What to Do in Edinburgh: 12 Ways to Enjoy Scotland’s Capital

Edinburgh is a city that has been forged by millennia of history. From its beginnings as a medieval settlement on Castle Rock, to becoming part of the Anglian Kingdom of Northumbria, to the city’s association with Harry Potter, Edinburgh has seen it all. Over the years, the city has retained its beautiful architecture, and today it features excellent bars, restaurants, and tourist attractions to check out.

Today at Civitatis, we’re checking out what to do in Edinburgh, from ancient delights to modern experiences. Let’s get into it! (Tìamaid!)

1. Edinburgh Castle

Atop an ancient volcano, Edinburgh Castle has watched over the city for centuries. Occupied since the Bronze Age, the site became a royal residence in the 12th century under the reign of David I of Scotland. It was also here that Mary Stuart gave birth to James VI, future King of Scotland, England, and Ireland. A fortress, palace, and military stronghold, the castle regularly found itself at the centre of struggles for Scottish independence, being besieged on numerous occasions. Today, it houses the Honours of Scotland, the oldest jewels in the British crown, as well as the Stone of Destiny, which has been used in coronation ceremonies for centuries.

On this guided tour of Edinburgh Castle, you’ll see St Margaret’s Chapel, the famous Crown Room, where various royal artefacts are displayed, as well as the Stone of Destiny. You’ll explore the city walls, from which you can enjoy breathtaking views of Edinburgh and its surroundings, including the medieval Old Town and Arthur’s Seat Hill. Finally, you can visit the National War Museum, a space dedicated to the military conflicts that marked Scotland.

2. The Royal Mile

Running for roughly 1 mile (1.6 km) through Edinburgh’s Old Town, the Royal Mile is the city’s main thoroughfare, connecting Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. These cobbled streets will take you through centuries of history, from the bustle of the medieval market to the elegance of the Georgian buildings, built between the early 18th and early 19th centuries.

The Royal Mile is home to iconic landmarks, traditional pubs, craft shops, and St Giles’ Cathedral, a jewel of Gothic architecture. Take a stroll around squares such as Parliament Square and Castlehill, perfect for a break in the heart of the city, or to enjoy the local entertainment while admiring the architecture that surrounds these historic spaces. And to find out all about it, there’s nothing better than a free tour of Edinburgh!

Just south of the Royal Mile, you’ll also find the Edinburgh Vaults. The Edinburgh Vaults or South Bridge Vaults are a series of chambers built underneath the road bridge of the same name. These underground spaces were used for various businesses, including taverns, smelters, and cobblers. Over time, the bridge would leak, forcing its occupants to leave, and the barely habitable vaults were eventually used by the homeless population, as well as criminals. To learn more about Edinburgh’s spooky underground history, check out this Edinburgh underground ghost tour!

3. Arthur’s Seat

Standing tall above the Edinburgh skyline, Arthur’s Seat is an ancient volcano and gorgeous escape from the city, just a short drive from the center. Part of the Salisbury Crags, the peak is thought to be around 350 million years old and is shrouded in mysteries and legends for the ages, most of which are related to the legendary King Arthur.

Many claim that Arthur’s Seat was the site of Camelot, the legendary court of King Arthur; others believe it to be the true location of the Holy Grail (an object thought to have healing powers), hidden away for centuries. Folklore tells of its distinctive shape resembling a sleeping dragon or giant, awaiting a mythical awakening.

If you’d like to climb Arthur’s Seat, it’s accessible to a wide range of visitors, even those who are not experienced hikers. As you climb its slopes, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Edinburgh stretching as far as the eye can see. It’s the perfect place to take a break, breathe in the fresh air, and appreciate the rugged beauty of a landscape shaped by time.

4. Princes Street Gardens

The tour of New Town begins with a visit to Princes Street Gardens. Located just below Edinburgh Castle, these gardens are a haven of peace for city dwellers and tourists looking for a break. The mix of immaculate lawns, flower beds, and historic monuments creates a unique and soothing atmosphere.

At the centre of the gardens stands the Scott Monument, a proud reminder of Scotland’s literary heritage and the memory of the famous author Sir Walter Scott. Inaugurated in 1846, the monument is one of the tallest in the worl,d erected in honour of a writer and houses 64 statues representing characters from Scott’s works.

The gardens also offer a wide range of activities throughout the year. An impromptu picnic on the grass, a reading session beside a pond, or a contemplative stroll under the hundred-year-old trees… every moment spent in the greenery is an invitation to relax.

• See Princes Street Gardens as part of this full-day guided tour of Edinburgh.

5. National Museum of Scotland

On a rainy day (this is Scotland, after all), the National Museum of Scotland is the ideal place to take shelter and discover one of the country’s must-see attractions. Scotland’s national museum, this exhibition is a goldmine for anyone wishing to understand the cultural and historical development of the country. Housed in a fascinating building, this institution is home to everything from archaeology to the natural sciences.

Check out the Millennium Clock, a 33-foot (10-meter) conceptual clock tower made from wood, metal, and glass, telling the story of the millennium, including human achievements, as well as the disasters and tragedies of the age. Also see Window on the World, an installation featuring over 800 objects showcasing culture from around the world.

Interactive exhibits and workshops allow little ones and adults alike to experience history in a different way. The anecdotes shared by the guides and the informative panels make each visit both fun and educational!

6. Palace of Holyroodhouse

The Palace of Holyrood is the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland and a living witness to royal history, having been founded in Located at the end of the Royal Mile, the Palace of Holyroodhouse combines architectural elegance with fascinating stories. With your ticket to Holyrood, visit its richly decorated rooms and unique heritage,

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Palace of Holyroodhouse was founded in 1128 by David I of Scotland and became a palace in the 15th century. Numerous famous monarchs have stayed in the palace, having been home to such monarchs as Mary, Queen of Scots, between 1561 and 1567. Today, it is the official residence of the reigning King Charles III when he’s in Scotland.

Inside, there are 289 rooms. An opulent dining room which can hold 30 people, a throne room, over 100 paintings of Scottish monarchs going back to Fergus I, the legendary ‘first king of Scotland’, going back to 330 B.C. Also check out the adjoining park, with its manicured gardens and the silhouette of the ruined abbey. The park also offers uninterrupted views of Arthur’s Seat, creating an interesting contrast between the historic architecture of the palace and the surrounding countryside.

• Buy a ticket to the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

7. St Giles’ Cathedral

Perched on the historic Royal Mile, St Giles’ Cathedral stands as one of Edinburgh’s most celebrated architectural wonders, its iconic spire a defining feature of the city’s skyline.

On a complete Edinburgh tour + tickets, you’ll explore the city alongside an expert guide, including a stop at the cathedral, where you’ll learn about its role during the Reformation, along with other fascinating information from its history.

As you step through the doors, you’ll immediately notice the harmony of its flying buttresses, soaring vaults, and colourful stained glass windows that flood the interior with mystical light. This church, which dates back to the 15th century, has stood the test of time, retaining all its characteristic majesty and spirituality, making it an anchor point for the city’s religious and cultural life.

8. The Scotch Whisky Experience

No visit to Scotland is complete without a taste of the quintessential Scottish beverage, and this Edinburgh whisky experience is much more than just a tasting, its an adventure into the subtle art of whisky making. As soon as you arrive, you’ll discover the secrets of distillation and the importance of terroir in the maturation process.

As the tour goes on, you’ll continue to gain insight into the various stages of production, from malting to casking, along with a number of humorous and educational anecdotes. You’ll learn about the local legends behind certain whiskies and the roles the drink has played in the nation’s rich history.

Your experience will end with a wonderful tasting session to put everything you’ve learned into practice. Accompanied by an expert, you will learn to recognize the subtleties of the aromas and appreciate the richness of the flavours.

9. Dean Village

Just a few minutes’ walk from the town centre, Dean Village offers a charming escape from downtown. This former milling village is set on the banks of the Water of Leith, transports you back to another era with its picturesque houses, stone bridges, and cobbled streets. During a visit to New Town, you will discover the remains of the 19th-century mills, such as Well Court, a red brick building built to house the workers.

Walking along the Water of Leith is a wonderful way to spend an afternoon, especially in fine weather. You can walk along the river to the Gallery of Modern Art, in a bucolic setting that is totally unexpected in the middle of the city.

10. Calton Hill

Let’s end this list of things to do in Edinburgh at Calton Hill, perched in the heart of Edinburgh. Much more than just a viewpoint, it’s a veritable open-air museum. Indeed, you will see the National Monument, inspired by the Parthenon, and the Nelson Monument dominating the landscape.

In the 18th century, the hill was transformed into a commemorative area to celebrate military exploits and the ideals of the Scottish Enlightenment. The monuments erected here are not only tributes, but also silent witnesses to the aspirations of a nation in the throes of transformation.

Today, Calton Hill is a favourite spot for photographers and nature lovers. The hill offers one of the best views of the city, and at dawn or dusk, the atmosphere is magical. And if you’re looking for an easy way to get up there and stop off, the Edinburgh tourist bus is the perfect option!

• See Edinburgh on a bus tour.

11. Visit Loch Ness, the Highlands, and More

While Edinburgh offers endless charm, Scotland’s true wild heart lies just beyond its city limits. Venture out to discover iconic landscapes, ancient mysteries, and breathtaking natural beauty that make for unforgettable excursions. Even if you’re only in Edinburgh for a few days, you can visit Loch Ness, the Scottish Highlands, and Glencoe on a day trip.

12. Discover Harry Potter in Edinburgh

Edinburgh also has a special connection with the world of Harry Potter. It was here that J.K. Rowling was partly inspired to create the saga that has fascinated millions of readers around the world. Many of the capital’s cafés and nooks, such as the legendary The Elephant House, are now associated with the author and the world she created.

Fans won’t want to miss the ultimate Scottish activity: the Harry Potter Train! Climb aboard the Jacobite Steam Train, better known as the Hogwarts Express, for a magical journey through the spectacular scenery of the Highlands. This steam train runs between Fort William and Mallaig, using the famous Glenfinnan viaduct, made iconic by the films. An unforgettable experience for young and old wizards alike, to be enjoyed with your nose glued to the window, as if you were setting off for a new year at Hogwarts.

There you have it for our suggestions on what to do in Edinburgh. If you’re still planning your trip, check out more tours & activities in Edinburgh.