Edinburgh, the heart of Scotland, was the perfect destination for my first solo trip, and I couldn’t have asked for a more wonderful and memorable experience. If you’re looking for the best things to do in Edinburgh, you’ll find everything from exploring medieval castles and hidden alleyways to hiking scenic trails and indulging in delicious local food.
Walking through the city’s rich history, climbing up Arthur’s Seat, and soaking in the breathtaking views made me fall in love with solo travel. Every corner of Edinburgh felt like stepping into a storybook, and I was completely enchanted by its beauty.
Things to Do In Edinburgh
Explore Edinburgh Castle
The moment I stepped through the grand entrance of Edinburgh Castle, I felt like I had traveled back in time. Perched high on Castle Rock, the fortress stood proudly, its weathered stone walls whispering tales of kings, queens, and battles long past.
Edinburgh Castle is not just any castle; it overlooks the city atop an extinct volcano and offers amazing views of the city. The entrance fee is £19.50, but as the prices may change in the future to check the accurate info and book your ticket online check their official website.
The Vennel Viewpoint Edinburgh Castle
The Vennel Viewpoint is a hidden gem in Edinburgh, offering an exceptional vantage point to admire the iconic Edinburgh Castle.
As you climb the steps, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the castle perched atop its rocky outcrop, known as Castle Rock. This unique perspective allows for stunning photographs, especially with the old lampposts and historic architecture framing your shots.
Discover the National Museum of Scotland
Walking into the National Museum of Scotland, I was immediately struck by the sheer variety of things to explore. The building itself blended the old and the new, with a grand Victorian hall on one side and a modern exhibition space on the other.
What I enjoyed the most was the variety of activities and exhibits this place offers for children of all ages. The exciting activities to do include: imagine gallery, rooftop garden, animal world gallery, and adventure planet gallery.
Take a walk up Arthur’s Seat
Well, after getting valuable information about the culture, it’s time to enjoy the spectacular views of Edinburgh. Arthur’s Seat, the main peak of the group of hills in Edinburgh, is an ancient volcano that last erupted over 340 million years ago, even before dinosaurs existed!
This amazing seat stands at 251 meters above sea level and is situated to the east of the city centre, almost 1 mile (1.6 km) to the east of Edinburgh Castle. If you love hiking, I suggest you enjoy a moderate hike to the top of the hill, which offers a challenging but rewarding climb.
Check out my detailed guide to Arthur’s Seat for more information.
Visit Princes Street
Are you looking for a place in Edinburgh that provides you with great shopping opportunities, nice cafes and restaurants, hotels, and several landmarks and attractions? So, don’t hesitate and put Princes Street on your bucket list.
Princes Street is Edinburgh’s main shopping street, filled with high street shops, a variety of cafes and restaurants, and several landmarks and attractions, such as Waverley Station, Scott Monument, Scottish National Gallery, and various statues and memorials.
Climb Calton Hill
If you’re looking for the best view of Edinburgh, you don’t have to go far—just head to Calton Hill.
Great news for hiking lovers, hiking Calton Hill was easy for me and only took around 10 minutes at the most. Thinking of the joy I experienced here, this place deserves to be ranked among the top exciting things to do in Edinburgh.
At the summit, the panoramic views were incredible. From here, you could see Edinburgh in its full glory—Arthur’s Seat towering in the distance, the stunning Georgian architecture of the New Town, and the iconic monuments that dot the hilltop itself, including the National Monument of Scotland and the Old Royal High School.
National Monument of Scotland
The National Monument of Scotland, perched atop Calton Hill in Edinburgh, is a striking tribute to the Scottish soldiers and sailors who lost their lives during the Napoleonic Wars.
Designed by architects Charles Robert Cockerell and William Henry Playfair between 1823 and 1826, the monument was inspired by the Parthenon in Athens, symbolizing Scotland’s aspirations and cultural identity.
It offers breathtaking views of Edinburgh and serves as a serene spot for reflection or leisurely walks.
Nelson Monument
The Nelson Monument, located on Calton Hill in Edinburgh, stands as a tribute to Vice Admiral Horatio Nelson, renowned for his pivotal role in the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805.
A notable addition to the monument is the time ball installed in 1853, which drops daily at 1 PM, synchronized with the firing of the One O’Clock Gun from Edinburgh Castle. This ritual has become a charming aspect of local culture, even though the time ball is no longer necessary for maritime navigation.
Visit the National Gallery of Modern Art
I truly love this gallery for its stunning collection of modern and contemporary art, historical significance, and beautiful architecture. The gallery is housed in two separate neo-classical buildings, and displays masterpieces of Scottish and international 20th century and contemporary art.
This is a place where you will be offered stunning views of the Edinburgh landscape and all the landmarks dotted around. You can explore this outstanding gallery for free but don’t forget that tickets must be booked in advance.
Explore Edinburgh Old Town
Are you the kind of person who enjoys exploring the rich historical heritage of every city? So, Edinburgh Old Town is for you. It is the oldest part of Scotland’s capital city, and remains the heart of Edinburgh.
Many buildings in Edinburgh’s Old Town have been preserved from the medieval period, and the oldest surviving building is St. Margaret’s Chapel, which dates back to the 12th century.
Stroll Victoria Street
Are there any Harry Potter lovers here? If yes, you will be amazed to know that Victoria Street is rumored to be the inspiration behind Diagon Alley, the fictional alley with stores selling wizardly supplies in the Harry Potter books.
If not, don’t worry at all, because it has something that will leave you in awe. Victoria Street is one of the most popular streets in Edinburgh and a part of Edinburgh’s Old Town.
I was truly mesmerized by this charming street with colorful shop fronts, nice cafes, and old buildings.
Palace of Holyroodhouse
The Palace of Holyroodhouse, located at the eastern end of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, serves as the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland.
The palace underwent substantial renovations during the 17th century under Charles II, who desired a grand residence befitting his status. Architect Sir William Bruce’s design introduced a Baroque style that harmonized with earlier structures while adding new features like symmetrical towers and richly decorated royal apartments.
Explore Royal Mile
Stretching from Edinburgh Castle down to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Royal Mile is lined with cobbled streets, quirky shops, charming cafes, and centuries-old buildings that tell the story of the city.
Whether you’re visiting the St. Giles’ Cathedral, browsing the Scottish whisky shops, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, exploring the Royal Mile gives you a real sense of what Edinburgh is all about.
Discover Ross Fountain
Nestled quietly in the heart of West Princes Street Gardens, the Ross Fountain is one of those hidden treasures you might easily overlook, but it’s worth the detour.
I think the fountain’s location in the beautiful setting of Princes Street Gardens makes it a must-see attraction. Its intricate details, including mermaids, walrus, lion heads, and four female figures representing science, arts, poetry, and industry, make it a captivating sight for you.
Enjoy Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
A visit to Camera Obscura and World of Illusions is like stepping into a playful world where curiosity takes the lead.
The rooftop terrace at this place gave me an unforgettable experience with its breathtaking 360-degree views of Edinburgh. I deeply enjoyed a breath of fresh air while admiring the spectacular city views.
Visit Edinburgh’s Gardens
Edinburgh may be known for its stunning architecture and rich history, but its gardens offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Located just a short walk from the city center, the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is a treasure trove of plant life, with over 13,000 species from all over the globe.
As I wandered through the garden’s various sections, each one seemed to tell a different story, from the Rock Garden with its alpine plants to the tropical oasis inside the Glasshouses, where the air was warm and fragrant.
Nestled between the bustling Princes Street and the towering Edinburgh Castle, Princes Street Gardens offers a peaceful respite right in the heart of the city.
One of the highlights of the park is the Scottish National Gallery, which overlooks the gardens and adds a cultural touch to the area. The gardens also serve as a hub for events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and holiday markets.
Take Ghost Tour
Edinburgh is known for its rich history and haunted sites, making it a popular destination for ghost tours.
Taking a ghost tour was an unbelievable experience for me and gave me a different perspective of the city.
I discovered the chambers beneath Edinburgh Street at the Edinburgh Vaults and heard true tales of murder and witchcraft on a spooky ghost tour of Old Town.
You can visit this website to book your ticket.
Enjoy the Scottish Whisky Experience
The Scottish Whisky Experience is one of the popular tourist attractions in Edinburgh’s Old Town. This place provides a wide range of exciting activities for you to enjoy.
One of the highlights was the Whisky Barrel Ride, where you get to travel through a life-sized whisky distillery and see the distillation process in action.
The guided tour takes you through the whisky-making process, from the raw ingredients to the final aging process, with plenty of fun and engaging exhibits along the way.
Visit The Meadows
This park is popular for various outdoor activities and strolls. The Meadows is known for its green open spaces and is a favourite location for jogging, picnics, and outdoor events.
The central location of The Meadows makes it a great place to unwind after exploring Edinburgh’s historic sites.
As I wandered through its lush green fields, I saw families, joggers, and friends gathered, all taking advantage of the calm atmosphere and scenic views.
Dean Village
Dean Village is a charming enclave located just a short stroll from the bustling heart of Edinburgh. Nestled along the serene Water of Leith, this picturesque village offers a glimpse into the city’s rich history, dating back to the 12th century when it was known as “Dene,” meaning “deep valley” in Scots.
Visitors to Dean Village can wander along cobbled streets lined with quaint stone houses, enjoy the tranquil riverside paths, and take in the stunning views of the surrounding greenery.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are 3 interesting facts about Edinburgh?
- Edinburgh is a UNESCO World Heritage Site – The city is recognized for its historic Old Town and Georgian New Town, which are both preserved for their cultural significance.
- The world’s first-ever fire brigade was established here – Edinburgh created the first municipal fire service in 1824, led by James Braidwood.
- Edinburgh inspired Harry Potter – J.K. Rowling wrote much of the Harry Potter series in local cafés, and places like Victoria Street are thought to have inspired Diagon Alley.
What is Edinburgh best known for?
Edinburgh is best known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and cultural significance. Key highlights include:
- Edinburgh Castle
- The Royal Mile
- Edinburgh Festival Fringe
- Arthur’s Seat
What do you need to know about Edinburgh?
- Weather Can Be Unpredictable.
- Walking is the Best Way to Explore: The city is compact and walkable, with many attractions within walking distance.
- A City of Festivals: Edinburgh hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, including the Edinburgh Festival Fringe (August), Edinburgh International Festival, and Edinburgh International Book Festival, offering diverse cultural experiences.
- Public Transport is also Convenient.
Conclusion
Edinburgh is a city that offers you exciting things to do and a unique combination of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Hope you enjoyed reading about the amazing things to do in Edinburgh. If you’re planning to visit Edinburgh anytime soon, let me know which place appears the most appealing to you.
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