Edinburgh offers a rich tapestry of experiences. From exploring historical landmarks like Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse and St. Giles’ Cathedral, to immersing yourself in culture and history, Edinburgh has something for everyone.
An easy way to get to know the city is by walking around the World Heritage Sites in Old Town, the trendy shops and restaurants in New Town, and the museums and galleries in both. Be sure to take a break for afternoon tea and scones at a cozy tea room or duck into a traditional pub to grab a bite and a drink.
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Without a doubt, Edinburgh Castle is the #1 place to visit. This massive fortress and major part of the city’s history can be seen from almost everywhere in Edinburgh. Be sure you pre-purchase entrance tickets, as they do sell out. A guided walking tour is a great way to hear tales of the castle’s royal residents—including Mary Queen of Scots—and learn more about the rich history of the building. After the tour, be sure to wander the grounds. If you want to just explore on your own, you can purchase tickets here: Edinburgh Castle
Step into the past at this magnificent palace, the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland.
Open throughout the year, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, commonly known as Holyrood Palace, stands at the bottom of the Royal Mile in Edinburgh, at the opposite end to Edinburgh Castle. Here you can explore the Palace’s close associations with some of Scotland’s most well-known historic figures such as Mary, Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie, and learn how it is used today by The King when carrying out official engagements in Scotland. The Palace has served as the principal royal residence in Scotland since the 16th century, and is a setting for state occasions and official entertaining. You can pre-purchase tickets here: Holyrood Palace
One of the most iconic miles in Scotland, it is also one of the busiest. Wander along this iconic street, lined with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings, including St. Giles’ Cathedral. Sections of the street are pedestrian only and others are busy with tour buses and cares…be aware of where you are.
It is beautiful but can be overwhelming so it’s recommended to visit early in the day to enjoy all it has to offer. Keep an eye open for street performers including bagpipers, actors and the occasional pop-up parade.
Along the Royal Mile you’ll find the stunning St Giles Cathedral. A visit to this religious building is definitely one of the best things to do in Edinburgh. The cathedral is a simple, stone structure with gothic arches and beautiful stained glass windows.
It is free to visit, but a donation is suggested. There are some guided tours at appointed hours or you can get an audio guide via your smartphone for a fee. Since it is still a working Cathedral, it may be closed at times for private events such as weddings or funerals.
Hidden beneath the Royal Mile lies Edinburgh’s deepest secret: a warren of hidden ‘closes’ where real people lived, worked and died. For centuries they were forgotten and abandoned…until recently. Now you can visit Edinburgh’s most famous Close, which makes Edinburgh’s Hidden History unmissable. This is one activity even the kids will love. Ghosts have been seen too! Tickets are limited and have a timed entry, so be sure to not miss out!
Explore Scotland’s history, culture, and science through interactive exhibits Not only is this one of the most impressive museums in Edinburgh, it’s also free. The inside of the building is impressive in itself and the exhibits don’t disappoint either. Fossils from animals long gone, Scottish antiquities, and an amazing exhibition on modes of transportation through the ages just to name a few. Plus, there a great little hidden secret…..on the 7th floor there is a terrace and that has the most amazing view of Edinburgh Castle.
You can’t go to Scotland without tasting Scotch! As you wander around the city, you will see many whiskey shops. Many of the offer free tastings. Don’t be shy….they all love to share and educate visitors on their national drink.
If you don’t have the opportunity to actually visit a distillery, a tour at The Scotch Whiskey Experience is a must. Located at the top of the Royal Mile, there are several tours to choose from plus dining. It is an entertaining few hours, no matter which tour you decide to do.
Not a whisky drinker? Did you know that Scotland is also known for gin? Botanist and Hendrick’s are both well-known Scottish gins. There are lots of small distilleries too….be sure to try some. You can find many of them in the same shops that sell scotch. I have purchased small bottles to enjoy later.
Explore this former royal residence and see the history of the royal family.
Step aboard Queen Elizabeth II’s former floating palace and experience this iconic attraction. Rated Tripadvisor’s No.1 UK Attraction, Britannia is one of the most famous ships in the world. Only 15 minutes from Edinburgh City Centre, Lothian Bus services from Edinburgh city centre are – 10, 16, 34 and 35. Edinburgh trams run from Edinburgh Airport through the city centre and down to Leith. To visit Britannia, get off the tram at stop Ocean Terminal. Allow 2-3 hours for your visit.
This Victorian Gothic monument can be seen from most places within Edinburgh’s New Town. Built-in memoriam to author Walter Scott, this impressive structure is actually one you can climb.
Following Scott’s death in 1832, a competition was held to design a monument to him. An unlikely entrant went under the pseudonym “John Morvo”, the medieval architect of Melrose Abbey. Morvo was in fact George Meikle Kemp, 45 year-old joiner, draftsman, and self-taught architect. He had feared that his lack of architectural qualifications and reputation would disqualify him, but his design was popular with the competition’s judges, and they awarded him the contract to construct the monument in 1838.
There are 68 statues on the monument, not counting Scott and his dog Maida, and 64 are visible from the ground. Four figures are placed above the final viewing gallery and are only visible by telephoto or from the viewing gallery (at a distorted angle). In addition, eight kneeling Druid figures support the final viewing gallery. There are 32 unfilled niches at higher level.
Nearly 300 steep and small steps from the ground up, you will get the most amazing views of Edinburgh at every level, especially at the very top. Visiting when the sky is clear will be the best time to visit Scott Monument.
Getting Around
Waverly is the main train station. Trains arrive daily from London and across Scotland. It is the second busiest station in Scotland, after Glasgow Central.
The Airlink bus services the airport to and from Waverly Bridge every 30 minutes from 4:30 am – 1 am and costs just £7.50. A very walkable city, Edinburgh has everything you need and want to see within walking distance from the center. It’s all very accessible.
The bus service in Edinburgh runs 24 hours a day so there’s no worry about having to call for a taxi at the end of a night out or worry about missing the last one. Day passes can be purchased directly on the bus and will save you paying an additional fare. To add to the history and charm, Edinburgh also has a tram that runs from the airport to New Town Edinburgh with 15 stops.
Currency: What You Need to Know
Credit cards are widely accepted and preferred in most store and even street vendors like ice cream. If you feel the need for cash, use an ATM to obtain small amounts.
United Kingdom (Scotland, England, Wales, Northern Ireland): British Pound Sterling (£ GBP).
Where can I buy tickets for museums, attractions, and tours in Edinburgh?
I recommend either Viator or GetYour Guide. They have a lot of options!
Final Thoughts
Enjoy your time in Edinburgh. Explore some of the major sites but save time to wander the back streets and hidden alleys. Shop the souvenir stores to bring home a memory. Visit a pub and try some of the local food or stop for tea and scones.
Good walking shoes are a MUST…many streets are cobblestone and uneven. Be sure to prepare for weather….a lightweight, waterproof jacket, waterproof poncho or compact umbrella, is a good idea.
Pickpockets are always a possibility in large cities. A crossbody bag is a good idea and RFID blocking cards to protect your credit cards.
You may want to also check out these other posts:
It’s a Port Day – What You Need to Know
Ultimate Guide to Packing for a British Isles Cruise
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