15 Things to do in Edinburgh

Planning a trip to Edinburgh, here are 15 must see locations.

1. Edinburgh Castle
   A historic fortress perched atop Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle is a symbol of Scotland’s enduring spirit and rich history. Explore the St. Margaret’s Chapel, Great Hall, and stunning city views.
   Website: https://www.edinburghcastle.scot/
2. Royal Mile
   The heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, the Royal Mile, is a bustling stretch filled with historic buildings, quaint shops, pubs, and restaurants. Start at Edinburgh Castle and go down to the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
   Website: https://www.visitscotland.com/info/towns-villages/royal-mile-and-grassmarket-p918401
3. Palace of Holyroodhouse
   The official residence of the Queen in Scotland, the Palace of Holyroodhouse is steeped in royal history and is surrounded by beautiful gardens.
   Website: https://www.rct.uk/visit/palace-of-holyroodhouse
4. Arthur’s Seat
   An ancient volcano and hill located in Holyrood Park, Arthur’s Seat offers a fantastic panoramic view of the city. The climb to the top is a favourite among visitors and locals alike.
   Information: https://www.visitscotland.com/info/see-do/holyrood-park-and-arthurs-seat-p914341
5. Scottish Parliament Building
   An iconic modern architectural masterpiece, the Scottish Parliament Building is home to political decision-making in Scotland. Guided tours are available when parliament is not in session.
   Website: https://www.parliament.scot/
6. Princes Street Gardens
   These beautifully manicured gardens provide a tranquil escape from the bustle of the city. It’s a perfect spot for a picnic or leisurely stroll.
   Information: https://www.edinburghguide.com/parks/princesstreetgardens
7. National Museum of Scotland
   Discover the natural world, science, art, design, fashion, and history all in one museum. The stunning architecture itself is worth a visit.
   Website: https://www.nms.ac.uk/national-museum-of-scotland/
8. Edinburgh Zoo
   Home to the UK’s only giant pandas, Edinburgh Zoo is a world-class wildlife attraction and features over 1,000 rare and beautiful animals.
   Website: https://www.edinburghzoo.org.uk/
9. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
   Explore this world-renowned scientific centre for the study of plants and their biodiversity. Don’t miss the Victorian Temperate Palm House and the stunning glasshouses.
   Website: https://www.rbge.org.uk/
10. Royal Yacht Britannia
    Step aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia, the Queen’s former floating residence. This luxurious ship offers a glimpse into the private life of the Royal Family.
    Website: https://www.royalyachtbritannia.co.uk/
11. Scotch Whisky Experience
    Immerse yourself in the world of whisky with a sensory journey that celebrates the flavours of Scotland’s beloved drink.
    Website: https://www.scotchwhiskyexperience.co.uk/
12. Edinburgh Dungeon
    A unique attraction that takes you through Scotland’s dark history with professional actors, thrilling rides, and stunning special effects.
    Website: https://www.thedungeons.com/edinburgh/en/
13. Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
    A mind-boggling visual journey through optical illusions, tricks, and interactive exhibits. Don’t forget to check out the stunning views of the city from the rooftop terrace.
    Website: https://www.camera-obscura.co.uk/
14. St Giles’ Cathedral
    A historic and architectural marvel, St Giles’ Cathedral is the principal place of worship for the Church of Scotland in Edinburgh.
    Website: https://stgilescathedral.org.uk/
15. The Museum of Edinburgh
    Dive into the city’s past, exploring everything from its iconic industries to everyday life over the centuries.
    Website: https://www.edinburghmuseums.org.uk/venue/museum-edinburgh

Getting Around:

Edinburgh is compact and easy to explore on foot, but for longer distances, there are several options:

1. Edinburgh Trams – Connects the city centre with Edinburgh Airport.
   Website: https://edinburghtrams.com/
2. Lothian Buses – Edinburgh’s comprehensive bus network is a great way to explore the city.
   Website: https://www.lothianbuses.com/

Apps like Google Maps and Citymapper are handy for real-time directions and timings.

Seasonal Temperatures:

Plan your visit with these temperatures in mind for the best experience of Edinburgh.