Edinburgh Old Town Things To Do Nearby

Edinburgh is a vibrant and exciting city in Scotland, packed full of historic sites, stunning architecture, and an array of interesting activities and attractions. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, an action-packed city break, or simply a relaxing holiday, Edinburgh has something for everyone. This guide explores some of the best things to do in Edinburgh’s Old Town, from visiting its world-famous monuments to exploring its unique culture.

Visit the Royal Mile

The Royal Mile is the main thoroughfare of Edinburgh’s Old Town, located between the Palace of Holyroodhouse and Edinburgh Castle. It is an iconic street and the perfect place to explore the city’s past. You will find a variety of shops and restaurants, as well as the famous street artists who perform in front of St. Giles’ Cathedral. There are also a number of tourist attractions and monuments in the area, such as the National Museum of Scotland, the Museum of Childhood, and the Writer’s Museum.

Explore Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks and a must-see for any visitor. The castle is located on Castle Rock, an extinct volcano, and boasts stunning views of the city. It houses a number of historic attractions, including the Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny, and the Royal Palace. The castle also hosts a number of events throughout the year, such as the Edinburgh Military Tattoo and the Edinburgh International Festival.

Take a Tour of the Palace of Holyroodhouse

The Palace of Holyroodhouse is the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland and is located at the end of the Royal Mile. The palace is home to the Queen when she is in Scotland and is open to the public during the summer months. Visitors can take a guided tour of the palace and explore its many rooms, including the Queen’s private apartments, the Great Gallery, and the State Apartments.

Visit the National Museum of Scotland

The National Museum of Scotland is located on Chambers Street in the heart of the Old Town and is one of the city’s most popular attractions. The museum houses a vast collection of artifacts and artworks from around the world, covering a range of topics from science and technology to world cultures and natural history. The museum also has an extensive range of interactive exhibits and activities for visitors to explore.

Explore the City’s Unique Culture

Edinburgh is a city full of culture and there is plenty to explore. From the bustling streets of the Grassmarket to the cobbled alleyways of the Royal Mile, there is plenty to see and do. The city is also home to a number of theaters, galleries and museums, as well as regular festivals, such as the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and the International Film Festival.

Visit the Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

The Camera Obscura and World of Illusions is a must-see attraction in Edinburgh’s Old Town. Located on the Royal Mile, the attraction offers interactive exhibits and activities, as well as spectacular views of the city. The building is home to a range of optical illusions, as well as an interactive 3D display, a mirror maze, and a range of interactive exhibits.

Take a Walking Tour of the Old Town

A walking tour is the perfect way to explore the city’s history and culture and the Old Town is the perfect place to start. There are a number of walking tour companies in Edinburgh, offering themed tours that focus on the city’s history, culture and landmarks. These tours are a great way to learn more about the city and to explore some of its hidden gems.

Visit the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art

The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art is located in the heart of the Old Town and is one of the city’s most important galleries. The gallery is home to a wide range of modern art, from classical paintings and sculptures to contemporary installations. The gallery also hosts a number of temporary exhibitions and events throughout the year and is a great place to explore the city’s vibrant art scene.

Explore the City’s Shopping Scene

Edinburgh’s Old Town is home to a number of unique shops and boutiques, from small independent stores to larger chain stores. The city’s main shopping street is Princes Street, where you will find a range of department stores, as well as independent stores, markets, and cafes. The city also has a number of designer boutiques, as well as antique and vintage shops.

Experience the Majestic City Views

Edinburgh is home to some of the most stunning views in the world and the city’s skyline is a sight to behold. The best place to experience the city’s majestic views is from the top of Calton Hill, which offers panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. There are also a number of other lookouts in the city, including Arthur’s Seat, which offers spectacular views of Edinburgh Castle and the city centre.

Conclusion

Edinburgh’s Old Town is a vibrant and exciting city and it is packed full of things to do and see. From exploring its historic monuments and landmarks to experiencing its unique culture and shopping scene, there is something for everyone in Edinburgh’s Old Town. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, an action-packed city break, or simply a relaxing holiday, Edinburgh’s Old Town has something for you.

When visiting the city, it is important to remember to bring comfortable shoes, as many of the attractions are located in the city centre and are a short walk away. It is also important to bring some cash, as many of the attractions require an admission fee and it is useful to have some money for shopping or meals. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local customs and to respect the city’s culture and its residents. With these tips in mind, you can be sure that you will have a great time exploring Edinburgh’s Old Town and all it has to offer.