Edinburgh, Scotland – Top 15 things to do and see

Edinburgh

Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland, is a vibrant and historic city with a rich cultural heritage. There are plenty of things to do and see in Edinburgh, catering to a wide range of interests. Here are some popular activities and attractions:

Scotland

  1. Edinburgh Castle: Dominating the city’s skyline, this historic fortress is a must-visit. Explore its museums, learn about its history, and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
  2. Royal Mile: This iconic street connects the Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. It’s lined with shops, restaurants, pubs, and historic landmarks.
  3. Palace of Holyroodhouse: The official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. Explore the palace and its beautiful gardens.
  4. Arthur’s Seat: This ancient volcanic hill offers stunning views of the city. It’s a popular spot for hiking and enjoying the outdoors.
  5. Calton Hill: Another excellent viewpoint with historic monuments, including the National Monument and the Nelson Monument.
  6. National Museum of Scotland: A fantastic museum that covers a wide range of topics, from natural history to science and technology, and Scottish history.
  7. Scottish National Gallery: If you’re interested in art, this gallery features a remarkable collection of European paintings, including works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gogh.
  8. The Scotch Whisky Experience: Learn about the history and production of Scotch whisky through interactive exhibits and tastings.
  9. Dynamic Earth: An interactive science museum that takes visitors on a journey through Earth’s history, geology, and natural phenomena.
  10. Royal Yacht Britannia: Explore the former royal yacht of the British royal family, which is now a museum showcasing royal life at sea.
  11. Edinburgh Zoo: Home to various animals, including the UK’s only giant pandas.
  12. Ghost Tours: Edinburgh is known for its haunted history. Join a guided ghost tour to explore the city’s eerie side.
  13. Festivals: Edinburgh is famous for its festivals. The Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Edinburgh International Festival, and the Hogmanay New Year’s celebrations are just a few examples.
  14. Stroll through Old Town and New Town: Wander through the narrow streets of Old Town with its historic buildings, and then explore the elegant Georgian architecture of New Town.
  15. Climb the Scott Monument: This Gothic monument offers panoramic views of the city and pays homage to Sir Walter Scott.

Remember that this list is not exhaustive, and Edinburgh has much more to offer. The best activities for you will depend on your interests and the time you have available. Whether you’re interested in history, art, outdoor activities, or simply soaking in the city’s unique atmosphere, Edinburgh has something for everyone.

Looking for more on Scotland? Check out these posts:

What to Pack for Scotland

Two Week Scotland Itinerary

Subscribe to my Newsletter!

Travel Guides Style What To Pack

Latest Finds

CATEGORIES

ARCHIVES

Leave a Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.