Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital, has a wealth of cultural, historical and festival experiences. There are a multitude of activities to experience while visiting Edinburgh, such as castles to explore, cobbled streets to navigate and breath-taking historic buildings.
The mix of Gothic architecture, royal monuments and festivals makes the things to do in Edinburgh attractive for millions of visitors from all over the world each year.
Whether you wish to see historical sites, find out about mythical stories, trace the steps of well-known writers or eat traditional food, there are endless ways to experience Edinburgh, accommodating every traveller type. Walking down the Royal Mile or into the many underground close passages and trying Scotch whiskey from one of the many distilleries located in Edinburgh are all activities that showcase the city’s character.
While sites are wonderful, the real charm of the things to do in Edinburgh comes from the many stories hidden within each stone, the rich culture that exists along the streets and the unique experiences available in each area, creating an extraordinary and unforgettable place to visit.
1. Stroll Along the Royal Mile
The Royal Mile is one of Edinburgh’s most unique attractions. The Royal Mile begins at Edinburgh Castle and ends at the Palace of Holyrood house. The Royal Mile is the main street in Old Town, and as you walk along the Royal Mile, you will see old-style shops, performers, monuments, narrow streets or “closes,” and much more. The Royal Mile allows you to be close to Edinburgh’s atmosphere and history.
Walking along the Royal Mile is also an everlasting activity, and you will see the medieval stone buildings, the small concealed courtyards, and the stories following them. You can find gift shops that sell various items, hear the pipes, and see performers who bring the Royal Mile to life.
To gain a better understanding of the city’s soul, a visit to the Royal Mile must be included on your list of what to do in Edinburgh.
2. Edinburgh Castle
When first-time visitors come to Edinburgh, one of their first attractions is to visit Edinburgh Castle. Situated at the top of a high hill known as Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle is very high above Edinburgh and gives the city a wonderful panoramic view. Tourists can also see Scotland’s Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny as well as a number of ancient military structures when they visit the Castle.
As one of Scotland’s major symbols, Edinburgh Castle represents Scotland’s heritage and culture. Walking through Edinburgh Castle’s grounds is one of the most inspiring things to do in Edinburgh because you can see firsthand the history that has occurred within the Castle’s walls for hundreds of years.
People who enjoy taking pictures love to take photos of the views from Edinburgh Castle, because it has some of the best views of any city in the world.
3. St Giles’ Cathedral
On the Royal Mile between the Castle and Holyrood Palace, St. Giles’ is one of Edinburgh’s most iconic attractions. This stunning building has a beautiful crown-shaped spire (“horns”) and has been Scotland’s spiritual home for over 900 years.
Inside St. Giles’ Cathedral, visitors will find many beautiful things to see including some of the finest stained-glass windows in Scotland, intricate stone carved decorations and the Boy Bishop’s Chapel (Thistle Chapel). Visiting St. Giles’ Cathedral is one of the most calming experiences a visitor can have when visiting Edinburgh, allowing visitors to take time out of their busy day to relax and meditate.
Construction on St. Giles’ Cathedral took place between 1460–1520; it has an impressive Gothic-style building with intricate design elements throughout the entire structure. St. Giles’ Cathedral is considered to be one of the largest architectural works in Scotland designed in a Gothic style. The breath-taking Gothic architecture of St. Giles’ Cathedral makes it one of the highlights of Edinburgh’s history.
4. Palace of Holyrood house
Discover the Palace of Holyroodhouse, which is one of Edinburgh’s top royal attractions. Located opposite Edinburgh Castle at the end of the Royal Mile, Holyroodhouse is the official Scottish residence for the British Monarch.
The Palace of Holyrood house has beautiful state rooms, historical tapestries, and important rooms relating to Mary, Queen of Scots. Walking through Holyrood house gives visitors an excellent opportunity to learn about Scotland’s historical royal history and immerse themselves in the environment.
Don’t forget to take time to explore the gardens at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, which is one of these many places to find peace and tranquillity in Edinburgh.
5. Experience The Real Mary King’s Close
One of the more exceptional activities that can be experienced while in Edinburgh is the opportunity to explore The Real Mary King’s Close, an underground attraction under the Royal Mile that contains the preserved streets of 17th century Edinburgh. Guided tours provide an insight into the plague outbreaks and everyday life in the medieval period as well as some very spooky ghost stories; for anyone with an interest in both mystery and history, this is an amazing way to spend your time in Edinburgh.
Thrill-seekers will find that the darkness and ambience of the corridors and rooms create a very unique opportunity among the many things to do in Edinburgh.
6. Ghost Tours
Edinburgh offers many fun and exciting experiences; however, joining a ghost tour in this wonderful city is likely to be one of the best things to do in Edinburgh after dark! The ghosts and ghouls that roam Edinburgh may outnumber any other European city. Therefore, many people will consider a ghost tour to be among their first stops while visiting Edinburgh.
The professional storytellers who lead these tours share the history of the city with numerous captivating stories relating to murder, punishment, ghosts, and crimes that remain unsolved. Exploring Old Town at night is also a wonderful way to explore the city and gives you an ideal opportunity to take part in an event filled with fear and excitement! Visitors will frequently choose a ghost tour when searching for things to do that offer a sense of adventure while visiting Edinburgh.
7. Harry Potter Tour
The Harry Potter walking tour is an incredible experience for lovers of magical worlds within Edinburgh; the online self-guided versions represent a fantastic introduction to one of Edinburgh’s most iconic landmarks – the places that sparked the imagination of J.K. Rowling as she wrote her best-known book series.
During these tours, visitors will explore locations like Greyfriars Kirkyard where it is widely believed she found names for many of her characters, and the cafés where parts of the book were written. The experiences offered on these walking tours provide unique insights into Edinburgh city and those who love the Harry Potter series will find this to be one of many wonderfully creative things to do in Edinburgh even if they aren’t a die-hard devotee.
This is one of the most fun family-friendly experiences available among the many Things to Do in Edinburgh.
8. The Scotch Whisky Experience
To be able to enjoy Scotland’s legendary spirit, you must venture to Edinburgh and taste the scotch whisky.
Scotch Whisky Experience, located on the Edinburgh Royal Mile, offers a variety of tours that show you how whisky is created – from the barley to the final product that goes into the bottle. In this way, you will discover the various whisky-producing regions of Scotland and how to enjoy tasting.
The tours of this establishment rank among the top tasting experiences in Edinburgh, especially for those who are interested in culinary delights.
Whether you are just beginning your whisky journey or you are a seasoned whisky aficionado, this is one of the most rewarding things to do in Edinburgh.
9. National Museum of Scotland
The National Museum of Scotland is ideal for people who love to learn about and explore new subjects. The museum has a variety of exhibitions relating to natural history, science and culture of Scotland, as well as World Heritage.
The exhibits at the National Museum of Scotland include a prehistoric display, an interactive science experience and a collection of fashion, along with actual dinosaur remains! The National Museum of Scotland has plenty of exciting, engaging activities that will appeal to people of all ages.
The rooftop terrace also offers spectacular views of the city of Edinburgh! The views can complement any number of other activities in Edinburgh.
10. The Royal Yacht Britannia
Visiting the Royal Yacht Britannia will make an incredible impression on anyone who has experienced this elegant activity in Edinburgh – The Royal Yacht Britannia is now available as part of a visit to Leith, where the yacht is berthed at present. A visit inside the yacht you are able to visit the various State Rooms that the Queen used while on board including the Dining Room, as well as the Crew’s Quarters and Royal Bedrooms.
Seeing first-hand how the Royal Family travelled by ship is an interesting part of your trip to Edinburgh. Seeing this aspect of Royal Living demonstrates a side of life that is seldom available to us in our everyday lives; therefore this experience makes it a fantastic addition to the many things to do in Edinburgh.
11. Chocolatarium – Sweet Edinburgh
Chocolatarium is one of Edinburgh’s best-kept secrets, offering a chocolate-making experience for visitors. Visitors can taste different types of chocolate, learn how cocoa is produced, and even create their own chocolate creations!
Chocolatarium is perfect for families, couples, and anyone else who loves sweets. It is a very fun and relaxing activity compared to many of Edinburgh’s more traditional historical attractions.
If visitors are looking to combine Edinburgh’s historical attractions with a unique sweet experience, the Chocolatarium is a must-do while in Edinburgh!
12. Portobello Beach
Visiting Portobello Beach is one of the most rejuvenating activities in Edinburgh. Only minutes from the city centre, Portobello has sandy beaches, picturesque sea views, fresh, clean air, as well as a more relaxed and slower way of life compared to Old Town.
Taking a stroll along the promenade while indulging in some delicious fish and chips or just relaxing and gazing at the waves have got to be some of the most soothing activities in Edinburgh.
Portobello Beach highlights the fact that there is plenty more to see and do in Edinburgh, besides castles and cobbled streets.
Why Edinburgh Is Perfect for Every Traveller
Edinburgh offers an incredible variety of activities combining history, culture, mystery and relaxation all in one city; whether you prefer visiting castles or going on a literary walk around the city, you can find an outdoor activity suitable for your lifestyle. Edinburgh not only offers iconic landmarks and hidden treasures but also never ceases to amaze all who visit its streets. Creating a perfect mix between what has always been part of Edinburgh and what will be in its future shows the uniqueness of all things within Edinburgh.
Final Thoughts
Edinburgh is a city that stays with you long after you leave. The blend of royal landmarks, medieval streets, underground secrets, literary history, and coastal beauty creates an unmatched travel experience. No matter how many times you visit, you’ll always find new things to do in Edinburgh that surprise and inspire you.
Whether you’re planning a short city break or a long holiday, exploring the things to do in Edinburgh will give you memories that last a lifetime.
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