroll.
Suitable for All Ages: Perfect for all ages.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: Visit during Christmas for the festive market and winter activities in the gardens.
9. The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
A short distance from the city center, these beautiful gardens offer a variety of plant collections, glasshouses, and walking paths.
Location: About 1.5 km north of the city center, accessible by bus or taxi.
Scenic Spot: Beautifully landscaped gardens with glasshouses and rare plant species.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer for the best floral displays.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for all visitors, including families with young children.
Price: Free to visit; entry to the glasshouses costs around €8.
Travel Tip: The gardens are perfect for a leisurely stroll and are particularly stunning during the spring and autumn months.
10. The Real Mary King’s Close
This historic close (alleyway) was buried beneath the Royal Mile and is now a fascinating underground attraction that offers a glimpse into Edinburgh’s past.
Location: Beneath the Royal Mile, near St Giles’ Cathedral.
Scenic Spot: Atmospheric underground alleyways revealing Edinburgh’s hidden past.
Best Time to Visit: Evening tours for a more immersive experience.
Suitable for All Ages: Best for older children and adults; younger children may find it spooky.
Price: Approximately €20 for adults, €12 for children.
Travel Tip: Book a guided tour to learn about the close’s intriguing history and hear tales of its former residents.
11. Greyfriars Kirkyard
Famous for its association with Bobby, a loyal dog who guarded his owner’s grave, and for inspiring characters in J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter books, this cemetery is a place of historical and cultural significance.
Location: Near the National Museum of Scotland, in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Scenic Spot: Historic gravestones, hauntingly beautiful surroundings, and connections to Harry Potter.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon or evening for ghost tours.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for all, but younger children may find the ghost stories unsettling.
Price: Free to visit; guided ghost tours cost around €15.
Travel Tip: Join a guided tour to uncover the graveyard’s stories and connections to Harry Potter.
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Edinburgh, United Kingdom: Ratings
Kid-Friendly Activities in Edinburgh: 7/10 – Edinburgh offers a variety of kid-friendly activities such as the Edinburgh Zoo, Dynamic Earth, and the Museum of Childhood. There are also numerous parks and green spaces like Holyrood Park and the Royal Botanic Garden.
Nightlife in Edinburgh: 8/10 – The city has a vibrant nightlife with a mix of traditional pubs, trendy bars, and nightclubs. The Grassmarket and Cowgate areas are particularly popular for nightlife, as well as the George Street and Leith areas.
Sport in Edinburgh: 7/10 – Sports enthusiasts can enjoy rugby matches at Murrayfield Stadium, football at Easter Road and Tynecastle Park, and various water sports at Portobello Beach. There are also numerous gyms, swimming pools, and outdoor activity centers.
Culture and Attractions in Edinburgh: 10/10 – Edinburgh is rich in cultural attractions, including the historic Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the Royal Mile. The city hosts the famous Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the Edinburgh International Festival, and numerous other cultural events throughout the year.
Gastronomy in Edinburgh: 8/10 – The city boasts a diverse food scene with a wide range of options from traditional Scottish cuisine to international dishes. Michelin-starred restaurants, cozy cafes, and bustling markets like the Edinburgh Farmers’ Market offer something for every palate.
Shopping in Edinburgh: 7/10 – Edinburgh provides good shopping opportunities, with high-end boutiques on George Street, a variety of shops on Princes Street, and unique finds in the Grassmarket area. There are also several shopping centers, such as St James Quarter and Ocean Terminal.
Prices in Edinburgh: 6/10 – Edinburgh can be relatively expensive, especially during festival season. However, it is possible to find moderately priced options for accommodation and dining.
Average price for a hotel night: 115-210 €
Cost of a lunch at a local restaurant: 15-29 €
Price of a beer: 4.5-6.5 €
Price of a coffee: 2.5-4 €
Beyond the City: Exploring Surroundings and Stays in Edinburgh, United Kingdom
For those looking to explore beyond Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile, top day trips near Edinburgh open the door to the majestic landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, the ancient ruins of Rosslyn Chapel, and the picturesque coastal town of North Berwick, each offering its own story and scenic beauty.
When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay, Edinburgh accommodations span the spectrum from grand, historic hotels to modern serviced apartments, each offering a unique perspective on this storied city. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in history or enjoy contemporary comforts, Edinburgh provides a welcoming stay for every visitor.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edinburgh
https://www.getyourguide.com/edinburgh-l44/
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