What To See and Do In Edinburgh: 12 Amazing Ideas For The First Time Visitors

Edinburgh, Scotland, , 94 Comments

Last Updated on the 13th of May, 2024

I continued straight ahead on the surfaced walkway, ignoring the steep steps to the right and after a few metres was greeted by a familiar view over Leith and the docks and across the water to the kingdom of Fife.

It was only once I made it to the very top of Calton Hill that I eagerly turned around and faced the city.

I noted the bright green shoulder of Princes Street Gardens, the Balmoral Hotel with its beautiful bell tower rising and bristling, the historic strip of Princes Street, Edinburgh Castle and Saint Giles Cathedral spire, all seemingly silent and still from this distance.

Here is the city’s best angle, I noted to myself quietly beaming with joy. Edinburgh in a single macro-glimpse. Well worth the journey up the hill for a newcomer.

Whether you are keen to admire Edinburgh’s rugged stone buildings, stroll the streets with your camera or learn about many gruesome tales from the long history of Scotland’s capital, it will be impossible to get bored.

In this city, every street corner is full of little surprises and architectural wonders from various stages of history.

Read More: 8 Amazing Reasons Why You Should Visit Edinburgh At Least Once

Deacon Brodies Tavern, located in Lawnmarket.

#1. Plunge Into The Turbulent History of Edinburgh Castle

Sitting on top of a volcanic hill and dating back to the 7th century, Edinburgh Castle is one of Scotland’s top attractions.

For many years, the castle was home to Scottish Kings and queens, before it was inverted into a powerful military fortress and later functioned as a prison.

Ensure you allow enough time to enjoy various exhibitions, the Castle Vaults, the National War Museum, and St. Margaret’s Chapel, the oldest building in Edinburgh.

If the current entrance fee of £19.50 is too expensive, my advice is – to walk to the castle gates anyway. You’ll find fantastic views over the city and great photo opportunities.

The castle is also where the 1 p.m. gun is fired every day, so if you do have a chance to be there for this then do, as it’s quite an experience.

– Experience The Edinburgh Castle Guided Tour –

Read More: Your Essential Guide To Planning The Best Edinburgh Holiday In Scotland

Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh, Scotland.

#2. Gaze Across The City’s Rooftops From Calton Hill

Head to Calton Hill, one of the city’s best vantage points, and perch yourself atop the hill for a fantastic bird’s eye view of Edinburgh’s many attractions.

From here you can get a clear view of the imposing Edinburgh Castle and Balmoral Hotel Tower which dominates the city’s skyline.

Then there’s also Arthur’s Seat in all its glory, Holyrood Palace, and the Scottish Parliament.

Calton Hill is also famous for its collection of historical monuments and is one of the top areas for great photo opportunities, especially at sunset or sunrise.

You’ll find Nelson’s Monument, shaped like an upside-down telescope, and the National Monument with its unfinished, Athenian-like structure, the Old Observatory House and the City Observatory.

  • Good to know: You’ll find several paths leading to the top of the hill; for easy access walk to the far end of Princes Street past the Waverly Station and then go to either Regent Road on the Southside or  Royal Terrace on the North side.

Read More: 10 Things To Do In Edinburgh This Autumn That Are Good For Your Soul

City views from Calton Hill.

#3. Dodge the Crowds at Leith

Once a neighbourhood with a very rocky past – think about those bold scenes from the Trainspotting movie –  Leith is slowly transforming into a trendy and sought area. 

Years ago it was  Scotland’s main trading port which has been visited by several monarchs including Mary Queen of Scots, King George IV and Queen Victoria.

It has benefited from several years of regeneration projects, which include large shopping malls and family-friendly attractions like the Royal Yacht Britannia, which was the Queen’s official boat for many years.

To enjoy Leith, take a relaxing stroll along The Shore of Leith, listen to the screeching seagulls, watch swans loaf about in the calm water and take photos of the boat reflections.

  • To get there – follow Leith Walk which starts at the East end of Princes Street and goes all the way down to the Shore.

Read More: Your Guide To Some Of The Best Edinburgh’s Neighbourhoods

The centre of Old Leith, the harbour area of Edinburgh.

#4. Ramble Along the Royal Mile

Edinburgh’s Royal Mile hosts several treasures and famous city landmarks hidden among the petite alleyways bearing witness to its rich heritage.

It runs through Edinburgh Old Town, starting at Edinburgh Castle and waving all the way down to the Palace of Holyrood House, the Scottish residence of the British monarchs.

It is partitioned into five sections – Castlehill, Lawnmarket, High Street, Canongate and Abbey Strand –  each offering a great variety of attractions like St. Giles Cathedral, Museum of Edinburgh, John Knox House, bustling bagpipe players, year around Christmas shops, and a visually striking Parliament Building.

During the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in August, the area explodes with pamphlet profferers and street performers.

*Our Crossings Tip: The best things to look out for a while meandering downhill or uphill are unique passageways like Ancor and Advocates Close and little green spaces such as Chessels Court and Dunbar’s Close.

Read More: A Short Guide To The Best Attractions Along The Royal Mile in Edinburgh, Scotland

John Knox House in Edinburgh, Scotland.

#5. See Greyfriars Bobby Memorial Statue

While there’s nothing special or unique about the statue itself the story behind it is well-known throughout Scotland, and it will warm your heart.

Situated opposite Edinburgh’s Greyfriars Kirkyard,  is a statue of Scotland’s most famous dog, Greyfriars Bobby. 

Greyfriars Bobby was a Skye Terrier who spent 14 years guarding his owner’s grave until Bobby himself died in 1872.

A faithful companion of a gardener John Gray is buried in a nearby cemetery, and a headstone on his grave reads: “Greyfriars Bobby – died 14th January 1872 – aged 16 years – Let his loyalty and devotion be a lesson to us all.”

The statue was revealed in 1873, and to this day it remains a popular attraction for locals and tourists alike, who enjoy rubbing Bobby’s nose for good luck.

  • Getting there: 1 Greyfriars, Edinburgh EH1 2QQ, UK.

Read More: The Perfect Road Trip Itinerary For 5 Spell-Binding Days in Scotland

A statue of Greyfriars Bobby in Edinburgh

#6. Try a Wee Dram, and Sample Neeps and Tatties

One of the best introductions to Edinburgh and thus Scotland is through food and drink sampled in an old man’s pub shutting out the noise of the outside world.

If you are a whisky lover and drinker then trying a drop or two from one of Scotland’s 100 distilleries and finding out how it’s made could be a highlight of your visit to Edinburgh.

If you prefer to dive into the Scottish food scene you’ll be glad to discover that it is made up of haggis bonbons, cardamom buns, smoked salmon, Aberdeen-Angus steak and Barra snails.

And if that doesn’t make you realise the true validity of sensory overload, there are also deep-fried Mars bars, crabs from Aberdeenshire, heart-warming pies, and mussels from the Shetland Isles.

You can also try the following:

  • Haggis | a Scottish dish consisting of a sheep’s or calf’s offal mixed with suet, oatmeal, and seasoning and boiled in a bag, traditionally one made from the animal’s stomach.

  • Shortbread | A traditional and delicious Scottish biscuit made with a recipe using two parts butter, one part sugar and three parts oat flour.

  • Rumbledethumps |  A traditional Scottish dish and perfect comfort food made with potatoes, cabbage and onion.

  • Oatcakes | Made from oats, these healthy and straightforward oatcakes have long been considered Scottish national bread. From chewy to hard, from very rough to very fine, oatcakes are perfect as a snack or accompaniment to cheese.

Read More: A Guide To Responsible Travel – 10 Super Easy Ways To Reduce Your Impact

Porridge is synonymous with traditional Scottish food.

#7. Embark On A Day Trip

Edinburgh’s central position makes it easy to make day trips to places of interest in the vicinity of the Scottish capital.

Whether you want to visit other cities or visit the fishing villages on the coastline; you don’t have to go far from Edinburgh.

You’ve got plenty of options on how to travel, too.

You can hire a car, join an organised tour, hop on public transport or, like in our case – bring your own transport.

If you have an extra day in the city, here’s a wee list of places worth visiting:

  • Stirling Castle  |  By visiting the castle you learn about the most important battles in Scottish history and relive the journeys taken by Rob Roy and William Wallace.

  • Rosslyn Chapel  | Located in the town of Roslin, about seven miles south of Edinburgh, Rosslyn Chapel is one of the most famous religious sites of Scotland visited for an architectural wonder: although it was never completely finished, it has impressive features such as a sculptured ceiling of stars, roses and a dove with an olive branch.

  • North Berwick | The easiest day trip by train is to the coastal town with local shops and nature to discover. There’s golf along the coast, the beach, the iconic Bass Rock and a hike up an extinct volcano!

– Book Your Rosslyn Chapel Tour –

Read More: 10 Best Travel And Adventure Books To Inspire You To See The World

Rosslyn Chapel – a temple of mysteries.

#8. Hike Atop the Remains of a Volcano

Arthur’s Seat is an iconic natural landmark that lets you see out for miles across the cityscape and surrounding countryside. The landmark is a remnant of an extinct volcano that last erupted some 365 million years ago.

The summit is 251 metres high and surprisingly rocky and wild for a hill in the centre of a major city.

Although the hike to the top can be rather tough due to the very steep and rocky ascent, the sight at the summit is well worth it. You can get to the top of Arthur’s Seat from two locations – the main walking routes are the Blue Route (1.5 miles) and the Black Circuit (1.8 miles), which have different starting points and sights along the way. 

Reaching the top of the volcano takes anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes, depending on your fitness level and chosen route.

Additionally, the spiky cliffs of Sailsburies Crags are another fantastic vantage point to appreciate the iconic skyline of Edinburgh.

On your way up, don’t forget to check out Saint Anthony’s Chapel, a 15th-century medieval chapel, just south of Saint Margaret’s Loch, as well as a 2,000-year-old hill fort by Dunsapie Loch. 

– Embark on Arthur’s Seat Guided Walking Tour –

*Our Crossings tip – Wear sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots for your visit to Arthur’s Seat as the terrain can be uneven and slippery, especially in colder, wet weather

Read More: Belfast Bucket List: 10 Best Things To See And Do In The City

Hikers enjoying city views from the Arthurs Seat, Edinburgh.

#9. Discover Underground History at Real Mary King’s Close

Just below the Royal Mile, a network of once-abandoned houses and narrow alleyways known as The Real Mary King’s Close has been standing since the 17th century.

During the 17th century, the city suffered from significant overcrowding forcing some residents to live in cellars and basements that were converted into underground housing.

In a company of costumed guides, even if ghost stories make you jump, you can go deep down into the lost streets.

The tour is very informative and suitable for all ages and you get to relive the history.  With the help of knowledgeable guides and stories they tell, you’ll be introduced to the city’s past, and you’ll be fascinated by how people lived, worked and survived through that era.

No pictures are allowed on this tour but don’t let that diminish the amplitude of the overall experience as you grasp a deeper understanding of living conditions in the underground labyrinths.

  • Admission: Adult £21 for a 1-hour guided tour.

  • Booking Office Address: The Real Mary King’s Close, High Street, 2 Warriston’s Close, Edinburgh, EH1 1PG.

Read More: 6 Reasons Why You Should Travel By Train At Least Once In Your Lifetime

Photo courtesy of The Real Mary King’s Close

#10. Stop by the National Museum of Scotland

The National Museum of Scotland is quite a remarkable museum, located at Chambers Street, with excellent exhibits about science and technology, the natural world, design and fashion all in one building.

You can marvel at the Millennium Clock while it chimes the hour and you can travel back in time with Scottish history.

Start your visit with a wander around the Grand Gallery which features a Giant Deer skeleton and a skull of Toby the whale. Then make your way to the Scottish galleries filled with an array of Viking, Roman and Celtic artefacts.

  • Admission fee: The National Museum Of Scotland is free to all visitors, and open daily between 10 am and 5 pm

Read More: Some Of The Best Things To See At The National Museum Of Scotland in Edinburgh

National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh.

#11. Enjoy Edinburgh Festivals

While the beauty of Edinburgh can often be found in its intimate squares, quirky alleyways and enticing courtyards,  Edinburgh Festival Fringe or Edinburgh Hogmanay, both very much sublunary and world-class wizardly events, usually are the real show stoppers.

Having experienced the festival for three consecutive years, I have to say that I haven’t seen anything quite like it.

The festivities include the Edinburgh International Science Festival, Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival, Edinburgh Art Festival, Edinburgh International Festival, Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Edinburgh International Book Festival, and The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

  • Fringe Festival | Running for 3 weeks in August, Fringe Festival is the world’s biggest arts festival that offers everything from theatre and comedy to 6 a.m. closing times and incredible fireworks.

  • The Hogmanay Festival | is one of the world’s most significant New Year celebrations. This incredible event takes over the whole city for three days with music, unusual activities, incredible fireworks and loads of fun.

  • Edinburgh Science Festival | is an educational and exciting addition to the capital’s vibrant events scene offering tours and trails, hands-on activities, and installations.

*Our Crossings Tip: Visit edinburghfestivalcity.com for a comprehensive list of all the festivals taking place in Edinburgh.

Bagpipe player near Princes Street Gardens, Edinburgh.

#12. Be amazed at Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

What makes the Camera Obscura an utterly unique place to visit?

First, it is said that Camera Obscura & World of Illusion first opened in 1853 which makes it the oldest tourist attraction in the city.

Second, located just down the road from Edinburgh Castle, Camera Obscura with its 10 different interactive exhibits spread over five floors is an excellent way to entertain anyone for a few hours. Be prepared for a myriad of illusions and entertainment.

Upon entering, I had my hand stamped and was able to return up until 9 p.m. the same day as many times as I desired.

If you plan on visiting, then for a genuinely incredible vantage point and for great photo opportunities head for the roof, from where you’ll see Edinburgh and The First of Fourth.

  • Getting there: Camera Obscura is situated at the very top of Royal Mile, and its address is  Castlehill, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh EH1 2ND. 
  • Admission: Ault £16, Student £14, Senior £14, Child (5-15) £12. For more detailed info click here.
Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, Edinburgh.

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Now, over to you!

Have you been to Edinburgh? Let us know in the comments!

Let us know if you are plotting a visit to Edinburgh and have travel-related questions!

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Our Crossings follows the daily adventures of Latvian expats living in Sligo as they surf and explore the world

94 thoughts on “What To See and Do In Edinburgh: 12 Amazing Ideas For The First Time Visitors”

  1. My oh my! What a wonderful city! And what a perfect and complete narrative/guide/informative piece to make one’s trip to Edinburgh a phenomenal experience. And the pics are awesome Aiva! This post I will print and keep as I am thinking of a trip to Scotland in the coming months. I loved the descriptions and the way you separated the sections and the places where one ought to visit and enjoy. I enjoyed it all and I think, except for the food, that I will really love visiting. Cheers and all the best to you! A grand week ahead!

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    1. Hello, Francisco and thanks so much for such a lovely comment! We just returned from a five-day road trip around Scotland with the girls where we had a fantastic time exploring some of its outstanding natural sights and cities. Edinburgh is an amazing city to visit in Europe – it is such an amazing and interesting city, that in fact, I could go back numerous times and never run out of things to see and do. And I know what you mean about food, while I was happy trying out several of its traditional dishes, vegetarian haggis and porridge included, I’d say I prefer its sweet treats such as fern cakes and sticky toffee pudding instead. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Hello, and you are welcome. I am glad to hear that you enjoyed my Edinburgh guide. Edinburgh is full of magic and it’s one of those places that slowly but surely grows on you. I’m going back again this autumn and can’t wait to see it dressed in autumn attire. Cheers, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. I am so glad you enjoyed it, Luisa! I lived in Edinburgh for three years, and it was one of the most rewarding experiences in my life. I had a chance to take part in world-famous festivals and had a great opportunity to meet people from all walks of life. Thanks for stopping by and have a wonderful day 😀 It is nice and sunny in Sligo 🙂 Aiva xx

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  4. Great list! Edinburgh was the first international trip Jon and I took and holds such a special place in our hearts. We did a ghost tour that was fun. The castle was our favorite part, we did that our first day after landing and we were so fascinated by the sites that we didn’t feel any jet lag.

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    1. Hi, Lyssyy! I am glad to hear you enjoyed your trip to Edinburgh (did you write about it on your blog?) – it’s a city with so much character, and it doesn’t really matter which way you walk, there is always something cool, beautiful, or interesting to see, eat, and do. I actually lived in Edinburgh for three years when I was in my 20s and am planning to go back once more next month to enjoy some autumn splendour. The flight time between Sligo and Edinburgh is only 50 minutes, so I use every opportunity/excuse I have to travel to Scotland. Thanks for stopping by and have a wonderful day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  5. We have always enjoyed our visits to Edinburg, since our 1977 Honeymoon trip. So much to see and do and having relatives there is also nice. On our last trip in 2008, we did find the place a bit rowdy with drinkers in June, especially along the Royal Mile. Best to stay in accommodations away from there, if you like to sleep. We have climbed Arthur’s Seat a couple of times. It is a good workout and a great view. Have a good Monday Aiva. Allan

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    1. Hi, Allan, how are you doing? Hope your week’s off to a good start! Climbing Arthur’s Seat is one of the best things to do in the city. Looking out over Edinburgh from its summit, it’s hard to believe you’re just a stone’s throw from the city centre.

      I’m actually travelling to Edinburgh once more next month and am looking forward to wandering around the city once more – there are a few more things I’m yet to cross off my travel wish list! And I have to say – there’s a certain magic when you visit Edinburgh in autumn. Those dim-lit alleyways, autumn colours and pale light coming from the shop windows always spark a healthy dose of creativity in me. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Thank you kindly, Ali 🙂 A lovely blend of old and new, renowned for its gastronomic scene, historical sights and high culture, Edinburgh truly has something for everyone. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  7. So many excellent views of the city from the various high points! Thank you for the wonderful virtual tour of Edinburgh. I hope to visit one day, and I think I might not enjoy some of the food options, but everything else looks delightful!

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    1. Thank you kindly, Diana. Steeped with history and oozing with charm, Edinburgh has a lovely blend of old and new. Medieval architecture plays host to world-class restaurants, and cosy shops are nestled in centuries-old alleyways. And perched above it all, Edinburgh’s majestic castle overlooks the entire city. When it comes to food, there’s more to it than haggis and deep-fried Mars bars, so you are sure to find something utterly delicious! Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Hi, Anita. I am glad you enjoyed your time in Edinburgh – it is a spectacularly beautiful city that did as much as almost anywhere else in Western Europe to shape the modern world and the way we live now. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. The flight time from Dublin to Edinburgh is only 50 minutes which makes it a great place for a fantastic weekend trip! We are lucky to have regular flights through the year from the Knock Airport too – I am actually nipping over for a few days next month. With tickets costing 15 euros each way it’s much cheaper than travelling from Sligo to Dublin by train or car! Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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        1. It’s a fantastic airport – the terminal’s departure hall is spacious, airy, and when compared to Dublin, noticeably lacking in queues which is just what you need for a smooth passenger experience. I flew to Edinburgh last July and was through to my gate with no delay or queuing in under 4 minutes. xx

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  10. That’s a great informative post. I will have to save it for future trips to Edinburgh. I have done a few things you mentioned such as Calton Hill and Mary Kings Close. Still need to climb Arthur’s Seat. Would love to go to Leith. There are other nice neighborhoods to explore too, on your next trip there. Such as Stockbridge and the Dene Village. Thanks again. X

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    1. Thank you! I hope you get to climb to the top of the ancient, extinct volcano from its base in Hollyrood Park as the views from the summit are quite staggering: you can easily spot the clocktower of Edinburgh’s grandest hotel, The Balmoral, the Nelson Monument and the imposing bulk of Edinburgh Castle.
      And I agree with you – there are many amazing neighbourhoods to explore in Edinburgh too! I love Dean Village and was happy to wander around it once more on my last trip to Edinburgh. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  11. Everything on this post looks like a must-do. Of course, having only seen the outside of the castle, a castle tour is #1 for me next time I’m in Edinburgh, but zooming up to #2 is the Real Mary King’s Close, followed closely by Camera Obscura, neither of which I’d heard of until now. Thanks for the travel inspiration!

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    1. There are plenty of things to do in Edinburgh, whether you’re after a fun day out packed with adventure or a relaxed stroll through historical haunts. It was my first time experiencing the Real Mary King’s Close, and I can say that embarking on a spooky candlelit tour of Edinburgh’s underground passages is a fantastic way to scare the bejeezus out of yourself. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. There are plenty of exciting things to do in Edinburgh, from stunning architecture and endless winding streets to an awe-inspiring castle perched on a dormant volcano. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  13. Ah, Edinburgh…I haven’t returned since 2015, and during my stay, it was very brief. I did do the touristy circuit, including the Royal Mile and its surroundings– but I’d love to check out Calton Hill for those panoramic city views, as well as explore Leith and try more of Scottish cuisine (I did try haggis last time I was in town, and I actually didn’t mind it!). One of these days, I’ll have to go back– thanks for sharing, Aiva!

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    1. Hi, Rebecca! We just came back from a 5-day family road trip around Scotland where we stopped for a night in Edinburgh and had a fantastic time exploring it! When it comes to Calton Hill, it is a must when in Edinburgh – it’s an easy climb to the top, where you can see some of the best views of the city, admire the historic monuments built there, or simply relax outdoors for a while. It’s also a great place to relax for a while, where you can take a break from Edinburgh’s busy streets. You can bring a picnic, a book, some music, or whatever else you like, and detach from everything for a while, especially on sunny, summer days. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  14. I loved Edinburgh. We did many of the things from your list. We also went to Stirling castle a d spend a day and a half in Glasgow. I loved the view from Calton Hill despite bad weather but it was too muddy to climb the Arthur’s seat. I have some old posts on my blog about that trip.

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    1. I am glad to hear you loved Edinburgh, Tanja! It is a city that has become synonymous with the annual Fringe Festival, which sees thousands of attendees flock to the city every August. But there are plenty of other amazing sights and attractions that pull in visitors all year round. I shall stop by your blog and find your posts about your time in the city. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  15. It’s been in my bucket list for the longest time. I was immediately intrigued when I received a post card who visited long ago. Thank you for giving me more than a glimpse.

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    1. I hope you get to visit Edinburgh one day – from glorious walks to a vibrant arts scene, the Scottish capital has heaps on offer to keep you busy. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. From a contemporary art scene to Harry Potter nostalgia, Edinburgh has an emphatically creative heart that inspires and uplifts its discerning visitors. I bet your son had a fantastic time studying in Edinburgh as Scotland’s inspiring capital is one of Europe’s great cultural hubs and a stimulating place to study. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  17. So much great information here Aiva. I haven’t been to Edinburgh since I was a kid so all of this is kind of a dream-like memory for me. Some day I’ll return. Your night shot of Edinburgh Castle is fantastic! Maggie

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    1. Thanks so much, Maggie. We just came back from a fantastic 5-day road trip around Scotland, and I was utterly delighted to explore it with my family. Edinburgh truly is an astonishing city when it comes to the comforting atmosphere it provides. With its old historic buildings, small alleys, cosy pubs and Cafés, it feels like home… away from home. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Edinburgh is an amazing city to explore and photograph. From the wet and windy depths of winter to the light and sunny highs of summer, each season brings its own distinct personality and experience. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. I love Edinburgh, too and was excited to explore it with my family just a few weeks ago! It’s fast becoming one of the most-visited tourist destinations in Europe and for the right reasons as it has plenty of enchanting buildings, wonderful tourist attractions, beautiful green spaces and intriguing history. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. As you have visited ‘Auld Reekie’, you are well aware of just how atmospheric it is with the winding, secretive alleyways of The Royal Mile seemingly at odds with the up-market streets of the New Town. I hope you enjoyed the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo – the sell-out event is still on my travel wish list. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. I hope you had a memorable time exploring Edinburgh 🙂 I find that it is a mix of historic and modern that makes Edinburgh such a special place, and coupled with knock-out tourist wonders like an extinct volcano, an awe-inspiring castle and a spectacular royal palace it’s no wonder that millions of visitors choose to spend their holidays there each year. Thanks for stopping by and have a great day 🙂 Aiva xx

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      1. My younger son hasn’t been to Scotland, so there’s a reason for us to visit again in the future. Yup we went to the Edinburgh Castle, and to the Royal Mile as well. Is the nice old church and the statue of Adam Smith in the Royal Mile, would you know offhand?

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  22. We were hoping to visit Scotland this summer, but by the time we went to book our flight and accommodations, the prices were a bit too high for our liking. We figured it would be best to wait until the shoulder season (or book further out in advance). This looks like a great list of things to do in Edinburgh. It would be neat to visit during one of their various festivals, especially for the Hogmanay Festival. Thanks for sharing. Linda

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    1. Hi, Linda 🙂 I am sorry to hear that you didn’t get to explore Scotland this summer due to how expensive it is. According to a recent survey, Edinburgh is the most expensive summer destination in the UK and Ireland for travellers booking rooms which is why we had to push our trip well into September and even then, some of the hotels in the capital were charging 300 pounds for a one-night stay.

      If you’re planning a trip to Scotland, it’s best to book your airfare and accommodation as early as possible, at least 6 months ahead of your travel dates, to get the best rates. Also – with its unpredictable weather patterns, travel to Scotland is most popular – and most expensive – during the warmer months of March to September. If you want to save on your airfare and accommodation, the best time to travel to Scotland is during the off-season, which falls between November 1 and December 12, then December 26 to March 14. I hope this helps. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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      1. Well that explains why everything was so outrageously expensive! This is good to know. Hopefully we can visit Scotland (and Ireland) next year. Our family of Wandering Canadians will be expanding and these both seem like great spots to travel with an infant.

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    1. Thank you kindly, Hannah, and I hope you get to return to Edinburgh as there’s no shortage of things to do in the city, from visiting the Royal Mile and the historic Castle to checking out all the quirky shops and cafes in Grassmarket. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  24. Although I’m aware of its many charms, Scotland has never been high on my list because of the climate, but you have convinced me that Edinburgh surely deserves a visit if only for the castle and the underground houses. Great post.
    Alison

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    1. Hi, Alsion. I can easily understand where you are coming from – for many people Scotland conjures up images of mountains, rain, and more rain. It rains so much that in fact, there are over a hundred Scottish words for ‘rain’ alone. Nevertheless, despite the miserable climate, when in Edinburgh, you can stroll in any direction and find endless cosy pubs and first-class restaurants next to an array of superb shops and fantastic tourist attractions. There are also world-leading museums, art galleries and theatres-galore, plus some of the greatest festivals in Europe that are staged throughout the year. Thanks for stopping by and have a wonderful day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. My pleasure! I can only imagine what Edinburgh was like in 1985 – I’d say the traffic was heavy in the city centre as cars were still allowed to travel along Princes Street. We visited Edinburgh a few weeks ago, and as we arrived by car, it was interesting to find street signs on building walls or signposts in a myriad of sizes, fonts, and colours that were probably once quite useful when travelling by horse and carriage. But amid all the cargo vans, and double-decker buses by the time you focus enough to read the sign you’ll be past the intersection. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Thanks so much 🙂 Edinburgh is a wonderful city to explore, especially the oldest part of the capital that has preserved much of its medieval street plan and many Reformation-era buildings. The abundance of museums, art galleries, theatres, ancient churches, countless historic landmarks, and shopping and recreational opportunities in this area of Edinburgh may seem quite daunting when it comes to sightseeing and that’s why you need a good few days to see it all. Thanks for stopping by and have a nice day. Aiva 🙂 xxx

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    1. That’s a brilliant suggestion. A few years ago, I took a Forth Boat Tour cruise of Inchcolm Island from Hawes Pier in South Queensferry and had a brilliant time exploring it. I was in awe of the spectacular views of Inchcolm Island, the Three Bridges, the beautiful panoramas of the Edinburgh skyline to the south and the Kingdom of Fife to the north. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. You’ll find that since your visit, Edinburgh has gone seriously hipster! There are all sorts of cool new places popping up everywhere in the city – there’s even a cat cafe (with lots of places for them to climb and play as well as nooks and crannies to explore and snooze inside). The trams are finally in the city, and the Bank of Scotland no longer really exists in its old form. The best part though is that it still looks and feels distinctly Scottish – all this change without losing its identity is absolutely worth celebrating. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  29. What a wonderful post. It’s been over 35 years since I visited Edinburgh so your post certainly brought back some long hidden but fabulous memories. Thanks for taking me back Aiva. 💗 xx

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    1. I am glad to hear that my post brought back fabulous memories, Miriam! So much has changed in Edinburgh over the last 35 years, but it is the same architecturally stunning city where both Georgian and medieval towns still exist and thrive. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  30. Edinburgh is a fabulous year-round destination! I last visited in 2019- I lived there for a year as my husband was working in the city. Leith was one of my favourite neighbourhoods for a wander and we often walked our dog at Arthur’s seat. I’d also add the Pentland hills park is just a short drive or bus out of the centre- great for walks, open space and views!

    An enjoyable post, brought back some fond memories.

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    1. Hi, Helen, it’s so nice to hear from you! I lived in Edinburgh too. I worked in the city for three years and lived right by the Leith shore. Somehow, after all these years, I still remember my old address – 8 Sheriff Bank. Maybe it is because we lived right next to the infamous Banana Flats – you know the ones that were the home of Sick Boy in the iconic Edinburgh-set novel Trainspotting and were known as hotbeds of drug abuse during the ’80s. Either way, I love your suggestion about Pentland Hill. It is a stunning place to explore, especially when the purple heather starts to bloom, and the landscape explodes with colour. Thanks for stopping by and have a good day. Did you write about your time in Edinburgh on your blog? 🙂 Aiva xx

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      1. There are a few posts on there, we were based in Dreghorn so Morningside & the Pentlands were right on our doorstep.

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    1. That’s fantastic, Ruth! I am glad you’ve been to both! Edinburgh is one of the best cities in the world to ring in the New Year (Hogmanay Torch Light Procession is a must!). It’s an amazing experience to be there and see the craziness of street parties, cèilidhs, concerts, fireworks, fancy dress and see people holding hands, singing a song, and being merry when the fireworks strike the sky. The same goes for the Festival, it’s unlike anything I’ve seen before. When I lived in Edinburgh, I worked as a bartender for three years in a busy city centre avenue, and I could probably write a book about everything I saw happening during both festivals. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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      1. Looking back on one of my first posts, Festivals of Scotland, I realized I didn’t put many photos in it. You’ve inspired me to expand it. I’ll post it again after I catch up with this last trip. Thanks!

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  32. I visited Edinburgh in my teen years and was completely enchanted- it’s hard for me to believe that I have yet to make it back for further exploration! Both Ireland and Scotland call to me in a deeply resonant way…at some point in my life I could see myself living short-term in one place or the other to fully experience their essence. As I have been recently re-watching the Harry Potter movies, this post seems particularly fitting for some atmospheric wanderlust 🪄💖

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    1. Hi, Laura, it’s so nice to hear from you. How is life on Vancouver Island, has autumn arrived? I am glad to hear that you feel that way about Ireland and Scotland. It’s how I felt about Scotland as long as I remember.

      In 2005 my husband got a job in Edinburgh, and we spontaneously decided to relocate from Dublin to the Scottish capital. What I didn’t expect was that Edinburgh would take me by surprise. I felt an immediate connection and revelled in the dark atmosphere. I felt like I was home for the three years we lived there. It was a strange, ethereal closeness to a place I had never been. Hard to describe. One other place I ever felt the same was Vancouver. So my plan is, for whenever we retire and our kids are old enough to support themselves, to find a cosy flat in Edinburgh and move to live there for a few months and slowly comb through its many art galleries, quiet nooks and crannies and attend as many literary workshops as possible. If my dream comes to fruition, you can always come over to Edinburgh and stay with us! Cheers, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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      1. Hi, Aiva! Life on Vancouver Island has been beautiful lately, despite some big changes in the latter part of the year (a housing move that I was not anticipating or wanting). Autumn is here in all of its beautiful glory, and I have been relishing the cooler temperatures and colourful scenery- I’ll share some photos of that soon! I loved reading your comment about living in Edinburgh and your immediate connection with it- I have a sense that I would react the same way to it. If you do ever find a cozy flat there later in life, I will truly be on the first flight over to say hello! Your plan sounds positively dreamy 📚🖼️☔

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        1. I hope your housing move is going smoothly, Laura, especially as it is considered one of the most stressful things you can do because your whole life and all your belongings are in limbo for a while. We moved a year ago, and I found that packing everything that we own, organising the move, and unpacking and settling in at the other end caught me off guard by just what a stressful thing it can be to move house. Anyway, I look forward to reading more about your adventures around the island as they bring me immense joy. Have a wonderful day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Exactly! And that’s why I love Edinburgh so much. In the morning, you can dive into the city’s museums and stop for a bite and then, in the afternoon, you can escape the crowds and find peace and quiet (and maybe just a few locals walking their dogs) in one of its green parks. Thanks for sharing, and have a wonderful day. The autumn has finally arrived in Sligo, and we are basking in the sea of colourful leaves. What it’s like in your part of the world? Thanks for stopping by, and have a great day 🙂 Aiva xx

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    1. Thanks so much, Jane. Before settling on Ireland’s West Coast, I lived in Edinburgh for three years and loved every minute of it. I hope you get to return one day. It’s a wonderful city to explore and photograph. Thanks for stopping by, and have a great day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  35. Although I don’t consider myself a first-time visitor, your list will come in handy when I finally get back to Edinburgh. There is a good selection of photos with useful practical explanations to save time. Great thanks!

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    1. Thanks so much. I was fortunate to be in Edinburgh three times this year and as the weather on each occasion was in my favour, I managed to see and do quite a lot. Although I have yet to explore Craigmillar Castle and see the city from the Jonny Walker rooftop terrace. Thanks for stopping by, and have a good day 🙂 Aiva xx

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  36. I’ve been there years ago. I could still remember some things from your photos, but there are also a lot of things I don’t remember (or haven’t seen).

    So, thank you for the memories and the reminder that I should visit Scotland again someday soon.

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