Lonely PlanetAug 3
8 things to do in Edinburgh and the best way to do them
The top things to do in Edinburgh take in royal treasures, scenic viewpoints and secret quarters. Here are our favorite ways to enjoy the city.
Scottish tower house overlooking the Firth of Forth.
25 things in this story
- Royal MileSightCobblestone artery from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Park.
- St Giles' CathedralPlace of worshipThe existing building was begun in the 14th century and extended until the early 16th century; significant alterations…
- Scottish Storytelling CentreArts centreIt was formally opened on 1 June 2006 by Patricia Ferguson MSP, Minister for Culture in the Scottish Executive.
- Canongate TolboothMuseumIt ceased to be a municipal building in 1856 and it is…
- Scottish Parliament BuildingSightConstruction of the building commenced in June 1999 and the Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs) held their first…
- National Museum of ScotlandMuseumGalleries cover everything from Ancient Egypt to Scots.
- Dean VillageSuburbHistoric mills along a peaceful riverside path.
- StockbridgeSuburbEnjoy finest pubs, restaurants, and independent stores.
- Royal Botanic Garden EdinburghGardenGreen bower with rock gardens, twisted trees, glasshouses.
- PortobelloNeighborhoodEnd-of-the-pier hijinks, promenade, fish and chips.
- CramondSuburbLow-tide excursions to a castaway island with gun bunkers.
- Lauriston CastleAttractionScottish tower house overlooking the Firth of Forth.
- Edinburgh CastleSightRoyal fortress with Scottish crown jewels and chapel.
- Royal Edinburgh Military TattooHostelSpectacle of pipes, drums, dancers on Castle Esplanade.
- Arthur's SeatTrailMini mountain with ruined chapel, lake, sweeping views.
- St Anthony's ChapelSight15th-century ruins near Arthur's Seat.
- Dunsapie LochSightExcavated in 1844 near Arthur's Seat.
- National Galleries of ScotlandGalleryFour buildings with art collection, contemporary Scottish art.
- Princes Street GardensSightVictorian-era Ross Fountain and gardens.
- 1820 Rooftop BarRestaurantCastle vista from Johnnie Walker Experience.
- Johnnie Walker ExperienceSightDevoted to the famous whisky brand.
- Edinburgh Festival FringeFestivalMonth-long celebration of the arts in August.
- Edinburgh International FestivalFestivalWide-ranging festival in August.
- Edinburgh International Film FestivalFestivalFestival in August.
- Palace of HolyroodhouseSight