Things To Do In Edinburgh UK

Edinburgh is one of the most beautiful cities in the UK and it offers a lot to explore and experience for first-time visitors. From the medieval old town to the vibrant new town, the city has something for everyone. With its wealth of attractions, activities and events, visitors can find plenty of things to do in Edinburgh. Here is a guide with the best things to do when visiting Edinburgh for the first time.

Explore the Old Town

The Old Town is the original core of the city, and it is a great place to start when exploring Edinburgh. Here, visitors can explore narrow winding streets, ancient buildings, and even the Royal Mile. On the Royal Mile, visitors can find a number of attractions, including Edinburgh Castle, St. Giles’ Cathedral, and the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

The Old Town is also home to a number of pubs, shops, and restaurants. Visitors can explore the area and find a number of places to eat and drink. The Old Town also offers a number of guided tours, including the Scottish Storytelling Centre and the Real Mary King’s Close.

Visit Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city and it is a must-see for anyone visiting Edinburgh. The castle has been the home of royalty for centuries and it has been a major site for battles and sieges. Visitors can explore the castle and see the Great Hall, the Royal Palace, the Crown Jewels and the prison cells.

The castle also offers a number of guided tours, including the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. The Tattoo is a spectacular display of military music and entertainment and it is held in the castle’s esplanade.

Explore the New Town

The New Town of Edinburgh was built in the 18th century and it is a great place to explore the city’s modern side. Here visitors can find a number of cafes, restaurants, shops, and galleries. The New Town is also home to the National Museum of Scotland, which is one of the largest museums in the UK.

The New Town is also home to a number of parks and gardens, including Princes Street Gardens, Calton Hill, and the Royal Botanic Garden. Visitors can explore these parks and gardens and admire the city’s stunning views.

Visit Arthur’s Seat

Arthur’s Seat is a popular tourist attraction in Edinburgh and it is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. The hill is located at the edge of the city, and it offers stunning views of the Old Town and the Firth of Forth. Visitors can take a hike up the hill and admire the views or they can explore the surrounding area, which is home to some of the city’s most beautiful parks and gardens.

Go Shopping in the Royal Mile

The Royal Mile is one of the most popular shopping districts in Edinburgh and it is home to a number of shops, cafes, restaurants, and pubs. Here visitors can find a variety of shops, including souvenir shops, clothing stores, and even whisky shops. Visitors can also explore the area’s many pubs and restaurants, which offer a range of traditional Scottish food and drinks.

Experience the Fringe Festival

The Fringe Festival is one of the world’s largest festivals and it is held annually in Edinburgh. The festival features a range of performances, including theatre, comedy, and music. Visitors can experience the festival by attending one of the many shows or by taking a guided tour.

Take a Ghost Tour

Edinburgh has a long and dark history and it is home to a number of haunted sites. Visitors can take a guided tour of these sites and learn about the city’s eerie past. The tours usually include visits to the underground vaults, the Royal Mile, and the graveyard at Greyfriars Kirkyard.

Visit some of the city’s Museums and Galleries

Edinburgh is home to a number of museums and galleries, including the National Museum of Scotland, the Scottish National Gallery, and the National Portrait Gallery. Visitors can explore these galleries and learn about the city’s history, culture, and art.

Take a Day Trip to the Highlands

Edinburgh is situated in the heart of Scotland and it is a great base for exploring the country’s stunning natural beauty. Visitors can take a day trip to the Highlands and explore the area’s lakes, mountains, and castles. There are a number of guided tours available for visitors to take, or they can explore the area independently.

Take a Cruise on the Firth of Forth

The Firth of Forth is a beautiful body of water located at the edge of Edinburgh. Visitors can take a cruise on the river and admire the stunning views of the city and the surrounding area. The cruises usually depart from the harbor near Leith and they offer a range of activities, including wildlife watching, fishing, and even kayaking.

Visit the Local Markets

Edinburgh is home to a number of markets, including the Edinburgh Farmers’ Market, the Edinburgh Festival Market, and the Edinburgh Flea Market. Visitors can explore the markets and find a variety of items, from fresh produce to locally made crafts and souvenirs.

Additional Tips for Tourists

When visiting Edinburgh for the first time, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, it is important to be aware of the currency and budget accordingly. The local currency is the British Pound and visitors should make sure to have enough cash for their stay.

Secondly, visitors should be aware of the climate. Edinburgh can be quite cold in the winter and visitors should bring warm clothes and a rain jacket. In the summer, visitors should bring sun cream and sunglasses, as the city can get quite hot.

Finally, visitors should be aware of the local customs. Edinburgh is a very religious city and visitors should dress appropriately when visiting churches and other sacred sites.

Edinburgh is a city full of attractions, activities, and events and visitors can find plenty of things to do when visiting for the first time. From exploring the Old Town and visiting the castle to taking a cruise on the Firth of Forth, there is something for everyone in Edinburgh. With this guide, visitors can explore all the best things to do in Edinburgh, ensuring they have a memorable and enjoyable experience.