14 Real Traveler-Approved Things to Do in Edinburgh

Traveling to the Scottish capital is one of the top things I want to do this next year. There’s so much to see, so many places to visit, and plenty of historic buildings with dramatic architecture. Basically the perfect travel location for me.

And that’s one of the reasons why I wanted to make this list of things to do in Edinburgh.

I wanted to create a curated Edinburgh guide so that you and I would be ready with enough ideas to make our visit memorable. Because with its moody atmospheric weather and gothic romantic vibes, I really want us to get the most out of this medieval European city.

Also, I hunted through some long Reddit conversations from travelers who have been and have some great recommendations.

And whether you’re want to explore their iconic streets and castles or take day trips from the capital, I hope this guide on what to do in in Edinburgh from real people gets you inspired to book your tickets.

1. Get a Bit Lost & Explore the Streets of Edinburgh

“I can’t think of a better city to just wander around and discover neat views and qwirky shops. I have zero suggestions because I think you have the right mindset for this amazing city. You’ll see what I mean when you get there.” – meatwhisper

“Edinburgh is a really great city to wander about, there are so many beautiful buildings and lovely outdoor spots to enjoy. There are quite a few self guided walks, I’d be tempted to download one of those, pick up some picnic bits from a supermarket and set off.” – ilovewineandcats

2. Take a Train to the Waterfront

“I’d suggest you taking the train that goes through the forth of fife- a huge and beautiful steel bridge spanning for over a mile. Get off the station right after it, and go closer to the waterfront for amazing views. It’s very close to Edinburgh, the whole endeavor will take you an hour tops.” – ntnl

“Do consider St Andrews (leuchars is the nearest station) for a seaside day. Bit of a longer journey (but a lovely train journey view wise) to Stonehaven, if you fancy a cliff walk to Dunnotar Castle, eating fish and chips on the beach and the best ever ice cream at aunty Betty’s. Nice thing about Scotland is it’s small, so most places are doable as a day trip :)” – Significant-Bat4006

3. Royal Botanic Garden

“The botanic gardens are pretty and entrance is largely free. Entrance to the glasshouses is £4 but there are lots of awesome plants in there so it’s definitely worth it.” – schadenfreude87

“About a mile or so from the city centre and free entry. It’s in a lovely part of town (and right next to the Water of Leith) so you can roll a whole day of things round the gardens.” – RoutineAsylum

4. Calton Hill

“Arthur’s Seat or Calton Hill are great places for a walk/hike that will give you great views of the city.” – IndigoButterfl6

“Calton Hill as someone said is a short walk, 5 minutes tops. By the way – I found it better from a vibe and hanging about perspective than Arthur’s Seat (2/3 hours total). Arthur’s Hill – hike up, look about, hike down. Calton Hill was lovely, so much to see and just chill.” – Christmasstolegrinch

“Calton hill at night is very romantic! The locals up there are fab, you’ll have a great view of the full moon” – Responsible-Bad2003

“Touristy, but can sometimes be forgotten despite it being in the city centre. Take a trip up to the top to see the National Monument of Scotland (often called Scotland’s Disgrace) which has a similar look to the Acropolis.” – RoutineAsylum

5. Calton Cemetery

“I don’t have many unique recommendations but I agree with Carlton Hill as suggestions but also the cemetery across the street (Carlton cemetery) has great views and is kind of nice to walk around in. I know it’s kind of weird to recommend a cemetery. There are famous locals buried there like the philosopher David Hume. You can also get to the Palace of Holyrood through there from Waterloo-“ – boringsquirrels

6. Try Traditional Scottish Food at Mums

“Go to mums for haggis! It’s so good, I dream about it 🤤” – Dinosaur_Kyleemae

“I second this, went to Mums Great Comfort Food and had haggis as starter. It was huge for that price. The place has various traditional food on its menu. Loved the date pudding too.” – henrikoez

7. Explore the Antique Shops

“There’s a antique/vintage shop call Unicorn Antiques on Dundas St that is just lovely. The downstairs is a treasure trove. Discovered it getting out of a sudden downpour” – teacherofdogs

8. Stockbridge Market

“Head here on a Sunday to get some good food and to wander around the lovely Stockbridge in general. It’s quite an affluent area, so scumbags like me also feel like they’re on holiday when I go there.” – RoutineAsylum

9. Portobello Beach

“I’d add taking a 26 bus and going for a walk along Portobello Beach. A couple of miles of golden sand between your toes. Cold water swimming is incredibly popular too if you’ve packed your second cardigan.” – Lottes_mom

10. Lauriston Castle

“A bus ride from town (used to be the 41 (RIP)) Lauriston Castle grounds are free. There’s a lovely Japanese garden and good views of the Forth. The castle itself costs about £5 to get in and you have to book a tour time. There’s also a small Mimi’s Bakehouse if you want a coffee and a snack while you’re there.” – st_owly

11. Craigmillar Castle and Arthur’s Seat

“Take the bus from the city center to Craigmillar Castle just outside of town. It’s a great, mostly intact castle that really gives you a look at what life was like in the 1300s-1400s. Hike from Craigmillar back over Arthur’s Seat. If you want, stop at the Sheep Heid Inn, advertised as the oldest pub in Scotland.” – Cephandrius13

12. Cramond and Cramond Island

“I’ve lumped both places in here. The island is nice (tidal island, so if you’re heading over, be sure to check times) though I’d say the walks round Cramond are nicer. If you can rent a bike, have a cycle down. It’ll take around an hour from the city centre, and it’s a nice activity to break up the day.” – RoutineAsylum

13. Holyrood Castle

“Instead of the castle, visit Holyrood Palace. The castle looks great from the outside, but is a bit dull and empty inside. Holyrood has far more interesting things within it, and the grounds with the ruins of the Abbey are beautiful.” – AbramKedge

“Holyrood or Edinburgh Castle? I would have chosen Holyrood. One, because by the time I got to Edinburgh I was all castled out, having seen half a dozen. Second, Holyrood was just more interesting to me anyway, because it gives some insight into the life of the royals as they’re living it now (if that sort of thing interests you). The castle is imposing, but we’re making choices right? Holyrood, any day. Note – I am not a royalist, just found it more interesting than the castle. Also note that Holyrood may be convenient from an itinerary pov, because it’s bang on the way to and from Arthur’s seat so you’re saving some time. They’re sort of ‘next door’.” – Christmasstolegrinch

14. Blackford Hill

“The nicer version of Arthur’s Seat for two reasons, 1) less touristy, 2) you get to see the whole city and Arthur’s Seat from up here. It’s beautiful, a lovely little walk to get to the top and (if you want to trek back to the city centre) you can walk through Morningside and Bruntsfield.” – RoutineAsylum

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More Great Reads on Scotland

• 11 Hidden Bars & Cafés In Edinburgh That You’ll Be Proud To Discover
• How To Travel To Scotland On A Budget (Written By A Scot!)
• One Simply Breathtaking Road Trip: The North Coast 500, Scotland
• 8 Magical Places In Scotland Totally Worth Visiting
• 12 Best Castles To Visit In Scotland That Ooze History

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