25 Best Things to Do in Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Edinburgh Castle is a famous and iconic landmark that sits atop a hill overlooking the city. This historic fortress has been a symbol of Scottish independence for centuries and is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Edinburgh. Inside the castle, visitors can explore the Crown Jewels of Scotland, the Stone of Destiny, and the One O'Clock Gun, a daily tradition that has been taking place for over 150 years. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and breathtaking views, Edinburgh Castle is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Scottish history and culture.

The Royal Mile is a historic street that runs through the heart of Edinburgh, connecting Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Lined with shops, cafes, and historic buildings, this street is a hub of activity and is a great place to explore on foot. Visitors can take in the sights and sounds of the city, sample local cuisine, or visit one of the many historic landmarks that line the Royal Mile, such as St Giles' Cathedral or the Scottish Parliament. The Royal Mile is a great place to experience the charm and character of beautiful Edinburgh.

Holyrood Palace is the former residence of Scottish kings and queens and is one of the most important historical landmarks in Edinburgh. Visitors can explore the palace's remarkable architecture, including the Royal Chapel, and learn about its rich history, including its association with Mary, Queen of Scots. Holyrood Palace is also home to the famous Scottish Parliament, making it a great place to experience the political and cultural heritage of Scotland. With its stunning architecture and rich history, Holyrood Palace is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Scottish history and culture.

St Giles' Cathedral is one of the oldest and most historic churches in Edinburgh and is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the religious history and cultural heritage of Edinburgh. The cathedral dates back to the 12th century and is famous for its stunning Gothic architecture and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the beautiful interior of the cathedral, including its stained-glass windows, and learn about its role in the history of Edinburgh and Scotland. They can also view one of the most famous statues in the city, the Adam Smith statue that is placed right in front of the Cathedral.

Princes Street Gardens is a winsome park that runs through the heart of Edinburgh and is a great place to relax and unwind. The park is surrounded by stunning architecture, including Edinburgh Castle and the Scott Monument, and is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. Visitors can enjoy the lush greenery, take in the views of the city, or simply relax and soak up the atmosphere of this beautiful park. With its beautiful setting and central location, Princes Street Gardens is a great place to experience the natural beauty of Edinburgh.

Calton Hill is a small hill located in the center of Edinburgh and is a great place to take in the views of the city. The hill is home to several historic landmarks, including the National Monument of Scotland, and is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. Visitors can hike to the summit of Calton Hill to enjoy panoramic views of the city and beyond, or explore the many monuments and buildings that line the hill. With its stunning views and rich history, Calton Hill is a great place to experience the beauty and heritage of Edinburgh.

The Scottish National Gallery is one of the finest art museums in Scotland and is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in art and culture. The museum showcases a world-class collection of masterpieces from some of the greatest artists in history, including Botticelli, Van Gogh, and Monet. Visitors can explore the beautiful galleries and learn about the history of art in Scotland and around the world. With its rich collection and stunning architecture, the Scottish National Gallery is a great place to experience the cultural heritage of Edinburgh.

Arthur's Seat is the highest point in Edinburgh and is a great place to take in the stunning views of the city. The hill is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, who come to hike to the summit, picnic in the park, or simply enjoy the beautiful scenery. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of Edinburgh, the Firth of Forth, and the surrounding hills, making Arthur's Seat a must-visit destination for anyone interested in outdoor recreation and natural beauty.

The National Museum of Scotland is a world-class museum with a rich collection and engaging exhibits that showcase the rich cultural heritage of Scotland. The museum is divided into several galleries, each dedicated to a different aspect of Scottish history and culture, including science, technology, and the natural world. Visitors can explore the fascinating exhibits, learn about the history of Scotland, and discover the many achievements of the Scottish people.

The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is a beautiful and peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. The garden is home to a diverse collection of plants and flowers and is a magnificent place to explore and relax. Visitors can stroll through the lush greenery, enjoy a picnic in the park, or visit one of the many exhibitions and events that take place throughout the year.

The Scott Monument is a towering monument located in the center of Edinburgh and is dedicated to the famous Scottish author Sir Walter Scott. The monument is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike and is a great place to take in the views of the city. Visitors can climb the staircase to the top of the monument for panoramic views of Edinburgh and the surrounding countryside. With its stunning views and rich cultural heritage, The Scott Monument is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Scottish history and culture.

Camera Obscura & World of Illusions is a unique and interactive museum that offers visitors a chance to experience the magic of optical illusions and live magic shows. The museum features over 100 exhibits, including a camera obscura, which provides visitors with a 360-degree view of Edinburgh, as well as interactive exhibits that showcase the science behind illusions and optical tricks.

The Scotch Whisky Experience is a favorite attraction and tour that explores the history and production of Scotland's most famous spirit. Visitors can take a guided tour through a large Whisky Collection of almost 4,000 bottles, learning about the history of whisky, its production process, and the different types of whisky produced in Scotland. The tour also includes a whisky-tasting session, where visitors can sample some of Scotland's finest whiskies.

The Royal Yacht Britannia is a former royal yacht that was used by the British royal family for over 40 years. Visitors can tour the yacht, learning about its history and the many famous people who have sailed on board, including Queen Elizabeth II. The tour includes access to the yacht's many luxurious staterooms, as well as its open deck areas, providing visitors with a glimpse into the life of royalty at sea.

The Real Mary King's Close is a unique underground tour of Edinburgh's hidden history. Visitors explore a series of underground closes (alleys) that have been preserved since the 17th century, learning about the city's history and the lives of its residents. The tour guides bring the history of the close to life with stories and demonstrations, making the tour both informative and entertaining.

Holyrood Park is a large public park in the heart of Edinburgh, providing visitors with a peaceful escape from the city. The park is home to many historic landmarks, including Arthur's Seat, the city's largest hill, and St. Anthony's Chapel, one of Edinburgh's oldest ruins. Visitors can explore the park's many walking and hiking trails, or simply relax and enjoy the stunning views of the city.

Dean Village is a winsome historic neighborhood in the heart of Edinburgh, surrounded by medieval buildings and the beautiful Water of Leith. Visitors can explore the village's many narrow streets, admire its beautiful architecture, and relax in its tranquil parks and gardens.

The Edinburgh Dungeon is a unique and interactive attraction that takes visitors on a journey through Scotland's dark history. Visitors experience live shows, special effects, and interactive displays as they learn about Scotland's most notorious historical figures and events. The tour is both informative and entertaining, providing visitors with a glimpse into Scotland's past.

Portobello Beach is a beautiful sandy beach located just a short train ride from the center of Edinburgh. Visitors can enjoy the beach's many amenities, including ice cream stands, restaurants, and souvenir shops, or simply relax and soak up the sun. Visitors can also explore the nearby promenade, which offers stunning views of the Firth of Forth.

Lauriston Castle is a beautifully preserved 16th-century castle located on the outskirts of Edinburgh. The castle is set within extensive grounds and gardens, providing visitors with stunning views over the city and the surrounding countryside. Visitors can explore the castle's many rooms, including the great hall, the chapel, and the kitchen, and learn about its history and the lives of its residents.

Dynamic Earth is a highly interactive science museum that takes visitors on a journey through the history of the earth, from its formation to the present day. Visitors can experience hands-on exhibits and interactive displays, as well as a range of multimedia presentations and live demonstrations.

The Greyfriars Bobby Statue is a famous statue located in the heart of Edinburgh, honoring the city's most famous dog. Greyfriars Bobby was a loyal Skye Terrier who guarded the grave of his owner for 14 years and is remembered as a symbol of love and devotion. Visitors can take a photo of the statue, learn about its history, and pay their respects to this beloved dog.

The Grassmarket is a historic square in the heart of Edinburgh that was once a marketplace for cattle and other goods. Today, the Grassmarket is a bustling area with a mix of independent shops, bars, and restaurants. Visitors can spend some time exploring the area and soaking in the atmosphere. A great place to visit in the evenings to experience the lively nightlife of the city.

Craigmillar Castle is a well-preserved medieval castle located on the outskirts of Edinburgh. The castle is set within extensive grounds and is surrounded by beautiful gardens and parkland. Visitors can explore the castle's many rooms and towers, including the great hall, the chapel, and the prison, and learn about its history and the lives of its residents.

The Scottish National Portrait Gallery is a stunning museum that showcases the best of Scotland's art and portraiture. The museum features a large collection of paintings, drawings, and photographs, including works by Scotland's most famous artists and photographers. Visitors can explore the gallery's many exhibitions, learn about the artists and their works, and admire the stunning architecture of the museum building.