Nestled beside long extinct volcanoes and built on seven hills, Edinburgh offers spectacular scenery in a rugged setting. The city itself is visually impressive with the medieval buildings of the Old Town and the wide Georgian roads and spacious homes of the New Town. Edinburgh was declared a World Heritage Site in 1995. The city’s crowning glory and the reason for its existence is Edinburgh Castle. For hundreds of years, this fortress perched on an ancient volcano defended the city from attack. Start your exploration of Scotland’s capital city at The Royal Mile. This series of cobblestone streets links the castle with the Palace of Holyroodhouse, an official royal residence. Along the route you’ll come across some of the city’s most famous landmarks, including St. Giles’ Cathedral and Parliament House.Just a short walk away is Princes Street Gardens, which runs the length of Princes Street, the city’s main shopping area. While you are enjoying this pretty green space, visit some of its memorials and monuments including the Scott Monument. This Gothic structure was built to honor the novelist Sir Walter Scott. Its viewing galleries offer good views of the city.Enjoy even more beautiful views from the hills that rise over the city. Hike to the summits of Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano, and Calton Hill, which is home to a number of impressive monuments.Veer off the beaten track and explore some of Edinburgh’s lesser-known sites. Dean Village is surrounded by countryside and is just five minutes from the city center. The port district has a wealth of bars, cafes and restaurants and is also the final resting place of the Royal Yacht Britannia. This magnificent vessel sailed the British royal family around the world for more than 40 years. Two of the most popular months to visit Edinburgh are December and August. Overlapping arts festivals running through August include the Edinburgh Fringe and the Edinburgh Art Festival. December is packed with Yuletide attractions and markets, and is rounded off with one of the world’s most famous street parties: Edinburgh’s Hogmanay.
Edinburgh
Edinburgh Travel Guide Video
Where to stay in Edinburgh
Old Town Edinburgh
Preserving its medieval street plan, this UNESCO World Heritage Site features the Royal Mile, St. Giles' Cathedral, and the National Museum of Scotland. Explore narrow closes and hidden passages for a unique experience.
Edinburgh City Centre
While you're in Edinburgh City Centre, take in top sights like Edinburgh Castle or Princes Street, and hop on the metro to see more the city at St Andrew Square Tram Stop or Princes Street Tram Stop.
Leith
Undergoing significant regeneration, Leith boasts a busy port, the Royal Yacht Britannia, and Ocean Terminal shopping centre. The shore area offers charming pubs and restaurants, while cultural attractions include Leith Theatre and Leith School of Art.
New Town
Discover original neo-classical and Georgian architecture in this UNESCO World Heritage Site, housing the National Gallery of Scotland and the Royal Scottish Academy Building. Shop along Princes Street, George Street, and the newly redeveloped St James Quarter.
Haymarket
In the heart of Edinburgh, Haymarket boasts a variety of pubs, cafés, and restaurants, with historic Ryries Pub as a highlight. Easily accessible, it offers Haymarket railway station, tram connections, and various bus routes for convenient travel.
Southside
If you're spending some time in Southside, Festival Theatre and The Meadows are top sights worth seeing.
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Getting around Edinburgh
Edinburgh is fairly compact and exploring the winding streets of its oldest areas on foot is an experience not to be missed. Most of the central neighborhoods are less than a half-hour walk away from one another. Get further out from the center by using the reliable bus network, run by FirstBus. Ticket prices are reasonable and buses are frequent. Taxis are also a common sight in the streets. Visit the Transport for Edinburgh website.Browse Edinburgh rental cars.
Best time to visit
Some say August is the only time of year to visit Edinburgh. The Edinburgh Festival Fringe, a vast event of performing arts, transforms the city throughout the month. Visit then to find the streets packed and the bars open all night. Be aware, though, that accommodations are extremely expensive in August and fill up months in advance. A spring or fall visit will show you a more sedate side to the city.
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.
Edinburgh Zoo
See rare and endangered species and learn about the efforts to conserve them at Edinburgh’s largest wildlife attraction.
Princes Street
You can enjoy some retail therapy when you visit Princes Street, a favorite shopping spot in Edinburgh. Experience the entertainment choices and fascinating museums in this walkable area.
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.
Edinburgh Playhouse Theatre
Get tickets for a show at Edinburgh Playhouse Theatre, a theater with a story to tell in Edinburgh. Experience the area's fascinating museums and acclaimed art scene.
Things to do
Edinburgh: Palace of Holyroodhouse Entry Ticket
Other places like Edinburgh
- Edinburgh Castle
- Royal Mile
- Edinburgh Zoo
- University of Edinburgh
- Princes Street
- Murrayfield Stadium
- Edinburgh Playhouse Theatre
- Grassmarket
- George Street
- Palace of Holyroodhouse
- Edinburgh International Conference Centre
- Royal Highland Centre
- St. Giles' Cathedral
- National Museum of Scotland
- Royal Yacht Britannia
- Military Tattoo Theatre
- Edinburgh Park
- Arthur's Seat
- Edinburgh Port
- St. Andrew Square
- Heriot-Watt University
- Scotch Whisky Experience
- Princes Street Gardens
- Dean Village
- Portobello Beach
- Rosslyn Chapel
- Calton Hill
- Livingston Designer Outlet
- Festival Theatre
- Omni Centre Edinburgh
- Usher Hall
- Royal Infirmary