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Things to Do in Edinburgh

Activities to Do in Edinburgh

 Visit the Royal Castle of Edinburgh, Take a stroll along the Royal Mile, Hike to Arthurs Seat, Explore the architectural marvel of St. Giles Cathedral and more.

Edinburgh is known as the cultural hub of Scotland, owing to its grand festivals, a magnificent castle, medieval architecture, art galleries and so on. If you are visiting the city for the first time, understandably you will be interested in visiting some of the highlights, which include UNESCO heritage sites like the quaint lanes of medieval Old Town and its meticulously planned Georgian New Town.

However, the possibilities are limitless, ranging from shopping to museum hopping. The intriguing capital of Scotland is where you may find anything, from whiskey to Harry Potter or even some mouth-watering delicacies. Nature enthusiasts will have much to do owing to the surrounding hills and gorgeous trails. Also, you should plan your trip to include one of their iconic festivals like the August Fringe festival in your itinerary. Whether you are planning a quick day trip or a weeklong vacation, we have compiled a list of things to do in Edinburgh.
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Edinburgh Dungeon
The Edinburgh Dungeon happens to be one of the underground tourist destinations located on East Market Street in the heart of Edinburgh. It uses live actor performances and interactive rides to present historical events from Scottish history in a spooky, entertaining manner, incorporating audience participation, special effects, theatrical sets, and performance.
Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle is a world-famous destination in Scotland and forms a part of Edinburgh’s world heritage sites. It dominated the skyline for centuries as a defender of the nation and a well-renowned visitor attraction that fascinates the visitors due to its magnificent architecture. Visit the castle at 1 pm to witness the One O’clock Gun, which is fired every day (except Sundays, Christmas Day, and Good Friday). Taking a stroll through Edinburgh Castle feels like wandering into the real setup of the show "Game of Thrones".
Royal Yacht Britannia
Royal Yacht Britannia used to be the Palace on Water of Queen Elizabeth and is now the most renowned tourist attraction in Scotland. Step aboard this ship and follow the footsteps of royalty as you make your way to the elegant State Apartments and the gleaming Engine Room.

This ship has served the Royal Family for over forty-four years, traveling across over one million miles and undergoing nine hundred and sixty-eight state visits. It had a fifty-six-seat state dining room, 24-hour laundry, a state drawing-room, separate sitting rooms and bedrooms for the Duke and Queen of Edinburgh, and a sun lounge.

Location: Ocean Drive Ocean Terminal, Edinburgh EH6 6JJ Scotland
Camera Obscura & World Of Illusions
This is one of the best places to visit in Edinburgh, where you can take part in over a hundred illusions and enjoy magnificent views from the Rooftop Terrace. With its beguiling mazes, trippy tunnels, and magnificent viewing contraption, it is an alluring labyrinth of fun and riveting science.

It has five floors and more than one hundred and fifty hands-on exhibits to discover. With an array of stereoscopic lenses, it turns into a time capsule, enabling you to view Edinburgh in 3D.

Location: Castlehill, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh EH1 2ND Scotland

Timing: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Entry Fees: £12.50 per person.
Edinburgh Zoo
Edinburgh Zoo is the most engaging tourist attraction in Scotland as it has a variety of species for visitors to discover. It is home to over 1,000 rare and endangered animals. The Zoo is packed full of fun and unusual things or activities, including watching the penguins take a stroll and meet the world’s only Knighted penguin, Sir Nils Olav. Enjoy throughout the day as you learn about the brilliant birds, super strong but soft sun bears, and mischievous meerkats. Watch the Sumatran tiger walk on an amazing glass viewing tunnel right over your head in Tiger Tracks.
Lauriston Castle And Gardens

Lauriston is one of the ideal places to visit in Edinburgh to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre because of its serene ambience and breathtaking views across the Firth of Forth. Enjoy a stroll through the woods, stop by our acclaimed Japanese garden, or travel back in time to see what it was like to live in a middle-class house in Edinburgh in the 20th century.

Museum of Edinburgh

Through the extensive and diverse exhibits of the Museum of Edinburgh, learn about the interesting history of Edinburgh. You will discover amazing facts and horrible tales while navigating the Museum's maze of 16th century structures and viewing iconic goods and gorgeous artefacts.

Edinburgh Old Town

The Old Town of Edinburgh is a labyrinth of exquisitely maintained historical and architectural marvels. It was included on the 1995 list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, together with the New Town. The finest way to tour the historic cobblestone streets is on foot. The Royal Mile, also known as the High Street, has a number of little lanes leading off it that are home to numerous historic treasures.

The Surgeons' Hall Museums

Surgeons' Hall Museums investigate the evolution of surgery and dentistry across time as well as the history of medicine. The Museum was established in 1699 after the Royal College of Surgeons was founded in 1505. The College is committed to surgical practice education, training, and a strict review.

Palace Of Holyroodhouse

The Palace of Holyrood is a historic place that is currently used as a State Apartment by the Queen of England for royal ceremonies and engagements. The palace is famous for its royal connections and beautiful architecture complimented by beautifully trimmed gardens. Hear all about the life story of Mary, Queen of Scots, in 10 different languages through guided tours.

The Royal Mile
The Royal Mile is a set of underground streets and spaces entangled with stories that have haunted the locals since the seventeenth century. It is one of the best Edinburgh attractions that give a fascinating depiction of Edinburgh's life between the sixteenth and nineteenth centuries.

It connects two royal residences and is home to parliaments, new and old, law courts, churches, and a cathedral. This street has been the backdrop for big movies, like Avengers: Infinity War and Outlander. The Royal Mile has some of the most lively eateries and pubs waiting to be discovered by the visitors.

Location: 227 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1PE, United Kingdom

Timing: 10:00 am- 4:00 pm
Salisbury Crags
Located in Holyrood Park, southeast of Princes Street, the Salisbury Crags represent a Carboniferous sill's remains, formed in a shallow sea around three hundred and forty million years ago. They are a series of forty-six-meter cliffs at the top of a spur of Arthur's Seat.

From the top of Salisbury Crags, you can have stunning views of Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo event, which is held in August each year. It is renowned among the local climbers and is also considered an excellent site for a picnic.

Location: Edinburgh EH8, UK, United Kingdom
National Museum Of Scotland
If you're looking for the best Edinburgh attractions where you can learn about Scottish history, you must visit the National Museum of Scotland. It has a wealth of objects representing everything from international and Scottish archaeology to design and applied arts, from social history to science, world cultures, technology, and the natural world.

The sixteen new galleries reopened in the year 2011 include eight thousand objects, eighty percent of which were not on display formerly. It has a collection of nearly fourteen thousand manuscripts in various scripts and languages, covering a variety of subjects and representing various provinces. The museum has a diverse array of interactive games and displays to entertain the visitors.

Location: Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF

Timing: 10 am- 4:30 pm
Royal Botanic Garden
This is a botanist's playground and a scientific center designed to study plants and their conservation. Established in 1670, Royal Botanic Garden is the second oldest botanic garden in Britain that offers a relaxing and blissful escape to the visitors from the maddening crowd of city life.

It is one of the best Edinburgh tourist places founded in 1670 to grow medicinal plants. This garden's living collection consists of more than thirteen thousand three hundred and two plant species, while the herbarium contains three million preserved specimens. The garden lights up with many magical lights during the winters, making it look like a fairytale world.

Location: 20A Inverleith Row, Edinburgh EH3 5LR, United Kingdom

Timing: 10:00 am - 04:00 pm
Princes Street And Gardens
These are two adjacent parks in the center of Edinburgh lying in the shadows of Edinburgh Castle. The gardens are over thirty-seven acres and are divided into two parts by an artificial hill that connects Edinburgh's Old Town and New Town.

Ross Fountain is the most important monument of the garden that was installed in 1872. During Christmas, the garden is transformed into a Christmas Market with an ice rink and many fun attractions, including a giant Ferris wheel.

Location: 54 Princes Street, EH2 4BA

Timing: 10:00 am- 10:00 pm
Scottish National Gallery
The Real Mary King's Close
Hidden beneath the lively streets of the Royal Mile-Edinburgh's busy thoroughfare, The Real Mary King's Close is one of the best Edinburgh tourist places. You can discover the interesting stories of the people who worked, lived, and died here between the seventeenth and nineteenth centuries.

From legends and myths to the deadly plague epidemic, there's a myriad of tales waiting to be uncovered here. It is also believed that a small girl Annie, who died here, cries inconsolably because she lost her doll thousands of years ago, and many visitors bring sweets or toys to give to her so that she can rest in peace.

Location: High Street 2 Warriston's Close Edinburgh EH1

Timing: 10:00 am - 05:00 pm
St. Giles Cathedral
St. Giles Cathedral is one of the best places to visit in Edinburgh as it offers profound insight into the cultural and religious traditions of the country. It is a working Protestant church surrounded by Parliament House, Parliament Square, and other notable buildings.

The cathedral has been a focal point for many religious activities in Edinburgh for over nine hundred years. It is a stunning display of Gothic architecture and is renowned for its impressive design. The two notable memorials here are those of the Montrose and Marquises of Argyll from the mid-seventeenth century.

Location: High Street Historic Royal Mile, Edinburgh EH1 1RE Scotland

Timing: 1:00 pm - 05:00 pm
Calton Hill And The Scottish National Monument
Situated in Central Edinburgh, Calton Hill and the Scottish National Monument have been marked as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Calton Hill offers a breathtaking view of the city and houses some of the best Scottish monuments and buildings like the National Monument, which was inspired by the Parthenon in Athens.

It was intended to commemorate the Scottish workers who died in the Napoleonic Wars, but it was never completed, and you can just see the twelve columns today.

Location: St. Andrews House 2 Regent Road, Edinburgh EH1 3DG Scotland
Greyfriars Church
This is a Parish church and the oldest building outside the core of the historic Old Town of Edinburgh. It was constructed in 1620, and the churchyard was used as a prison for fifteen hundred Covenanters captured in 1679 at the Battle of Bothwell Brig.

It is one of the best Edinburgh attractions that looks straight out of an artist's dream due to its impressive architecture and breathtaking design. The church contains memorials and is the final resting place of famous Scots, including poet William McGonagall, philanthropist Mary Erskine, and chemist Joseph Black.

Location: Greyfriars Place, Edinburgh, EH1 2QQ

Timing: 10:30 am- 4:30 pm

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Edinburgh Things To Do FAQs

Which are the best things to do in Edinburgh?

1. Visit the Royal Castle of Edinburgh: Edinburgh Castle is one of the must Edinburgh things to do for renowned tourist destinations with its towering profile that dominates the city's skyline. Edinburgh Castle is home to significant Scottish artifacts, including The Stone of Destiny -a historical symbol of the Scottish royalty, and the Honors of Scotland which is also the oldest national treasure in the UK.

The castle also hosts multiple skits and events depicting the lives of Scottish monarchs. The ancient stone walls come to life when Mary, Queen of Scots enters the stage. If you are a history enthusiast, the Royal castle is an unmissable destination in the list of things to see in Edinburgh.

Click Here To Book: Edinburgh Castle Guided Tour

2. Spend a Day Wandering along Leith Waters: 
The area's historical harbor, which originates during the 14th century and has been visited by numerous European kings and queens and has functioned as Edinburgh's port for hundreds of years. This waterfront neighborhood has lately risen to prominence and is now a year-round destination for music and theater enthusiasts.

There are also several trendy pubs and must-visit eateries. Spend lazy days at cafés and bars along the shore, or reserve a table at one of two Michelin-starred restaurants for the evening. If you're lucky, you could catch one of the regular events, such as LeithLate or the Edinburgh Mela.

3.
Take a Stroll along the Royal MileThis is one of the top things to do in Edinburgh for all heritage lovers and tourists alike. One of Britain's most famous avenues, Edinburgh's "Royal Mile" draws tourists from all over the world. It is lined with cobblestones and is highlighted by medieval buildings.

This stroll follows the Mile from Edinburgh Castle to the Scottish Parliament. In the shadow of Holyrood Park's mountains, the Royal Mile descends from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyrood House. The route follows the eastern crest of an extinct volcano, one of three in Scotland's capital.

4. Look around the Monuments Calton Hills
Calton Hill is a peaceful place where you may escape the hustle and bustle of the city and appreciate its picturesque scenery. From above, one may observe significant landmarks, like the breathtaking views from Arthur's Seat, with the Crags behind Holyrood Palace and the Parliament, Princes Street in its New Town grid, the Royal Mile going up towards Castle rock and Leith, and the Firth of Forth.

There are several famous Scottish structures and memorials atop Calton Hill. The National Monument, the Dugald Stewart Monument,  the Old Royal High School, Nelson's Monument, and the City Observatory are only just a few of these notable monuments.

5. Hike to Arthurs Seat
Arthur's Seat is an approximately 2,000-year-old hill fort in Hollywood Park. Aside from its rich historical past, it also provides hikes, serenity, wildlife, geology, and wonderful views of the city from its several viewpoints. If you are a nature lover, this hike should be at the top of the list of activites to do in Edinburgh. Holyrood Park's highest peak i.e. Arthur's Seat, is home to the remains of a long-extinct volcano that last erupted around 300 million years ago. This grassy trail is a must-see for both nature and history enthusiasts.

6. Explore the Architectural Marvel of St. Giles Cathedral
The Majestic St. Giles Cathedral, with its crown-shaped spire, graces Edinburgh's skyline which is one of the things to see in Edinburgh. If you only have time to see one church in Edinburgh, we recommend that you put this site in the itinerary of a list of things to see in Edinburgh.

 It is one of the most significant medieval parish church architecture in Scotland. The most notable feature of this church  is the imposing crown tower, commonly known as a lantern tower, perched atop this Cathedral. The Thistle Chapel, located in the southeast corner of St. Giles Cathedral is another noteworthy landmark.

7. Shop to your heart's content at Princes Street: 
Shopping in Edinburgh is a great experience, with options for all personalities, fashion preferences, and price ranges. Princes Street, which has been the city's main avenue since 1770, is today one of Edinburgh's most prominent retail hubs.

It is perfect for instagram-worthy photography due to its stunning views of Edinburgh Castle, a number of galleries, and the Scott Monument. The Edinburgh Christmas Market and Fun Fair, held annually between November and January, is centered at East Princes Street Gardens. 

8. Discover the Royal lifestyle at Holyrood Palace
Holyrood Palace, established in 1678, is the Scottish home of the British monarchs. Much of the old palace has been maintained to depict royal life in the 17th century. It is situated at the base of Edinburgh's Royal Mile, at the other end from Edinburgh Castle. Visit the State Apartments, which still house the British Royal Family's magnificent art and are open to the public. The castle also has a cafe where one can enjoy a lavish afternoon tea.

Checkout And Book: Palace of Holyroodhouse Tickets

What are the best adventure activities to do in Edinburgh?

1. Hiking up the Harbour Hill: Reach the Pentland Hills Regional Park via a bus from the city. From here walk towards the Torduff reservoir and then to the Clubbiedean Reservoir. On your way to the top, you'll now see some farmhouses and after a little while the Harlaw reservoir that has food and other facilities available.

The last part of the passage will be tree-lined right after which you'll reach the top. The entire trail leading to the top is filled with spectacular sights and the top is inevitably the best.

2. Ice Hockey at Murrayfield Ice Rink: The fearsome and speedy nature of ice hockey makes it seem like a fun activity to all crowds. Murrayfield is easily one of the most popular sites for all sorts of ice sports in Edinburgh.

Training groups here are divided into four groups depending on age and ability - Edinburgh Stingers, Edinburgh Lions, Edinburgh Knights, Edinburgh Phoenix. For an evening of game you will not neglect, wrap up warm and visit the ice arena among September and March when the season runs.

3. Rowing on the Union Canal: Edinburgh's excellent Union Canal goes through Fountainbridge, Polwarth, Slateford and past. For those hoping to build up their kayaking, paddling or drifting abilities, this is the ideal spot to try things out. Hop onto your rowing boast and appreciate loosening up the muscles while taking in Edinburgh's delightful landscape.

4. Camping in Silverburn Park Campsite: One of the best activities to do in Edinburgh is to visit Silverburn Park Campsite of Edinburgh which is located close to Leven Beach,. The site provides all amenities and conditions required for camping like gravel and tent pitches and it is animal friendly too. The camping site is close to the fishing villages of Silverburn Park. The camping site is open throughout the year.


Know More: Things To Do In Edinburgh With Kids

What are the most romantic things to do in Edinburgh?

1. Take a Stroll along the Dunbar Close and Gardens: Just off the famous Royal Mile, this hidden sanctuary is a wonderful romantic escape. Dunbar's Close is nestled among the manicured gardens and woods that recreate Old Edinburgh's magic. You and your partner can take a romantic stroll along hedges, just like the ones we watch in royal-themed movies.

The garden invites you to come in and enjoy your takeout lunch or a cup of coffee. At a much slower pace, you may sketch, take pictures of the flowers, or wander around holding your lover's hand. If you are seeking a leisurely romantic activity, the Dunbar garden is a must-visit in the itinerary of activities to do in Edinburgh.

2. Have a Romantic Afternoon Tea: If you are looking for some lavish private time with your partner, this quintessential British ritual should be one of the top things to do in Edinburgh! In Edinburgh, there are several restaurants and hotels that provide afternoon tea packages. Typically, sandwiches and pastries are served on piled plates at an afternoon tea, but you may take it a step further when planning a date.

In a sophisticated and romantic setting, the public Colonnades boasts Edinburgh's best afternoon tea.  Along with a range of pastries and amuse-bouches, the silver stands provide sandwiches made with seasonal ingredients, perfect for a royal date with your sweetheart.

3. Romantic Evening at Calton hill: 
Atop this iconic hill, you may get a bird's eye perspective of Edinburgh. As the sun sets on another day, marvel in the cityscape and unwind with your special someone. During the day, the views from Calton Hill are spectacular, however, in the evening, the hill transforms into one of Edinburgh's most romantic spots.

There is nothing more beautiful than seeing the sky change color as it passes over a city skyline. Include this unusual activity on your list of things to do in Edinburgh if you want to experience a romantic moment like the one in the Anne Hathaway film 'One Day'.

4. Wander around  Edinburgh Botanical Gardens: In the heart of Edinburgh, the gorgeous 72-acre Botanic Gardens provides tourists quiet and peace. The Royal Botanic Garden in Edinburgh is a popular tourist attraction for several reasons.

It offers a tranquil setting away from the bustle of the city. You are welcome to take a leisurely stroll hand in hand on this over 70-acre park. Even in the winter, the location is stunning to visit. You can also enter the glasshouses for a charge, where you can experience several climates and an additional variety of plants. 

Location
: Arboretum Pl, Edinburgh EH3 5NZ, UK
Timings: Open everyday from 10 am to 3:15 pm
Entry fee: Free entry

5. Stargazing at the Royal Observatory: Located at the top of the Blackford hill in Edinburgh, the Royal Observatory conducts regular astronomy shows open to the general public. Book a place at one of the Astronomy evenings and gaze at the stars all night with your loved one.

A live planetarium display will introduce you to the wonders of the night sky and kick off the evening. Then, if the weather permits after sunset, Observatory astronomers will lead you through the night with modern day telescopes to observe the night sky, making it one of the best things to do in Edinburgh at night.

Location
: Blackford Hill, Edinburgh EH9 3HJ, United Kingdom
Timings: Open from Monday to friday from 7 am to 7 pm
Entry fee: For Adults- 24 EUR and children- 12 EUR

6. Watch the Sunset at Portobello:  One of the most romantic things to do in Edinburgh with your partner is watching the sunset at Portobello, a quiet and lovely seaside town. The Portobello beach with its golden sands and clear water makes a great location for walking hand in hand with your significant other.

You can go for a swim in the blue water or go to the many seaside restaurants and cafes near the promenade. 
Location: Coastal suburb of Edinburgh in eastern central Scotland

Read More: Places To Visit In Edinburgh

What are the fun things to do in Edinburgh?

1. Explore the Illusive World of Camera ObscuraThis place has five storeys full of puzzles, mazes, and optical illusions that are suitable for both adults and kids. The stunning Rooftop Terrace provides the best 360-degree views of Edinburgh. It features over 100 exhibitions and installations that combine mirrors and AI technology to create amazing optical illusions.

This whimsical museum is located in Outlook Tower on the Castlehill section of the Royal Mile, near Edinburgh Castle. When it becomes dark, they put on a great projection display that showcases the same stunning views using video taken from the very top of our tower.

Checkout And Book Camera Obscura & World of Illusions Tickets

2. Spooky Lanes of Edinburgh: 
If you are an adventurous soul, the haunted theme tour should be one of the fun things to do in Edinburgh. In its illustrious history, Edinburgh has been notorious for grave thieves, secret vaults, and half-dead hanging corpses. It's no surprise that various tours compete to uncover the city's darkest secrets.

Discover the tales and traditions, as well as the devastating plague epidemic and a renowned royal visit. There are several ghost tours to choose from. as a daytime guided tour of the Blair Street Underground Vaults or an evening stroll through the gloomy closes and wynds of Old Town Edinburgh. 

3. Guided Tours for Potter-heads: 
Even after the final Harry Potter book and film were released, the cultural impact of Harry Potter remained strong, as did the fandom. Edinburgh, Potter's birthplace, offers several Harry Potter-themed activities and trails. You'll explore places where JK Rowling penned the novels and discover amazing sites that inspired characters and events in the books.

Pick a tour that gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace and has engaging tour guides who can address all of your Potter questions. These Potter-themed excursions are a must-have in the list of activites to do in Edinburgh for all Potter-heads.

4. Sessions at the Storytelling Academy: 
Numerous novels, including Frankenstein and Harry Potter, have drawn inspiration from Edinburgh's cobblestone streets and rich, albeit occasionally dark, past. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that this beautiful city boasts a vibrant storytelling scene. You may visit the Storytelling Center at Royal Mile to experience an immersive fairytale experience.

In the heart of the Royal Mile, The Storytelling Center offers a wide selection of hot beverages and home-style fare. This intriguing cultural extravaganza is one of the most immersive experiences in the itinerary of ‘Edinburgh things to do’. It has something for everyone, from ghost stories to Scottish folklore at bar fire-sides to children's stories and puppet shows.

5. Enjoy an Evening at one of the Stand-Up Comedy Shows: 
If you are lucky to visit Edinburgh during the Fringe festival, then certainly attend one of the stand up shows. The Stand Comedy Club is a shining example of Edinburgh's excellent in-house comedy.

Or you can visit one of the late night shows at the Comedy attic. These venues showcase a variety of performances, from major well-seasoned stars to hilarious newcomers trying out new stints. These are frequently participatory experiences, and you may also be able to enjoy drinks and exquisite cuisine while watching the performances.

What are the free things to do in Edinburgh?

1. Walking around the City: The best way to experience Edinburgh's essence and culture is for you to walk about and take it all in. Start off on the Royal Mile and the area around the castle, which is home to many of Edinburgh's top sights. As part of your journey of the New Town, pay a visit to the Scottish Enlightenment, the Princes Street Gardens, and the Scott Monument.

The 18th century saw the construction of Edinburgh New Town as a solution to the congested old town. One of the earliest instances of a contemporary, symmetrical urban design in Europe. You may see some stunning examples of Georgian and Neoclassical architecture, while walking around the new town.

2. Visit the National Gallery Complex: 
The Scottish National Gallery and the adjacent Royal Scottish Academy constitute a complex in the heart of the city. This magnificent gallery houses works by Claude Monet, Degas,  Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gogh, as well as works by well-known Scottish painters such as David Wilkie and Allan Ramsay. The museum is located in the city center, near Princes Street, and admission is free.

They also consist of a lecture hall, a movie theater, and an educational facility. The Scottish Café and Restaurant has dazzling views of Princes Street Gardens and Waverley station. However the best part is that you can enter the premises and appreciate the art free of cost, making it one of the best free things to do in Edinburgh.

3. Picnic at the Princess Gardens: 
The popular city-center garden has been included on a list of the UK's top outdoor dining options. Take in the breathtaking vista of Edinburgh Castle from Princes Street Gardens while relaxing for the day. Around 1770, the drainage of Nor Loch, the region's largest lake, created this exquisite garden.

These grounds are maintained up beautifully, and there are many places to relax and enjoy a picnic or food you purchased at Princes Street across the street. If you want to make the most of a lazy Sunday morning, a picnic lunch at the Princess Gardens is one of the best free activities to do in Edinburgh.

4. A Leisurely Stroll across the Meadows: 
With over half of its entire area covered by green space, Edinburgh has more green space than any other city in the UK.  If you need to relax and unwind, take a stroll or simply sit in the Meadows and take in the Scottish scenery. Meadows provide a pleasant, open antidote to the bustling bustle and serpentine alleys of Old Town.

This is possibly one of the best free things to do in Edinburgh as meadows can be seen around the University buildings. Another benefit is that it serves as a handy shortcut between the city center and the suburbs.

Also Read: Places To Visit Near Edinburgh

How many days do you need in Edinburgh?

For people visiting Edinburgh for the first time, about three to four days should be enough to explore both the city center and other main sites around it, especially considering the main things to do in Edinburgh.

How to reach Edinburgh?

By Rail - In case you reside in or are visiting nearby places like Glasgow or Manchester, the easiest, most convenient way of getting to Edinburgh is by train.

By Air - From anywhere farther than in the neighbouring states, flying is the quickest and cheapest alternative. Time required for planning a trip to Edinburgh depends on the list of things to do in Edinburgh that one has in mind.

What is the best time to visit Edinburgh?

Undoubtedly, the best months to visit Edinburgh is between the months of May and September, as the weather is super favourable for sightseeing. August is lined up with festivals, so a visit in this month can be culturally rich for tourists. Even Fringe, the world's largest arts festival is held in August. The month of December, on the other hand, also makes for a good time to visit this destination; for the holiday season is usually considered the nest for shopping.

How far is Edinburgh from London?

Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland and is located around 400 miles south of its English capital London. Flying is the quickest way to travel between these two destinations. However, the train travels almost as fast (taking into consideration the boarding time) and allows passengers to soak in the scenery's rich splendor and allows passengers to soak in the scenery's rich splendor. It takes around 5 hours to reach Waverly station from London.

What is famous in Edinburgh?

The list of activities to do in Edinburgh is quite long. The world knows of Edinburgh Castle, the National Museum, the various festivals celebrated in grandeur - specially around Christmas and New Year’s and of course, the legendary Arthur's Seat.

Recommended ReadBest Things To Do In London At Night

Is Edinburgh worth visiting?

Aesthetically pleasing, drowned in culture and arts, lined with shopping streets, Edinburgh is well worth a visit. In Edinburgh, one can climb Arthur's Seat, walk down the Royal Mile, attend festivals, visit Harry Potter locales, and indulge in a lot more experiences that happen to make your trip here worth cherishing a lifetime

Also Checkout: Places To Visit In London

Newly Added Edinburgh Experiences

Edinburgh Things To Do Reviews

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Danielle Whitehead Heslington
Reviewed: 07 Jul 2024
5.0/5
Tour guide was fun and a true expert! Before the tour I listened to many podcasts and audio tours— this is by far the most interesting and informative!
Danielle Whitehead Heslington
Danielle Whitehead Heslington
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Abdulrahman Alrefae
Reviewed: 18 Aug 2024
5.0/5
Our tour of Edinburgh Castle was elevated to an unforgettable experience thanks to our exceptional guide, Niamh. Her deep knowledge of the castle's rich history was matched only by her infectious enthusiasm. Niamh's ability to bring the past to life through captivating storytelling was truly remarka... Read More
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Aleksander Emtsev
Reviewed: 19 Aug 2023
5.0/5
Worth the money. Thank you 
Aleksander Emtsev
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Ken T
Reviewed: 16 Oct 2023
5.0/5
The tour guide is excellent which have shared a lot of knowledge and history of Edinburgh castle. A must join local tour.
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Johnathon C
Reviewed: 05 Oct 2023
5.0/5
The guide richard was amazing. Would absolutely go on another tour if he was the guide. He was very animated and passionate when explaining the history of the castle.
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Manuela Enz
Reviewed: 23 Aug 2023
5.0/5
Cool, funny and very very interesting tour with a guide with a broad knowledge about history, who had a good sense of humor! :-)

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