Auld Reekie has it all!
Culture, history or entertainment - an Edinburgh day out or short break is sure to have it. Though Scotland’s capital isn’t the country’s biggest city, it offers up creativity and individuality in spades. From the pomp and ceremony of the Military Tattoo to the edgiest entertainment of the Fringe Festival, as well as fascinating museums and monuments, this global capital is welcoming to everyone.
Edinburgh tourist attractions are packed full of history and heritage. Visitors can take in the magnificent castle, wander up to the famous Arthur’s Seat or check out the shops, eateries and bars of the Royal Mile. Alternatively, culture lovers can enjoy spotting Edinburgh’s mix of modern and historical architecture, visiting the numerous galleries or tasting some of Scotland’s best produce at the city’s markets.
Best of Edinburgh
As soon as you step off the train at Edinburgh station, you’ll get a sense of the city’s unique mix of history and culture. Sitting right in the middle of the new and old town, you’ll immediately be able to enjoy some Edinburgh sightseeing, including the Castle, St Giles Cathedral and the Scottish National Gallery. A short wander down the Royal Mile and you’ll be in the charming Southside area packed full of independent shops, cafes and restaurants.
Alternatively, head into the New Town to explore a UNESCO heritage site. Wander through Princes Street Gardens, enjoy a spot of window shopping or admire the beautiful Georgian architecture that gave the city its ‘Athens of the North’ nickname. Wherever you roam, sights, sounds and exciting experiences are just around the corner.
Even More To Do
For those who love to book ahead and cover the main attractions, there are plenty of bus, walking and even eBike tours which explore Edinburgh’s sights. Visit a whiskey distillery to see how Scotland’s favourite spirit is made, enjoy a trip to famous sports venues like BT Murrayfield or experience the paranormal on a ghost tour at Real Mary King’s Close.
If you prefer to take your own lead, then Edinburgh’s relatively small size makes it the ideal place to wander. With the Royal Mile connecting Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse, there are several opportunities to shop, eat and soak up the capital’s atmosphere. Uncover hidden gems, dive into live music venues or learn about local produce, art and crafts at one of the city’s markets.
Explore All of Edinburgh
Things to do in Edinburgh
Edinburgh is a city of two halves. Old and new, culture and history, dark folklore and light entertainment all mix to create a unique northern capital.
The Old Town is Edinburgh’s medieval heart, with attractive cobbled streets leading to artisan shops and eateries; the Grassmarket, Holyrood and Canongate are all exciting destinations that can be found in this area. The New Town was built in the 18th and 19th centuries, making it home to some of the UK’s most beautiful Georgian architecture, bustling high streets and the best Scottish dining experiences.
These neighbourhoods are just two examples of the city’s rich history, and those who enjoy learning about a city’s heritage will have plenty to enjoy here. Sitting at the top of the Royal Mile and above the city, Edinburgh Castle is a top visitor attraction and home to big events such as concerts and the Military Tattoo. It also neighbours Arthur’s Seat, an ancient volcano that’s free to climb for fantastic views of the city. Alternatively, the other end of the mile boasts Holyrood Park and the stunning 16th-century royal residence, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, with Lauriston Castle sitting on the northwest edge of the city.
Edinburgh is packed full of culture too. Festivals showcasing some of the world’s best artists, alternative acts and exciting events regularly take place in the city. Science, storytelling, film and children’s entertainment are all celebrated in the capital. Plus, each August, Edinburgh is transformed into the world’s biggest arts, comedy, cabaret and alternative cultural venue at its most famous international event, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
There’s truly something for culture lovers all year round, with Edinburgh being home to a vast range of museums and galleries. The National Museum of Scotland, the Scottish National Gallery and the National Portrait Gallery are all within a few minutes walk of Edinburgh Waverley train station. This means you can see works from the UK’s most renowned artists, admire global treasures or enjoy a fascinating guided tour within moments of arriving in the city. If you want more, take a walk to the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art to see the best contemporary exhibitions and works.
If you’re travelling with children, you won’t be short of places to visit. Head up to the Leith neighbourhood and visit the Royal Yacht Britannia, the Queen’s famous floating palace that’s now permanently docked here. Let the little ones run off some energy through the beautiful Royal Botanic Garden, take them back in time with some vintage play at the Museum of Childhood or blow their minds with the historical and illusionary Camera Obscura attraction.
Those looking for nightlife won’t be disappointed either. Edinburgh has plenty of pubs, clubs and bars where you can sip a pint of Tennents or enjoy a wee dram of whiskey. It also offers a range of cuisines and dining experiences; from Scottish Haggis to curries and Michelin-starred dishes, you’ll be sure to leave the capital well fed and watered.
FAQs
Why choose a day out in Edinburgh?
Though it may be small, Edinburgh is home to some of the UK’s biggest cultural and historical attractions. A stunning and unique capital city, each neighbourhood offers visitors something different to enjoy, from the sights of the Old Town to the hubbub of the Southside.
What are the best day trips from Edinburgh?
Experience both of Scotland’s major cities in one day with Avanti West Coast. In just over an hour, you can travel from the centre of Edinburgh to the heart of Glasgow, with regular trains running throughout the day.
What to do in Edinburgh with children?
There’s plenty to explore during Edinburgh trips with the little ones. If you have a Harry Potter fan in your family, then this magical-themed city tour is an essential activity. Hear about real-life ghosts and ghouls on a haunted exploration game or see the capital’s biggest sights on a hop-on, hop-off tour bus before settling down for a relaxing afternoon tea.
