Edinburgh is an incredible city full of some of the best things to do and see. Whether you’re visiting Edinburgh for the first time or returning for a revisit, there is no shortage of activities and attractions to explore. From historic monuments and museums to quaint neighborhoods and lively pubs, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some of the top attractions in Edinburgh that you won’t want to miss!
The Royal Mile
The Royal Mile is a must-visit for any tourist traveling to Edinburgh. The famous street stretches from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace, providing a unique glimpse into the city’s history and culture. The Royal Mile is lined with historic buildings, restaurants, and shops, making it a popular spot for visitors to explore.
While visiting Edinburgh, take some time to stroll down The Royal Mile and admire the beautiful architecture and unique atmosphere. Stop by St Giles’ Cathedral, one of the most important religious sites in Scotland, and browse the souvenir shops to find the perfect memento of your trip.
If you’re feeling adventurous, book a guided tour of the many closes and alleys that branch off The Royal Mile. These narrow streets are filled with interesting history and ghost stories, and make for a fascinating exploration of Edinburgh’s past.
Edinburgh Castle
As one of the most iconic attractions in Edinburgh, the Edinburgh Castle is a must-visit spot for any tourist traveling to the Scottish capital. Located at the top of Castle Rock, the castle offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside. It is also home to several notable sites, including the Crown Jewels of Scotland, the One o’clock Gun, and the Scottish National War Memorial.
With a history that dates back to the 12th century, the Edinburgh Castle has played a significant role in Scotland’s history, including being the site of several battles, imprisonments, and royal ceremonies. Visitors can explore the castle’s various exhibits, such as the Great Hall, the Scottish National War Museum, and the Royal Palace. You can also join a guided tour to learn more about the castle’s history and see its most famous sights up close.
Visitors can also watch the daily firing of the One o’clock Gun, which dates back to 1861 when it was first fired to allow ships in the Firth of Forth to set their maritime clocks. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction that draws a crowd every day at 1 pm.
Holyrood Palace
One of the top attractions in Edinburgh, Holyrood Palace is a stunning piece of architecture with a rich history dating back to the 16th century. Located at the end of the Royal Mile, the Palace is the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland and is open to visitors all year round.
Visitors can explore the state apartments and learn about the history of the palace through interactive displays and exhibitions. The tour also includes a visit to the historic Abbey, which has played a significant role in Scotland’s religious and political history.
The palace’s beautiful gardens are another highlight, with manicured lawns and impressive floral displays. During the summer months, visitors can enjoy free outdoor concerts in the gardens.
Be sure to book your tickets in advance as the palace can get busy, especially during peak tourist season. If you’re interested in learning more about the Palace’s history, a guided tour is highly recommended.
National Museum of Scotland
If you are looking for a cultural experience, the National Museum of Scotland is an excellent choice. This museum houses over 20,000 artefacts and exhibitions that showcase Scotland’s history, culture, and natural world.
You will be able to explore 12 galleries and see fascinating displays, including the Scottish Galleries, which focus on Scottish history and archaeology, and the Imagine gallery, where you can experience interactive science exhibits. The museum is also home to the oldest surviving Scottish national flag, the iconic “Stone of Destiny,” and Dolly the sheep, the world’s first cloned mammal.
Admission to the museum is free, but you can make a donation if you would like to support the museum’s upkeep and work.
Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or science, the National Museum of Scotland has something for everyone. It is an excellent option for families with children or anyone looking for a fun and educational experience. Make sure you give yourself enough time to explore all the exhibitions!
The Scott Monument
The Scott Monument is a Victorian Gothic monument dedicated to Sir Walter Scott, a renowned Scottish novelist and poet. This stunning structure is located in the heart of Edinburgh’s city centre and stands at a height of 200 feet.
The monument was designed by George Meikle Kemp, who was a self-taught architect and sculptor. The construction of the monument began in 1840, and it took over four years to complete. The monument features a statue of Sir Walter Scott, who is seated at the base of the structure.
Visitors can climb up the spiral staircase to the top of the monument and enjoy panoramic views of Edinburgh’s skyline. From the top, visitors can see Edinburgh Castle, Arthur’s Seat, and the surrounding countryside. The climb to the top is not for the faint of heart, as there are over 280 steps to reach the summit.
The monument is surrounded by Princes Street Gardens, which makes for a great place to relax and enjoy the views after visiting the Scott Monument. The gardens also offer a picturesque backdrop for photos of the monument.
If you’re a literature enthusiast or simply looking for a unique experience, the Scott Monument is a must-visit attraction in Edinburgh. The views from the top are breathtaking, and the monument itself is a remarkable work of art.
Princes Street Gardens
Located in the heart of Edinburgh, Princes Street Gardens is a lush green space that offers a respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. It is the perfect spot to relax, have a picnic, or take a stroll with stunning views of the Castle and the Old Town.
The gardens are split into two sections: the East Gardens and the West Gardens. The East Gardens feature the famous Ross Fountain, which is illuminated at night, and the Scott Monument, a towering Gothic structure dedicated to Sir Walter Scott, a renowned Scottish novelist and poet. The West Gardens, on the other hand, boast the iconic floral clock and a statue of Prince Albert, the husband of Queen Victoria.
Throughout the year, the gardens host various events, including the Edinburgh International Festival, Christmas markets, and concerts. In the summer, visitors can enjoy outdoor theater performances, open-air cinema screenings, and live music.
The gardens are also surrounded by several notable landmarks and attractions, including the Royal Scottish Academy and the National Gallery of Scotland. Additionally, there are several restaurants, cafes, and shops located nearby, making it an ideal location for a day out with family and friends.
Arthur’s Seat and Holyrood Park
Located just a short walk from Edinburgh’s city center, Arthur’s Seat and Holyrood Park provide an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. This beautiful park offers a mix of nature and history, making it a popular spot among tourists and locals alike.
The centerpiece of Holyrood Park is Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano that stands 823 feet tall and provides a panoramic view of the city. Hiking to the top of Arthur’s Seat is a popular activity, and once you reach the summit, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Edinburgh’s skyline, the Firth of Forth, and the Scottish Highlands.
Holyrood Park also boasts a diverse range of flora and fauna, from rare orchids and colorful wildflowers to red deer and other wildlife. With over 650 acres of land to explore, there’s no shortage of natural wonders to discover.
Aside from its natural beauty, Holyrood Park is also steeped in history. The park has played a significant role in Scottish history for centuries, serving as a royal hunting ground in the Middle Ages and as the site of the Battle of Dunbar in 1650. In addition, the park is home to the ruins of St. Anthony’s Chapel, a 15th-century church that provides a glimpse into Edinburgh’s rich past.
Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or just looking for a peaceful escape, Holyrood Park is a must-visit destination in Edinburgh. Don’t forget to bring a camera, comfortable shoes, and a sense of adventure!
The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is a must-visit attraction for anyone who loves nature and gardening. It was founded in 1670 and has become one of the world’s leading botanic gardens, attracting over a million visitors every year.
The garden is home to over 13,500 plant species, including rare and endangered ones, from all over the world. There are 70 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds to explore, with features like rock gardens, Victorian palm houses, and a Chinese hillside.
One of the highlights of the garden is the Scottish Heath Garden, which showcases the country’s native plants, including heather, mosses, and ferns. You can also see the world’s largest collection of Chinese plants outside of China in the Chinese Hillside section.
If you’re interested in learning more about plants and conservation, there are several exhibitions and guided tours available. The John Hope Gateway building has interactive displays, and the Queen Mother Memorial Garden is a tribute to her love of nature.
The garden is open all year round, and admission is free, although donations are appreciated. There are several cafes on site where you can grab a bite to eat or a cup of coffee while taking in the stunning views.
The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is a peaceful and inspiring place to spend a few hours, and you’ll leave feeling rejuvenated and more connected to the natural world.
Calton Hill
Located in the heart of Edinburgh, Calton Hill is a must-visit attraction that offers stunning panoramic views of the city and beyond. At the top of the hill, you will find several iconic monuments and buildings that are worth exploring.
One of the most famous structures on Calton Hill is the National Monument of Scotland. This unfinished tribute to the soldiers and sailors who fought in the Napoleonic Wars resembles the Parthenon in Athens, Greece. While the monument was intended to be a full-scale replica, the project was abandoned due to a lack of funds.
Another landmark on Calton Hill is the Nelson Monument, which was built in honor of Admiral Lord Nelson following his victory at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. The monument features a statue of Nelson atop a tall tower, and visitors can climb to the top for spectacular views of Edinburgh.
Aside from the monuments, Calton Hill is also home to several parks and green spaces that provide a peaceful escape from the busy city below. The hill is particularly popular during the summer months when locals and tourists alike gather to enjoy picnics and outdoor concerts.
Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, Calton Hill is a must-visit destination when in Edinburgh. Don’t forget to bring your camera and capture the breathtaking views of this iconic hill.
Ghost Tours and Underground Vaults
If you’re looking for a thrill, you can’t leave Edinburgh without experiencing one of its famous ghost tours or exploring the city’s underground vaults.
Edinburgh has a rich and gruesome history, and there are plenty of spooky tales and ghostly sightings to be heard on a ghost tour. One of the most popular is the City of the Dead Haunted Graveyard Tour, which takes you through Greyfriars Kirkyard, known for its infamous poltergeist, and the haunted South Bridge Vaults.
But if you really want to delve into Edinburgh’s dark past, head to the underground vaults. These eerie chambers were once home to the city’s poorest inhabitants, and the cramped conditions and unsanitary living conditions made them a breeding ground for disease and crime. Today, the vaults are a popular tourist attraction and home to several ghostly encounters.
Mercat Tours offers a variety of underground tours, from the historic and informative to the downright spooky. You’ll learn about the history of the vaults and the people who lived there, and you may even hear some unsettling noises or catch a glimpse of a ghostly apparition.
Whether you’re a believer in the supernatural or not, a ghost tour or underground vault tour is a unique and unforgettable way to experience Edinburgh’s haunting past. Just be prepared for a few goosebumps along the way.