Edinburgh

Things to do in Edinburgh

Search attractions or local attractions & tours
Search

Explore top experiences

Top 10 attractions in Edinburgh

View all Attractions
Edinburgh Castle
2026 Global 100 - Best Things to Do

Edinburgh Castle

10
4.7/5
2.9k reviews
Edinburgh Castle stands majestically on the volcanic cliffs above the Royal Mile, guarding Scotland for centuries—it once served as a royal residence, military fortress, and prison. Today, you can stand at the exact spot where the One O'Clock Gun fires, stroll through St. Margaret's Chapel, and explore the National War Museum on the west side, which showcases centuries of Scottish military history through uniforms, medals, and weapons, alongside the Crown Jewels displayed beside the Stone of Destiny. The castle esplanade echoes with the sound of bagpipes, the Crown's history predates the Act of Union, and the breathtaking views of the Firth of Forth stretch out before you. This historic British landmark still commands awe from people across the island.Edinburgh · 890m from downtown
Edinburgh Old Town
No. 2 of Best Things to Do in Scotland

Edinburgh Old Town

9
4.9/5
132 reviews
Edinburgh Old Town refers to the old town area of Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland. The district preserves many buildings from the European Middle Ages and the Scottish Reformation, including notable landmarks such as St. Giles' Cathedral, the General Assembly Hall of the Church of Scotland, the Surgeons' Hall, the National Museum of Scotland, the University of Edinburgh, and the Scottish Parliament Building. Strolling through the streets of Edinburgh Old Town, exploring the unique architecture, pubs, restaurants, and shops on either side, with the occasional sound of beautiful Scottish bagpipe music in the air, is a truly relaxing and enjoyable experience.Edinburgh · 487m from downtown
Palace of Holyroodhouse
No. 3 of Best Things to Do in Scotland

Palace of Holyroodhouse

8.7
4.7/5
377 reviews
The Palace of Holyroodhouse is located at the end of the Royal Mile in Edinburgh and serves as the official residence of His Majesty the King of Scotland, used for state ceremonies and official entertainment. This palace has been a royal residence for over 500 years and is deeply intertwined with Scotland's rich history. A visit to the palace includes the historic apartments of Mary, Queen of Scots, where many dramatic events occurred during her brief and tumultuous reign, including the brutal murder of her Italian secretary David Rizzio by her husband Lord Darnley. In the palace's State Apartments, visitors can admire the magnificent Great Gallery, where grand balls were held in September 1745 when Bonnie Prince Charlie established his Jacobite court at the palace. Today's State Apartments reflect the evolving tastes of successive monarchs, renowned for their exquisite plaster ceilings and an unparalleled collection of Brussels tapestries. They house a significant portion of the Royal Collection's artworks, many of which have long-standing connections to the Palace of Holyroodhouse and Scotland. A visit to the palace also includes the opportunity to explore the ruins of Holyrood Abbey and the palace's unique gardens, set against the backdrop of Arthur's Seat. At the palace café, visitors can enjoy homemade dishes made from local produce, ranging from light snacks and lunches to afternoon tea.Edinburgh · 997m from downtown
Calton Hill
No. 6 of Best Things to Do in Scotland

Calton Hill

7.1
4.6/5
516 reviews
Calton Hill is a high vantage point overlooking the entire city of Edinburgh, dotted with several neoclassical memorial buildings. Take a walk along the summit trail, and from the top, looking west, you can take in the entire cityscape, with the magnificent Edinburgh Castle standing in the distance, the vast waters of the Firth of Forth visible to the north, and buildings such as the Scottish Parliament Building and the Palace of Holyroodhouse to the south. A prominent feature on the summit is the National Monument of Scotland, built to commemorate those who died in the Napoleonic Wars. It was left unfinished due to a lack of funds, and today only a row of massive columns supporting a beam remains. The nearby Nelson Monument was built in the early 19th century and features a time ball on top, which drops promptly every afternoon. It was originally a signaling device set up to calibrate time for ships in the Port of Leith. Not far away is the Dugald Stewart Monument, with several stone columns supporting a circular dome. Its elegant design makes it a classic foreground for photographing the Edinburgh skyline.Edinburgh · 397m from downtown
Princes Street
No. 3 of Night Attractions in Edinburgh

Princes Street

6.7
4.8/5
339 reviews
The total length of Princes Street is only 1.5 kilometers. This street divides Edinburgh into two cities, the old and the new, the new city in the north and the old city in the south. The east end of Princes Street is connected to Calton Hill. The hill is not high and overlooks the city.Edinburgh · 627m from downtown
Royal Mile
Selected for Night Attractions in United Kingdom

Royal Mile

6.1
4.7/5
419 reviews
The Royal Mile is the central avenue of the old city of Edinburgh. This avenue starts from Edinburgh Castle and ends at the Palace of the Holy Cross. The alleys on both sides are intertwined and form the skeleton of the old city. The ground paved with cobblestones has long been polished, and the buildings on the side of the avenue are simple and majestic, full of historical atmosphere. Kilt-clad street performers play bagpipes every afternoon, reminding visitors that they are in the old heart of Scotland. The Royal Mile is divided into four sections. A small slope in front of the castle is called Castlehill, where the Scottish Whisky Heritage Centre is located. The next small segment is called the Lawnmarket. After the intersection of George IV Bridge Street is called High Street (HighStreet), St Giles Church is on High Street. Like most cities in the UK, the High Street is Edinburgh's city centre and a bustling strip of business. The section after the intersection of St. Mary's Street is called Canongate. Pedestrians are gradually sparse, surrounded by medieval buildings. At the end of the road is the Palace of the Holy Cross. On the Royal Mile, take a seat in an atmospheric restaurant or bar, or pick up gifts from Scotland.Edinburgh · 349m from downtown
Arthur's Seat
No. 10 of Best Things to Do in Edinburgh

Arthur's Seat

5.9
4.7/5
199 reviews
Arthur's Seat is one of Edinburgh's iconic natural landmarks and the highest point in the park, with an elevation of approx. 251 m. It is an ancient volcanic remnant that, through long-term geological erosion and glacial activity, has formed rolling slopes, exposed rock, steep ridges, and open grasslands. Its distinct silhouette is visible from many locations in the city and is an important part of the Edinburgh skyline. Visitors can set off from Holyrood Park along various routes to gradually climb to the summit. Once at the top, on a clear day, you can overlook Edinburgh's Old Town, New Town, Edinburgh Castle, and the Firth of Forth, as well as enjoy distant views of the surrounding hills.Edinburgh · 1.9 km from downtown
The University of Edinburgh
No. 13 of Best Things to Do in Edinburgh

The University of Edinburgh

5.6
4.7/5
167 reviews
The University of Edinburgh is a comprehensive university located in Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, United Kingdom, founded in 1583. Its buildings and teaching facilities are distributed across multiple areas of the city, with the George Square campus in the city center being one of the main campus areas. The campus architecture blends historical styles with modern design, featuring classical stone buildings, courtyards, and arcades, as well as modern teaching buildings, research centers, and learning spaces, creating a campus environment that integrates with Edinburgh's Old Town and surrounding neighborhoods. It is closely connected to the city blocks, with cafes, shops, parks, and public transportation facilities nearby. Visitors can follow campus walking routes to admire the architecture or visit open exhibition spaces to experience the local academic atmosphere and city life.Edinburgh · 973m from downtown
Victoria St

Victoria St

5.3
4.7/5
48 reviews
Victoria St is located in the Old Town of Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom, and is a distinctive street known for its colorful shop facades and traditional cobblestone road, connecting George IV Bridge above with the Grassmarket below. Built in the 1830s, it extends in an arc along the slope, with buildings of varying heights on both sides. The vibrant shop fronts complement the ancient stone architecture, creating a highly recognizable urban view. It is suitable for walking, photography, shopping, and tasting local cuisine, and can also be included in the same itinerary as the Grassmarket and the Royal Mile.Edinburgh · 588m from downtown
Princes Street Gardens
No. 15 of Fall Viewing Attractions in United Kingdom

Princes Street Gardens

5.2
4.7/5
233 reviews
Princes Street Gardens is located in the city center of Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom, situated on the south side of Princes Street and at the foot of Edinburgh Castle, and is a public park that combines natural green space with urban architectural views. It is divided into East Gardens and West Gardens, with the two parts separated by an artificial mound, connecting Edinburgh's Old Town and New Town. The park features expansive lawns, trees, flower beds, walking paths, monuments, and fountains, making it a representative leisure green space in the city center. It has convenient transportation and is within walking distance of the Scottish National Gallery, the Princes Street shopping area, and Waverley Station.Edinburgh · 687m from downtown

Experiences you can't miss in Edinburgh

Featured Cultural experiences in Edinburgh

View all Cultural experiences
1-day tour to Scottish Highlands, Glen Coe + Loch Ness with Edinburgh round-trip
󱌍
111 booked
Duration: 2.9 hrs
English
Free cancellation
79 travellers saved
FromCAD 133.32
City Sightseeing Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour + Kids Go Free
󱌍
4.4/5
· 1.1k reviews· 54 booked
Free cancellation
Book now for today
FromCAD 38.47
Palace of Holyroodhouse: Entry Ticket
󱌍
5.0/5
· 1 review· 26 booked
FromCAD 41.43
1-day tour to Doune Castle + Blackness Castle + Falkland + Culross | comfortable minibus
󱌍
FromCAD 157.13
Glenfinnan, Fort William and Glencoe Adventure from Edinburgh
󱌍
4.1/5
· 1 review
Duration: 735 mins
English
Free cancellation
Book now for today
FromCAD 103.71
The King's Gallery at Palace of Holyroodhouse: Entry Ticket
󱌍
FromCAD 20.72
Top Edinburgh: Private guided tour with your mobile
󱌍
Duration: 1.6 hrs
English
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
Book now for today
FromCAD 15.94
Glenfinnan Viaduct + Scottish Highlands 1-day tour|A must-visit for Harry Potter fans
󱌍
3.9/5
· 19 reviews· 178 booked
Duration: 9.7 hrs
English
Free cancellation
401 travellers saved
FromCAD 113.13

Featured Day tours in Edinburgh

View all Day tours
Ghost Bus Tour of Edinburgh
󱌍
4.3/5
· 639 reviews· 46 booked
Duration: 60–75 mins
English
Free cancellation
FromCAD 40.38
Loch Ness, Scottish Highlands, Glencoe and Pitlochry Tour
󱌍
4.8/5
· 3.3k reviews· 288 booked
Duration: 750 mins
Free cancellation
Book now for tomorrow
95% of travelers recommend
FromCAD 94.20
Edinburgh: Glenfinnan Viaduct, Glencoe & Fort William
Trip.Select
󱌍
4.9/5
· 1.8k reviews· 170 booked
Duration: 12 hrs
Free cancellation
Book now for tomorrow
44 consecutive positive reviews
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromCAD 80.55CAD 84.79
Luxury Whisky Tasting in Edinburgh's Underground Vaults | 90min
󱌍
4.8/5
· 60 reviews
Duration: 90 mins
English
Free cancellation
Book now for today
32 consecutive positive reviews
FromCAD 182.63
Edinburgh Highlights and Hidden Gems - Private Tour with a Local
󱌍
Duration: 24 hrs
English
Free cancellation
Book now for today
FromCAD 176.40
St Andrews & The Fife Coast from Edinburgh
󱌍
Duration: 8 hrs
English
Book now for tomorrow
FromCAD 130.10

Featured Food & drink in Edinburgh

View all Food & drink
90min Underground Whisky Tasting in Edinburgh's Old Town
󱌍
4.8/5
· 275 reviews
Duration: 90 mins
English
Free cancellation
Book now for today
64 consecutive positive reviews
FromCAD 76.91
Hard Rock Cafe Edinburgh
󱌍
Free cancellation
Book now for today
FromCAD 50.57
Edinburgh: Scottish Cooking Class + Dinner
󱌍
Duration: 3 hrs
English
Free cancellation
FromCAD 183.25
Edinburgh: Gin Distillation Workshop with Gin Tasting
󱌍
5.0/5
· 1 review
Duration: 3 hrs
English
Free cancellation
Book now for tomorrow
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromCAD 161.31CAD 169.8

Featured Outdoor experiences in Edinburgh

View all Outdoor experiences
1-day tour to Loch Ness + Glen Coe + Scottish Highlands from Edinburgh, UK
󱌍
4.3/5
· 35 reviews· 343 booked
Duration: 4.8 hrs
English
Book now for tomorrow
606 travellers saved
FromCAD 129.69
West Highland Lochs, mountains and castles tour from Edinburgh
󱌍
5.0/5
· 1 review
Duration: 630 mins
English
Free cancellation
Book now for today
FromCAD 105.59
Loch Ness, Glencoe and the Highlands tour from Edinburgh
󱌍
3.5/5
· 7 reviews
Duration: 750 mins
English
Free cancellation
Book now for today
FromCAD 105.78
1-day tour to Glenfinnan Viaduct + Glencoe + Highlands from Edinburgh, UK
󱌍
3.9/5
· 9 reviews· 182 booked
Duration: 3.5 hrs
English
Book now for tomorrow
384 travellers saved
FromCAD 146.76
1-day tour to Loch Ness + Glen Coe + Scottish Highlands from Edinburgh, UK - small group or large group options
󱌍
4.1/5
· 10 reviews· 98 booked
Duration: 4.7 hrs
English
Book now for tomorrow
215 travellers saved
FromCAD 131.83

Free things to do in Edinburgh

More ways to travel from Edinburgh

Edinburgh Cruises

See all cruises

Private Tours in Edinburgh

View More Private Tours in Edinburgh

Group Tours in Edinburgh

View More Group Tours in Edinburgh

What travellers say about Edinburgh

user-avatar
M54***71October 8, 2026
5.0
The magnificent castle embodies the history, culture, and glory of Scotland. The visitor pathways and signage were well-organized, and there was even an audio guide in Mandarin, which allowed tourists like us who don't speak English to gain a deeper understanding of the castle. The staff at the visitor center were warm and attentive, and the police officers in the square outside the castle were friendly and responsible, helping me find my lost wife.

Edinburgh Castle

user-avatar
M AhemMay 3, 2025
5.0
Awesome place! Had an amazing experience—highly recommended for everyone to visit!

Edinburgh Old Town

user-avatar
Anonymous userSeptember 24, 2026
5.0
Visiting the Palace of Holyroodhouse was easily one of the highlights of my time in Edinburgh. Located right at the end of the Royal Mile, it offers a fascinating contrast to the medieval drama of Edinburgh Castle, providing a much more intimate glimpse into British and Scottish royal history.

Palace of Holyroodhouse

user-avatar
苏河家园July 14, 2025
5.0
卡尔顿山是爱丁堡标志性景点,其以新古典主义建筑群、360度城市全景和丰富的文化活动而闻名。设计灵感以雅典帕特农神庙为蓝本,山顶上希腊式立柱恢宏雄伟,像一座被时光凝固的神庙骨架,静静守护着爱丁堡。‌

Calton Hill

user-avatar
樂悠遊May 11, 2022
5.0
Princes Street in Edinburgh is the main avenue that separates the old and new cities. Walking on this street, you can not only enjoy the pleasant gardens and the magnificent castle, but also enjoy shopping😁😁

Princes Street

user-avatar
Traveltheworld@bdFebruary 25, 2026
5.0
Walking the historic Royal Mile feels like stepping straight into a living storybook. Stretching from the castle down to Holyrood Palace, every cobblestone seems to carry centuries of character. The atmosphere is electric yet charming — street performers, cozy cafés, and little shops tucked into medieval buildings create a perfect blend of culture and warmth.What makes the experience truly special is how effortlessly history and everyday life coexist here. One moment you’re admiring stunning old architecture, the next you’re browsing handmade crafts or enjoying a relaxed coffee while bagpipes echo in the distance. The views along the way are beautiful, especially on a crisp day when the city feels extra magical.It’s lively without feeling overwhelming, touristy yet still authentic. Whether you’re exploring museums, discovering hidden closes, or simply wandering with no plan at all, there’s always something memorable around the corner.The Royal Mile isn’t just a place you visit — it’s a place you feel. A must-see for anyone wanting to experience the heart and soul of Edinburgh.

Royal Mile

user-avatar
_TS***fbJune 16, 2023
5.0
this is highest elevation in Edinburgh. the hike is about 1.5km, 260m elevation. hike up from the Queen’s Drive side. coming down is more difficult than going up. bring water.

Arthur's Seat

user-avatar
小思文January 1, 2022
4.0
The University of Edinburgh is a famous British federal institution of higher learning. It has an old school district with hundreds of years of history. The university is full of classical buildings. The tall buildings are very beautiful. The school is also a free place to visit, and there are connecting areas between different buildings.

The University of Edinburgh

user-avatar
suifeng2019April 16, 2020
4.0
Victoria Street has a history of nearly 200 years. In the middle of the ancient buildings is a narrow street with an undulating slope along the hillside. The buildings on both sides are very exquisite. Shops and restaurants are lined up on the street, and some shops can also make clothes and shoes in fixed quantities.

Victoria St

user-avatar
withjenniferApril 6, 2021
5.0
Prince Street Gardens is picturesque, with a memorial tower for Scott, a famous Scottish writer, standing in the garden. On another green area of ​​the garden stands the world's largest and most unique Scottish flower clock. During the literary festival, Prince Street Gardens is full of flowers, which are very gorgeous. From time to time, artists wearing traditional Scottish skirts play bagpipes in Prince Street Park.

Princes Street Gardens

Popular cities near Edinburgh

Frequently asked questions

What are the must-do things in Edinburgh?

Don't miss these attractions in Edinburgh: Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh Old Town, and Palace of Holyroodhouse. If you like Cultural experiences, try 1-day tour to Scottish Highlands, Glen Coe + Loch Ness with Edinburgh round-trip. If you enjoy Day tours, try 1-day tour to Scottish Highlands, Glen Coe + Loch Ness with Edinburgh round-trip.

You can give 90min Underground Whisky Tasting in Edinburgh's Old Town and Hard Rock Cafe Edinburgh a try. Before you go, please check their opening hours and menus online. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

When choosing a tour, start with how much time you have and the kind of experience you're looking for. Trending options right now include 1-day tour to Scottish Highlands, Glen Coe + Loch Ness with Edinburgh round-trip, Ghost Bus Tour of Edinburgh, and Loch Ness, Scottish Highlands, Glencoe and Pitlochry Tour. Check the real-time availability and itinerary before you book.

As of October 13, 2026, the reference price for day tours and activities in Edinburgh is around CAD 40.38 – CAD 997.41. Rates vary by duration, group size, transport, tickets, meals, and any special admission requirements. Before you book, please confirm the billing currency and whether the price is quoted per person or per group.

Get help anytime, anywhere within 30 secondsContact customer support

Change and cancellation policies vary by attractions and tours. Please check the product details page for more information.

Ticket prices may vary between weekdays and weekends, as well as during peak and off-peak seasons. When booking with Trip.com, you can also use Trip Coins to get extra savings. For more tips on booking discounted tickets, please visit Trip.com for the latest information.