15 best places to visit in Edinburgh you don’t want to miss

People from around the world flock to Edinburgh, and it’s easy to see why. The city is packed with centuries of history, incredible food—including local specialties like haggis and the sensationalized deep-fried Mars bars—rich culture, and an atmosphere that feels straight out of a gothic novel.

While the world-famous Fringe Festival, the largest arts festival globally, takes over the city every August, Edinburgh offers much more year-round. You’ll find cozy traditional pubs, a unique blend of architecture, stunning natural beauty, and charming cafés perfect for a relaxing break while exploring. No matter your vibe, here’s our guide to the 15 best places to visit in Edinburgh.

Best places to visit in Edinburgh for history

1. Edinburgh Castle

Perched atop an extinct volcano and one of the oldest fortifications in Europe, Edinburgh Castle is an unmissable stop on any visit. This ancient fortress, continuously occupied since the Iron Age, played a central role in Scotland’s history, including as a key site during the 14th-century Wars of Scottish Independence. Don’t miss the tiny St. Margaret's Chapel, the oldest building in Edinburgh, tucked away within the castle walls.

Highlights:

Time your visit for the famous One o'Clock Gun fired from Mills Mount Battery. This daily spectacle (except Sundays, Good Friday, and Christmas Day) has kept locals punctual since 1861.

Address and opening hours:

Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NG. Open 9:30 AM-6:00 PM daily. Bank holiday hours vary.

2. Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile

Stroll Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, the medieval Old Town center. This historic road stretches from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace, offering a regal journey through centuries of Scottish history as the processional path of Scottish monarchs. Today, you can explore charming shops, cozy pubs, and fascinating museums like St Giles' Cathedral.

Highlights:

If you’re visiting during the annual Edinburgh Festival, Parliament Square is where you’ll find the largest number of street performers as part of the Fringe event calendar.

Address and opening hours:

Edinburgh EH1 1QS. Tour times vary.

3. The Edinburgh Vaults

Descend into Edinburgh’s eerie underground vaults on a spine-tingling tour, the only way to see this fascinating sight. Your costumed guide will lead you through dimly lit chambers dating back to the 1700s, revealing tales of murder, witchcraft, and paranormal activity.

Highlights:

Some of the vaults have been incorporated into bars and venues, so roam around South Bridge if you want a drink in the same vaults mentioned on Most Haunted Live as one of the scariest places on earth.

Address and opening hours:

30 South Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1LL.

4. Holyroodhouse Palace

Step into Holyrood Palace, the official Scottish residence of British monarchs. With a history stretching back to the 16th century, Holyroodhouse offers a glimpse into royal life past and present. You can even admire the opulence of Mary Queen of Scots’s private chambers.

Highlights:

Explore Holyrood Abbey’s ruins and spot the brass 'S' sanctuary stones. These markers once defined a 5-mile safe zone for debtors and those seeking refuge from criminal accusations. It's a fascinating glimpse into medieval law and sanctuary practices.

Address and opening hours:

Canongate, Edinburgh EH8 8DX. Open from 9:30 AM Thursday-Monday. Closing times vary.

5. The Museum of Edinburgh

The Museum of Edinburgh offers an eclectic slice of history. Located in 16th-century Huntly House, you can view the National Covenant of 1638 (which caused a civil war) and the collar and bowl of canine hero Greyfriars Bobby. An 18th-century terrier that sat by his owner’s graveside for 14 years, the most famous dog in Scotland has inspired multiple books and films.

Highlights:

Continue the story of Greyfriars Bobby by visiting his statue at the corner of Candlemaker Row or his final resting place in the nearby Greyfriars burial grounds.

Address and opening hours:

142-146 Canongate, Edinburgh EH8 8DD. Open daily 10:00 AM-5:00 PM.

6. The National Museum of Scotland

Step into Edinburgh’s National Museum of Scotland, where ancient treasures, dinosaur bones, and Scottish innovations come together. Discover mind-boggling exhibits across seven floors of wonder.

Highlights:

The science and technology galleries showcase Scottish ingenuity at its finest. Meet Dolly the sheep and discover how this woolly wonder revolutionized genetic science.

Address and opening hours:

Chambers St, Edinburgh EH1 1JF, United Kingdom. Open daily, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM.

Best places to visit in Edinburgh for art and culture

7. The RSA

The Royal Scottish Academy is an almost 200-year-old, charitable, membership-led organization run by artists and architects. Collectively known as Academicians, they make the decisions about exhibitions and events. If you want to know what today’s most eminent creative minds think is worth seeing, don’t forget to add the RSA to your itinerary.

Highlights:

If you’ve got the budget, visit the Academicians Gallery. All artworks are by Academicians, available to buy, and make a unique memento of your visit.

Address and opening hours:

The Mound, Edinburgh EH2 2EL. Open 10:00 AM-5:00 PM Monday-Saturday, 12:00 PM-5:00 PM Sunday.

8. The Portrait

One of the Scottish National Galleries locations, the Portrait, tells the story of Scotland through faces. Historical figures like Robert Burns and modern-day icons like Billy Connolly are on show. Stop in at the Library and Print Room to see Eve Arnold’s personal collection, 19th-century journals, and rare research materials from the 16th century. Luckily, the Scottish National Galleries are free for the public to enjoy.

Highlights:

Don't forget to look up. The Zodiac ceiling in the Great Hall is a sprawling mural of over 2,000 stars and 47 constellations, mapping the night sky for stargazers.

Address and opening hours:

1 Queen St, Edinburgh EH2 1JD. Open daily, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM.

Best places to visit in Edinburgh for families

10. The Chocolatarium

From bean to bar, follow the journey of your favorite treat with a making and tasting Chocolatarium tour. A fully immersive experience, you can create your own personalized bar to take home, all under the watchful eye of the Chocolate Kitchen experts.

Highlights:

The Chocolatarium offers alternative ingredients for those with allergies and dietary requirements. Just be sure to let staff know in advance.

Address and opening hours:

3-5 Cranston St, Edinburgh EH8 8BE. Tour times vary.

9. Loch Ness

If the kids fancy monster hunting, add Loch Ness to your itinerary. The easiest way to get there is with a Scottish Highlands day trip. Explore the ruins of Urquhart Castle on the loch’s banks, and keep an eye out for Nessie, the water-bound monster of Scottish folklore and elusive target of centuries of searchers.

Highlights:

On the south side of the loch, you’ll be able to see the famously hairy Highland Coos (cows). These residents of nearby Drumbuie Farm make excellent selfie companions.

Address and opening hours:

Loch Ness. Tours start at 8:00 AM, and you can visit anytime to experience beautiful nature.

11. Royal Yacht Britannia

Step aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia, Queen Elizabeth II’s former floating palace. This iconic attraction, just 15 minutes from the center, offers a family-friendly activity in Edinburgh. Explore majestic quarters, savor treats at the Royal Deck Tearoom, and dive into maritime history.

Highlights:

The Royal Deck Tea Room offers a truly majestic dining experience. Once a favorite spot where the royal family enjoyed games of deck quoits, this bright and airy space now serves up a fantastic tea with sweeping harbor views.

Address and opening hours:

Ocean Dr, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 6JJ. Open 10:00 AM - 3:30 PM daily.

12. The Firth of Forth

If you want an unparalleled view of Edinburgh and a fun activity for the family, see Auld Reekie from the water. A sightseeing cruise on the Firth of Forth will take in all three city bridges, the island of Inchcolm, and the longest cable-stayed bridge in the world.

Highlights:

Seals, porpoises, and puffins make their home near and in these waters, so keep your camera handy for some not-to-be-missed wildlife action shots

Address and opening hours:

Hawes Pier, South Queensferry, EH30 9TB. Tour times vary.

Best places to visit in Edinburgh for nature

13. Loch Lomond

Follow in the footsteps of William Wallace and Rob Roy with a day trip to Loch Lomond. On the eastern shore, footpaths and cycle trails criss-cross craggy Ben Lomond mountain and the smaller Conic Hill. Walk along the trails and immerse yourself in both the history and nature of this beautiful part of the country.

Highlights:

You’ll stop for lunch in the heart of the National Park. As this is unoccupied land, there's no place to buy food, so remember to pack snacks and drinks for everyone.

Address and opening hours:

Lake Lomond. Tour start times from Edinburgh vary.

14. Arthur’s Seat

Arthur’s Seat is one of four hill forts in Holyrood Park, dating from around 2,000 years ago. As you hike Arthur’s Seat, spot native wildlife and seasonal wildflowers thriving in this varied terrain, from rocky formations to peaceful meadows.

Highlights:

This ancient volcano showcases Scotland’s geological heritage through dramatic rock formations, sheltered glens, and diverse plant life.

Address and opening hours:

Arthur's Seat, Edinburgh EH15 3PY. Open 24/7.

15. Calton Hill

Perched at the eastern edge of Edinburgh's New Town, Calton Hill offers a perfect blend of culture and scenery. This historic viewpoint showcases Edinburgh's finest panoramas. The short climb rewards you with sweeping views of Edinburgh Castle, Arthur's Seat, and the Old and New Towns stretching toward the Firth of Forth.

Highlights:

Capture Edinburgh’s most iconic views with minimal effort. It is just a short walk up from the city center.

Address and opening hours:

Calton Hill, Edinburgh EH7 5BN. Open 24/7.

FAQs

How many days should I spend in Edinburgh?

For a flavor of what Edinburgh offers, a 2-day weekend break will cover the highlights. If you're visiting during August for the Festival, however, you’ll want to take at least a week to avoid missing any must-see sights or seeing hidden gems off the beaten track.

What is the best time of year to visit Edinburgh?

If you like your holidays to be dry, Edinburgh in summer is the best time to visit as July and August are the warmest months. If you’re not bothered about the weather and want to experience a traditional Scottish New Year, Hogmanay celebrations run from December to January.

How do I get around Edinburgh?

The simplest way to get around Edinburgh is on foot, and trams run regularly down Princes Street. To roam further afield, an extensive bus network makes reaching the outskirts easy.

What are the best neighborhoods to visit in Edinburgh?

The best neighborhoods to visit in Edinburgh each have a distinct character. New Town is known for its 18th-century architecture, Leith is the waterside area of the city, Stockbridge retains a village vibe, and the West End is where you'll find theatres, concert halls, and numerous places to eat and drink.

What are the best places to go shopping in Edinburgh?

The best places to go shopping in Edinburgh are the Lawnmarket for souvenirs or the West End for independent retailers. If it's luxury you're after, Multrees Walk, a pedestrianized area off St Andrew Square, has multiple boutiques and is just a few steps from the designer labels of Harvey Nichols.