Edinburgh: The Best Things To Do

Edinburgh is a stunningly beautiful city located in Scotland. It is one of the most sought-after destinations in the United Kingdom and is known for its amazing architecture and history. From its iconic castles to its world-renowned festivals, Edinburgh is a city full of culture, adventure, and beauty. Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway or a unique city break, Edinburgh has something for everyone. With so many incredible things to do in Edinburgh, it can be hard to decide which activities to include in your itinerary. To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of the top things to do in Edinburgh.

Edinburgh’s History and Culture

Edinburgh has a rich and turbulent history that has shaped the city into what it is today. It was founded by the Romans in the first century AD, and it has been an important center of culture and politics ever since. In the Middle Ages, Edinburgh was the center of Scotland’s government and was home to some of the most influential figures in British history. From the 16th century onwards, Edinburgh flourished as an intellectual center, becoming a major hub for the Enlightenment movement.

Today, Edinburgh is a vibrant city that celebrates its rich history and culture. It is home to numerous museums, galleries, and historical sites, as well as numerous festivals that draw visitors from around the world. In addition to its impressive architecture, Edinburgh also hosts an array of international events such as the Edinburgh International Festival, the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, and the Hogmanay celebrations – all of which are must-see attractions.

The Royal Mile & Castle

The Royal Mile is one of the most iconic streets in Edinburgh. It stretches from Edinburgh Castle at the top of the hill to the Palace of Holyroodhouse at the bottom. Along this cobblestoned street, you’ll find numerous shops, restaurants, and historic buildings, as well as some of the best views in the city. At one end stands Edinburgh Castle – a stunning fortress that has been a stronghold since the 12th century. The castle is home to a number of museums, galleries, and other attractions, and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Scotland.

Ghost Tours and Haunted Sites

Edinburgh is known for its many haunted sites and ghost stories. If you’re looking for a unique experience, then a ghost tour is the perfect way to explore the city’s darker side. There are several ghost tours available in Edinburgh, each focusing on different areas of the city and its haunted history. Many tours start at Mary King’s Close – a network of underground tunnels beneath the Royal Mile that are said to be haunted by spirits from Edinburgh’s past. Other popular tour locations include Greyfriars Kirkyard and The Real Mary King’s Close Museum.

Arthur’s Seat

Arthur’s Seat is an ancient volcanic peak located just outside of Edinburgh. It offers spectacular views of the city skyline and is a popular spot for hikers and nature lovers alike. The peak rises 822 feet above sea level and is the highest point in Edinburgh. The hike up to Arthur’s Seat takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your pace, and there are several routes to choose from. Once at the top, you can take in stunning views of the city or explore nearby ruins such as St Anthony’s Chapel.

Edinburgh Zoo

The Edinburgh Zoo is home to over 1,000 animals from all over the world, including giant pandas, penguins, tigers, and more. The zoo also features several educational exhibits that explore conservation efforts and animal behavior. In addition to its many animal exhibits, the zoo also hosts special events throughout the year such as keeper talks, animal shows, and family activities. It is a great place to spend an afternoon with family or friends.

Scotch Whisky Tours

Edinburgh is home to some of Scotland’s most famous whisky distilleries. A Scotch whisky tour is a great way to learn about whisky production and sample some of Scotland’s finest spirits. There are several whisky distilleries near Edinburgh including The Glenlivet, The Macallan, The Glenkinchie, and Ardbeg – all of which offer guided tours and tastings.

Go Ape

Go Ape is a fun-filled adventure park located in Holyrood Park in Edinburgh. The park features thrilling zip lines, rope bridges, and Tarzan swings that are perfect for families or groups of friends looking for an adrenaline rush. There are also several hiking trails throughout the park that offer stunning views of the city skyline.

National Museum of Scotland

The National Museum of Scotland is one of the most popular attractions in Edinburgh. Located in Chambers Street in central Edinburgh, it houses more than 8,000 objects from all over the world with galleries focusing on archaeology, science and technology, nature, art and design, world cultures, and Scottish history. The museum also hosts special exhibitions throughout the year on a variety of topics such as fashion and architecture.

Popular Tours in Edinburgh

For visitors looking for an immersive experience in Edinburgh, there are several tours available that offer unique perspectives on the city’s history and culture.

Edinburgh Ghost Tour

The Edinburgh Ghost Tour takes visitors on a journey through some of the city’s most haunted sites. Led by experienced tour guides dressed in traditional Scottish attire, this tour will take you through some of the city’s most mysterious areas such as Mary King’s Close and Greyfriars Kirkyard while learning about its dark past. Book your tour here: Edinburgh Ghost Tour.

Edinburgh Castle Tour

The Edinburgh Castle Tour offers an intimate look at one of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks. Led by knowledgeable guides who will share stories about its past residents and architecture, this tour will take you through all of its hidden gems including St Margaret’s Chapel and The Great Hall. Book your tour here: Edinburgh Castle Tour.

Edinburgh City Tour

The Edinburgh City Tour takes visitors on a journey through all of Edinburgh’s must-see attractions such as The Royal Mile, Calton Hill, Princes Street Gardens, Dean Village, and more. Led by an experienced guide who will share stories about Edinburgh’s history and culture along the way, this tour is perfect for first-time visitors looking to get acquainted with all that Edinburgh has to offer. Book your tour here: Edinburgh City Tour.

Whether you are visiting for the first time or returning for another visit, Edinburgh has something for everyone to enjoy. From its rich history to its many attractions and activities, there is no shortage of things to do in this amazing city. So book your flights today – you won’t regret it!