~This Edinburgh Travel Guide is a tribute to one of our very first trips together~
Edinburgh is Scotland’s capital, one of the most visited cities of the United Kingdom, and the true Kingdom’s financial and political hub. Stretching over seven hills, Edinburgh maintains its old-fashioned style thanks to the many ancient remains which can still be found in the city, primarily in the Old Town and New Town, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. There are plenty of things to do Edinburgh. It is a city we truly enjoyed. The locals are very welcoming and the whisky is…one of the finest in the world! From rich history to hidden gems, Edinburgh is the perfect place for a getaway.
The Old Town and the New Town
The Old Town was the heart of the Medieval town and it is made of several labyrinths of narrow cobblestone streets. It is a very suggestive part of the city that has kept its Medieval spirit. The Old Town is reputedly the most haunted part of the city. Legend says that you could come face to face with some ancient residents in the old town.
The Medieval Old Town with its beautiful castle sits side the elegant Georgian New Town.
The New Town was built in the 18th century and it presents beautiful examples of Georgian architecture. It is made of a series of semicircles connected by arches until Haymarket Station. Here you’ll find plenty of traditional pubs and lovely restaurants and cafes stretched over well-decorated streets.
If you are already captured by the charm of this city, keep reading this Edinburgh travel guide.
Edinburgh Travel Guide
How to Get to Edinburgh
Getting to Edinburgh is easier than ever, with multiple daily flights serving the city.
Below are your options to get from Edinburgh airport to the city centre:
By bus
The Airlink Express is probably the best option as it covers the route Airport-Waverley Bridge 24/7. You can find it at stop D at the bus terminal of the airport.
By tram
Trams are a good alternative to buses. Just follow the tram icons at the baggage claim and terminal buildings to find the nearest stop, on the ground floor. The tram stop is located on the ground floor and it takes approximately 30 minutes to reach Haymarket Train Station in the city center. Trams run approximately every 7 minutes from 7 am to 7 pm.
By taxi
If you like the comfort of a taxi and need to reach the city quickly, transfers are readily available
GOOD TO KNOW!
Trains are a popular mode of transport to explore Scotland’s most beautiful attractions. Find Trains from Edinburgh now
Thinking of a Scotland Road Trip?
Road Trips are the best way to explore Scotland’s Highlands. If you’re thinking of a Scotland Road Trip, you can rent a car in Edinburgh now
Where to Stay in Edinburgh
An Overview of Edinburgh’s Best Areas to Stay
When visiting a city for the first time, the hunt for the best accommodation can be overwhelming.
Edinburgh is quite easy to get around, its center is small and compact, which makes it a perfectly walkable city. Unlike big cities such as Paris, you could walk to all the top attractions.
Edinburgh Travel Guide
The Best Areas to Stay in Edinburgh
1) The Royal Mile
If you find a place you like in this area, look no further. The Royal Mile, connecting Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood House, is the main street in the Old Town and was once the city’s medieval heart. Not only will you be close to major attractions, but Waverley Railway Station is also nearby, offering easy access to and from the airport.
Discover the best places to stay in Royal Mile
2) Stockbridge
Stockbridge is like a tiny village near the city center with its distinct character and identity. It is famous for its artisan market and shops, located close to the picturesque Waters of Leith, with plenty of fine restaurants and pubs. Artisan cheeses, beer, coffee; there is everything to suit all tastes! If you like artisanal tastes and want to still be close to the city center, this area would be ideal for you.
Discover the best places to stay in Stockbridge
3) New Town
In the peaceful Georgian streets of New Town, it feels as though time has stood still. This area is known for its beautiful buildings, especially around Dean Village and Queen Street Gardens. Parts of New Town, like George Street and Princes Street, are bustling with high-end shops, while Rose Street, known as “pubs street,” adds to the lively atmosphere. Being centrally located means you’ll experience vibrant nightlife, so expect some noise at night.
Discover the best places to stay in Newtown
4) Leith
The Leith district, including Leith Walk and Leith Docks, is also worth mentioning. Once considered one of Edinburgh’s rougher areas, it was revitalized by the City Council to benefit both locals and tourists. Food lovers will find it to be the best area in the city for traditional and international cuisine, with restaurants and grocery stores catering to all tastes. Generally, Leith is more affordable than the city center, making it a great spot for delicious food at lower prices.
Discover the best places to stay in Leith
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The Best Things to Do in Edinburgh
Edinburgh’s unique charm comes from its dark sandstone buildings, blending Georgian and Victorian architecture. It’s hard not to fall in love with this city. One of the highlights is walking through its narrow, cobblestone streets. But there’s more to Edinburgh than its beauty. With a haunting atmosphere and a deep sense of magic, it has inspired the creation of Harry Potter.
Let’s now explore the best things to do and see in Edinburgh
1. Edinburgh Castle
Our top recommendation in Edinburgh is the iconic Edinburgh Castle. Perched atop a dormant volcano, it hides 3,000 years of history. As one of the oldest fortified sites in the world, the castle has served as a royal residence, military garrison, prison, and fortress.
It’s also one of the UK’s most visited landmarks, so expect long queues, even at its 9:30 am opening. To save time, reserve this guided tour online to secure a guaranteed time slot.
TIP! Early morning is the ideal time to visit Edinburgh Castle. Arrive early to explore and capture stunning photos without the crowds—you won’t regret it!
2. National Museum of Scotland
The National Museum offers a diverse range of exhibits, including archaeology, medieval artifacts, natural history, geology, art, science, and technology—and it’s free! Highlights among its 16 galleries include Dolly the sheep, the world’s first cloned mammal; Elton John’s stage costumes; ancient guillotines; and displays on early medicine and surgical techniques. With so much to explore, plan to spend at least three hours here.
3. Arthur’s Seat
Arthur’s Seat, the highest point in Holyrood Park, was formed by a dormant volcano that erupted 350 million years ago. From its summit, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of Edinburgh. The area also features the Salisbury Crags, easy-to-climb cliffs, the ruins of the medieval St. Anthony’s Chapel, and ancient cultivation terraces—some of Scotland’s best-preserved examples of early farming.
Tip: The easiest way to reach Arthur’s Seat is through the Holyrood Park road entrance off Dalkeith Road. Facing Salisbury Crags, take the trail on the left to ascend. The hike is free, easy, and well worth about two hours of your day.
4. Princes Street and Gardens
Princes Street is the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town, featuring vibrant gardens, high-end shops, cafes, restaurants, and traditional pubs. Historic landmarks include the Sir Walter Scott Monument and the David Livingstone Memorial, dedicated to the African explorer. Don’t miss a visit to Princes Street Gardens, where you’ll find stunning views of the castle and the world’s oldest floral clock.
5. Royal Mile
The Royal Mile, in Edinburgh’s Old Town, is a historic stretch filled with charming townhouses, churches, cobblestone alleys, and notable landmarks. It connects Edinburgh Castle to Holyroodhouse Palace and is perfect for strolling, with its museums, shops, cafes, and restaurants offering plenty of photo opportunities. Highlights include the Outlook Tower and Camera Obscura, St. Giles’ Cathedral, the Tolbooth, and The Writers’ Museum. Be sure to explore High Street and Castlehill during your visit.
6. Holyrood Palace
The Holyrood Palace is the official residence of the British Monarchs in Scotland. Located at the bottom of the Royal Mile, the palace has served as the principal residence of the kings and queens of Scotland since the 16th century and it is also a setting for the royal family’s special occasions and official entertaining. It is only possible to visit the Holyrood Palace when the members of the Royal Family are not here.
7. Calton Hill
At the end of Princes Street, Calton Hill offers some of the best views of Edinburgh, making it a great spot to visit day or night. The hill is home to the National Monument, honoring those who died in the Napoleonic Wars, as well as the City Observatory and Nelson’s Monument, built to commemorate Admiral Nelson’s victory at the Battle of Trafalgar. On April 30th, Calton Hill comes alive with the Beltane Fire Festival, celebrating the arrival of spring—a must-see if you’re visiting Edinburgh at that time.
8. Tour of the Undergrounds
Did you know Edinburgh has an underground ghost city? Beneath its streets lie the remains of 18th-century closes and chambers, sealed off for centuries and frozen in time. Today, these eerie spaces are a hub of paranormal activity and a highlight for ghost tours. For a unique experience, we recommend the Theatrical Ghost Tour of Underground Edinburgh, offering a spooky and entertaining glimpse into the city’s haunted past.
9. Whisky Experience
The Whisky Experience Tour offers a fun and educational way to explore the world-famous Scotch whisky, Scotland’s most significant export. These tours typically guide visitors through the distilling process and include tastings of various whiskies. If you’d rather skip the tour and simply enjoy a drink, head to the many pubs on Victoria Street and Rose Street, where friendly locals are happy to recommend the best whiskies to try.
For true whisky enthusiasts, we suggest the Whisky Distillery Tour. This experience takes you to two top distilleries near Edinburgh, where you can sample some of the finest Scotch whiskies.
10. Camera Obscura & The Elephant House
Here are our top picks from our visit to Edinburgh—must-see attractions for anyone exploring the Scottish capital. While we didn’t get to visit them personally, here are two widely recommended spots worth considering:
- Camera Obscura: A fascinating 3D experience featuring optical illusions, a spinning vortex, holograms, and mirrors that will challenge your perception.
- The Elephant House: The iconic café where J.K. Rowling wrote much of the Harry Potter series—a must-visit for devoted fans of the wizarding world.
Both add unique experiences to your Edinburgh adventure!
As part of this Edinburgh travel guide, we’d like to share a list of things we did while visiting on a limited budget
How to Visit Edinburgh on a budget
Save on transports
Edinburgh’s city center is mostly walkable, so you’ll likely not need public transport. However, if you do plan to use buses, consider getting a weekend or weekly pass for convenience.
- Single-day tickets: £1.80
- Night ticket: £3
- Day pass: £4.50
- Weekly pass: £20
Note: You can buy your ticket in cash when boarding the bus, but make sure to have the exact amount, as no change is given. Tickets and passes are also available at Lothian Buses Travelshops.
Free museums
Free museums are one of the very first things to look at when planning a budget trip. Among the free museums the city offers we recommend:
- National Museum of Scotland: it’s filled with history and a must-do in Edinburgh for us.
- Scottish National Gallery: particularly famous for the paintings of Leonardo da Vinci, Raffaello, and Rembrandt.
- National Gallery of Modern Art: treasures of Picasso and Matisse are exposed here.
Churches and cathedrals
There are plenty of churches that can be visited for free around the city. They feature beautiful architecture and are a remarkable part of Edinburgh’s landscape. Among these, we recommend visiting:
- Mary’s Cathedral: with its gothic style; superb both from the interior and exterior.
- Giles Cathedral: located in the middle of the Royal Mile, it is the most important religious house in Scotland.
Stoll around the Old Twon
Made of several labyrinths of narrow cobblestones, the Old Town was the heart of the Medieval town. It is a very suggestive part of the city that has kept its Medieval spirit. The Old Town is reputedly the most haunted part of the city. Some say that you could come face to face with some ancient residents around here. You could just stroll around the Old Town to admire centuries of history for free.
Take a walking tour
As part of this Edinburgh travel guide, we recommend joining walking tour. That is a great choice if you’re visiting for the first time. Tipping at the end of the tour is optional. Book a cheap walking tour now.
Free views of the city
For stunning panoramic views of Edinburgh, you don’t need to spend a penny. Head to Arthur’s Seat, a dormant volcano in Holyrood Park, which is free to visit and climb. It offers some of the best views of the city. Another great spot is Calton Hill, where you’ll find monuments dedicated to famous Scottish figures, also providing fantastic city views. Both are must-visit, budget-friendly spots for incredible scenery.
Visit the Greyfriars Kirkyard
The ancient churchyard of Greyfriars Kirkyards dates back to the 16th Century. Some of the most famous residents are buried here. It is also said that J.R. Rowling got much of her inspiration for names in the Harry Potter series from wandering around the graveyard and looking at the grave markers.
Princes street and gardens
Princes Street is the hub of the New Town, lined with colorful gardens and high-end shops, as well as cafes, restaurants s, and traditional pubs. Its historic landmarks include the Sir Walter Scott Monument and the David Livingstone Memorial, dedicated to the missionary African explorer. Do not forget to visit the Princes Gardens. Here you will enjoy the best views of the castle and the world’s oldest floral clock.
Visit Leith
If you are a food lover, this area is considered to be the best in the city to get traditional and international food with restaurants and grocery stores that have it for all tastes. This area is also cheaper than the city center.
Catch free entertainment
Depending on the time of the year, you could attend a wide variety of free events. For example, Whistlebinkies is the best place to catch free live music from up-and-coming local bands. The place is free to enter before midnight, seven nights a week. Moreover, several free events take place throughout the city in August, such as the Military Tatoo, the Edinburgh Book Festival, and most of all, the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, which is the largest arts festival in the world.
Edinburgh City Pass and Scotland Explorer Pass
If you are planning to spend multiple days in Edinburgh and traveling also around Scotland, these passes may be for you. The Edinburgh City Pass covers some of the best tourist attractions of the city. Highly recommended if you intend to visit the attractions covered by the pass. On the other side, the Scotland Explorer pass includes Edinburgh Castle. However, you should get this pass only if you are planning to travel around Scotland and want to visit all the main castles and abbeys.
Use Revolut to avoid high currencies exchange fees
We chose Revolut as our must-have travel card. Revolut is the most popular online bank and easy to use app. Revolut gives travellers several benefits such as:
- Use different currencies simultaneously.
- Withdraw up 200 € / 200 $ a month from any ATM for free.
- Free to open account & no maintenance costs.
- Make international payments at no fees up to 1000 € / 1000 $ a month.
- Split bills and pay friends with ease.
Setting up a Revolut account is simple and free. Download it through our referral link.
Time for conclusions...
We really enjoyed Edinburgh’s distinctive medieval look, historic architecture mixed with beautiful scenery, and great whiskies.
Long walks, ghost hunting, and pub crawls were the highlights of our amazing trip to Edinburgh and we hope to visit it again soon.
Are you planning on staying longer in Edinburgh? Then you should consider joining the Loch Ness and Highlands Day Trip. Take in the stunning landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, the Glencoe Valley, and the mysterious Loch Ness. One of the top tours of Scotland!
We hope you found this Edinburgh travel guide useful and you’ll have fun and memorable experiences in Edinburgh.
See you again soon!
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