10 Best Things to Do in Edinburgh (+ Hidden Gems by a Local)
Explore Edinburgh's historic heart with this guide, covering iconic landmarks like Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace, to charming streets like Victoria Street and the picturesque Dean Village. Discover local favorites in Stockbridge and enjoy breathtaking views from Calton Hill, making for a well-rounded visit to Scotland's capital.
Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle is a highly recommended, albeit expensive, historical landmark offering great views and worth the admission fee.
Holyrood Palace
Holyrood Palace is a significant royal residence and a key point at the end of the Royal Mile, worth exploring.
St. Giles Cathedral
St. Giles Cathedral, located on the Royal Mile, is a free-to-enter, stunning cathedral highly recommended for its impressive interior.
Victoria Street
Victoria Street is considered one of Edinburgh's most beautiful streets, featuring independent shops and possibly inspiring the Diagon Alley from Harry Potter.
Dean Village
Dean Village is an incredibly picturesque and Instagrammable area in Edinburgh that is just as beautiful in real life.
Water of Leith Walkway
The Water of Leith Walkway is a peaceful and beautiful path recommended for a tranquil walk that leads from Dean Village to Stockbridge.
Stockbridge
Stockbridge is a charming area that feels like a small Scottish village, offering a different vibe from the Old and New Towns and great local spots.
Scran and Scall
Scran and Scall is a recommended spot in Stockbridge for enjoying good food.
The Bailey Bar
The Bailey Bar is a pub in Stockbridge recommended for experiencing the local vibe and meeting locals.
Calton Hill
Calton Hill in New Town is recommended for its relatively easy climb, offering panoramic views of Edinburgh.
Greyfriar Bobby Statue
The statue of Greyfriar Bobby honors the loyal dog known for guarding his owner's grave for 14 years.
Greyfriars Kirkyard
Greyfriars Kirkyard is an interesting place to visit, especially for Harry Potter fans, as some gravestones bear names that inspired the book series.
National Museum of Scotland
The National Museum of Scotland is a free-to-enter, cool museum that offers an excellent indoor activity for Edinburgh, especially when it rains.