Things to do
Things to do in Edinburgh: 12 ideas in the Scottish capital
Edinburgh has a castle on a volcano, medieval lanes and a mountain in the middle of town. These are the twelve things we would do, from Arthur's Seat at dawn to whisky bars in the Old Town.
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It is six in the morning and the path up Arthur's Seat is almost empty. At the top, the whole of Edinburgh lies below you: the castle on its rock, the spires of the Old Town and the sea in the Firth of Forth beyond.
Edinburgh is small enough to cross on foot in a day but holds enough history for many more. We have picked twelve experiences across the Old Town, the New Town and the wild land around them, with advice on when to go.
Short answer: what should you do in Edinburgh?
See Edinburgh Castle and walk down the Royal Mile, climb Arthur's Seat or Calton Hill for the view, and wander through Dean Village. Visit the free National Museum of Scotland, and end the evening in an Old Town whisky bar.
Best for history: Edinburgh Castle
Best walk: Arthur's Seat
Best free thing: the National Museum of Scotland
Best view: Calton Hill
Best evening: an Old Town whisky bar
1. Edinburgh Castle
The castle stands on an extinct volcano above the city and holds the Scottish Crown Jewels. Buy a timed ticket and arrive early, before the crowds.
The catch: it is one of the most visited sites in Britain, and summer queues can be long.
2. The Royal Mile
The street from the castle down to Holyroodhouse is lined with old houses, churches and narrow closes running down between the buildings. Duck into a few of them.
Many old houses have vaults and buried streets beneath them, and several companies run guided tours underground. It is touristy, but it shows how cramped the old city once was.
3. Arthur's Seat
The old volcano in Holyrood Park can be climbed in under an hour. Go early in the morning or at sunset, and bring a windproof jacket.
4. Calton Hill
A short climb from Princes Street gives one of the best views in town, with monuments in the foreground and the castle behind. Popular at sunset.
5. The National Museum of Scotland
A free museum with everything from Dolly the sheep to Scottish history. The roof terrace looks across to the castle.
It is ideal on a rainy day and has plenty for children. The Scottish National Gallery on the Mound is also free.
6. Dean Village
A tiny village on the Water of Leith, a few minutes from the centre. Follow the river path on to Stockbridge for cafés and the Sunday market.
7. Victoria Street and the Grassmarket
The curving, colourful Victoria Street drops down to the Grassmarket, with pubs and views up to the castle.
8. A whisky bar in the Old Town
Edinburgh has bars stocking hundreds of whiskies. Ask the bartender for a tasting flight from different regions.
9. Holyroodhouse and the Parliament
The royal family's official residence in Scotland stands at the foot of the Royal Mile, opposite the modern Scottish Parliament.
10. The New Town
Georgian town planning from the eighteenth century, with broad streets and elegant squares. Walk George Street and down to Stockbridge.
11. Leith
The port district has some of the best restaurants in town and the Royal Yacht Britannia. Take the tram or walk along the river.
12. The August festivals
In August the Fringe and the other festivals fill the whole city. If you come then, book your hotel very early.
The Caledonian
The Caledonian in Edinburgh.
Where to stay in Edinburgh
Stay in the Old Town or along Princes Street and you can walk to almost everything. Our Edinburgh hotel guide has all our picks.
The Caledonian: at the end of Princes Street
The Caledonian is the old red sandstone railway hotel where Princes Street begins, and several rooms look up at the castle. Both the Old Town and the New Town are within walking distance. A classic choice when you want history around you and everything on this list close by.
Book your stay: Check availability and prices at The Caledonian
Prestonfield House
The drawing room at Prestonfield House.
Prestonfield House: a country house under Arthur's Seat
Prestonfield House sits in parkland at the foot of Arthur's Seat, with peacocks on the lawn and drawing rooms in red and gold. After a climb up the hill you can walk straight back to the fire. For couples who want more than an ordinary city hotel.
Book your stay: Check availability and prices at Prestonfield House
Good to know before you go
Pack a raincoat: the weather changes fast, even in summer.
Book the castle ahead: timed tickets save you the queue.
August is different: the festivals bring life but high prices.
Hills and steps: the Old Town is steep, so wear good shoes.
Edinburgh: frequently asked questions
What should you see in Edinburgh?
Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, Arthur's Seat, Calton Hill, Dean Village and the National Museum of Scotland cover the essentials.
How long does it take to climb Arthur's Seat?
Most people reach the top in under an hour from Holyrood. The path is steep in places, so wear good shoes.
How many days do you need in Edinburgh?
Three days is enough for the city, and an extra day allows a trip to the Highlands.
When is the best time to visit Edinburgh?
May, June and September bring long days without the August festival crowds.