Steeped in history, the Scottish capital escaped the destruction of WWII, and much of it remains intact. Divided into Old Town and New Town by the Water of Leith, the Edinburgh Castle is the most visible building, sitting on top of an extinct volcano. With its darkened stone facades, Edinburgh oozes history, which is why it became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995. Highly walkable, Edinburgh brims with history, museums and a haunted past. Here are the top things to do in Edinburgh.
20 BEST Things to Do in Edinburgh
Explore the Edinburgh Castle
Visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse
Walk The Royal Mile
St. Giles Cathedral
Tron Kirk Market
Royal Yacht Britannia
Climb up to Carlton Hill
Use Jacob’s Ladder
Stroll Down Grassmarket
Walk Through the Writers Museum
Explore a Close on a Ghost Tour
Natural Museum of Scotland
The National Galleries of Scotland
Scott Monument
Princes Street Gardens
Greyfriars Bobby at Greyfriars Kirk
Camera Obscura
Dynamic Earth
Scottish Parliament Building
Arthur’s Seat
Why Visit Scotland?
In Edinburgh, there’s the Scottish vibrancy that marries centuries-old history with an ever-evolving culture. During my trips, I’ve found young people with kilts and Doc Martin’s playing the bagpipes. I recommend visiting an artisan market or gallery for unique souvenirs. Edinburgh continues to be one of those places I could visit over and over again.
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Edinburgh Castle
High up on Castlehill, this area has been used by humans since the Iron Age. Malcolm III constructed the first building in the 11th century and used it as a Royal residence until the 16th century. Afterward, it continued as a military garrison, but monarchs used the Palace instead.
With its centuries of use, it is the most besieged place in the UK, with uprisings from 14th-century Scottish Independence to the Jacobean Rising of 1745. In addition to battles, the Edinburgh Castle was used as an archive, a mint and a treasury, a prison and an arsenal.
Royal Highlights
Over the centuries, Edinburgh Castle has evolved through damage and additions. King David I built St. Margaret’s Chapel around 1130 and named it for his mother, Queen Margaret. It is the oldest building at the castle and is the oldest in Edinburgh. It is open and still used for small ceremonies.
During your visit, I recommend viewing The Honours of Scotland, the Scottish Royal Jewels, including the crown used in 1540. The Honours of Scotland and their accompanying exhibition are located on the first floor of the Royal Palace on the East side of Crown Square. There is usually a line to enter.
The Royal Palace includes the Royal Apartments, including the Birthing Room. Mary Queen of Scots gave birth to James VI here in 1566. The Queen’s Embroideries in the antechamber of the Royal Apartments are another highlight. The Royal Palace is located in Crown Square and is a highlight.
The Great Hall is another top thing to see. Completed in 1511 for King James IV, its wooden ceiling is particularly fine. Used for banquets, it features a stunning red wall with medieval weapons.
Military Highlights
For military fans, Mons Meg is a six-tonne siege gun and was considered cutting-edge military technology. Given to King James II in 1457, it could fire a 150kg gunstone for up to 3.2km (2 miles). It’s located close to St. Margaret’s Chapel. Half Moon Battery is another must with its seven 1810 18-pounder cannons.
Highlights include the Royal Scots Museum and the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards Museum, both Scottish regiments.
During my trip, I took a guided 30-minute tour. We went through the Portcullis Gate and saw the Argyle Battery with its cannons and up the Lang Stairs. Best of all, we saw the Great Hall from the gallery above the main level. It added to the experience as the guide retold the history of the castle.
I recommend that you tour either Edinburgh Castle or Holyroodhouse Palace on the same day. Both tours will take at least 2 hours, so it works out to do one in the morning and one in the afternoon, plus a leisurely stroll down the Royal Mile and lunch.
The gun is fired every day at 1 p.m., except on Sundays, Good Friday, and Christmas Day.
Located on Castlehill, Edinburgh, EH1 2NG. Open daily from 9:30 to 6 p.m. from April 1 until September 30. Open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. for the rest of the year. Reservations are required as tickets sell out frequently. Guided tours for adults are £30and £19.50 for kids (7 to 15), with kids 6 and younger entering for free. Standard adult admission is £23.5o and kids (7 to 15) are £14.
The Royal Mile
In between Edinburgh’s Castle and Palace in Old Town is the roadway that connects them. The Royal Mile runs for just over a mile and offers shops, churches and places to eat.
During the day, you’ll see monuments, enjoy bagpipes and even join a ghost tour. I recommend you pop into the shops along the way to find everything from locally made art to woolens.
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Palace of Holyroodhouse
This is the official British Royal Residence while in Scotland. Construction started in 1671; it is opposite Edinburgh Castle on the Royal Mile.
It is used as a residence and a place for celebrations, but unlike Edinburgh Castle, it doesn’t feature cannons or fortifications. The monarch spends a week here in the summer to host engagements, and we visited right after he left in 2024.
I recommend the official tour to see the historic 16th-century state rooms and learn more about Mary Queen of Scots. It was here where her private secretary was murdered by her second husband.
The grounds include the not-to-be-missed Holyrood Ruins from the 1100s and a lovely garden. During our visit, I had tea in its cafe.
Located at Canongate, Edinburgh EH8 8DX. Open 9:30 to 6 p.m. (last entrance at 4:30 p.m. from April 1 until October 31); the rest of the year, open until 4:30 p.m. Advance adult is £22, young adults (18 to 24) enter for £14, kids (5 to 17) £11 with those under 5 entering for free. Reservations are recommended, but it is not timed-entry. Visit early and late in the day for fewer crowds.
Tip: Reserve tickets to Edinburgh Castle first, then plan to visit the Palace on the same day.
St. Giles Cathedral
Founded in 1124 by King David I, St. Giles Cathedral has served the people of Edinburgh for over 900 years, both as a Catholic and a Presbyterian church. As the High Kirk of Edinburgh, it is a parish church of the Church of Scotland in the Old Town of Edinburgh.
St. Giles was John Knox’s parish church during the Reformation. In 1560, it became a protestant church, and Knox preached and is buried there.
There are several services that visitors can attend during the week. At noon every weekday, the church hosts a prayer service. Its Sunday Services are at 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. The St. Giles at Six on Sunday is a weekly musical performance.
Located on High St, Edinburgh EH1 1RE. Open Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m. Free to enter, donations accepted.
Tron Kirk Market
Part of the Scottish Historic Buildings Trust, the Tron Kirk was built in the 17th century, yet closed as a parish church in 1952. This church is home to 20 Scottish artists and designers, all affiliated with the Scottish Design Exchange.
Located at 122 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1SG. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
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Royal Yacht Britannia
Nearby in the port of Leigh, travelers can tour Her Majesty’s Royal Yacht Britannia in service to the queen from 1954 to 1997. Launched from Clydebank, Scotland, on April 16, 1953, over its lifetime, the vessel sailed more than one million nautical miles. Built by John Brown & Co, its ship-building legacy includes the Queen Elizabeth and the Queen Mary.
The 412-foot ship reached a maximum speed of 21.5 knots and could accommodate 250 guests. With a crew of 21 officers and 250 Royal Yachtsmen, the Royal Yacht Britannia was used for everything from state visits and receptions to royal honeymoons and family holidays.
Visitors get a closer look at the lives of late Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip at sea. In a less formal setting, tourgoers travel through the royal apartments and a casual sunroom, the Queen’s favorite space. The space is refined yet casual, filled with personal artifacts and personal gifts from far-off lands.
The grandest space is the State Dining Room, which accommodates close to 100 for dinner. The Drawing Room is a smaller space that exudes understated elegance, also used for smaller receptions.
Below, visitors can explore the crew quarters on a self-guided tour, including the Officer’s Wardroom, the Sick Bay and the Laundry facilities. Another highlight is the Bridge and Engine Room.
My Visit
After touring many of the royal residences, the tour at the Royal Yacht Britannia offered the best look into the lives of late Queen Elizabeth and Prince Phillip, a retired Naval Officer. As I explored, I could tell this was a beloved space for the Queen.
After touring the Royal Britannia, we stopped at the Royal Deck Tearoom for tea. It offers a selection of scones, tea cakes and several types of tea. There are sandwiches and soup available. Best of all, the windows overlook the water.
Located at Ocean Dr, Leith, Edinburgh, EH6 6JJ. During my trip, I used the Edinburgh Tram from Old Town for £2.40 per person. Open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. from April to September, 4:30 p.m. in October, then from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. from November to March. Adult admission is £22 to £25, students and kids (7 to 15) are £11.50 to £12.50. Reservations are recommended.
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Carlton Hill
At the eastern end of Prince’s Street, Carlton Hill is a volcanic hill overlooking Edinburgh with sweeping views. At the top, visitors will find several monuments, including the unfinished National Monument, a replica of the Parthenon.
Edinburg is similar to Athens, and this area mirrors the Acropolis. Additionally, visitors will find the City Observatory and the Dugald Stewart Monument. Finally, the Nelson Monument is dedicated to Lord Nelson and his death at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805.
This is the place to be on a clear and sunny day in Edinburgh. The climb up is doable for most. During my visit, I also used Jacob’s Steps.
Located at 32 Greenside Road, Edinburgh. It is free to enter. There are clearly marked steps across from the Scottish Government Building.
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Climb Jacob’s Ladder
Outside of Edinburgh’s Waverly Station, there’s a shortcut to Carlton Hill if you don’t mind a few steps. Carved out of volcanic rock, the 140 steps are hundreds of years old.
To find Jacob’s Ladder, start on Carlton Road to reach Regent’s Road if you’re up for the climb. Start on Regent’s if you want to head down the steps.
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Grassmarket
This area of Edinburgh features strollable streets with independent shops and cafes. South of Edinburg Castle, it offers great views of the castle.
Some of the best streets to explore are Victoria Street and Bow Street, with their crayon-colored buildings. Grassmarket offers a pedestrian area with a street cafe when the weather is nice. Both places are connected.
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The Writers’ Museum
In the area, The Writers Museum is a small museum dedicated to three of the most famous Scottish authors: Robert Burns, Walter Scott and Robert Louis Stevenson. Visitors browse portraits, Burns’ writing desk and rare books.
Located at Lawnmarket, Lady Stair’s Close, Edinburgh EH1 2PA. Free to enter and open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Takes less than an hour to explore.
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National Museum of Scotland
It might be raining, or you, like me, love a good museum. The National Museum of Scotland is a new name for a collection of Scottish artifacts and culture that started in 1866.
It opened in 1866 as the Edinburgh Museum of Science and Art, then became the Royal Museum. In 2011, it reopened after a multi-year renovation that updated the Victorian Venetian Renaissance style, including its Grand Hall with cast iron construction.
Visitors will have several floors to explore, including medieval objects and a predecessor to the guillotine, the Scottish Maiden. It’s an eclectic collection at the National Museum of Scotland, including Sir Elton John’s costumes.
One of the highlights is the stuffed Dolly the Sheep, the first mammal cloned by adult cells. There’s a T. rex. In the Science and Technology galleries, visitors will find lots of hands-on displays.
Located at Chambers St, Edinburgh EH1 1JF. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is free to enter.
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National Galleries of Scotland
Originally opened in 1859, the Neoclassical building is located at The Mound in Central Edinburgh, close to Princes Street. It displays art from 1300 to 1945; highlights include work from Vermeer, Titian, Rembrandt, Velázquez and the Impressionists, part of its 120,000-object collection.
During my visit, I saw Young Woman Standing at a Virginal by Johannes Vermeer and Poplars on the Epte by Claude Monet. Scottish highlights include The Murder of David Rizzio by William Allan and Skating on Duddingston Loch by Reverend Robert Walker.
There are several National Galleries of Scotland. Modern 1, Modern 2 and Portrait Galleries. Each is located in a different area in Edinburgh.
Located at The Mound, Edinburgh EH2 2EL. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is free to enter.
Tour a Close and an Underground Vault
In Old Town, the main streets feature closes (Scottish for alleyways). Castle Hill, Lawnmarket, High Street, Canongate and Abbey Strand include several narrow passageways, some open and others gated.
On my trip, I wanted to explore a close, so I booked a haunted history walk that included a close and one of the underground vaults. On my Mercat Tour’s Ghosts and Ghouls tour, we started at the Mercat Cross, a large, eight-sided monument on the Royal Mile.
As our costumed guide explained Edinburgh’s macabre history, we navigated steep stairways, weathered grey and covered in moss. Barrie’s Close doglegs off Parliament Square and connects to Old Fishmarket Close.
We continued to reach the Blair Street Underground Vaults, a complex of chambers built beneath the South Bridge in the 18th century. Entering this underground labyrinth, we learned about its use as storage, both for goods and people and often rumored to be haunted.
The tour blended theatrics, history and unique areas to explore. It capped off a full day of exploring Edinburgh.
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Princes Street Gardens
In the shadow of Edinburgh Castle, the Princes Street Gardens were created in the 1820s. The gardens follow the edge of the Nor Loch and divide Old Town from New Town, built in the 1720s.
The gardens are divided into East and West parts, with the Mound separating them. A couple of train tunnels run under the gardens. Waverly Station is located adjacent to the gardens.
In the East Garden, visitors will find the Scot Monument. The West Garden houses the Floral Clock on the eastern entrance stairs. The Gardener’s Cottage is a precious thatch-roof house with a surrounding garden. The Ross Bandstand and the Ross Fountain are also highlights of the Princes Street Gardens. Open daily from 7 a.m. to 9:35 p.m. and free to enter.
Located at Princes St, Edinburgh EH2 2HG. Open daily from 7 a.m. to 9:35 p.m. It is free to enter and there are two seasonal cafes.
The Scott Monument
A 197-foot-high Victorian Gothic monument to Scottish author Sir Walter Scott. It is the second-largest monument to a writer in the world.
Inside the Prince’s Street Gardens, it is the focal point of the garden. The Scott Monument offers guided tours, elaborating on Sir Walter Scott’s life and the impressive monument in his honor. Tourgoers will enjoy stunning views of Edinburgh from the third-floor viewing platform
Located at E. Princes St Gardens, Edinburgh EH2 2EJ. Tours are offered daily from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Adult tours are £9 and kids are £7, purchased at the monument’s base.
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Greyfriars Bobby at Greyfriars Kirk
A kirk is a church, and a kirkyard is a cemetery in Scotland. Founded in 1620, this church’s grounds include a cemetery in Old Town.
However, the reason this spot attracts visitors for a dog. The Greyfriars Bobby was a Skye Terrier in the 1800s.
After the death of his owner, John Grey, he guarded the grave until his own death on January 14, 1872. Greyfriars Bobby was buried in the kirkyard not far from his beloved owner.
The story is known throughout Scotland, and a statue dedicated to the loyal dog was commissioned shortly after. It is located at Candlemaker Row and the George IV Bridge, and the bronze nose is burnished as visitors routinely pat it.
Camera Obscura
Perched on the Outlook Tower in the Castlehill section of the Royal Mile (right outside of the Edinburgh Castle), the first Camera Obscura opened in the 1800s. This attraction is the oldest in Edinburgh and still offers views of the city, via telescopes and its virtual tour from the highest floor.
The World of Illusions exhibit is housed on the lower floors. Using optical illusion, light, color and mirrors, visitors meander through mazes and tunnels.
Located at 549 Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2ND. Open Monday to Thursday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday to Sunday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. (10 p.m. on Saturday). Adult tickets are £24.95, students are £21.95 and kids (5 to 15) are £17.95.
Dynamic Earth
Close to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, Dynamic Earth is a science center geared to families. Exhibits include a full-dome planetarium, an earthquake exhibit with a shaking floor and a real iceberg.
Located at Holyrood Rd, Edinburgh EH8 8AS. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. There are planetarium-only tickets and tickets to the entire facility, starting at £7.50.
Scottish Parliament Building
This striking abstract modernist building is across from the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Started in 1999, it is the home of the Scottish Parliament.
It is open, and visitors can explore the public areas of the building. During its recess, there’s even a free 45-minute tour (reservations required).
Located at Horse Wynd, Edinburgh EH99 1SP. Open Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Arthur’s Seat and Holyrood Park
Next to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the extinct volcano named Arthur’s Seat offers amazing views of Edinburgh. To climb to the top, the 2.7-mile loop trail ascends 866 feet and is considered moderately challenging and the highest part of the Salisbury Crags.
Located within the 640-acre Holyrood Park, part of the royal compound. It is open from dawn to dusk and free to enter.
Where to Eat in Edinburg
In many ways, I’ve always found the typical English cuisine executed better in Scotland than in England. Travelers will still find tea rooms, chippers and a proper Sunday roast. Most places are casual; however, in well-trafficked areas, reservations are helpful for dinner.
Clarinda’s Tea Room
Named after the mentor and friend of Robert Burns, the national poet of Scotland, this is a traditional tea room. During our stay, we had breakfast at Clarinda’s Tea Room for a traditional Scottish Breakfast.
The charming dining area features mismatched china, floral art on the walls and a satisfying breakfast. On the breakfront, there’s an array of sweet treats from Victoria Sponge to Bakewell Tarts to scones.
Located at 69 Canongate, Edinburgh EH8 8BS. Open from Tuesday to Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (closed Monday).
Edinburgh Larder
With breakfast served all day, this is the place for a traditional Scottish breakfast. This includes smoked back bacon, black pudding, haggis, Cumberland sausage, roasted flat mushroom, blistered cherry tomatoes, potato scone, homemade beans, poached egg and buttered granary toast. If that’s too much, find options like waffles and egg dishes.
Located at 15 Blackfriars St., Edinburgh EH1 1NB. Open Monday to Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Reservations are required.
Bertie’s Proper Fish and Chips
Served on blue-and-white china, fish-and-chip fans will find this place welcoming in its two-level space. To accompany my plate of Haddock and chips, I sampled a local Innis and Gunn Lager. I finished up my meal with a Sticky Toffee Pudding.
Located at 9 Victoria St, Edinburgh EH1 2HE. Open daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
The PieMaker
Open since 1995, The PieMarker bakes up savory meat, sweet, vegetarian and vegan pies and pasties. Signature pies include the Steak Scotch Pie, Steak and Ale Pie and a Haggis Pie.
The dining area is tiny, with barstools in the windows. However, it is easy enough to take away.
Located at 38 South Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1LL. Open Monday to Thursday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
MUMS Great Comfort Food
This storefront, not far from the National Museum of Scotland and Greyfriars Bobby statue, looks like a typical UK takeaway. MUMS exudes a kitschy mid-century mom vibe in its cozy dining area.
During my visit, we had dinner on a chilly and rainy evening. For dinner, the go-to is the Sausage and Mash.
In two and three-sausage options, you pick your preferred sausage from about six types. Then you add your favorite mash, from plain old potatoes to those flavored with Caramelised Leek & Bacon or Turnip & Carrot, along with eight other options. The plate of comfort food comes with gravy, available on the side. If you’re in the mood, the shakes look like they time-warped from the 1950s.
Located at 4A Forrest Rd., Edinburgh EH1 2QN. Open Monday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Sunday.
Cafe St Honore
In the United Kingdom, there’s a tradition of the Sunday roast. This quaint cafe, with Parisian brasserie vibes, serves up a daily menu with local ingredients. However, I booked a table for its Sunday Roast special.
Available as a special in two or three courses, on my visit, I chose the roasted chicken with Yorkshire pudding and a seasonal vegetable. My meal started with a dressed salad with house-made crotons and frisee. To top off my meal, I had a berry compote with ice cream.
Located at 34 North West Thistle Street Lane, Edinburgh, EH2 1EA. Open Thursday to Monday for lunch from noon to 2 p.m. and dinner from 5 to 9 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 7:30 p.m. (closed Tuesday and Wednesday). Reservations are required.
How to Get to Edinburgh
For our trip, we took the train to and from London. To get to Edinburgh, we departed from King’s Cross, London. As a bonus, this is the train station with the infamous Platform 9 3/4. The train arrived at Waverly Station, and we took an evening train, bringing take-away on board with us.
For our return to London, we took the Caledonian Sleeper Classic Twin Room. This six-day-a-week night train offers an efficient way to get from Edinburgh (or Glasgow) to London. This service saves daytime hours and is ideal for travelers trying to fly out of London.
The classic twin cabin features two berths and includes a couple of charging options for devices. Rooms offer a large window and a sink for comfort. The beds were comfortable and made before our arrival at Euston Station. We left at 11:30 p.m. and arrived before 7 a.m. Then we made our way to London’s Heathrow International Airport.
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