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Looking for things to do in Edinburgh? Whether visiting Scotland’s capital for one or multiple days, there are activities to take you from morning to night, especially if you love history, art, culture, shopping, food, hikes, photography, and festivals!
So pack your walking shoes and charge your phones; it’s time to discover things to do, see, and eat in Edinburgh through this jam-packed list of 101 tips I’ve tried and tested for you.
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Things to Do, See and Eat in Edinburgh
Edinburgh City Centre Attractions
Calton Hill
One of the most popular places to visit in Edinburgh is Calton Hill.
It is a small hill close to Princes Street, which takes around 10 minutes to walk up.
This relatively easy hike rewards you with panoramic views of the city and beyond, featuring some of the city’s main attractions, such as Arthur’s Seat, Princes Street, and Edinburgh Castle.
Access points can be found at Regent Road on the south and Royal Terrace on the north.
National Monument of Scotland
The National Monument on Calton Hill is often called The National Disgrace.
Why?
Because it was never finished!
The Parthenon is a 12-pillar stone monument that visitors like to climb on for photographs.
Nelson Monument
The Nelson Monument is a tower on Calton Hill that looks like a telescope turned upside down.
It was designed by architect Robert Burn and built to commemorate Vice-Admiral Horatio Nelson.
Many monuments around the UK were erected in Nelson’s honour, celebrating his victory at the battle of Trafalgar on 21 October 1805, where he died.
Dugald Stewart Monument
Dugald Stewart Monument on Calton Hill memorialises the Scottish philosopher Dugald Stewart.
It appears in many landscape photos of the city.
Princes Street Gardens
A popular gathering spot all year round, Princes Street Gardens are the lungs of the New Town.
They run adjacent to Princes Street, handy if you want to grab a sandwich at M&S and enjoy it in the shadow of the castle overlooking the gardens.
The gorgeous cherry blossoms bloom in spring and provide lovely framing for photographs.
Inside the gardens are the Floral Clock in Bloom (summer), Ross Fountain, a couple of cafes, and the Scott Monument.
Scott Monument
Are the 287 steps of the Scot Monument worth it for the view?
I’ve yet to find out.
Come back and tell me!
Built in memory of the author and poet Sir Walter Scott.
Open all year but seasonal times.
Gardener’s Cottage
The cute house in West Princes Street Gardens is named the Gardener’s Cottage and was designed by architect Robert Morham in 1886.
Ross Fountain
A gift to the city, the Ross Fountain is a popular prop used in Edinburgh Castle photography.
Visitors like to hang around the ornate fountain.
St James Quarter Shopping and Entertainment
If your style of travel includes shopping, St James Quarter is your go-to for high street brands.
It also has several entertainment areas, such as a cinema and bowling alley.
Bonnie & Wild is a unique dining space with different Scottish vendors on the top floor.
Read next: Edinburgh Food and Drink Guides.
W Hotel Views
You don’t have to stay overnight at the W Hotel to experience its top-class services.
Reserve a table at the bar for a floor-to-ceiling view of Calton Hill, Arthur’s Seat, and the New Town.
Read next: The Best Rooftop Bars in Edinburgh.
Go to a Ceilidh
Join the monthly Scottish ceilidh event at Bonnie & Wild in the St James Quarter.
Or, check out the Burly Ceilidh Club sessions scheduled at the Ghillie Dhu in the West End.
This image was taken at my wedding party in Leith.
Broughton Street Date Night Spot
Broughton Street is a wee hidden gem in the city tucked away behind St James Quarter.
Here, you will find a few “old man” pubs, upmarket bars, and restaurants.
Look out for Broughton Lane for a cool beer garden at The Outhouse.
See a Musical at the Edinburgh Playhouse
The Playhouse is a vintage theatre with red velvet seats that showcases popular Broadway shows such as The Book of Mormon and musicals like Heathers.
I’ve been watching performances here since I was wee, dreaming of being on the stage!
St Andrew Square
St Andrew Square is a popular thoroughfare that links to many of the centre’s streets, such as George Street.
It is also a gathering space in dry weather, a venue for films (movies) during summer, and Santa’s Grotto in winter.
The square has a towering 150 ft monument with a statue of Henry Dundas at the top.
Dundas is part of Edinburgh’s lesser-known history.
The 18th-century Tory Home Secretary delayed the abolition of the slave trade in Scotland by 15 years, causing the unnecessary death of African enslaved people before and during that period.
One of the many beneficiaries of the transatlantic slave trade, Dundas had streets of Edinburgh named after his powerful family.
George Street
George Street, a grand stretch of Georgian buildings, was a vital part of James Craig’s 18th-century New Town.
When you visit, consider the space and compare it to the Royal Mile in the Old Town; imagine how the wealthy families felt when they could flee the suffocating Old Town for newly built mansions in this area!
Several George Street addresses feature in the Legacy of British Slavery’s database, pinpointing a slave owner or direct beneficiary.
Today, George Street is home to offices, shops, accommodation, and bars such as Tigerlily, The Dome, and Le Monde.
It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Charlotte Square
Charlotte Square is at the other end of George Street, home to the First Minister of Scotland and The Georgian House Museum.
The square is technically part of the West End, which I’ll discuss below.
You’ll notice that Edinburgh has areas that flow into each other; it is not an easy-to-navigate grid system city like Glasgow!
Things to Do in the Old Town
I’ve divided this section into the Royal Mile, George IV Bridge, the Grassmarket, and Cowgate.
Things to Do on The Royal Mile
The Royal Mile
As you would expect, Edinburgh’s Royal Mile is a mile long, although it’s an Old Scots Mile and not the measurement of one mile we’re accustomed to today.
You’ll find Edinburgh Castle at the top of Castlehill and the Scottish Parliament and Holyrood Palace at the bottom in Holyrood Park.
It doesn’t matter where you start unless you are timing your plans around a tour or entry ticket.
The Royal Mile is the heart of the Old Town, and it is always buzzing with tourists hopping in and out of attractions or locals speedily trying to get through the crowds.
Rows of tartan shops, pubs, and restaurants line the street, and during all seasons, Edinburgh tours meet here to go underground or around the city, day and night.
This is where you can catch many free acts during the Edinburgh Fringe; you just have to push through the crowds to see them!
Get your bearings: The Royal Mile is close to Princes Street, Waverley Station, Cockburn Street, George IV Bridge (Greyfriars Bobby) and the colourful Victoria Street leading to Edinburgh’s Grassmarket.
Edinburgh Castle
One of the top things to do in Edinburgh is to visit that castle on top of the volcano.
There are a few ways to experience this attraction.
You can either look at the views from the esplanade or do a self-guided tour of the castle grounds.
If you want to learn more, this walking tour is led by an expert guide!
Get Lost Down the Closes and Bridges
One of the coolest things about this area is its closes, which are essentially alleyways connecting different parts of the city.
Advocates Close is the most popular with photographers for its view down to Princes Street Garden.
You’d never know you were walking over a bridge as there is no water, but the South Bridge and George IV Bridge connect the Old Town with the Southside.
The Chocolatarium – Edinburgh’s Chocolate Experience
I must apologise now because if you are anything like me, you are about to drool!
Sweet fiends and chocolate fans, this Edinburgh attraction just off The Royal Mile is for you.
The informative and entertaining hands-on chocolate tour teaches how chocolate is made; you also get to take home and eat the Scottish-themed candy you create.
During the 90-minute session, you will learn where chocolate comes from and how the bitter seed is transformed into a sweet, smooth liquid.
You will also get to try it at every stage!
The tour starts by discussing the chocolate we see in shops and the process of making it.
It also discusses the relationship that the business owner has with chocolate.
Next, it’s off to the kitchen to mould your own chocolate bar, choosing from 25 toppings.
It’s not just about making chocolate, though.
The Chocolatarium has a popular Tasting Room where you can try weird and wonderful options, such as haggis chocolate!
Read my review of the attraction here.
St Giles’ Cathedral and Heart of Midlothian
St Giles’ Cathedral is a striking building on the Royal Mile, also known as the High Kirk of Edinburgh.
For a small donation, visitors can tour the building.
Look out for the Robert Burns stained-glass window; it’s a beauty.
Outside of St Giles’ Cathedral is the bricked Heart of Midlothian, which historically people spat at as it was once the entrance to the city’s Old Tolbooth, where executions took place.
David Hume Statue
Visit Hume’s statue outside the High Court on the Lawnmarket part of the Royal Mile and rub his toe for good fortune!
Camera Obscura
Located on Castlehill, Camera Obscura is a popular attraction for kids in Edinburgh.
The museum offers a world of illusions with over 100 exhibits spread over five floors, including a trippy vortex tunnel and a tense mirror maze!
Don’t miss the rooftop for city views too.
Read my review here.
Ramsay Lane
Another great photo spot is Ramsay Lane.
Check out this guide for the complete list of photography spots in the city.
Mound Place and New College
Mound Place, just around the corner from Ramsay Lane, offers a gorgeous unofficial viewpoint of the New Town.
Near Mound Place is New College, a popular photography location with Harry Potter fans.
Gladstone’s Land
Most people don’t know this, but Gladstone’s Land isn’t just a takeout ice cream shop!
Above the cafe is a 17th-century tenement house, which you can tour with one of the guides.
Monkey Barrel Comedy Club
Various acts perform every day of the week at the Monkey Barrel Comedy Club, located just off the Royal Mile on Blair Street near Hunter Square.
John Knox House
Take a peek into the historic house of Protestant reformer John Knox.
Scottish Storytelling Centre
John Knox House is located next to the Scottish Storytelling Centre, where you can pick up popular Scots-language books.
Holyrood House
The Palace of Holyrood House is where the British monarch officially lives in Scotland.
You can take a self-guided tour with audio support.
Holyrood Park
Holyrood Park has 650 acres of green space in the shadows of an extinct volcano called Arthur’s Seat.
Scottish Parliament
Since its conception in 2004, 129 democratically elected representatives have worked in this uniquely shaped modern building.
From 1999 to 2004, our MSPs met at the General Assembly Hall of the Church of Scotland, located on The Mound.
The Scottish Parliament offers tours, and if you can book a ticket for a chamber debate on a Thursday, you will see our First Minister in action at First Ministers’ Questions.
Arthur’s Seat and Salisbury Crags can also be found in this area.
Please read our Edinburgh walks section for details.
Things to Do on Geoge IV Bridge
Geoge IV Bridge
Geoge IV Bridge connects the Royal Mile to the Southside area, where you will find The Meadows (park) and lots of University of Edinburgh activity.
George IV Bridge Bars and Restaurants
This bridge has many bars and restaurants, such as George IV Bar, Vittoria on the Bridge, Cafe Andaluz Old Town, The Cellar Door, McGonagalls Gin & Whisky Emporium, and The Outsider Restaurant with Edinburgh Castle views.
Victoria Street
If you’ve seen any photos or videos of Edinburgh, you’ve likely already discovered Victoria Street.
Known as “Diagon Alley” from Harry Potter, this curved street has cute pastel-coloured buildings.
It also winds down to the Grassmarket area of the Old Town.
Greyfriars Bobby and Greyfriars Kirkyard
The most famous buried member of Greyfriars Kirkyard is a small Skye Terrier dog called Greyfriars Bobby.
They say a man’s best friend is his dog, which was true for Bobby’s master.
After he passed, Bobby is said to have sat at his grave, pining for him to return.
A bronze monument to Bobby is found near the graveyard; to help preserve it, you are asked not to rub the statue’s nose.
Greyfriars Bobby is the Everything Edinburgh logo!
While in the cemetery, check out the headstones with J.K Rowling’s Harry Potter character names!
Local tip: The graveyard offers fantastic views of the Old Town’s roofs and spires.
Things to Do at The Grassmarket and Cowgate
Grassmarket Pub Crawl
The Grassmarket is a popular spot for locals and tourists to eat and drink.
The castle overlooks the bottom half of the Grassmarket, and this is a great photo spot when the sky is blue.
In the past, the area was a medieval marketplace and also the site where public executions took place.
Today, there is a farmers’ market on Saturdays.
Armstrongs
Vintage clothes lovers and those looking to grab an old (cheapish) tartan kilt should check out Armstrongs.
Mary’s Milk Bar
Grab an ice cream cone at this iconic dessert shop.
You’ll need some energy for your walk up Miss Jean Brodie Steps.
The Vennel
If you are wondering where people capture “that” photo of the castle, it is probably from The Vennel.
Make your way to Miss Jean Brodie Steps, which takes you to The Vennel viewpoint.
Edinburgh’s Live Music Scene
Edinburgh is no Glasgow when it comes to music, yet it still attracts its fair share of artists to its venues all around the city.
Newer acts can be seen for cheap at Sneaky Pete’s (Cowgate) and the Voodoo Rooms (City Centre).
Cabaret Voltaire (just off the Cowgate) and the Liquid Rooms (Victoria Street) serve a slightly larger capacity.
Bigger artists fill Queen’s Hall (Clerk Street), Usher Hall (Lothian Road), O2 Academy Edinburgh (New Market Road), Scottish Gas Murrayfield (Roseburn Street), and even Edinburgh Castle (Old Town).
However, Edinburgh is about more than just named artists: Whistle Binkies, Bannermans, and World’s End, dotted around the Old Town, all put on free live music most nights.
Read next: Things to Do in the Old Town.
Things to Do in the West End
Johnnie Walker Scotch Whisky Experience
One of the most popular things to do in Edinburgh is located in the city’s West End.
Whether you are a whisky fan or not (like me), you’ll enjoy the immersive tour at the Johnnie Walker Whisky Experience.
Alternatively, you can reserve a table at the rooftop bar for views over Princes Street and Edinburgh Castle.
Independent Shops
If you like to shop but prefer to support local businesses over big brands, stroll along William Street and Stafford Street in the West End.
William Street Pubs
Try Teuchters, The Voyage Of Buck, and The Green Room, the perfect lesser-known triangle of pubs located close to the bustle of Princes Street.
Read next: My favourite pubs in Edinburgh.
Things to Do in Leith
Leith Walk Pub Crawl
Starting at St James Quarter, wander down Leith Walk, stopping by the numerous bars and pubs that line the wide street.
This road leads down to the Foot of the Walk and Constitution Street, then from turn left to The Shore.
If you’d prefer to avoid walking, there is a tram and bus from the City Centre to Leith.
Read next: Where to Drink in Leith.
Fine Dining
Leith is quite the foodie hub with Michelin-starred restaurants such as Martin Wishart and The Kitchin.
The 5-star floating boat hotel, the Fingal, also puts on quite the show with afternoon tea and drinks on the deck.
Stay on Boat
Leith has two boat hotels: the Fingal and Ocean Mist.
The Fingal is a very upmarket experience, including a presidential suite, which I’ve stayed at!
The Ocean Mist is a little friendlier on the budget and gets very positive reviews from guests.
Both have deck bars for soaking up the sun, which we get in Letih sometimes!
Royal Yacht Britannia
If you want to feel like a royal for the day, the Royal Yacht Britannia is the place to visit!
Visitors can tour the decks and royal rooms using an audio guide to learn more about royal life at sea, maritime history, and ship engineering.
Plus, there’s a lovely tearoom on board if you fancy a bite to eat!
Some of the hop-on and off-bus tours include the Britannia on their routes.
Ocean Terminal
At Ocean Terminal, you can shop, support local creatives, or see a movie.
Next to OT is Scotland’s first vertical distillery, Port of Leith!
Starbank Park
Starbank Park is a blooming garden in Edinburgh’s Newhaven neighbourhood which offers epic views over the Firth of Forth and the Kingdom of Fife.
Read next: Things to Do in Leith and Newhaven.
Things to Do in Stockbridge and Deans Village
Stockbridge Market
Stockbridge Market is a weekly farmer’s market offering fresh food and snacks.
Not to be confused with the historic Stockbridge Market sign on Google Maps, the market is near Raeburn Place.
Stockbridge Second-Hand Shops
This neighbourhood area is affluent, making its pre-loved shop offerings very appealing!
Potted Garden
33 NW Circus Lane is a popular location for photographers.
This well-maintained house displays a lovely array of potted flowers and plants.
Circus Lane
Photographers love Circus Lane’s mews houses with St Stephens in the background.
Dean Village
Less than a 10-minute walk from Princes Street is this historic haven, Dean Village.
Well Court is a popular photography spot, with its yellow building popping out against the water.
Read next: Things to Do in Stockbridge and Dean Village.
Things to Do in the Southside
The Meadows
Grab a hot chocolate and wander through this green space, which is always bustling with students stretching their legs and catching up with friends.
Another great location for cherry blossoms!
Bruntsfield Wanders
Walk through Bruntsfield for coffee or a pint and independent stores like gift shops and record stores.
See a Movie in Morningside
One of the first cinemas in the city to allow patrons to enjoy a drink with a film viewing, The Dominan is quite the institution!
Edinburgh Walks
Arthur’s Seat
Blow away the cobwebs with a breezy hike up the extinct volcano, Arthur’s Seat, which sits at the bottom of the Royal Mile, next to the Scottish Parliament.
The walk takes around 1-2 hours, depending on your pace.
Royal Botanic
The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is a lovely green space with glasshouses and palm houses.
In December, it becomes a light show and Santa’s grotto.
The Water of Leith Walkway
The Water of Leith Walkway connects several cool neighbourhoods, such as Leith, Stockbridge, and Dean Village!
Here, you’ll share a dedicated path with runners, cyclists, and dog walkers.
Union Canal
Running from Falkirk to Edinburgh, Union Canal is popular with walkers and cyclists.
This hidden gem in Edinburgh has a canal boat cafe next to Leamington Bridge.
The Pentlands
There are a variety of walking routes around The Pentland Hills Regional Park that suit all levels of walkers.
There are four short circular routes (1.5 – 2.7 miles), which are great for families.
You can also camp at The Pentlands, as we did.
Portobello Beach
Don’t expect to have this beach to yourself when the sun is out, as many locals flock to it during a “taps aff” day.
Best Things to Do in Edinburgh When it Rains
Build Your Own Bag
Tourists love making their own purses and bags using Harris tweed at the Islander Workshop Experience.
There are a few locations where you can create this cute souvenir.
Go Bowling
Edinburgh has a couple of modern bowling alleys with bars, such as Lane 7 and Roxy Lanes.
Georgian House
The Georgian House is an indoor example of a late 18th-century New Town house.
You can freely wander through the different rooms and ask volunteers questions.
There is also a short video about the life of the Lamont family, who resided here.
Read next: Other Things to Do When it Rains.
Edinburgh Museums
MOMA Edinburgh
Everything is going to be alright.
This message greets you above the building as you enter the contemporary art museum, The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art (75 Belford Road).
Portrait Gallery
The Scottish National Portrait Gallery (1 Queen Street) features old and new portraits.
The collection includes famous Scottish faces such as Sir Walter Scott and Flora MacDonald.
Scottish National Gallery
The Scottish National Gallery (The Mound) has a wide range of European art from Renaissance through Impressionism.
The Skating Minister by Henry Raeburn hangs here and is said to have influenced the design of the Scottish Parliament.
National Museum of Scotland
The National Museum of Scotland (Chambers Street) is a great day out for the kids.
Local tip: Head to the top and check out the view of Edinburgh.
Harry Potter Things to Do
Greyfriars Kirk
This cemetery gets a second mention as its graves are tied up in Harry Potter history.
Look closely at the names of the deceased.
Do you recognise any characters?
Victoria Street Shops
Victoria Street is thought to be the inspiration for Diagon Alley!
This popular colourful street is always packed with tourists purchasing Harry Potter souvenirs at the Museum Context: Retailer of Harry Potter Merchandise.
This is where you’ll also find a small Elephant House, the sister cafe to the original where Harry Potter was written.
Check out this walking tour if you want to visit all of the Harry Potter locations in Edinburgh with a guide.
Food and Drink Experiences in Edinburgh
Try Haggis!
Haggis is Scotland’s national food—it’s not a wee animal that runs around the Highlands, as some tour guides will tell you!
It is made from lamb and beef cooked in an animal’s stomach with oats, onions, and spices.
It is mostly eaten in winter with tatties (potatoes) and neeps (turnip).
Some people love it, and others hate it; there is rarely an in-between.
I prefer the veggie version with neeps and tatties, and my husband likes the meat version on a roll at breakfast.
Scots and visitors tend to eat it on St Andrew’s Day (November) and Burns Night (January), but you’ll find it all year round in Edinburgh restaurants.
Try it at Makars Mash Bar.
Haggis Bonbons
Haggis does not have to be served with neeps and tatties.
Scottish restaurants have become creative with the national dish, and haggis bonbons are often served as a small plate or starter.
Afternoon Tea
Savour small sandwiches, scones, and cakes during an afternoon tea.
I’ve sampled many of them; it’s a tough job!
Read next: Edinburgh’s Afternoon Tea Experiences.
The Witchery by the Castle
If you are looking for a special dining experience in a gothic restaurant, reserve a table at The Witchery’s oak-panelled Baroque dining room or romantic candlelit Secret Garden.
Avoid splurging too much by taking advantage of the set lunch menu, as I did.
Read next: Romantic Things to Do in Edinburgh.
The Dome
If there is one bar everyone wants to visit in winter, it’s The Dome.
The bar is closest to NYC-style festive decor the city gets, and it is a spectacle worth planning for.
Cocktails at Devil’s Advocate
The Devil’s Advocate serves food and drink in an old Victorian pub house in the Old Town.
The menu includes many kinds of whisky, which was a highlight for my friends from Miami.
Starbucks Views
Not usually one to advertise multi-billion companies, but the Starbucks on Princes Street has unreal views of Edinburgh Castle.i
Let the Games Be Gin
Not a fan of whisky?
Edinburgh Gin Distillery puts on tasting workshops for those who prefer the juniper berry.
Scotch Whisky Experience
The Scotch Whisky Experience is an excellent activity for anyone fascinated by whisky who cannot visit one of the country’s distilleries.
Edinburgh Festivals
Jazz and Blues Festival
Edinburgh’s Jazz and Blues Festival takes place in July and offers a varied schedule hosted in unique locations, such as the atmospheric 17th-century Tron Kirk.
Edinburgh Festival Fringe
Edinburgh Festival Fringe takes place over three weeks in August.
Comedy, theatre, musicals – you name it, it performs in every nook and cranny of the city!
Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
The Royal Military Edinburgh Tattoo is an annual sell-out event where over 48 nations perform at Edinburgh Castle.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival
Do you struggle to find the time to read a book unless you are swinging from a hammock with a piña colada in your hand? Me too!
Here’s the solution to reader’s block – listen to a storyteller at the Scottish International Storytelling Festival.
Edinburgh’s Christmas Market
Edinburgh’s Christmas market features beautiful lights, fairground rides, hot food, and locally made gifts.
It is located at Prince Street Gardens and starts around mid-November.
Hogmanay Street Party
Join the biggest New Year’s Eve party in the world!
People from over 80 countries attend Edinburgh’s Hogmanay party to ring in the bells.
Live acts play in Princes Street Gardens and other stages around the city.
There is a ceilidh (traditional Scottish dance) in the Old Town and fireworks at midnight.
The party doesn’t actually start on the 31st!
Thousands of people march through Edinburgh as part of a torchlight procession on the 30th.
I’ve done the torchlight procession but haven’t attended the Hogmanay party; I’m usually indoors with family on the 31st!
Edinburgh Tours
Hop On/Off Bus Tour
The Edinburgh hop-on/off bus is popular all year round as you get to see the best Edinburgh sights from the comfort of a double-decker bus.
When it rains, take a seat downstairs to avoid the elements!
The tour provides information about the landmarks you pass, and you can hop off at them if you want to visit.
Book here and simply show your mobile voucher.
Ghost Tours
Every night is fright night in Edinburgh’s Old Town, and there is no shortage of tour companies eager to share their knowledge of torture, hangings, and local legends.
Tours last around 60-90 minutes and require the ability to move around the cobbled streets of Old Edinburgh.
Read next: The Spookiest Ghost Tours in Edinburgh.
Mary King’s Close Tour
Ring-a-ring o’ roses,
A pocket full of posies,
A-tishoo! A-tishoo!
We all fall down.
Did you know that this song refers to the plague?
I learnt that during this Mary King’s Close tour in Edinburgh when I was young.
The tour takes you underground through the Old Town at Mary King’s Close while you listen to stories of death and misery.
Craft Beer Tours
Scotland is craft beer daft.
Visitors can independently tour the city’s craft beer scene using our guide to sample Scotland’s “top of the hops” beverages.
South Bridge Vault Tours
Standing at street level, you would never know what lurks beneath, but there’s a whole other city, and it’s dark and damp!
Explore one of the caverns during this Edinburgh’s Vaults tour, which can only be visited with a guide.
Here’s my full review.
Day Trips From Edinburgh
After a few days in the city, you may be itching to get out and see more of Scotland.
With these easy day tours from Edinburgh, getting out couldn’t be easier.
Loch Ness, Glencoe & the Highlands Tour
Want to see the Scottish highlights but don’t have time?
This Loch Ness, Glencoe & the Highlands Tour from Edinburgh is the most popular way to do so.
During this 12-hour day tour, drive through the majestic landscape of Glencoe and hop aboard a cruise to see Nessie.
Read reviews and reserve your spot here.
Alternatively, check out these Glenfinnan Viaduct tours, where you can watch the Harry Potter train chug over the bridge.
South Queensferry
One of my favourite places in Scotland is South Queensferry.
See our iconic bridges, Forth Bridge (the red one), Forth Road Bridge (the car bridge), and Queensferry Crossing (the new bridge) and take a boat tour on the Firth of the Forth.
The Kingdom of Fife
Come across the Firth of Forth on one of its iconic bridges, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site rail bridge, to the Kingdom of Fife.
Voted Scotland’s number one outdoor destination, Fife is a Kingdom steeped in royal history.
It has some of the world’s finest golf courses, including the most famous, the Old Course (St Andrews), 117 miles of stunning coastal path, beaches, and cafes like my mother-in-law’s Hel’s Kitchen.
North Berwick
Take a day trip from Edinburgh to North Berwick on the east coast.
This pretty coastal town has many shops, cafes and restaurants, and a beach to wander along.
Towering behind the town is Berwick Law, a small hill that gets pretty windy!
Midlothian Snowsports Centre
Tucked underneath the Pentlands, Midlothian’s Snowsports Centre flirts with the border of Edinburgh.
Here, you can ski on dry slopes or whiz down the Alpine Coaster.
Linlithgow Palace
Check out the pad where Mary Queen of Scots was born!
Linlithgow Palace also has special events throughout the year, such as jostling challenges.
This palace also features in Outlander!
Gilmerton Cove
Visit the underground passages of Gilmerton Cove, an ex-mining town near Edinburgh.
Kelpies
One of my favourite things about Scottish history is our stories of myths and legends.
Have you met our shape-shifting aquatic beasts with the power of 100 horses yet?
Our Kelpies…
Edinburgh Tourist Information
Edinburgh’s iCentres, on the Royal Mile, can help you plan tours, book day trips, reserve accommodation and purchase transport passes for touring Scotland.
However, most visitors organise this before touching down.
Edinburgh Public Transport
Edinburgh is well-connected by bus, train, and tram.
Lothian Buses run throughout the day and on a reduced timetable at night.
Stops are placed throughout the city with maps and electronic information signs.
There is a helpful trip planner on their site.
The Airlink bus connects the city and the airport.
Edinburgh has three stations: Waverley is the most central (Princes Street is a two-minute walk away/Royal Mile is a ten-minute walk away), Haymarket is in the west (closest to the zoo and Murrayfield Stadium), and the Edinburgh Gateway connects users to the Gyle Shopping Centre and Edinburgh Airport.
Edinburgh Waverley has toilets (fee), showers, food places, and a bar.
Haymarket has toilets, a coffee booth and an M&S shop.
Trainline and ScotRaill are great apps/websites for train journeys in the UK.
Edinburgh trams run from Newhaven to Edinburgh Airport.
Purchase your ticket at the machine and validate at the machine before you board the tram.
Users without a ticket will be charged.
Day tickets are available.
We have Ûber and Moon in Edinburgh (order through the app), private taxi firms (order by phoning), and black taxis, which you can hail down on the street or hire from a taxi rank.
Getting to Edinburgh From the Airport
You can now pre-book your airport transfer for under £6.
Book your spot here.
Alternatively, you can use the tram system.
Read the detailed guide here.
Currency and Money
Scotland is pretty much a cashless society; most visitors only carry a small amount of cash to cover public toilet fees and the rare parking garage or rural cafe that doesn’t accept cards.
Scottish money is legal tender, but our southern counterparts in London don’t always accept this.
Our shops, restaurants, and hotels accept English and Scottish money but not Euros.
Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted, but American Express is less so.
Plastic bags in shops cost at least 5p; pack a tote bag or buy a cute as a souvenir.
Read next: Edinburgh Packing List.
Edinburgh Accommodation
Accommodation in Edinburgh is expensive.
Hotel rooms in the City Centre start at £120.
Hostels in Edinburgh are much cheaper, starting at £20 for a dorm bed.
Where to Stay in Edinburgh
- Old Town: Apex Grassmarket Hotel for Castle views on the Grassmarket
- New Town: Tigerlily Hotel, smack bang among the George Stree restaurant and bars
- Leith: Malmaison Hotel Leith, a super modern chain on The Shore
- Stockbridge: The Raeburn, village feels in the city
Read our accommodation guides here; we have an article for every travel style.
Need to Know Before You Go
Scottish people are known to be friendly, especially in the west.
Our accents can be pretty strong and take some adjusting to.
Here’s a funny post on Scottish sayings, which will prepare you.
Only 1.1% of the country speaks Gaelic, and as you head north, you will see our signs in both languages.
If you do run into any trouble, call 112 for non-emergency police matters and 999 for any emergency services.
There is a high police presence around the city, especially during big events.
Tap water is safe to drink, free and delicious!
Smoking is banned in public places and cars with minors.
We like deep-fat fried food and are partial to a pint or two!
If someone asks you, ‘Are ye dancin’?’ The appropriate response is, ‘Are ye askin’?’
Our MSPs passed the equal marriage bill in 2014, and Edinburgh has quite a large LBGT+ community (and bars/clubs).
Final Words
So that’s all, folks—the most extensive online guide to things to do, see, and eat in Edinburgh.
If you need help planning your trip to Scotland, you can read more about my services here or check availability directly on my calendar.