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Things to do in Edinburgh

THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Edinburgh

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Things to Do in Edinburgh

Get a feel for Old Town by walking the Royal Mile, which connects Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. For rolling green hills, Arthur's Seat is a must. For personalised recommendations, try our AI trip-planning product.
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Top Attractions in Edinburgh

These rankings are informed by Tripadvisor data—we consider traveller reviews, ratings, number of page views, and user location.

Historical fortress featuring military exhibits, the One O'Clock Gun, and Scotland's Crown Jewels. Includes a poignant war memorial and provides an informative audio guide.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveller reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.

Extinct volcano with ancient ruins and panoramic views, featuring a wild, rocky hike and historical trails, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
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Subterranean historical journey through preserved 17th-century streets, revealing the daily struggles and ghost stories of bygone residents in an atmospheric setting.
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Oceanfront maritime attraction providing a self-guided audio tour through a historic royal yacht, complete with an authentic tea room and a variety of dining options in the adjacent shopping area.
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Interactive museum with diverse exhibits across natural history, science, and technology. Features a rooftop terrace with panoramic views and the notable Millennium Clock.
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Interactive multi-level attraction with themed floors, featuring a mirror maze, vortex tunnel, and panoramic city views. Engages guests of all ages with hands-on exhibits and visual illusions.
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Points of Interest & Landmarks

Historic thoroughfare lined with a blend of traditional and international cuisine, unique shops, and street entertainment, set against a backdrop of iconic landmarks and picturesque scenery.
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Interactive whiskey museum with a collection of Scotch whiskies, engaging technology like "sniff cards," and a range of tasting tours. Amber restaurant pairs tastings with fine cuisine.
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Indulge in the art of chocolate creation with hands-on bar and truffle workshops, complemented by educational tastings of global chocolates in a cosy tasting room.
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Points of Interest & Landmarks

Historic hilltop crowned with Greek-inspired monuments and panoramic city vistas. Gentle paths lead to scenic viewpoints and notable landmarks, ideal for leisurely walks and photography.
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From quick jaunts to full-day outings.



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Tours, activities and experiences bookable on Tripadvisor, ranked using exclusive Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, popularity, user preferences, price, and bookings made through Tripadvisor.
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What travellers are saying

  • Rosin M
    New Zealand6 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    A stunning historical site filled with charm and mystery. The Ancient Castle of Edinburgh is a must-visit for history lovers. We joined a guided tour, and the guide was knowledgeable and engaging, bringing the stories of the castle to life. The climb to the top of the tower was worth it for the panoramic views of the countryside. However, there were limited facilities, so plan accordingly.
    Written 13 January 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Mikael Schenk
    Roenne, Denmark217 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    An easy walk to the top for an amazing view of Edinburgh. It was said to take 2 hours, but we did it in a bit over 1 hour incl. time on the top - and we even had an out-of-shape teenager with us…

    Path is fine, normal shoes ok but the last bit is a bit steep and slippery, so just be aware - but don’t miss out on it…
    Written 16 January 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Everett C
    1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Lewis was an amazing guide, very funny and welcoming. Would recommend to everyone looking for a great tour full of history and a unique look into Edinburgh’s past.
    Written 16 January 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Martin K
    1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Great audio tour , lovely staff who really went to great lengths to make this experience and at a very reasonable price with free parking, also a great onboard tea room with views over the port and solway firth.
    Written 16 January 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Mikael Schenk
    Roenne, Denmark217 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    An amazing place to spend a WHOLE DAY… it’s free (as any museum in Edinburgh) and just HUGE with don much interesting history, science, nature and so on and so on… Go there and expect to be blown away…

    And don’t miss Dolly (the cloned sheep)
    Written 16 January 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Ju
    Portsmouth, UK50 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Wow what an amazing place!
    Always wanted to visit Edinburgh so my husband brought me just after Xmas for a few nights. Loved the buildings the castle the pubs loved just walking around the old town taking in the amazing old building etc. Snow was a added bonus beautiful city with lots of charm!
    Written 6 January 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Racheal W
    8 contributions