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10 Best things to do in Edinburgh, Scotland
Discover the best things to do in Edinburgh, from iconic landmarks like Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile to hidden gems and local favorites.
Breathtaking architecture, winding cobble-stoned streets, and historical castles make up only a fraction of Edinburgh’s charm. If you’re planning a trip to the United Kingdom, Edinburgh must be on your travel itinerary. Admire the mystical city’s architectural wonders and museums during the day and experience the lively nightlife in theaters or a charming whisky pub.
Edinburgh has something to suit every traveler’s preference. Whether you’ve planned a day-long or week-long trip to this inspiring city, explore our list of the best things to do in Edinburgh, especially for first-timers!
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1. Climb the historical Calton Hill to the National Monument
Start your day bright and early and head to Calton Hill; climb to the top and enjoy panoramic views of the city. This location is also a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to historical Greek-inspired monuments, such as the National Monument, which resembles the Parthenon in Athens. Explore the upside-down telescope-shaped Nelson Monument or climb 143 additional steps to reach an even more elevated and exclusive view.
Top tip: If you’re considering staying in Scotland on New Year’s Eve, one of the best things to do in Edinburgh is climb Calton Hill and witness the fantastic firework display at a height.
2. Stroll down the Royal Mile
No trip to Edinburgh is complete without a meander along the historic Royal Mile. The Royal Mile is one of the oldest structures in the city and runs from the historic castle to the Holyrood Palace. You’ll find various famous landmarks, museums, pubs, eateries, and souvenir shops along the mile-long street.
Visit the Royal Mile during the day to marvel at some of Edinburgh’s best architecture, including John Knox House, the Museum of Edinburgh, and the Scottish Parliament Building.
Top tip: The Royal Mile hosts lively celebrations during the Edinburgh Festival in August. If you want to experience the true spirit of Scotland, book your accommodations and tickets well in advance. For easy travel, sort your internet needs with the best eSIM in the UK.
3. Roam around the Holyrood Palace
Explore the official home of the British Monarch in Edinburgh — Holyrood Palace. This is one of the top places to visit in Edinburgh, especially for first-timers! It is also conveniently located at the east end of the Royal Mile, making it an easy and worthwhile stop while you’re already exploring the street.
The majestic interiors, impressive collections of French and Flemish tapestries, and the thrones commissioned by King George V in 1911 are all open to the public. Outside the Holyrood Palace, you can stroll through the beautiful gardens and even discover Queen Mary’s bathhouse.
Top tip: Plan your visit for the afternoon when crowds tend to thin out and take advantage of the free multimedia guide included in your ticket. Make sure you can use your phone in the UK to research any curiosities you might stumble upon!
4. Witness breathtaking views from Arthur’s seat
One of the most popular and best things to do in Edinburgh is visit Arthur’s Seat, located in Holyrood Park. Approximately 251 meters above sea level, this ancient volcano offers breathtaking views of Edinburgh, the Lothians, and St Anthony’s Chapel. Feed the ducks and swans on Duddingston Loch, or take a scenic walk on the many paths and trails surrounding Arthur’s Seat.
Top tip: Arthur’s Seat makes for a perfect family excursion and picnic day. You can even enjoy a picturesque walk to St Margaret’s Loch, which is wheelchair and stroller-accessible.
5. Experience Diagon Alley in Victoria Street
If you’re a Harry Potter fan visiting Edinburgh, you’ll be pleasantly surprised. This is the city where famous author J.K. Rowling conjured up the magical wizarding world of Harry Potter. Many scenes in the film are reminiscent of Edinburgh, especially one particular location — Victoria Street. This street is frequently referred to as the Diagon Alley of Edinburgh and is one of the most photographed in the city.
Among other top things to do in Edinburgh for Harry Potter fans is to visit The Elephant House, where Rowling began writing the very first chapters of one of the most famous series ever. Make sure you have reliable internet access to explore all the magical Harry Potter attractions in Edinburgh but remember to avoid expensive roaming fees!
Top tip: Explore some of Edinburgh’s oldest pubs, including the White Hart Inn, a 500-year-old pub that once hosted many famous people, such as Robert Burns, William Wordsworth, and the notorious body snatchers of the 18th century, Burke and Hare.
6. Explore Edinburgh Castle
Surrounded by lush green space, Edinburgh Castle is undoubtedly one of the best things to see in Edinburgh and a must-see when touring the city. Perched atop Castle Rock, it provides breathtaking views and an in-depth exploration of Scotland’s intriguing past. Explore inside treasures such as the 16th-century Great Hall, the Stone of Destiny, and the Crown Jewels of Scotland.
The castle has also been firing the One O’Clock Gun every day (except Sundays) since 1861; don’t miss out on experiencing this tradition! The National War Museum and the castle’s historic prison cells also provide an insight into Edinburgh’s military heritage.
Top tip: To escape the largest crowds, purchase your tickets in advance and visit Edinburgh Castle early in the morning. If you prefer a quieter experience, you can also visit later in the afternoon, just before closing.
7. Stroll through the gardens of Lauriston Castle
In contrast to the grand Edinburgh Castle, Lauriston Castle is a hidden gem in Scotland’s capital. This historical structure offers a more intimate experience and a glimpse into Edwardian life with stunning gardens overlooking the Firth of Forth. It’s the ideal place for a leisurely stroll and one of the best things to do in Edinburgh as a first-timer, especially if you’re looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences.
Top tip: Although Lauriston Castle is less busy than other Old Town must-sees in Edinburgh, it is still best to check the schedule beforehand because guided tours are the only way to see inside. After your visit, bring a picnic to eat in the beautiful grounds!
8. Dive into the Real Mary King’s Close
Edinburgh’s buried past at the Real Mary King’s Close is a unique underground experience in the Scottish capital. At this popular tourist attraction, located beneath the Royal Mile, you can tour a network of preserved 17th-century streets that were once teeming with activity but are now frozen in time.
A must-see for history enthusiasts and thrill-seekers, the site offers a unique look into the daily lives of Edinburgh’s past residents, in contrast to the impressive landmarks above ground. Guided tours tell spooky tales of its former citizens, the plague, and ghost stories.
Top tip: Combine the Real Mary King’s Close with other attractions, as it’s only a short stroll from George Street and the National Gallery. Since tours often sell out, booking in advance is highly recommended! Make sure you stay connected while in the UK to avoid any inconvenience.
9. Explore the mystical Rosslyn Chapel
Rosslyn Chapel is among the most popular places to visit in Edinburgh for its elaborate stone carvings. This 15th-century chapel, located just outside the city center, became well-known worldwide after appearing in The Da Vinci Code. Still, its true essence lies in its breathtaking architecture and folklore.
Visitors can explore the serene surroundings, take in the intricate carvings, and hear fascinating tales about the chapel’s history. It’s the ideal addition to any travel itinerary since it is a refreshing contrast to Edinburgh’s plentiful castles and busy streets.
Top tip: To get the most out of your trip, take a walking tour that stops at the neighboring Rosslyn Glen, a picturesque woodland with hidden ruins. Due to the chapel’s popularity, it’s a good idea to arrive early or purchase tickets in advance to avoid crowds.
10. Discover the iconic St. Giles Cathedral
One of the best things to do in Edinburgh for those who enjoy history and architecture is to visit St. Giles’ Cathedral, a stunning landmark in the city center. Known as the “High Kirk of Edinburgh,” this magnificent cathedral was built in the 12th century.
It is well-known for its magnificent stained glass windows, crown-shaped steeple, and the Thistle Chapel, home to Scotland’s oldest chivalric order. St. Giles’ Cathedral provides tourists with a window into Edinburgh’s religious and political history and is situated along the Royal Mile.
Top tip: Although admission to St. Giles’ Cathedral is free, a little donation is appreciated. Take a walking tour that includes the cathedral for a more in-depth experience.
Explore Edinburgh’s popular tourist attractions with Holafly
Exploring all the best things to do in Edinburgh — from the historic Royal Mile to the breathtaking views at Edinburgh Castle — means you’ll need reliable internet to navigate, book tickets, and share your adventures with loved ones.
Whether checking maps to explore Edinburgh’s hidden gems, looking up popular pubs, or staying connected with your traveling companions, having a fast and dependable data connection is essential.
A Holafly eSIM for the UK makes staying online effortless, offering unlimited data with instant activation and no need to swap physical SIM cards. With high-speed coverage across Edinburgh and the rest of the UK, including popular cities like Liverpool, you can enjoy seamless browsing without worrying about roaming fees or hidden charges:
- 4-day trip: $16.90 USD ($4.22/day)
- 8-day trip: $31.90 ($3.99/day)
Plan the perfect trip with must-see attractions, top tips, and unique experiences in Scotland’s capital!
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Born and raised in Queens, New York, I'm a Psychology graduate with a passion for writing that I've been nurturing since 2019. Over the years, I've enjoyed creating meaningful content across various niches, including sports, hospitality, and career development. At Holafly, I focus on crafting useful and inspiring pieces to make your adventures more effortless. One of the best perks of this role? Creating travel content always seems to inspire my next vacation destination!
