Best Things To Do In Edinburgh 2025

Edinburgh

Edinburgh, is a city full of history, culture, and stunning landscapes. With its medieval Old Town, elegant Georgian New Town, and iconic landmarks, it’s a destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you love exploring historic sites, enjoying scenic views, or trying delicious food, Edinburgh won’t disappoint.

In this article, we’ll share the best things to do in Edinburgh to help you plan your trip. Whether it’s your first visit or you’re coming back for more, get ready to experience the best of this vibrant city. Let’s get started!

Top Edinburgh tourist attractions

Edinburgh Castle

Perched dramatically atop Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle is one of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks and a must-visit for anyone traveling to Edinburgh. This historic fortress has stood guard over the city for centuries, offering a fascinating glimpse into Scotland’s turbulent past and its rich cultural heritage. Having stood for over 1000 years, the castle is a living testament to Scotland’s history.

The castle is home to the Honours of Scotland, the oldest crown jewels in Britain, and seeing these is a highlight of many a sightseer’s trip. If jewels aren’t your thing, the great views from the castle grounds, or the on-site national war museum might take your fancy instead.

No trip to Edinburgh is complete without admission to the Castle.

Royal Mile 

The Royal Mile is the epicentre of the city, with buildings and landmarks that tell the story of Edinburgh’s past. From the medieval St Giles’ Cathedral to the hidden closes (narrow alleyways) that once housed the city’s residents, every step along this street is a journey through time. This activity is completely free, but if you want to make the most of the experience, we recommend a walking tour of the old town, these tours often take you to underground to see vaults and the remains of historical streets that were built over. 

 St Giles’ Cathedral is a stunning Gothic church, and one of the Royal Mile’s most famous landmarks. Known for its crown-shaped spire and beautiful stained-glass windows, St Giles’ is a must-see. Don’t miss the Thistle Chapel, a hidden gem showcasing intricate wood carvings and heraldic symbols.

The Royal Mile is alive with energy, especially during the summer months. Street performers, musicians, and artists line the street, creating a lively and entertaining atmosphere. During the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in August, the Royal Mile becomes the epicenter of the world’s largest arts festival, with performers and promoters filling the streets.

The area is packed with charming shops selling everything from traditional Scottish tartans and kilts to handmade crafts and souvenirs. Stop by a traditional pub for a pint of local ale or a dram of whisky, and soak up the cozy, historic ambiance.

Edinburgh dungeons

If you're a fan of dark history and immersive experiences, The Edinburgh Dungeon is the perfect attraction for you. This thrilling, interactive tour takes you through Scotland’s gruesome past with live actors, special effects, and spine-chilling storytelling. You’ll learn about infamous figures like Burke and Hare, the city's notorious body snatchers, and experience the terrifying tales of the plague, witch trials, and torture chambers. The Dungeon also has thrilling rides, such as a drop ride simulating a public execution!

Whether you’re 8, 18 or 80 this exhibition has something for everyone

Edinburgh Cultural experiences 

Edinburgh Fringe

Every August, Edinburgh transforms into a global stage for the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the largest arts festival in the world. For three weeks, the city comes alive with thousands of performances, from comedy and theatre to music, dance, and everything in between. Whether you’re an arts enthusiast or just looking for a unique and unforgettable experience, the Fringe is a must-visit event.

The Fringe is a celebration of creativity in all its forms. With over 3,000 shows in hundreds of venues across the city, there’s something for everyone—whether you love stand-up comedy, thought-provoking theatre, or experimental performances.

Edinburgh museums and galleries

Edinburgh is home to a very wide range of museums and galleries, almost all of which are free!

National Museum of Scotland

One of Edinburgh’s greatest treasures, covering everything from Scottish history and culture to natural history, science, and global civilizations, it would be easy to get lost in here and spend an entire day (rainy or otherwise).

Museum of Edinburgh

If you are looking for something a bit more specific to the city, the museum of Edinburgh is perfect for anyone looking for a deep dive into its fascinating (and sometimes a little scary) history. It houses some of the most important artefacts in Scottish history including the National Covenant.

Scottish National Gallery

Home to a remarkable collection of European art from the Renaissance to the early 20th century. Boasting works by Titian, Rembrandt, Van Gogh, and Scotland’s own Sir Henry Raeburn, this is the perfect stop for art lovers and gallery enthusiasts alike.

Honorable mentions

There is probably a museum in Edinburgh for every niche interest you could imagine, including but not limited to: Dynamic Earth for a glimpse into the creation of our world, the writer’s museum for the literary greats of Scotland and the Surgeons' Hall museum for a gruesome look into the history of surgery and medical advancement

Palace of Holyroodhouse

The Palace of Holyroodhouse (often just called Holyrood Palace) is the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland and a place rich in royal history, intrigue, and stunning architecture. Located at the foot of the Royal Mile, opposite Edinburgh Castle, it has been a royal residence for over 500 years.

Walk in the footsteps of Mary, Queen of Scots, who lived here in the 16th century. See her chambers, where her secretary, David Rizzio, was brutally murdered in front of her—one of Scotland’s most infamous historical events.

The palace is still used by the royal family during official visits to Scotland, so you’re literally exploring an active royal residence. 

If you’re into royal history, beautiful architecture, or just want to experience a key part of Scotland’s heritage, Holyrood Palace is a must-see

Edinburgh Playhouse

If catching a famous musician, comedian, or a top notch musical sounds like you're idea of fun, then look no further than the Edinburgh playhouse Originally a 'super cinema' bound for closure, the playhouse is now the largest seated theatre in the UK, and a prime location in Scotland for live entertainment!

With a variety of shows from famous bands, talks from personalities, and travelling theatre troupes, the playhouse definitely has something for everyone. This would be an ideal way to spend an evening after a full day of Edinburgh exploration.

Check out the upcoming shows here, be sure to book in advance, as many performances will sell out (even if it's the biggest venue in the UK)

Edinburgh nature and wildlife activities 

Arthur’s seat

Arthur’s Seat is an ancient extinct volcano and the highest point in Holyrood Park, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Edinburgh and beyond. Rising 251 meters (823 feet) above sea level, it’s a must-visit for hikers, photographers, and anyone who loves a good outdoor adventure. From the summit, you get stunning 360° views of Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, the Firth of Forth, and the Pentland Hills. It’s the best natural viewpoint in the city!

There are a variety of hikes on Arthur’s seat for all ability levels, ranging from 30 to 90 minutes to get to the top. 

It’s free to and a great way to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of the city and get a glimpse of Scotland’s natural beauty.

Edinburgh zoo 

Edinburgh Zoo is one of Scotland’s top attractions, home to over 1,000 amazing animals from around the world. Spread across 82 acres of parkland, it offers fantastic wildlife encounters, fun family activities, and beautiful views over Edinburgh. Whether you're an animal lover, visiting with kids, or just looking for a unique day out, this zoo is a great way to spend a day.

Edinburgh family friendly fun

Ghost Tour

Edinburgh is one of the most haunted cities in the world, with centuries of dark history, chilling legends, and eerie underground vaults. An Edinburgh Ghost Tour is the perfect way to experience the city's spooky side, taking you through its dark alleyways, haunted graveyards, and underground vaults while hearing bone-chilling true stories. Whether you're a history lover, a thrill-seeker, or just want a unique way to explore the city, this is a fantastic experience!

During these tours you’re likely to hear about ‘Burke and Hare’ the famous body snatchers, explore underground vaults, public executions and much more.

Harry Potter walking tours

Edinburgh is the birthplace of Harry Potter, where J.K. Rowling wrote much of the series and found inspiration for Hogwarts, Diagon Alley, and many beloved characters. A Harry Potter walking tour takes you through the real-life locations that inspired the books, making it a must-do for Potterheads, fantasy lovers, and anyone who wants to experience the magic behind the magic!

Camera Obscura

Located at the top of the Royal Mile, Camera Obscura & World of Illusions is one of Edinburgh’s most fun and unique attractions! It’s a mix of interactive optical illusions, a Victorian-era camera obscura, and breathtaking rooftop views of the city. Fun for kids and adults alike, if you want to shock your friends with electricity or see yourself with a infrared camera, this is the place for you.

Things to do near Edinburgh

Whilst you could easily spend a full holiday in Edinburgh alone, there are plenty of treasures hiding just outside the city walls; here are a few of the absolute best day trips to some of Scotland’s highlights.

Scottish highlands trips

You can’t come to Scotland and not see some of its natural beauty; the Highlands are renowned for towering mountains, deep lochs, and vast glens. There are a huge number of things to do in this area but some of the highlights are Loch Ness, the Isle of Skye and the Glenfinnan Viaduct (the railway for the Hogwarts’ express).

Whether you want to see castles, lochs, or the fairy pools, there will be a tour leaving Edinburgh to take you there (and with any luck bringing you back!).

If you really want to see it all, a multi-day tour of the highlands is your best bet giving you the best exposure to everything that Scotland has to offer!

Fife and Saint Andrews

Located just north of Edinburgh, Fife is a region known for its charming fishing villages, stunning coastline, historic landmarks, and world-famous golf courses. Whether you’re a history lover, outdoor adventurer, or foodie, Fife offers a perfect escape from the city with breathtaking scenery and a rich Scottish heritage.

Visit St Andrews, home to Scotland’s oldest university (where Prince William met Kate Middleton!) and the ruins of St Andrews Cathedral.