Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland, is a city steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty. Known for its stunning architecture, historic landmarks, and vibrant arts scene, Edinburgh offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication. The city is home to iconic attractions such as Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and the annual Edinburgh Festival, making it a must-visit destination in the United Kingdom. Here are some of the best places to visit in Edinburgh:
Best Places to Visit
1. Edinburgh Castle
Perched atop Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle is one of the most iconic landmarks in Scotland. The historic fortress offers panoramic views of the city and houses several museums and exhibits, including the Crown Jewels of Scotland and the Stone of Destiny. The castle’s Great Hall, St. Margaret’s Chapel, and the National War Museum of Scotland are must-see attractions. The castle also hosts the famous Military Tattoo during the Edinburgh Festival.
- Key Attractions: Crown Jewels, Stone of Destiny, panoramic views.
- Activities: Historical exploration, sightseeing, museum visits.
- Location: Castlehill, Edinburgh, United Kingdom.
2. The Royal Mile
The Royal Mile is a historic street that stretches from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. The mile-long street is lined with shops, restaurants, pubs, and historic buildings. Key attractions along the Royal Mile include St Giles’ Cathedral, the Real Mary King’s Close, and the Scottish Parliament. The street is a bustling hub of activity, especially during the Edinburgh Festival when it hosts street performers and events.
- Key Attractions: Historic buildings, shops, street performances.
- Activities: Shopping, dining, exploring.
- Location: Old Town, Edinburgh, United Kingdom.
3. Holyrood Palace
The Palace of Holyroodhouse, commonly known as Holyrood Palace, is the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. The palace has a rich history and has been home to many Scottish kings and queens, including Mary, Queen of Scots. Visitors can explore the State Apartments, the ruins of Holyrood Abbey, and the beautiful palace gardens. The palace is also the site of the annual Royal Garden Party.
- Key Attractions: State Apartments, Holyrood Abbey, gardens.
- Activities: Historical exploration, sightseeing.
- Location: Canongate, Edinburgh, United Kingdom.
4. Arthur’s Seat
Arthur’s Seat is an ancient volcanic hill located in Holyrood Park, offering some of the best views of Edinburgh. The hill is a popular hiking destination, with several trails leading to the summit. The climb is relatively easy and provides stunning panoramic views of the city, the Firth of Forth, and the surrounding landscape. Arthur’s Seat is a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers.
- Key Attractions: Panoramic views, hiking trails.
- Activities: Hiking, photography, nature exploration.
- Location: Holyrood Park, Edinburgh, United Kingdom.
5. Edinburgh Old Town and New Town
Edinburgh’s Old Town and New Town together form a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Old Town is known for its medieval layout, narrow streets, and historic buildings, while the New Town is renowned for its Georgian architecture and planned streets. Key attractions in the Old Town include the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, and Grassmarket. In the New Town, visitors can explore Princes Street, George Street, and Charlotte Square. Both areas offer a mix of shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.
- Key Attractions: Medieval and Georgian architecture, shopping, dining.
- Activities: Exploring, sightseeing, shopping.
- Location: Old Town and New Town, Edinburgh, United Kingdom.
6. Calton Hill
Calton Hill is a prominent hill in Edinburgh that offers breathtaking views of the city skyline. The hill is home to several iconic monuments, including the National Monument, the Nelson Monument, and the Dugald Stewart Monument. Visitors can explore the monuments, take in the views, and enjoy the green spaces. Calton Hill is a popular spot for photographers and is especially beautiful at sunset.
- Key Attractions: National Monument, Nelson Monument, panoramic views.
- Activities: Sightseeing, photography, exploring.
- Location: Calton Hill, Edinburgh, United Kingdom.
7. Scottish National Gallery
The Scottish National Gallery is one of the country’s premier art museums, housing an impressive collection of European and Scottish art. The gallery’s collection includes works by renowned artists such as Botticelli, Raphael, Rembrandt, and Turner. The museum also features a significant collection of Scottish art, including works by Sir Henry Raeburn and the Scottish Colourists. The gallery’s beautiful neoclassical building and central location make it a must-visit for art lovers.
- Key Attractions: European and Scottish art, neoclassical architecture.
- Activities: Art appreciation, museum visit.
- Location: The Mound, Edinburgh, United Kingdom.
8. The Real Mary King’s Close
The Real Mary King’s Close offers a fascinating glimpse into Edinburgh’s hidden history. This underground tour takes visitors through a series of hidden streets and rooms beneath the Royal Mile, where people lived and worked from the 17th to the 19th centuries. The tour includes tales of plague, murder, and intrigue, providing a unique perspective on the city’s past. The Real Mary King’s Close is an intriguing and immersive experience for history enthusiasts.
- Key Attractions: Underground streets, historical tales.
- Activities: Guided tour, historical exploration.
- Location: 2 Warriston’s Close, Edinburgh, United Kingdom.
9. Scott Monument
The Scott Monument is a Gothic tower dedicated to the famous Scottish author Sir Walter Scott. Located on Princes Street, the monument stands at 200 feet tall and offers stunning views of Edinburgh from its upper levels. Visitors can climb the narrow spiral staircase to reach the viewing platforms, where they can enjoy panoramic views of the city and beyond. The monument also features statues of characters from Scott’s novels.
- Key Attractions: Gothic architecture, panoramic views.
- Activities: Climbing, sightseeing, photography.
- Location: Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh, United Kingdom.
10. The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is a beautiful and serene green space located just a short distance from the city center. The garden is home to a diverse collection of plants, including rare and exotic species. Key attractions include the Victorian Temperate Palm House, the Rock Garden, and the Chinese Hillside. The garden also features a modern visitor center, a café, and a gift shop. It’s a perfect spot for a relaxing stroll and a peaceful escape from the city.
- Key Attractions: Diverse plant collections, Victorian Palm House.
- Activities: Walking, nature exploration, relaxing.
- Location: Arboretum Place, Edinburgh, United Kingdom.
Summary Table
| Place | Description | Key Attraction | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Edinburgh Castle | Iconic historic fortress | Crown Jewels, panoramic views | Castlehill, Edinburgh |
| The Royal Mile | Historic street with shops and attractions | Historic buildings, St Giles’ Cathedral | Old Town, Edinburgh |
| Holyrood Palace | Official residence of the British monarch in Scotland | State Apartments, Holyrood Abbey | Canongate, Edinburgh |
| Arthur’s Seat | Ancient volcanic hill with scenic views | Panoramic views, hiking trails | Holyrood Park, Edinburgh |
| Edinburgh Old Town and New Town | UNESCO World Heritage Site | Medieval and Georgian architecture | Edinburgh, United Kingdom |
| Calton Hill | Hill with iconic monuments and views | National Monument, Nelson Monument | Calton Hill, Edinburgh |
| Scottish National Gallery | Art museum with European and Scottish art | Neoclassical architecture, art exhibits | The Mound, Edinburgh |
| The Real Mary King’s Close | Underground tour of hidden streets | Historical tales, underground streets | 2 Warriston’s Close, Edinburgh |
| Scott Monument | Gothic tower dedicated to Sir Walter Scott | Gothic architecture, panoramic views | Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh |
| The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh | Beautiful gardens with diverse plant collections | Victorian Palm House, Rock Garden | Arboretum Place, Edinburgh |
How to Reach Edinburgh
By Plane
Edinburgh is served by Edinburgh Airport (EDI), located about 13 kilometers west of the city center. The airport offers domestic and international flights. From the airport, travelers can reach the city center by tram, bus, taxi, or airport shuttle.
By Train
Edinburgh Waverley Station is the city’s main train station, located in the heart of the city. The station offers frequent services to other major cities in the UK, including London, Glasgow, and Manchester. Edinburgh is also connected to the East Coast Main Line, making it easily accessible from other parts of the country.
By Bus
Edinburgh’s main bus station, Edinburgh Bus Station, is located in the city center and offers long-distance and local bus services. Several coach companies operate routes to Edinburgh from cities across the UK.
By Car
Edinburgh is accessible by car via major motorways, including the M8 from Glasgow and the A1 from London. Car rental options are available for those who prefer to drive. The city also offers several park-and-ride facilities.
Best Time to Visit Edinburgh
The best time to visit Edinburgh is during the late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild and the city is less crowded. These
seasons are ideal for exploring the city’s outdoor attractions and enjoying cultural events. The summer months (July to August) are peak tourist seasons, with the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and other major events attracting visitors from around the world. Winter (December to February) can be cold, but the city’s festive atmosphere and events, such as Hogmanay, make it a magical time to visit.
Travel Tips
- Local Cuisine: Edinburgh offers a wide range of dining options, from traditional Scottish fare like haggis and neeps and tatties to international cuisine. The city’s restaurants, pubs, and cafes cater to various tastes and dietary preferences.
- Cultural Etiquette: Scots are known for their friendliness and hospitality. It’s customary to greet people with a handshake and to be polite and respectful. When visiting churches or historic sites, dress modestly and be mindful of the surroundings.
- Transportation: Edinburgh has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and trams. The city’s compact layout makes it easy to explore on foot, and taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available.
Itinerary Suggestions
One-Day Trip
- Morning: Start your day with a visit to Edinburgh Castle, followed by a stroll down the Royal Mile. Explore St Giles’ Cathedral and the shops and attractions along the way.
- Afternoon: Have lunch in the Old Town and then visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse. In the afternoon, hike up Arthur’s Seat for stunning views of the city.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and take a walk through the New Town, exploring the shops and cafes on Princes Street.
Weekend Getaway
- Day 1: Begin with visits to Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and Holyrood Palace. In the afternoon, explore the Scottish National Gallery and the Scott Monument. In the evening, dine at a traditional Scottish restaurant and experience the city’s nightlife.
- Day 2: Start with a morning visit to Calton Hill and its iconic monuments. In the afternoon, explore the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh and enjoy a relaxing stroll through the gardens. Conclude your trip with a visit to the Real Mary King’s Close for an intriguing tour of Edinburgh’s hidden history.
Edinburgh’s rich history, cultural vibrancy, and stunning landscapes make it a captivating destination in the United Kingdom. Whether you’re exploring its historic landmarks, enjoying its festivals, or simply soaking in its unique atmosphere, Edinburgh offers a memorable experience for every traveler.
