Things to do in Edinburgh

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Edinburgh travel guide

Royal Botanic Garden featuring heritage elements and a garden

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What to do in Edinburgh

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.

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.

Princes Street

During your trip to Edinburgh, you can search for that perfect souvenir at Princes Street. Experience the entertainment choices and lively festivals 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.

Edinburgh Playhouse Theatre

Enjoy a performance at Edinburgh Playhouse Theatre, a theatre with a story to tell in Edinburgh. Experience the area's lively festivals and acclaimed art galleries.

Grassmarket

During your visit to Edinburgh, you can search for that perfect souvenir at Grassmarket. Visit the top-notch restaurants or lively bars in this family-friendly area.

George Street

During your trip to Edinburgh, you can browse for the perfect souvenirs at George Street. Visit the top-notch restaurants or lively bars in this walkable area.

St. Andrew Square

You can find out about the history of Edinburgh with a stop at St. Andrew Square. Experience the area's fascinating museums and lively festivals.

Areas of Edinburgh

Calton Hill which includes skyline, general coastal views and a city

Edinburgh City Centre

If you're spending time in Edinburgh City Centre, check out sights like Royal Mile or Edinburgh Castle and hop on the metro to see more of the city at St Andrew Square Tram Stop or Princes Street Tram Stop.

Old Town Edinburgh

4.5/5(1,168 area reviews)

Wander the narrow alleys of Edinburgh's historic center to discover the hidden delights of an area that also encompasses some of the city's top attractions.

Edinburgh showing night scenes and heritage architecture

New Town

4.5/5(1,225 area reviews)

Stroll around the refined Georgian quarter of Edinburgh to encounter iconic monuments, stunning art galleries and an array of stores.

Royal Yacht Britannia which includes interior views and boating

Leith

5/5(1 area review)

Known for its abundant dining options and seaside views, there's plenty to explore in Leith. Top attractions like Edinburgh Port and Royal Yacht Britannia are major draws, and you can catch the metro at The Shore Tram Stop or Port of Leith Tram Stop to see more of the city.

Tollcross

4.5/5(49 area reviews)

Tollcross is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Usher Hall and Royal Lyceum Theatre while in the area.

West End

4/5(668 area reviews)

Gourmet restaurants interesting history and top sights from Dean Village to Johnnie Walker Princes Street – discover West End, a destination also famous for its shopping.

South Queensferry

Livingston

Dunfermline

Callendar House which includes heritage elements and a castle

Falkirk

Haddington

Linlithgow

Bathgate

Dunbar

Frequently asked questions

Is Edinburgh worth visiting?

Providing a mix of festivals and history, there's no shortage of things to do in Edinburgh. While you're here, visit Edinburgh Castle, a major attraction in the area.

How do I spend a day in Edinburgh?

Kick your day off with a visit to Edinburgh Castle and Edinburgh Zoo. Then, explore different areas of Edinburgh for a bite to eat and a little retail therapy.

What is the top tourist attraction in Edinburgh?

Edinburgh Castle is one of the top tourist attractions in Edinburgh and deserves a place on every must-do list of the area.

Is three days enough to stay in Edinburgh?

Three days will give you plenty of time to tick off many city attractions, like Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh Zoo and Grassmarket. The average stay in Edinburgh is three days. If you have the time to extend your holiday, Newbridge isn't far away.

Is Edinburgh a walkable city?

It all depends on what you plan to do and see in Edinburgh. Several top sights, such as Edinburgh Castle and Edinburgh Zoo, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a wander through some of Edinburgh's neighbourhoods, Edinburgh City Centre is 0.16 kilometres away from downtown, while Old Town Edinburgh is 0.64 kilometres away from the centre and also within walking distance.

What are some activities to do in Edinburgh with kids?

If you are after tours and attractions for all ages, here are some terrific ideas for what to do in Edinburgh with kids.

What to do in Edinburgh for adults?

Scotch Whisky Experience and Edinburgh Gin Distillery are just two of the things to do in Edinburgh. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone to explore.

Are there free things to do in Edinburgh?

One of the easiest ways to find free things to do in Edinburgh is to chat to a local tour guide. You'll get insider views on cool neighbourhoods, parks and other major attractions you can experience without opening your wallet. Grassmarket is one spot that doesn't charge an entrance fee.

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