Things to Do in Edinburgh

Edinburgh, the vibrant capital of Scotland, is a city brimming with history, culture, and natural beauty. From historic castles to stunning views from hills and iconic streets, there are countless things to do in Edinburgh that promise to make your visit unforgettable. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to explore more of this captivating city, Edinburgh offers a wealth of activities that cater to all kinds of travelers. Let’s take a deep dive into some of the best things to do in Edinburgh and uncover hidden gems that make this city truly special.

1. Explore Edinburgh Castle: A Glimpse into Scotland’s Rich History

Edinburgh Castle is not only one of the top things to do in Edinburgh, but it’s also the heart of Scottish history. Perched on Castle Rock, this iconic fortress offers breathtaking views of the city and has been a royal residence for centuries. The castle has witnessed key events in Scottish history, such as the coronation of Scottish kings and significant battles. Inside, you’ll find the Crown Jewels of Scotland, the Stone of Destiny (used in royal coronations), and the National War Museum of Scotland.

History: Edinburgh Castle dates back at least to the 12th century, but archaeological evidence suggests humans have lived on Castle Rock for over 3,000 years.
Things to See: Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny, St. Margaret’s Chapel (Edinburgh’s oldest building), and the Royal Palace.
Opening Hours: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM daily (last entry at 4:00 PM).
Tip: To avoid long queues, buy your tickets in advance. Don’t miss the Crown Jewels exhibit, and take time to watch the 1 PM gun salute.

2. Walk the Royal Mile: A Historic Path through Edinburgh

The Royal Mile is Edinburgh’s iconic street and one of the best things to do in Edinburgh Scotland. This medieval thoroughfare stretches from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyrood house, showcasing the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town. As you walk, you’ll pass by historical landmarks, bustling shops, and restaurants. The street is lined with narrow alleys, known as “closes,” each offering a glimpse into the city’s storied past.

History: The Royal Mile was historically the main street in Edinburgh’s Old Town, and it played a vital role in the city’s growth. It’s a mixture of cultural, architectural, and royal heritage.
Things to See: St. Giles’ Cathedral, the heart of Edinburgh’s religious life, Mercat Cross (a site for public proclamations and executions), and John Knox House.
Opening Hours: Open year-round, but many shops and restaurants follow their own business hours.
Tip: Wander down some of the closes for hidden gems. Check out Victoria Street, a colorful curved street home to unique shops and cafes.

3. Visit the National Museum of Scotland: A Cultural Treasure

The National Museum of Scotland is an absolute must-see for anyone interested in Scotland’s rich cultural and scientific heritage. The museum is a treasure trove of Scottish history, housing over 12 million artifacts spanning across art, science, natural history, and world cultures.

History: Opened in 1861, the museum has grown to become one of the most visited attractions in the UK, with extensive galleries dedicated to Scottish archaeology, art, and the famous Lewis Chessmen.
Things to See: Dolly the Sheep (the world’s first cloned mammal), Scotland’s History galleries, ancient Egyptian artifacts, and the Science and Technology exhibits.
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily.
Admission: Free (donations encouraged).
Tip: The rooftop terrace offers panoramic views of Edinburgh, including the Castle and Arthur’s Seat.

4. Climb Arthur’s Seat: Edinburgh’s Natural Wonderland

Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano, is one of the best things to do in Edinburgh for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Located in Holyrood Park, this hill offers sweeping views of the city, and it’s a great way to experience Edinburgh’s natural beauty.

History: Arthur’s Seat is about 350 million years old, formed during volcanic activity. It’s one of the oldest extinct volcanoes in the world.
Things to See: A variety of hiking paths lead to the summit, and from there, you can see panoramic views of the city, Holyrood Palace, and the surrounding hills.
Opening Hours: Accessible all year round, but weather conditions can impact visibility in winter.
Tip: Wear sturdy shoes and carry water, especially in the warmer months when the hike can get challenging. The summit is about a 30-minute hike from the base.

5. Savor Scottish Flavors at Grassmarket

The Grassmarket is one of Edinburgh’s most vibrant districts, located just below Edinburgh Castle. This lively area is filled with historic pubs, cafes, and shops offering delicious Scottish food. It was once a place of execution, but today, it’s a bustling hub of life and culture.

History: In medieval times, the Grassmarket was used as a marketplace, but it’s most famously known for being a public execution site.
Things to See: Many of the buildings are centuries old, and some of Edinburgh’s best-known pubs, like The Last Drop and The White Hart, offer a glimpse into the city’s darker past.
Opening Hours: The market is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the weekend when the cafes and shops come alive.
Tip: Visit on a Saturday for a street market selling local produce, crafts, and delicious snacks.

6. Relax at Calton Hill: Scenic Views and Iconic Monuments

Calton Hill offers a tranquil escape from the bustling streets of Edinburgh, with panoramic views and iconic monuments such as the Nelson Monument and the Dugald Stewart Monument. It’s one of the best things to do in Edinburgh if you’re looking for stunning vistas and peace.

History: Calton Hill was a site of political unrest in the 18th century and has several monuments dedicated to Scottish heroes and thinkers.
Things to See: The National Monument (a tribute to Scottish soldiers lost in the Napoleonic Wars) and the Nelson Monument, which houses an observatory.
Opening Hours: Accessible 24/7.
Tip: Visit at sunset for golden hour photos, and bring a blanket for a relaxing picnic.

7. Discover Hidden Gems at Dean Village

Just a short walk from the city center, Dean Village is a picturesque, tranquil spot along the Water of Leith. This charming village, with its cobbled streets, historic buildings, and peaceful surroundings, provides a serene contrast to Edinburgh’s busy atmosphere.

History: Dean Village dates back to the 19th century and was once home to mills that powered Edinburgh’s industrial economy. The village’s architectural style is distinctive, with buildings built in a Scottish baronial style.
Things to See: The Dean Bridge, built by renowned engineer Thomas Telford, offers amazing views over the valley.
Opening Hours: Open to the public year-round.
Tip: Follow the Water of Leith Walkway to the Royal Botanic Garden, another peaceful spot in Edinburgh.

8. Indulge in Afternoon Tea at Historic Cafes

Edinburgh is home to many historic cafes where you can indulge in the traditional Scottish afternoon tea. Places like The Dome and The Balmoral provide a luxurious setting to relax and savor the experience.

History: Afternoon tea has become a tradition in Scotland, often served in grand hotels or historical locations like The Dome, which was once a church.
Things to See: Enjoy traditional Scottish scones, cakes, finger sandwiches, and, of course, tea served in a luxurious setting.
Opening Hours: Most cafes serve afternoon tea from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
Tip: Reservations are essential, especially on weekends or during special events.

9. Step Back in Time at Rosslyn Chapel

Located just outside Edinburgh, Rosslyn Chapel is a must-see for history buffs and fans of mysteries like The Da Vinci Code. The chapel, with its ornate carvings, medieval architecture, and rich symbolism, offers a unique experience.

History: Built in the 15th century by the St. Clair family, the chapel has been linked to the Knights Templar and has an enigmatic presence in many conspiracy theories.
Things to See: The intricate stone carvings and the sacred symbolism embedded in the architecture.
Opening Hours: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM daily.
Admission: £9 for adults, £6 for children.
Tip: Take a guided tour for a deeper understanding of the chapel’s hidden meanings.

10. Experience the Magic of Edinburgh’s Underground Tours

Edinburgh’s underground vaults are steeped in mystery and intrigue. Underground tours will take you through dark, eerie spaces beneath the city, offering spine-chilling tales of Edinburgh’s ghostly past.

History: The vaults were built in the 18th century as storage space for local merchants, but over time, they became infamous for being dark, damp, and dangerous areas of the city.
Things to See: Explore the underground South Bridge Vaults and learn about the haunted history that surrounds them.
Opening Hours: Evening tours are available from 6:00 PM onward.
Tip: Make sure to bring a jacket, as it can get quite chilly underground.

Conclusion: A City for Every Traveler

From exploring Edinburgh’s historic castles to experiencing its natural wonders, there are endless things to do in Edinburgh that will captivate every traveler. Whether you’re indulging in Scottish culture, hiking up hills for stunning views, or stepping back in time through the city’s underground vaults, Edinburgh has something for everyone. To enhance your experience, hire luxury cars in Edinburgh with professional chauffeurs, making it easy to explore the best things to do in Edinburgh at your own pace. With a wealth of options for history lovers, nature enthusiasts, and those simply looking to relax, you’re guaranteed to have a memorable and stress-free journey through this beautiful city.