Top 17 Must-See Attractions in Edinburgh, Scotland

After residing in Edinburgh for four years, I can state unequivocally that the city is remarkable. It is a place brimming with activities, historical sites, lively bars, and extraordinary experiences. Whether visiting or residing in Edinburgh, it’s truly a remarkable city.

My initial experience in the city remains vivid, characterized by excitement and a tinge of nervousness, as this represented my first major transition from the family home.

Fortunately, my apprehensions were misplaced, and I quickly adapted to the vibrant atmosphere. In truth, I scarcely had the opportunity to contemplate the myriad attractions Edinburgh had to offer. For the first month, my explorations took place nearly every day as I discovered new areas.

Regrettably, I must confess that I have yet to indulge in the famed fried Mars bar—an authentic Scottish delicacy.

I tend to ramble, but I feel compelled to share some of the premier activities to engage in during your initial visit to Edinburgh. I am confident that you will adore the city along with its rich historical tapestry.

Here are some of the finest activities to consider in Edinburgh.

1.) Hike up Arthur’s Seat

Arthur’s Seat, situated in the heart of Edinburgh, offers breathtaking vistas of the city and its surroundings. What many may not realize is that this landmark is part of the largest remnant of an ancient (now extinct) volcano that once dominated the local landscape—its other components include Castle Rock and Calton Hill.

The ascent typically requires around 30 minutes, or less, and is generally manageable. On windy days, be sure to wear a coat as conditions can be quite brisk.

If you wish to explore additional regions of Scotland, consider scheduling a spectacular Scottish Highlands tour. This extraordinary journey encompasses the captivating sights of Orkney, the Isle of Skye, and the more remote areas of the Northern Highlands. Notably, the tour also includes a visit to the awe-inspiring Neolithic village of Skara Brae.

2.) Find Blackness Castle

Blackness Castle, with its origins tracing back to the 15th century, stands proudly on the banks of the Firth of Forth. It is situated approximately 35 minutes from the city center, hence planning ahead is crucial to avoid peak travel times, generally between 4-6 PM.

During your visit, be sure to scale the towers for captivating panoramic views of the region.

Admission costs approximately £7-10, with visiting hours from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM daily.

Subsequently, find a table at Timberyard, an exquisite dining establishment known for its seasonal menu that changes weekly. The cuisine consistently impresses, and the tasting menu is particularly delightful.

3.) Stroll through the Old Town

The Old Town of Edinburgh is characterized by its historic charm. In contrast to the New Town around George Street, expect a plethora of cobbled avenues, historic residences, and quaint squares.

A leisurely stroll down Victoria Street—from the Royal Mile to Grassmarket—is a must, offering unique boutiques and delightful dining options. My personal favorite remains the Witchery, situated on the Royal Mile, renowned for its exquisite meals crafted from local Scottish ingredients.

Furthermore, keep an eye out for the statue of Greyfriars Bobby, located at the junction of Candlemaker’s Row and George IV Bridge, a tribute to the 19th-century canine known for guarding his owner’s grave for 14 years. This is an excellent activity for those interested in local history, as the entire Old Town exudes an atmosphere reminiscent of a Harry Potter setting.

3.) Stroll through the Old Town

The Old Town of Edinburgh is exactly as it sounds. The old part of town!

Quite different from the New Town (around George Street) you can expect lots of cobbled streets, historic houses and picturesque little squares.

Make sure to stroll down Victoria Street (from the Royal Mile down to Grass Market) and visit some of the local boutiques and tasty restaurants.

My favourite is still the Witchery (just on the Royal Mile) which creates some of the best meals from local Scottish ingredients.

Oh, also, don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled for the statue of Greyfriars Bobby (that sits on the corner of Candlemaker’s Row and George IV Bridge) that lived in the 19th Century.

Rumor has it that this little terrier loyally guarded his owner’s grave for a remarkable 14 years. Experiencing the Old Town gives you a profound insight into local history, resembling a scene from Harry Potter that is impossible to overlook.