TOP-35

things to do in Edinburgh

What is it?
An official residence of King Charles III in Scotland with breathtaking interiors and an art gallery.

Why you should go?
Get a chance to see what an official royal residence looks like. One of the best places to visit in Edinburgh offers 14 historic rooms open to the public. Immerse yourself in Scottish royal history while exploring the historic rooms of the palace, such as the chambers of Mary, Queen of Scots, and Bonnie Prince Charlie. Visit the State Apartments and the Queen's Gallery and feel like a part of the royal family. Take a stroll in the Royal Gardens and admire Holyrood Abbey.

Open hours: The Palace of Holyroodhouse is open daily, except on Tuesdays and Wednesdays:
From April 1 to October 31: 09:30 AM – 6:00 PM
From November 1 to March 31: 09:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Cost: £17.50

What is it?
A former yacht of the British Royal family that served as a monarch residence during the state visits of Queen Elizabeth II.

Why you should go?
Visiting Britannica is one of the best things to do in Edinburgh if you want to learn more about British history. Whether you're a Royal family fan or naval enthusiast, there is plenty to see for everyone at the State Apartments, Crew's Quarters, Engine Room, and the Royal Sailing Exhibition. The Royal Deck Tea Room experience will add a special touch to your visit.

Open hours:The Royal Yacht Britannia is open daily:
From January to March: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
From April to August: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
In September: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
In October: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
From November to December: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Cost: £18

What is it?
The most important parish church in Scotland, founded in the 12th century, that was at the center of the Scottish Reformation in the 16th century.

Why you should go?
Whether you are religious or not, you will appreciate the magnificent Gothic architecture that makes St. Giles Cathedral so different from other churches in the city. Get inspired by the serene atmosphere inside the church and look at the details of the breathtaking interiors, from countless stained glass windows to original central pillars. Immerse yourself in the history of religion in the UK and explore the statue of John Knox and the Thistle Chapel of the highest Scottish order of chivalry.

Open hours: St. Giles Cathedral is open daily:
From Monday to Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
On Saturdays: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
On Sundays: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Cost: free

What is it?
An ancient volcano and the highest point of the Holyrood Park with fantastic panoramic views of Edinburgh

Why you should go?
Enveloped in stories and legends, the largest peak of an extinct volcano attracts millions of tourists. Located in Holyrood Park adjacent to the Royal residence, the summit of Arthur's Seat is a short walk from the historic Royal Mile. Explore the beautiful nature of this place while learning more about ancient stories, such as the legend of the sleeping dragon. Find out if the peak is related to the Celtic hero, King Arthur, and marvel at breathtaking views of the city.

Open hours: Arthur's Seat is open 24 hours a day, all year round.
Cost:free

What is it?
One of the most legendary hills in the heart of Edinburgh, with a great collection of national monuments.

Why you should go?
Calton Hill is another iconic Edinburgh destination, perfect for friends and family days out and mindful walking by yourself. Scotland's landmark, which some have called the Athens of the North, can be found just next to Edinburgh Castle in the city center. From Calton Hill, you can admire incredible views of the city and its most famous attractions, from the Holyrood Palace to Arthur's Seat and the Parliament. But the Hill itself is worth exploring. Here, you can see historical monuments of great significance, such as the Scottish National Monument, Robert Burns Monument, Dugald Stewart Monument, and Nelson Monument.

Open hours:Calton Hill is open 24 hours a day, all year round.
Cost:free

What is it?
A ruined medieval stronghold that was once a refuge for Mary Queen of Scots.

Why you should go?
You could have seen Edinburgh's 'other castle' in the Outlander TV series. The ruined fortress is worth exploring: climb one of Scotland's oldest towers, enjoy the views of Edinburgh's landmarks, and see a unique fishpond. Take a tour of the castle and immerse yourself in the history of Scotland.

Open hours: Craigmillar Castle is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM from April to September and from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM from October to March. The last admission is 45 minutes before closing.
Cost: £7

What is it?
A Scottish national treasure and one of the oldest botanic gardens in the UK, with over 350-year-old plants.

Why you should go?
One of the world's finest, the Royal Botanic Garden is a must-see when visiting Scotland. Here, you will find plants from all over the world in over 70 acres of outstanding landscape. Discover the nature of Scotland while exploring the Health Garden and its Scottish Native Plants collection, and learn more about the diverse flora of different cultures. Another highlight of the Garden is the Glasshouses, currently under restoration, home to the Living Collection of plants that are being preserved for future generations.

Open hours:The Royal Botanic Garden is open daily.
From March to September: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
In October and February: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
From November to January: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
The Garden is closed on December 25 and January 1
Cost: free

What is it?
A Neo-Gothic monument in the city center dedicated to Sir Walter Scott, world-famous Scottish novelist, poet, and historian, author of Ivanhoe, The Lady of the Lake, and other masterpieces.

Why you should go?
One of the best Edinburgh attractions, the Scott Monument is the epitome of the Victorian Gothic style in architecture. Often compared to a rocket, it is the second largest monument built in honor of a writer. It comprises many fantastic details, such as 64 statues that mainly represent the characters from Scott's works. The memorial is currently closed due to maintenance, but once it opens to the public, you will be able to climb 287 steps to the top and enjoy great views of the city.

Opening hours: The Scott Monument is temporarily closed for visiting, but it is still possible to admire it from the outside.
Cost: £8

What is it?
A sculpture park and open-air art gallery, set in over 80 acres of landscape, ten miles outside Edinburgh.

Why you should go?
The creative collaboration of philanthropist art collectors Nicky and Robert Wilson with famous artists, Jupiter Artland was founded in 2009 and quickly became a sensation in the art world and Scotland's landmark. Full of thought-provoking artworks, the park is a perfect destination for a day trip to escape the noise of the crowded city. Jupiter Artland also offers special exhibitions and educational events, such as public talks, workshops, and children's activities.

Open hours:Jupiter Artland is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Cost:£10

Traveling with kids and exploring the world together can be a blast. Still, it is necessary to keep your small ones happy and entertained. Not all activities will be enjoyable for you and your kids, but we have found the best attractions to help you make the most out of your trip.

What is it?
An audio walking tour dedicated to places that inspired Harry Potter, one of the world's most famous fantasy novels and film series.

Why you should go?
Harry Potter became one of the strongest associations with Edinburgh. It is here where J.K. Rowling wrote most of the Harry Potter books. Feel the real-life magic of Edinburgh while exploring locations that served as an inspiration for creating the wizarding world. Discover the original Hogwarts, walk down the High Street to see where Diagon Alley came to life, and visit the grave of Lord Voldemort. Enjoy easy navigation and insightful facts in the WeGoTrip app that also works offline.

Open hours:Monday to Sunday 10am - 5pm, last entry 4pm
Cost:£15

What is it?
Five floors of an interactive experience for people of all ages and over 100 illusions, including the world-famous Camera Obscura.

Why you should go?
One of the best things to do in Edinburgh with kids is visiting the famous museum where you can touch the world of magic and science and test your abilities. Explore immersive exhibitions such as the Magic Gallery, Light Fantastic, Thermal Camera, and Bewilderworld with the most fun illusions. Discover Edinburgh through the Camera Obscura and go to the rooftop terrace to get amazed by 360-degree views of the city.

Open hours:Camera Obscura & World of Illusions is open daily from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, with extended hours on Fridays and Sundays until 9:00 PM and on Saturdays until 10:00 PM.
Cost: £19.95 and £18.95 if booked online

What is it?
A famous tapestry studio and a center for contemporary art, design, and craft.

Why you should go?
Established in 1912, Dovecot is a perfect destination for you and your kids to explore art and crafts. Free the way for the creative flow to come into your at one of many workshops where you and your kids will be able to build things on your own. See how artists create their works and visit unique exhibitions.

Open hours: Dovecot Studio is open Monday to Saturday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Cost:£10.50 for adults and £7.50 for children (13-17 years old)

What is it?
A non-profit zoo, set in an 82-acre park, just three miles from the Edinburgh city center.

Why you should go?
Perfect for a family day out, Edinburgh Zoo is a place where you can experience the world of nature. Get a once in a lifetime opportunity to get up close with animals and learn more about how the Zoo works with Keeper Experience. Here, you can also see those species that became extinct millions of years ago — discover dinosaurs at the immersive exhibition. Edinburgh Zoo is also at the forefront of saving animals and offers fun and educational public talks and special events for people of all ages.

Open hours:Edinburgh Zoo is open daily:
From April to September: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
In October and March: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
From November to February: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
The Zoo is closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
Cost: £19.95 for adults and £12.50 for children (3-15)

What is it?
A top attraction that tells the story of the Earth and how life on the planet began and evolved.

Why you should go?
Whether you and your kids are into science or not, Dynamic Earth is an incredible experience where everyone can find something for themselves. Take a journey through time and space and immerse yourself in the world of endless discovery of how our planet works. Take a trip to the beginning of the Earth in the real Deep Time Machine and feel the wonders of our world.

Open hours:Dynamic Earth is open daily from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, with extended hours on Saturdays and Sundays until 4:00 PM.
Cost: £17.50 for adults and £10.95 for children (4-15)

What is it?
An astronomical institution and a visitor center for everyone who wants to learn more about the furthest reaches of the universe.

Why you should go?
Get up close to the world of science and explore the universe. Learn how space works and immerse yourself in astronomy at the public talks, perfect for beginners and those who want to dig deeper. The Royal Observatory itself is an attraction. Take a tour of the building, learn more about its history, and discover how everything functions.

Open hours:The Royal Observatory is open Monday to Friday from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. There is a unique schedule for special events and tours. Make sure to check the official website before your visit.
Cost: £4.50 – £7.50

What is it?
An urban farm operated by LOVE Learning charity for youth and adults with needs.

Why you should go?
Taking care of animals helps reduce stress. So visiting a farm might be an excellent opportunity for you and your kids to get away from the city noise and be at one with nature, cuddle with small pets, and meet animals you would not see in the center of Edinburgh. There are many learning activities for children and young people. You can also arrange a fun family tour of the farm and explore how it operates and what it takes to keep all the animals happy and healthy.

Open hours:Love Gorgie Farm is open daily from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM in the summer season and from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM during winter. The farm is closed on Christmas Day and New Year's Day.
Cost: free, donations are welcome

What is it?
A museum in the Bank of Scotland Head Office that tells the story of money and economics.

Why you should go?
Going to the bank with kids might sound like a strange idea. Still, the Museum on the Mound focuses on the history of money, economics, and banking in a fun and interactive way. The story of money is also about art, technology, security, and crime. Only here can you learn how to crack open a safe and see a million pounds and Scotland's oldest banknote.

Open hours: Museum on the Mound is open Tuesday to Friday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM and on Saturdays from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
Cost: free

What is it?
Award-winning walking tours of Edinburgh's Old Town dedicated to the city's mysterious past.

Why you should go?
See the Old Town of Edinburgh through the eyes of locals and uncover its dark secrets through the tales told by ghosts. Discover stories of the plague, tortures, witchcraft while exploring the hidden historical places of the city. Learn more about the famous Greyfriars Kirkyard and its most notorious residents. The tours will be a fun way to immerse yourself and your kids in the history of Scotland.

Open hours:Public tours are available from Wednesdays to Sundays. The Greyfriars Cemetery tour starts at 2:00 PM, and the Ghosts & Gore tour starts at 7:00 PM.
Cost: £13-15 for adults and £9-12 for children

What is it?
A center dedicated to preserving the art of storytelling and a venue for special events on the Royal Mile.

Why you should go?
Explore Scotland's culture of telling stories at a unique venue you would not see anywhere else. Discover the national heritage while listening to fun and captivating tales. Your kids will especially love an interactive Storywall with characters from Scottish folklore. You can also attend the annual Scottish International Storytelling Festival and hear all genres of stories from the best.

Open hours:The Scottish Storytelling Centre is open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Cost: The Scottish Storytelling Centre hosts a number of events, each with a different price.

Planning a family day out in Edinburgh? Here's the list of the top activities that will be perfect for people of all ages, from exploring the human body anatomy to time traveling to a XIX-century village. Get ready to have fun and learn something new.

What is it?
An award-winning museum that focuses on the history of medicine, especially surgery and dentistry, and houses one of the largest pathology collections in the country.

Why you should go?
Learn more about the human body at the headquarters of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh. The Surgeons' Hall Museums house more than 5,000 medical objects, such as medical instruments, specimens, and artwork. Explore the museum's interactive exhibits dedicated to the anatomy of humans and animals and the history of medicine and scientific research. Discover a rich pathology collection and visit a reconstruction of an early dissection theater from 1702.

Open hours:Surgeons' Hall Museums are open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Cost:£8.50 for adults and £4.50 for children (5-16)

What is it?
An award-winning seaside beach with 2 miles of sand.

Why you should go?
Located a few miles from the city center, Portobello Beach is a great destination for a family day outdoors. Clean water and sand, along with a Victorian swimming pool and cafés on the promenade, make it perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Portobello Beach is also home to sailing, kayaking, and coastal rowing clubs, so look out for the activities.

Open hours: Portobello Beach is open 24 hours a day, all year round.
Cost:free

What is it?
A picturesque village by Water of Leith with cozy XIX-century houses and a museum.

Why you should go?
Located 5 minutes away from Princes Street, Dean Village is a must-see attraction. Feel like a time traveler and explore how people used to live in Scotland centuries ago. Once the largest of the mill settlements, Dean Village is now a tranquil oasis where you will find the remains of water mills and houses of former mill workers. Discover Victorian houses like Well Court, the most iconic in the village, and learn its history.

Open hours: Dean Village is open 24 hours a day, all year round.
Cost:free

Edinburgh's attractions are a perfect example of why exploring the city shouldn't be expensive. From interactive experiences to museums with world-famous exhibits, there are plenty of free things to do.

What is it?
A national art gallery, one of the best free museums in the city, famous for its vast collection of works by renowned artists.

Why you should go?
One of the top free things to do in Edinburgh, the gallery is home to the world's most iconic masterpieces by such artists as Titian, Velázquez, Rembrandt, van Dyck, Vermeer, El Greco, Raphael, and Botticelli. Here, you can also discover the history of Scottish art with the museum's rich collection of paintings by Wilkie, Ramsay, McTaggart, and Raeburn. Elsewhere, there are many fun and immersive activities for people of all ages — bring your friends and family to enjoy the world of art together.

Open hours:The Scottish National Gallery is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Cost: free

What is it?
A popular museum dedicated to natural history, science, technology, world cultures, design, and art.

Why you should go?
Located in the heart of Edinburgh, the National Museum of Scotland offers a unique educational experience with great engaging exhibitions. Perfect for a family day out, the museum houses fun interactive exhibits that range from Scottish history to fashion and the latest discoveries so that everyone can find something captivating for themselves. The highlights of the National Museum of Scotland include Dolly the Sheep, Muonionalusta Meteorite, The Newstead Helmet, and Arthur's Seat Coffins. Make the most of your visit by trying new immersive trails.

Open hours:The National Museum of Scotland is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Cost: free

What is it?
A historic concession of streets and the main thoroughfare of the Old Town that has been a procession route for monarchs for centuries.

Why you should go?
A must-see for anyone looking to feel the city's spirit, the Royal Mile is located between the Palace of Holyroodhouse and Edinburgh Castle. Discover the past of the Old Town of Edinburgh while visiting the city's main attractions, such as the Mary King's Close under the buildings of the Royal Mile. If you're an architecture lover, you will surely appreciate the outstanding design of the Scottish Parliament.

Open hours:The Royal Mile is open 24 hours a day, all year round.
Cost:free

There are many budget-friendly experiences in Edinburgh, and we have found the best of them. Learn how to explore the city's history for free and where to find the best affordable meals and gifts.

What is it?
A cozy museum that covers centuries of Edinburgh's unique history at the Royal Mile in the historic Old Town.

Why you should go?
Featured in the third season of the popular TV series Outlander, the Museum of Edinburgh is a real gem. Relatively small, it still houses vast collections of iconic artifacts, documents, and decorative art in its maze of historic rooms. The highlights include the National Covenant of 1638 that led to civil war and the New Town plans. There is also a small courtyard with a peaceful garden where you can relax after visiting the museum.

Open hours:The Museum of Edinburgh is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Cost: free

What is it?
Iconic neighborhood in the Old Town below Edinburgh Castle with an assortment of independent stores, bars, and restaurants.


Why you should go?
Picturesque Grassmarket is a perfect destination if you want to save some money and still enjoy the ultimate Edinburgh experience. See the most visited church in the city, Greyfriars Kirk, founded in the post-Reformation period. Try the city's best pulled pork sandwich at the Oink restaurant or African dishes at the Nile Valley Café. Come on the weekend to meet the locals at the Grassmarket market.

Open hours: Grassmarket is open 24 hours a day, but the markets are available on Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Cost:free

What is it?
A peaceful small garden named after the writer David Dunbar, next to the bustling Royal Mile.

Why you should go?
A hidden gem of Canongate, Dunbar's Close is a quiet spot to get away from the crowded Old Town. There are many public parks and green spaces in the city, but this 17th-century-style garden is truly unique and beloved by many locals. It is easy to walk past the garden, so there are no crowds here, and you can enjoy a serene atmosphere while contemplating the beautiful plants.

Open hours:Dunbar's Close Garden is open daily from 7:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
Cost: free

The unique architecture of the Old Town and cozy cobbled streets make Edinburgh one of the most romantic destinations. Our list of the best activities for couples has something for everyone, whether you're planning a classic date or looking for something original.

What is it?
A legendary cinema that started as the King's Cinema in 1914, one of the oldest in the UK.

Why you should go?
Feel like a local while watching the best new and old films — it will make a classic movie date just perfect. Take a tour of a century-old cinema, see original ticket kiosks, the entrance lobby, and the terrazzo floor. This place feels like a time machine. Moreover, you can take soft or alcoholic drinks into the screening.

Open hours:Cameo is open Monday to Friday from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. There is a unique schedule for special events and tours. Make sure to check the official website before your visit.
Cost: £7-13

What is it?
A luxury hotel founded in 1902 with an iconic clock tower and 120 years of history.

Why you should go?
Discover the renowned hotel in the heart of Edinburgh. Agent 007 is not the only famous person to have visited the hotel, so there is a high chance you could meet a celebrity. Admire the building's outstanding architecture and exquisite interiors and learn what is wrong with the hotel's clock. Enjoy a romantic dinner at the hotel's Michelin-starred restaurant, once a favorite of the Queen Mother, and taste fine cuisine.

Open hours:The hotel is open 24 hours a day, all year round.
Cost: the average room price is £320

What is it?
A legendary 18th-century well with healing powers in a picturesque setting.

Why you should go?
Marvel at one of the most romantic spots in Edinburgh, located between Dean Village and the vibrant Stockbridge neighborhood. Feel like a character from an old fairytale or a novel while admiring a statue of Hygeia, the Greek goddess of health, that protects St. Bernard's Well. A beautiful Greco-Roman well was once believed to have healing powers, all thanks to a natural spring discovered above the Water of Leith in 1760.

Open hours: St. Bernard's Well is open 24 hours a day, all year round.
Cost: free

Edinburgh has a lot to offer when it comes to planning a night out. Find something perfect for you and your friends in our list of hidden gems, from traditional activities like whisky tasting to great bars and horror escape rooms.

What is it?
A center dedicated to informing people on the history and making of Scotch whisky through interactive tours and whisky tasting.

Why you should go?
Get an ultimate Scottish experience and immerse yourself in the history of one and only Scotch whisky. The center houses the most extensive Scotch whisky collection — 3,384 bottles. It might be challenging to pick one of an assortment of activities that range from nosing and tasting whisky to tasting famous dishes of Scottish cuisine.

Open hours: The Scotch Whisky Experience is open daily from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
Cost:£19 - £82

What is it?
An immersive experience dedicated to the dark history of Edinburgh with live actor shows, theatrical sets, and exciting rides.

Why you should go?
The Dungeon is one of the most fun things to do in Edinburgh if you want to explore the mysteries and horrors of Scotland's past. There are 360 immersive sets, from the Torture Chamber and Greyfriars Kirkyard to Cannibal's Cave. But the scariest and most thrilling experience is reserved for adults on Friday nights. Start your weekend with the Dungeon Lates program and dive into the night you will remember for a long time.

Open hours: The Edinburgh Dungeon is open daily from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with the Dungeon Lates program on Fridays from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
Cost:£21.95 and £19.76 if booked online

What is it?
A famous tavern with magic potions and escape rooms.

Why you should go?
Discover what it feels like to be a witch or a wizard while tasting real potions and butterbeer. The Department of Magic welcomes everyone who wants to touch the world of witchcraft and offers fun activities like resurrecting the Dark Lord and making potions. Cloaks and magic wands are included.

Open hours: The Department of Magic is open daily from 2:00 PM to 11:00 PM, with early hours on Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00 AM.
Cost:£19 – £25 per person