20 fun and unique things to do in Edinburgh

Edinburgh, the majestic Scottish capital, is a city steeped in history and charm. With its enchanting castles, world-class museums, bustling markets, and stunning landscapes, Edinburgh has plenty of fun things to do. Whether you’re an adventurous solo traveler seeking the best art museums, a food and drink enthusiast eager to sample the local fare, or a family searching for unique activities, Edinburgh won’t disappoint.

Top fun things to do in Edinburgh at a glance

Fun things to do as a couple: Stroll through the Royal Botanic Garden and take a ghost tour of the Old Town.

Fun activities for kids and families: Explore the interactive exhibits at the National Museum of Scotland or enjoy a day out at Arthur’s Seat.

Fun things to do on your own: Wander through the historic streets of the Royal Mile and relax with a book in Princes Street Gardens.

Fun food experiences: Indulge in a whisky-tasting tour and sample Scottish delicacies at the Edinburgh Farmers' Market.

Fun things to do in Edinburgh as a couple

1. Explore Edinburgh Castle

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Scotland, Edinburgh Castle is located in the heart of Edinburgh, on Castle Rock, and has been a royal residence since the 12th century. The castle has been attacked and besieged numerous times over the years, but it has always remained standing.

Highlights:

Today, the castle houses a museum. Visitors can explore the castle’s many rooms and exhibits, which include the Crown Jewels of Scotland and the Stone of Destiny.

Address and opening hours:

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

2. Stroll through the Royal Botanic Garden

The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is a world-renowned scientific center for studying plants and their conservation. It is located in the city of Edinburgh and spans 70 acres. The garden is home to a vast collection of plants from all over the world, including many rare and endangered species.

Highlights:

Don’t miss the beautiful Dean Village— not far from the Botanic Gardens.

Address and opening hours:

Edinburgh EH3 5NZ, United Kingdom. Open daily, 10:00 AM-6:00 PM.

3. Uncover mysteries at Mary King’s Close

Get a dose of history at Mary King’s Close with a tour that takes you to a historic close located under buildings on the Royal Mile. This underground labyrinth of streets and homes offers a glimpse into 17th-century life in Edinburgh.

Highlights

Don't miss the chance to explore the hidden closes and courtyards that branch off the Royal Mile, each with its own unique story.

Address and opening hours:

2 Warriston's Cl, Edinburgh EH1 1PG. Open daily, 9:00 AM-9:00 PM.

4. Taste a variety of Scotch Whiskies

Scotland is famous for its whisky, and what better place to try some of this liquid gold than Edinburgh? There are a number of distilleries and whisky tours in the city, including The Scotch Whisky Experience, where you can learn about the origins, art of whisky making and maturation of Scotch whisky.

Highlights:

Delight in a tasting session, during which you’re guided through the aromas and flavors of regional single malts.

Address and opening hours:

354 Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NE, United Kingdom. Open daily, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM.

Fun things to do in Edinburgh with kids

5. Visit the National Museum of Scotland

The National Museum of Scotland offers something for everyone, with galleries exploring the natural world, science and technology, art, design and fashion, and Scottish history and archaeology. A visit to this museum is one of the best things to do in Edinburgh with kids.

Highlights:

Don't miss the interactive Adventure Planet gallery and the Dolly the Sheep display—the world’s first cloned mammal.

Address and opening hours:

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

6. Explore Dynamic Earth

A fun, interactive science center, Dynamic Earth tells the story of Planet Earth and how it’s constantly changing. Visitors can learn about everything from the Big Bang to futuristic technology through a series of engaging exhibits.

Highlights:

Visitors can learn about the formation of Earth, the evolution of life, and the forces that shape our planet today.

Address and opening hours:

Holyrood Rd, Edinburgh EH8 8AS, United Kingdom. Open daily, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM.

7. Discover the Wizarding World in Edinburgh

Edinburgh was the city that inspired the Harry Potter series, and you can visit a number of filming locations and other sites on various guided and self-guided tours of the city. Visit Greyfriars Kirkyard, which is the resting place of a real-life Tom Riddle, and wander down Victoria Street and West Bow, which is thought to be the inspiration behind Diagon Alley.

Highlights:

Potterheads will want to stop by the Elephant House on George IV Bridge, which is thought to be the birthplace of the series.

8. Tour the Royal Yacht Britannia

Step aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia, the former royal yacht of Queen Elizabeth II, now a five-star visitor attraction. It offers a unique chance to explore what life was like onboard for the royal family and crew.

Highlights

You can see the Queen's stateroom, the dining room, and the ballroom. You can also learn about the yacht’s history and its many voyages around the world.

Address and opening hours:

Leith, Edinburgh EH6 6JH. Start or stop the self-guided tour when you wish.

9. Journey to the Scottish Highlands

A family excursion into the Scottish Highlands is one of the most fun things to do in Scotland. The highlands are a mountainous region with the famous Loch Ness at its heart. The area is littered with incredible hiking paths and ancient castles. The most beautiful parts of the highlands are 4-5 hours from Edinburgh, so spending a few days in the region is recommended.

Highlights:

Stroll alongside rivers and relaxing waterfalls. Let the stress of modern life melt away in picturesque surroundings.

10. Take a magical ride on the Hogwarts Express

Harry Potter fans won’t want to miss a tour of the Highlands with the Hogwarts Express. Escape the city for a day follow in the footsteps of the world’s most famous wizard, Harry Potter, and hop aboard the Hogwarts Express on the Jacobite Steam Train.

Highlights:

Transport yourself into the popular Harry Potter series as the train passes through some of the actual shooting locations from the movies.

Fun things to do in Edinburgh on your own

11. Climb Arthur’s Seat

An extinct volcano and hill located in Holyrood Park, Arthur’s Seat is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Edinburgh and offers panoramic views of the city. The climb to the top of Arthur’s Seat is relatively easy and can be managed by most, with the hike to the top typically taking around an hour and being a great way to get some exercise and fresh air.

Highlights:

Robert Louis Stevenson described the Seat as “a hill for magnitude, a mountain in virtue of its bold design."

Address and opening hours:

Edinburgh EH15 3PY. Open 24 hours, tour times vary.

12. Walk the Royal Mile

The Royal Mile is the historic heart of Edinburgh. It’s a long stretch of road connecting Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyrood. The street is lined with charming shops, historic sites, and places to eat and drink, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll. The Royal Mile is a great place to experience the history and culture of Edinburgh.

Highlights:

Visitors can find everything from traditional Scottish souvenirs to modern art galleries along the street.

Address and opening hours:

Edinburgh EH1 1QS. Open 24 hours.

13. Be amazed at the Camera Obscura & World of Illusions

Be dazzled by the cool illusions and science-based oddities at Edinburgh's Camera Obscura & World of Illusions. The museum is suitable for visitors of all ages, and makes for the perfect day out when the weather is a little miserable (which is often the case in Scotland)!

Highlights:

The museum features the Outlook Tower with six floors of interactive exhibitions. The tower is the oldest purpose-built attraction in the city, and one of the oldest in the United Kingdom.

Address and opening hours:

549 Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2ND, United Kingdom. Open daily 8.30 AM - 10 PM.

14. Visit the Scottish Parliament Building

The Scottish Parliament Building, an award-winning structure designed by Spanish architect Enric Miralles, is where Scotland's future is shaped. Visitors can explore the building, attend debates and committee meetings, or simply admire the building's unique architecture.

Highlights:

Join one of the free guided tours to learn about the Scottish political system and the Parliament's architectural significance.

Address and opening hours:

Edinburgh EH99 1SP. Open Monday, Friday, and Saturday, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM. Open Tuesday-Thursday, 9:00 AM-6:30 PM.

15. Visit the Writers’ Museum

The Writers’ Museum celebrates the lives of three icons of Scottish Literature—Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson. Through personal items, portraits, and rare books, the museum offers an intimate look into their lives and works.

Highlights:

The Writers’ Museum is free to enter, and is one of the most unique museums in Edinburgh.

Address and opening hours:

Lawnmarket, Lady Stair's Cl, Edinburgh EH1 2PA. Open daily, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM.

Fun things to do in Edinburgh if you like food and drink

16. Try traditional Scottish food at The Witchery by the Castle

The Witchery by the Castle is a world-famous restaurant that offers a unique dining experience in an atmospheric setting. The restaurant is located in the heart of Edinburgh, and it offers stunning views of the city and the castle. The Witchery serves traditional Scottish dishes featuring the finest local ingredients.

Highlights:

Why not try haggis, a Scotch pie or just a bite of shortbread? After all, food in Edinburgh is not only for adventurous eaters.

Address and opening hours:

352 Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NF. Open daily. Booking times vary.

17. Visit the Edinburgh Farmers’ Market

The Edinburgh Farmers’ Market offers a fantastic array of seasonal produce directly from growers and producers. You'll find everything: organic vegetables, artisanal bread, cheese, fresh seafood, and locally reared meat.

Highlights:

Don't miss the opportunity to chat with the producers themselves—they can offer great cooking tips and insights into local farming practices.

Address and opening hours:

NCP Castle Terrace Car Park, Castle Terrace, Edinburgh EH1 2EN. Open Saturdays, 9:00 AM-2:00 PM.

18. Experience a traditional Scottish pub

Experience traditional Scottish pub culture with a classic pub crawl. You'll be spoiled for choice in the city! Sample a wide range of local beers, ales, and spirits in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. Famous pubs include the Dreadnought, Teuchters, and Cloisters Bar.

Highlights:

Take in some of the wonderful architecture and scenery on offer in Edinburgh's Old Town district.

Address and opening hours:

Edinburgh Old Town, Edinburgh. Tour times vary.

19. Visit Pickering’s Gin Distillery

Pickering’s Gin Distillery is located in the former veterinary school Summerhall in Edinburgh. Tours offer insight into the production of the multi award-winning gin. The tours start with a welcome drink and a brief history of the distillery.

Highlights:

Visitors learn about the gin-making process, from distillation to bottling. They also have the opportunity to sample some of the different gins.

Address and opening hours:

1A Rutland St, Edinburgh EH1 2AD. Open daily, 10:00 AM-4:45 PM.

20. Indulge your sweet tooth at the Chocolatarium

A tour of the Chocolatarium takes you on a journey from the cocoa farms to the making of artisan chocolate bars. You will learn about the history of chocolate, taste exotic cocoa beans, and even create your own chocolate bar.

Highlights:

You will have the opportunity to create your own chocolate bar by choosing your ingredients. It’s the perfect Edinburgh activity for the whole family.

Address and opening hours:

3-5 Cranston St, Edinburgh EH8 8BE. Open daily, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM.

FAQs

What are some fun things to do in Edinburgh at night?

There's plenty to do in Edinburgh at night. You can explore the local pubs in the Grassmarket area or attend a performance at the Festival Theatre or Edinburgh Playhouse. Ghost tours through the city's ancient streets and haunted vaults also offer an exciting nighttime adventure. During August, the city is alive with performances due to the famous Edinburgh Fringe.

Are there any fun day trips from Edinburgh that I should consider?

You can visit St. Andrews, the home of golf, or explore the historic town of Stirling with its impressive castle. A tour of the Scottish Highlands, including Loch Ness and Glencoe, is highly recommended. For nature lovers, the beautiful island of Inchcolm, reachable by ferry, is a fantastic day trip.

What are some popular festivals or events in Edinburgh?

The Edinburgh Fringe, the world's largest arts festival, takes place every August. The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo offers a grand spectacle. Other notable events include the Edinburgh International Film Festival and the Hogmanay celebrations.

What are some family-friendly fun activities to do in Edinburgh?

Edinburgh Castle and the Museum of Edinburgh can make history fun for kids. For a touch of magic, a Harry Potter tour explores locations that inspired the famous series. The Camera Obscura and World of Illusions offer interactive exhibits that children will love.

What are some fun outdoor activities to do in Edinburgh?

You can hike Arthur’s Seat, an ancient volcano located in Holyrood Park, or explore the Royal Botanic Garden. A stroll along the Water of Leith Walkway offers a unique way to see the city. Cycling and golf are also popular outdoor activities in Edinburgh, with numerous bike rental services and golf courses available.