In this travel report, we’ll show you the best things to do in Edinburgh. We explored Scotland’s capital as part of our 3-day Edinburgh itinerary after our road trip through the Scottish Highlands. Visiting Edinburgh was the perfect way to end our journey on a high note.
We chose a hotel in the city center* as our base. From there, we explored the most famous attractions in both the Old Town and New Town of Edinburgh. In addition, we planned an itinerary filled with exciting activities in Edinburgh. Since the capital is known for its unpredictable weather, we included both indoor and outdoor activities in our schedule.
Here’s a look at our experience in Edinburgh and which sights and activities are truly worth visiting in Scotland’s capital.
Things to Do in Edinburgh – Table of Contents
Edinburgh Hotels in the City Center: Finding the Perfect Accommodation
When searching for the perfect accommodation, we had three main criteria:
- The hotel should be centrally located.
- The hotel should have at least 4 stars and good reviews.
- The accommodation should have a pool.
We knew we would be walking a lot during our city trip, so we wanted to ensure we had a comfortable place to relax in the evenings—ideally with a pool. However, hotels meeting these criteria are quite limited in Edinburgh. In total, we found only eight hotels that matched our requirements:
- Apex Grassmarket Hotel*
- Novotel Edinburgh Centre*
- Edinburgh Marriott Hotel Holyrood*
- Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa*
- The Caledonian Edinburgh, Curio Collection by Hilton*
- Radisson Blu Hotel, Edinburgh City Centre*
- Kimpton Charlotte Square, an IHG Hotel*
- The Balmoral Hotel*
Note: The hotels are listed in descending order of price.
After reviewing the options, we ultimately chose the Novotel Edinburgh Centre*. The main reason for our choice was its proximity to Grassmarket and Edinburgh Castle, combined with good value for money. However, it’s worth noting that hotel prices in Edinburgh are generally quite high.
Our Stay at Novotel Edinburgh Centre: A Review
The Novotel is centrally located and has its own parking garage—an advantage in the capital, where parking in the city center is expensive. After parking our car, we headed straight to the reception area. Like many other places in Edinburgh, the hotel is cashless, meaning you cannot pay with cash here.
Upon entering the hotel, we were quite surprised by the hustle and bustle in the lobby. It felt like a busy marketplace—guests walking around, waiting for the elevator, or talking at the reception. Loud music played from the speakers, adding to the lively atmosphere. Coming straight from the peaceful town of Fort William in the Highlands, the contrast was striking. At the reception, we were greeted—or rather, swiftly checked in.
The hotel* is particularly popular among families, partly due to its decent swimming pool. However, relaxing by the pool in the evening wasn’t really an option—it was simply too crowded.
Looking back, we would have preferred a holiday apartment* in the city center instead. Compared to a large hotel, an apartment offers more space and privacy.
Edinburgh Must-See Attractions – Things to Do in Edinburgh
Most of Edinburgh’s must-see attractions are located in the Old Town and New Town. The Old Town is home to the most famous landmarks, including Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile. These two hotspots are right next to each other and can easily be explored on foot during your trip to Edinburgh.
Edinburgh Castle
Our first stop was, of course, Edinburgh Castle, which was already within sight of our hotel. Fortunately, we had booked our tickets* weeks in advance. This turned out to be the right decision, as a sign at the entrance greeted us with the news that all tickets were sold out—by 10 AM.
Inside the castle, there are several buildings to explore, including a war museum, the royal palace, the former prisoners’ barracks, and the National War Memorial of Scotland. One of the main highlights is the Crown Room, where the Honours of Scotland are displayed.
Other notable attractions include the One O’Clock Gun, which is fired daily at 1 PM local time, and the Honours of Scotland, consisting of the crown, scepter, and sword.
Edinburgh Castle is built on Castle Rock, offering breathtaking views over Scotland’s capital.
A visit to Edinburgh Castle is an absolute must when in Edinburgh. We were truly impressed by the experience and highly recommend it. You should plan around two hours for your visit. Check out our video for more impressions of Scotland’s most famous castle. You can book your online tickets here*.
Castle Hill
The castle sits atop Castle Hill, which is always busy during the day, even in rainy weather. We passed by several times, and each time, a bagpiper was playing.
Camera Obscura
Located right on Castle Hill, in front of Edinburgh Castle, is the Camera Obscura. We had already secured our tickets online a few weeks in advance. Inside, you’ll find countless interactive exhibits featuring optical illusions. In addition, there are classic illusion sections such as the mirror maze, the Ames room, and the vortex tunnel.
The historic building spans five floors, but there is no elevator. This means you’ll need to take the stairs from one level to the next. A special highlight is the rooftop terrace, which offers a beautiful view over the city.
We really enjoyed our visit to Camera Obscura. If you’re traveling with children, they will definitely have a great time here. Check out our video on Camera Obscura to see what to expect.
The Scotch Whisky Experience
Right across from Camera Obscura is the entrance to the Scotch Whisky Experience. Here, you can take part in a tour and whisky tasting* in one of the world’s largest collections of Scottish whisky. The tours are very popular, so we highly recommend booking your tickets online in advance.
Tickets for The Scotch Whisky Experience can be booked here*.
Royal Mile and Old Town: The Historic Heart of Edinburgh
Castle Hill leads directly down to the bustling Royal Mile. On our first day in Edinburgh, we walked the entire length from the castle to Holyrood Palace*.
The street starts as a long pedestrian zone lined with countless shops, restaurants, bars, souvenir stores, and more, stretching about a mile until it reaches Holyrood Palace. This is the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town. After walking for about five minutes, you’ll pass by St. Giles’ Cathedral on the right.
St. Giles’ Cathedral
This cathedral is one of the most important landmarks in Edinburgh. Its richly decorated, partially blue ceiling is particularly impressive. Also known as the High Kirk of Edinburgh, St. Giles’ Cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic architecture with deep historical and religious significance. The Thistle Chapel houses the Knights of the Order of the Thistle, Scotland’s highest chivalric order. The stained glass windows and intricate wooden carvings are also remarkable highlights.
Holyrood Palace: The King’s Official Residence in Scotland
After visiting Edinburgh Castle* and walking along the Royal Mile, we spontaneously decided to visit Holyrood Palace. Luckily, tickets were available at the ticket office, which may have been due to the off-season in March. However, if you’re planning to visit the palace, I still recommend buying your tickets online in advance*.
The palace is the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. So, if King Charles is in Edinburgh, this is where he stays. The palace is also frequently used for state ceremonies and official receptions.
Check out our video on Holyrood Palace to see what to expect. You can book your online tickets here*.
Tip: Be sure to visit the souvenir shop. Out of all the souvenir stores in Edinburgh, this one was our favorite.
Scottish Parliament Building
During our visit to Holyrood Palace, we noticed a loud protest taking place right across the street. The location was no coincidence, as this is where the Scottish Parliament Building is located. The modern structure stands out with its unconventional architectural design. You can join guided tours that offer insights into the work of the parliament and the history of Scottish legislation. One of the highlights is the Debating Chamber, featuring a unique ceiling design and natural lighting effects.
Victoria Street: Colorful Facades and Harry Potter Vibes
Located just off the Royal Mile, Victoria Street is one of Edinburgh’s most famous streets. Its colorful facades and charming little shops are said to have inspired Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter books. As a result, you’ll find specialized Harry Potter stores here, often with lines of eager fans waiting to get inside.
Greyfriars Bobby
About 300 meters south of Victoria Street, you’ll find Greyfriars Bobby. This small Skye Terrier is famous for his incredible loyalty. After his owner, John Gray, passed away, Bobby spent nearly 14 years guarding his master’s grave at Greyfriars Kirkyard. A statue of Bobby stands at the entrance to the cemetery, honoring his devotion. Nearby, you’ll also find a pub named after him. Visiting Greyfriars Bobby is a must for anyone looking to experience a touching piece of Edinburgh’s history.
By the way, there’s a similar story in Tokyo about the dog Hachiko, whose statue stands at the famous Shibuya Crossing.
Princes Street and New Town: Shopping and Attractions
Almost everything in Edinburgh can be explored on foot. However, after a long day of walking, our feet were tired, so we spontaneously hopped onto a Hop-On Hop-Off bus* and took a ride along Princes Street.
Princes Street is the main shopping street in the city center and remains undeveloped on the castle-facing side, offering an unobstructed view of Princes Street Gardens, the Old Town, and Edinburgh Castle. Along the street, you’ll also find notable landmarks such as the Scott Monument and the National War Memorial.
The Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour gave us a fresh perspective on the Scottish capital. Since it also started to rain, the ride provided a great opportunity to continue our sightseeing in a more relaxed way.
You can book your Hop-On Hop-Off bus tickets online here*.
Scott Monument
We saw the Scott Monument both on foot and from the Hop-On Hop-Off bus. This neo-Gothic structure is dedicated to Sir Walter Scott, one of Scotland’s most famous writers. At 61 meters tall, it is one of the largest monuments in the world dedicated to a writer. Visitors can climb its 287 steps to enjoy a stunning panoramic view over Edinburgh. Inside the monument, statues of characters from Scott’s novels decorate the staircases.
The Georgian House
At the western end of New Town lies The Georgian House, a prime example of Georgian architecture. Built in 1796, the house offers a glimpse into the life of wealthy citizens in the 18th and 19th centuries. The rooms are authentically furnished, including an elegant dining room, library, and bedrooms. Visitors can also explore the kitchen and servants’ quarters, providing a fascinating look at daily life in that era. Operated by the National Trust for Scotland, the house offers guided tours and rotating exhibitions.
Calton Hill: Panoramic Views Over Edinburgh
Calton Hill rises at the eastern end of New Town and Princes Street. We visited during heavy rain, yet we still enjoyed a great view over the city. The hill is famous for its monuments, including the National Monument, the Nelson Monument, and the Dugald Stewart Monument. These landmarks create a unique atmosphere and provide fantastic photo opportunities.
Despite the weather, we were able to take in the vast view over Edinburgh and even see out to the sea. A walk up Calton Hill is a must for any visitor looking to experience this breathtaking perspective of the city.
Cultural Things to do in Edinburgh
The city offers numerous cultural attractions, including museums and galleries. Here are some of the most notable cultural highlights:
National Museum of Scotland
The National Museum of Scotland features an impressive collection ranging from Scottish history and archaeology to natural sciences and world cultures. You can discover fascinating exhibits, including the famous sheep Dolly, the world’s first cloned mammal.
Scottish National Gallery
The Scottish National Gallery houses an outstanding collection of European artworks. In its elegant galleries, you’ll find masterpieces by artists such as Rembrandt, Turner, Botticelli, and many more. A visit offers the opportunity to admire some of the world’s greatest paintings.
Royal Museum
The Royal Museum is part of the National Museum of Scotland and offers fascinating exhibitions on science, technology, and world cultures. Here, you can see everything from dinosaur fossils to Egyptian mummies and explore the wonders of the world.
Vintage Shopping: Unique Finds and Antiques
Edinburgh is also well known among fashion lovers for its extensive selection of trendy vintage shops where you can browse to your heart’s content. We dedicated our last day to exploring the vintage stores and even found some great pieces.
We visited Armstrong & Son, Little Blue Door, Godiva, Torn, Herman Brown, Carnival, and Pie in the Sky. All these vintage stores are centrally located and can easily be explored on foot.
Shopping Tip: If vintage shopping isn’t your thing, you’ll find the St. James Quarter shopping mall near Calton Hill. Here, you’ll discover popular brands available in most shopping centers worldwide.
Activities
If you’re looking for more things to do, the city offers plenty of activities. Since it often rains, we categorized them into indoor and outdoor activities, so you can enjoy Edinburgh no matter the weather.
Indoor Activities
- Camera Obscura: A collection of fascinating illusions and interactive exhibits that will trick your senses.
- The Scotch Whisky Experience*: Learn about the history of Scotch whisky and enjoy a tasting session.
- Mary King’s Close*: Explore Edinburgh’s hidden underground streets and hear eerie historical tales.
- Edinburgh Dungeon*: A spooky and theatrical journey through Edinburgh’s dark past.
- Dynamic Earth: An immersive experience exploring Earth’s history and natural wonders.
Outdoor Activities
- Hop On Hop Off*: A sightseeing bus tour where you can hop on and off at various attractions.
- Arthur’s Seat: A scenic hike offering breathtaking views from Edinburgh’s highest point.
- The Meadows: Expansive green spaces and playgrounds for relaxation.
- The Royal Botanic Garden: A peaceful retreat featuring diverse plant collections.
Special Places in the Surroundings
The area around Edinburgh offers several remarkable places worth visiting. Here are some highlights:
Dean Village: A Historic Riverside District
Dean Village is a picturesque neighborhood located along the Water of Leith. It is known for its well-preserved buildings and idyllic atmosphere.
Royal Yacht Britannia: Following the Footsteps of the Royal Family
The Royal Yacht Britannia was the floating residence of the British royal family for over 40 years. Today, it is a fascinating museum that provides insight into royal life.
Rosslyn Chapel*: A Mystical Chapel with a Rich History
Rosslyn Chapel* is famous for its intricate stone carvings and the many secrets and legends surrounding it. Located just a short drive from Edinburgh, it is a place full of history and mystique.
Conclusion: Things to do in Edinburgh
Our 3-day city trip to Edinburgh was the perfect conclusion to our Scotland road trip. The mix of historic sites, cultural attractions, and diverse activities allowed us to experience the city in all its facets. From exploring the impressive Edinburgh Castle* and Holyrood Palace to strolling along the Royal Mile, relaxing in the Princes Street Gardens, and visiting fascinating museums – Edinburgh has something for everyone.
The variety of indoor and outdoor activities makes Edinburgh an ideal travel destination, no matter the weather. We were captivated by Edinburgh’s rich history, cultural diversity, and charming atmosphere, making it one of the highlights of our journey.
Edinburgh Travel: The Best Providers for Your Vacation Bookings
Here are our preferred providers for travel bookings. It’s important to us that these booking platforms offer fair prices, high quality, and excellent customer service.
Booking.com* is our top choice for accommodations and rental cars* thanks to its fast and flexible service, vast selection, and great prices.
Get Your Guide* is our first choice for high-quality tours and activities while traveling.
Viator* also offers tours. If we don’t find what we’re looking for on Get Your Guide, Viator often has great alternatives.
Skyscanner* is our go-to choice for finding cheap flights.
Frequently Asked Questions on Things to Do in Edinburgh
The top attractions in Edinburgh include Edinburgh Castle*, the Royal Mile, Holyrood Palace* and Calton Hill. These places offer a great insight into the city’s history and culture. Additionally, St Giles’ Church and Victoria Street are well worth a visit.
Edinburgh is easy to explore on foot, especially the historic center and the Royal Mile. For longer distances or to get an overview of the city, we recommend a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour*. Public transport like buses and trams is also a great option, and for longer distances, taxis or Uber are available.
Parking in Edinburgh can be challenging, especially in the city center. There are some parking garages and parking lots, but they can be expensive. A good alternative is to park outside the center and use public transport. Many hotels also offer parking, which should be reserved in advance.
