The capital city of Scotland, with its cobbled streets, rolling hills, rich heritage, and world-class museums, offers a fascinating visitor experience. Here are 10 unmissable sights in Edinburgh’s Old Town and beyond.
- Edinburgh Castle
The majestic Edinburgh Castle, standing tall and proud on the top of the ancient volcano, is the right place to start your acquaintance with the city’s rich history and bask in the vibes of Scottish charm. You can explore the Great Hall in its medieval splendor, marvel at the oldest Crown jewels in Britain, and listen out for the one o’clock cannon. Equip yourself with an in-app audio guide to learn more about the castle’s mysterious past and feel like a participant in historical events while wandering through this iconic place.
Address: The Esplanade, Edinburgh, EH1 2NG
Cost: £18 for adults and £11 for children
- Holyroodhouse Palace
The Palace of Holyrood House at the end of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile is home to Scottish royal history. It has served as the royal residence since the 16th century and is still used as a Royal Palace when the King carries out official engagements in Scotland. The palace is open to the public throughout the year. You can explore a number of splendid state apartments, learn more about Mary, Queen of Scots, and other well-known historical figures, and catch some quiet time in the wonderful gardens of the palace.
Address: Canongate, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, EH8 8DX
Cost: £18 for adults and £10 for children
- Arthur’s Seat
Arthur’s Seat, situated just about 1 mile east of Edinburgh Castle, is a rocky summit of an extinct volcano laid dormant for 350 million years. It rises above the city to a height of 822 feet and offers fabulous views in all directions. This hill, surrounded by extensive parkland, is not only a popular spot for hiking but also the site of a well-preserved fort dating back 2,000 years. The etymology of the hill’s name is unclear, but some suggest it was the site of King Arthur’s legendary Camelot fortress. This is a recommended free things to do with kids in Edinburgh.
Address: Arthur’s Seat, Edinburgh, EH15 3PY
Cost: free
- Calton Hill
Calton Hill, known as Edinburgh’s Acropolis, is one of the city’s main hills and home to numerous iconic Scottish monuments and buildings. One of the most striking is the unfinished National Monument, inspired by Athens’ Parthenon. You can also admire the Dugald Stewart Monument, designed as a circular temple of nine Corinthian columns, and the Nelson Monument, shaped like an up-turned telescope. It is also a great spot to enjoy some of the city’s best views and sunrises.
Address: Calton Hill, Edinburgh, EH7 5BN
Cost: free
- Scottish National Gallery
The Scottish National Gallery, housed in a beautiful neoclassical building, is undoubtedly one of Scotland’s top free visitor Edinburgh attractions. It holds a massive collection of fine art from the early Renaissance to the beginning of the 20th century. You can delve into the history of Scottish painting and also admire timeless masterpieces from Botticelli, Velázquez, Monet and Van Gogh, and many more. To make the most of your visit, let the in-app audio tour guide you through the opulent rooms and help you trace how art developed throughout history.
Address: The Mound, Edinburgh, EH2 2EL
Cost: free
- Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
Camera Obscura & World of Illusions is considered one of the UK’s most fun attractions. At this truly magical place, you will discover five floors of optical illusions and experience over 100 interactive, hands-on exhibits. Be ready to get lost in the Mirror Maze, turn yourself into a monkey in the Morph Machine, catch your shadow, walk on water, and light up the room by using your hands in The Magic Gallery. Another reason to visit this place is its magnificent rooftop terrace, providing spectacular city views.
Address: 549 Castlehill, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, EH1 2ND
Cost: £20.95 for adults and £16.95 for children
- National Museum Of Scotland
The National Museum of Scotland is an incredible place to explore the wonders of nature, world cultures, science, fashion, and Scottish history under one roof. You can discover the evolution of the bicycle, marvel at a Japanese suit of samurai armor, come face to face with Tyrannosaurus rex, and meet the legendary Dolly the Sheep, the first-ever cloned mammal. The museum’s diverse collections include over 12 million objects, so it is better to have an audio tour with a detailed route on your smartphone to ensure you won’t miss the greatest highlights.
Address: Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF
Cost: free
- Princes Street
The gorgeous and picturesque Princess Street, filled with high-end boutiques and sprawling department stores, is Edinburgh’s main shopping area. However, there are many other reasons why you should visit it. First, it showcases the city’s eclectic architecture, dating from the Georgian era to modern times. Second, the south side of the street is lined with the verdant Princes Street Gardens, offering sweeping views of Edinburgh Castle. Third, it houses several fun attractions, such as Johnnie Walker Experience.
Address: Princes Street, Edinburgh, EH2 2AN
Cost: free
- Dean Village
Dean Village is a tranquil green oasis just a few minutes walk from Princes Street. Situated right by the Water of Leith, Edinburgh’s largest river, it is an incredibly scenic spot, usually a bit under-the-radar but undoubtedly worth visiting. This well-preserved historic residential area offers a perfect setting for a pleasant stroll. You can step back in time and admire the pretty stone houses dating from the 17th century, as well as walk down the river to get a touch of nature.
Address: Dean Path, Edinburgh EH4 3AY
Cost: free
- Lauriston Castle and Gardens
Lauriston Castle is perhaps the most precious hidden gem in Edinburgh and a great place to escape from the bustle of the city center. The castle is a 16th-century tower house converted into an Edwardian country manor. It is surrounded by extensive gardens, where you can relax and enjoy stunning views across the Firth of Forth. Explore the castle to see one of the most remarkable Edwardian interiors in Scotland, or admire it from the outside and walk along the iconic promenade.
Address: 2 Cramond Road South, Edinburgh, EH4 6AD
Cost: admission to the grounds is free, and the guided tour of the house is £8
