Things to Do in Edinburgh

Exploring Edinburgh: A Comprehensive Guide for Tourists

Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland, is a place rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Here’s a list of must-see attractions and activities to make your visit truly memorable.

1. Edinburgh Castle [#EdinburghCastle]

- Address: Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NG, United Kingdom
- Hours: Daily from 9:30 AM - 6 PM (last admission at 5 PM)

The Edinburgh Castle is a historic fortress dominating the skyline of the city. It offers an insight into Scotland’s history, including the Scottish Wars of Independence and the Jacobite Rising.

2. The Royal Mile [#RoyalMile]

- Address: Royal Mile, Edinburgh EH1, UK

Stretching from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace, the Royal Mile is a vibrant street filled with shops, restaurants, and historic sites. Don’t miss St. Giles’ Cathedral and John Knox House along the way.

3. Scott Monument [#ScottMonument]

- Address: Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh EH2 2EJ, UK
- Hours: Daily from 9:30 AM - 5 PM (last admission at 4 PM)

The Scott Monument is the world’s largest monument to a writer and a tribute to Sir Walter Scott. Climb its 287 steps for a panoramic view of Edinburgh.

4. Arthur’s Seat [#ArthursSeat]

- Address: Holyrood Park, Edinburgh EH8 8AR, UK

Arthur’s Seat is an extinct volcano and one of the best views in Edinburgh. A moderately challenging hike, it offers stunning panoramas of the city and the surrounding countryside.

5. National Museum of Scotland [#NationalMuseumScotland]

- Address: Chambers Street, Edinburgh EH1 1JF, UK
- Hours: Daily from 10 AM - 5 PM (closed on 24-26 December and 1 January)

The National Museum of Scotland is a museum of Scottish history and culture, as well as science and art. It’s free to enter and offers a wealth of knowledge about Scotland’s past and present.

6. Princes Street Gardens [#PrincesStreetGardens]

- Address: Princes Street, Edinburgh EH2 2HG, UK

Princes Street Gardens are a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. Take a stroll, enjoy a picnic, or simply relax and soak up the atmosphere.

7. Holyrood Park [#HolyroodPark]

- Address: Holyrood Park, Edinburgh EH8 8AR, UK

In addition to Arthur’s Seat, Holyrood Park offers a variety of walks and trails, historic sites, and the famous Dynamic Earth attraction.

8. The Real Mary King’s Close [#RealMaryKingsClose]

- Address: Two Old Courts, Edinburgh EH1 2ND, UK
- Hours: Daily from 9:30 AM - 5 PM (last admission at 4 PM)

The Real Mary King’s Close offers a unique underground tour of Edinburgh’s oldest and deepest street. You’ll learn about the city’s history and its inhabitants, past and present.

- Address: The Mound, Edinburgh EH2 2EL, UK
- Hours: Daily from 10 AM - 5 PM (closed on 24-26 December and 1 January)

The Scottish National Gallery houses an impressive collection of art, including works by Monet, Van Gogh, and Rembrandt. Admission is free, making it a must-visit for any art lover.