Nestled beside long extinct volcanoes and built on seven hills, Edinburgh offers spectacular scenery in a rugged setting. The city itself is visually impressive with the medieval buildings of the Old Town and the wide Georgian roads and spacious homes of the New Town. Edinburgh was declared a World Heritage Site in 1995.
The city’s crowning glory and the reason for its existence is Edinburgh Castle. For hundreds of years, this fortress perched on an ancient volcano defended the city from attack.
Start your exploration of Scotland’s capital city at The Royal Mile. This series of cobblestone streets links the castle with the Palace of Holyroodhouse, an official royal residence. Along the route you’ll come across some of the city’s most famous landmarks, including St. Giles’ Cathedral and Parliament House.
Just a short walk away is Princes Street Gardens, which runs the length of Princes Street, the city’s main shopping area. While you are enjoying this pretty green space, visit some of its memorials and monuments including the Scott Monument. This Gothic structure was built to honor the novelist Sir Walter Scott. Its viewing galleries offer good views of the city.
Enjoy even more beautiful views from the hills that rise over the city. Hike to the summits of Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano, and Calton Hill, which is home to a number of impressive monuments.
Veer off the beaten track and explore some of Edinburgh’s lesser-known sites. Dean Village is surrounded by countryside and is just five minutes from the city center. The port district has a wealth of bars, cafes and restaurants and is also the final resting place of the Royal Yacht Britannia. This magnificent vessel sailed the British royal family around the world for more than 40 years.
Two of the most popular months to visit Edinburgh are December and August. Overlapping arts festivals running through August include the Edinburgh Fringe and the Edinburgh Art Festival. December is packed with Yuletide attractions and markets, and is rounded off with one of the world’s most famous street parties: Edinburgh’s Hogmanay.
Edinburgh
Edinburgh Travel Guide Video
Where to stay in Edinburgh
Old Town Edinburgh
Preserving its medieval street plan, this UNESCO World Heritage Site features the Royal Mile, St. Giles' Cathedral, and the National Museum of Scotland. Explore narrow closes and hidden passages for a unique experience.
Edinburgh City Centre
While you're in Edinburgh City Centre, take in top sights like Edinburgh Castle or Princes Street, and hop on the metro to see more the city at St Andrew Square Tram Stop or Princes Street Tram Stop.
Leith
Undergoing significant regeneration, Leith boasts a busy port, the Royal Yacht Britannia, and Ocean Terminal shopping centre. The shore area offers charming pubs and restaurants, while cultural attractions include Leith Theatre and Leith School of Art.
New Town
Discover original neo-classical and Georgian architecture in this UNESCO World Heritage Site, housing the National Gallery of Scotland and the Royal Scottish Academy Building. Shop along Princes Street, George Street, and the newly redeveloped St James Quarter.
Haymarket
In the heart of Edinburgh, Haymarket boasts a variety of pubs, cafés, and restaurants, with historic Ryries Pub as a highlight. Easily accessible, it offers Haymarket railway station, tram connections, and various bus routes for convenient travel.
Southside
If you're spending some time in Southside, Festival Theatre and The Meadows are top sights worth seeing.
Reviewed on Jun. 4, 2024
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Reviewed on Jun. 5, 2024
Popular places to visit
Edinburgh Castle
Fortress, palace and repository of the crown jewels, this landmark overlooking the city has played a crucial role in Scottish history.
Royal Mile
Explore this area in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town to find ancient buildings, historic relics, shops, museums and range of dining options.
Princes Street
You can enjoy some retail therapy when you visit Princes Street, a favorite shopping spot in Edinburgh. Experience the entertainment choices and fascinating museums in this walkable area.
Edinburgh Zoo
See rare and endangered species and learn about the efforts to conserve them at Edinburgh’s largest wildlife attraction.
University of Edinburgh
The campus of Edinburgh's venerable educational institution is spread seamlessly around the architecture of the city and opens to the public during year-round events.
Edinburgh Playhouse Theatre
Get tickets for a show at Edinburgh Playhouse Theatre, a theater with a story to tell in Edinburgh. Experience the area's acclaimed art scene and fascinating museums.
Reviews of Edinburgh
5/5 - Excellent
Beautiful city with so much history and things to do. The National Art Gallery of Scotland was amazing. Do a Ghost and Ghouls tour. Steve the tour guide was awesome. Take the tour to Rosslyn Chapel. It was wonderful and Eric was a great guide.
5/5 - Excellent
Lovely city. Parking isn’t great but if you are staying in or near the town centre, it’s all walkable.
5/5 - Excellent
Beautiful place..so much to see snd do..recommend the Royal Edinburgh pass as it is cheaper than buying tickets separately. Eat at local pubs and restaurants..food was excellent..check out offerings on Cockburn and venture down the closes. Free walk
5/5 - Excellent
Edinburgh is such a beautiful city. My brother is very lucky to call it home for his University year. Amazing place! You gotta go! ;)
5/5 - Excellent
Glad there was lots to see plus lots of shopping so my husband could walk and tour on his own from Ibis Hotel while I was in the hospital. Royal Infirmary of Scotland was 10 out of 10. Even the hospital food was wonderful!
5/5 - Excellent
This is our fourth time visiting Edinburgh within two years. It is historically interesting, totally walkable and has a safe, approachable and welcoming atmosphere. The transportation system within the city, its environs and country-wide is excellent
Other places like Edinburgh
- Edinburgh Castle
- Royal Mile
- Princes Street
- University of Edinburgh
- Edinburgh Zoo
- Grassmarket
- Royal Yacht Britannia
- St. Giles' Cathedral
- National Museum of Scotland
- Palace of Holyroodhouse
- Military Tattoo Theatre
- Heriot-Watt University
- Arthur's Seat
- Scotch Whisky Experience
- Princes Street Gardens
- Dean Village
- Rosslyn Chapel
- Calton Hill
- Livingston Designer Outlet