13 Must-try things to do in Edinburgh

One of the best things to do in Edinburgh is to climb Arthur's Seat, located within the ancient grounds of Holyrood Park. This inactive volcano sits 251 metres above sea level and offers 360-degree views of Edinburgh and the Lothians - it's quite something to feel like you're in the middle of the Highlands in central Edinburgh. The site is rich in geological, archaeological and historical interest and there are plenty of different paths to follow. Discover the medieval remains of St Anthony's Chapel, see fascinating geological features such as Samson's Ribs, or watch the ducks and swans on Duddingston Loch. If you're looking for a wheelchair and buggy accessible trail, then taking a stroll to St Margaret's Loch is for you.

Top tip: Climbing up to the top of this dormant volcano is hungry work! Why not pack a picnic and savour it from the best 'seat' in Edinburgh?

Dramatically postioned atop Castle Rock overlooking the city, this should be a must-see on your list of places to visit in Edinburgh. Ascend the historic Royal Mile and take your time exploring Edinburgh Castle, admiring the medieval architecture and discovering the treasures within. The chapel in the castle dates back to the 1130s, making it the oldest building in the city and the complex also houses important Scottish artefacts, such as the Honours of Scotland - the oldest crown jewels in the UK. Take a guided tour with a castle steward, or listen to the audio guide, available in eight languages. Make sure you check out their 2025 summer concert programme, where the esplanade is transformed for open air gigs!

Top tip: Tickets often sell out quickly, especially during the summer months. Make sure to book early to avoid disappointment! Listen out for the firing of the One O'Clock Gun from the castle grounds, which can be heard daily (except on Sundays). Ships in the Firth of Forth once set their maritime clocks according to the sound of the shot.

The Scott Monument was built in 1832 to commemorate the death of one of Scotland's best loved writers, Sir Walter Scott. The Gothic spire is decorated with carvings of characters from his novels and stands at the eastern end of Princes Street Gardens. Edinburgh was the world's first UNESCO City of Literature, so it's not surprising that this is the largest memorial to a writer in the world, standing at just over 200 feet high. You can climb the 287 steps to the top for panoramic views of the city and visit the Museum Room inside the monument, which holds an exhibition on Scott's life and work.

Top tip: Not a fan of heights? Not to worry, you can get a great view of the monument with your feet firmly on the ground from the bottom of the Playfair Steps on The Mound. At the base of the monument, you'll also find a statue of Scott himself with his beloved dog.

See Edinburgh's Old Town from a completely different perspective with a trip to The Real Mary King's Close. This award-winning attraction takes you back in time to the 17th century, with the chance to wander underground streets and uncover the layers of history of the people who lived and worked in these towering tenaments, now hidden beneath the Royal Mile. The tours bring these stories to life and give you a real sense of what life was like back then - we recommend you book in advance to guarantee your place. 

Top tip: Check out the latest events and experiences taking place throughout 2025, from Pride History Tours in June to atmospheric Lantern Led Tours in October. 

For outstanding views, get up early and climb to the top of Calton Hill to experience the sunrise over the city. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to a collection of historic monuments, most notably the National Monument, which was inspired by the Parthenon in Athens.

Top tip: Thinking of staying in Scotland this New Year's Eve? One of the best things to do in Edinburgh at night on Hogmanay is to climb Calton Hill and take in the annual firework display above the castle. Many festivals in Edinburgh, such as the Celtic Beltane Fire Festival, are also celebrated here.

Scotland is known for having unpredictable weather, and if you happen to get caught in the rain you might be wondering what to do in Edinburgh. The answer is easy: visit the National Museum of Scotland, one of the best indoor attractions in Edinburgh. Even better, entry is free! With over 20,000 unique artefacts to see, it's also one of the best things to do in Edinburgh with kids. Spend the day learning about the catacombs of Egypt, the wonders of nature, Scottish history or modern-day technology. They also run a changing programme of events and exhibitions, which in 2025 includes Maps: Memories from the Second World War and Monkeys: Our Primate Family.

Top tip: If the sun makes an appearance, head up to the rooftop terrace to enjoy one of the best views of the city.

New to the area and just 25 minutes from Edinburgh city centre is Europe's largest wave pool at Lost Shore Surf Resort. There's a wave pool, surf school, surf shop and teaching academy that provides everything you need, whether you're just beginning or if you're a more advanced surfer. The state-of-the-art resort is nestled within a complex that also includes a bar, café, restaurant, luxury accommodation, sauna and wellness treatments, so there really is something for everyone to enjoy even if surfing isn't your thing! Their trendy foodie offering is run by Canteen, with stripped back interiors and views across the water. They're open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and host guest kitchens from some Edinburgh favourites, including Civerinos and Five March.

This attraction in Edinburgh is fun for all the family - we dare you not to be amazed, whatever your age! There are five floors of interactive curiosities and illusions to explore, so lose yourself in the puzzling mirror maze or try to keep your balance in the exhilarating Vortex Tunnel.

Top tip: Be sure to get an allocated show time so you don't miss out on seeing the 169-year-old Camera Obscura in action. This Victorian spectacle is a truly unique way to see Edinburgh and takes sightseeing to the next level. 

At the opposite end of the Royal Mile to the castle is the Palace of Holyroodhouse - the King's official residence in Edinburgh. It's packed full of royal history, from Mary Queen of Scots to Bonnie Prince Charlie. The ornate palace was built next to Holyrood Abbey, which dates back to 1128, when King David I founded the abbey after he had a vision of a stag with a cross between its antlers when out hunting in the grounds around Arthur's Seat. 

Top tip: Visit the King's Gallery for the latest art exhibtions and events taking place in Holyroodhouse. New for 2025 is Royal Portraits: A Century of Photography.

No trip to the Royal Mile is complete without a visit to the award-winning Scotch Whisky Experience for a dram of fine whisky! The attraction offers a range of tour experiences that will suit first timers and whisky lovers alike. Take a tour of the virtual distillery and learn about the distilling process, then discover the art of whisky blending in a guided sensory presentation.

Top tip: After you become somewhat of a whisky connoisseur, why not continue into the attraction's Amber Restaurant? You can try modern Scottish cuisine alongside another dram.

Looking for somewhere fun to take the kids that's also educational? Dynamic Earth is a fantastic attraction for the whole family. The interactive adventure takes brave young explorers on a journey through space and time to learn how the forces of nature shaped Earth over millions of years, against the backdrop of Salisbury Crags and Arthur's Seat. They host a regular programme of exciting exhibitions and events, which in 2025 include the Edinburgh Science Festival and their Planetarium Lates series.

Top tip: Dynamic Earth is part of the National STEM Engagement Campaign and has a whole host of events for kids to enjoy.

The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art comprises of two impressive buildings containing masterpieces from the 1900s to present day. Take in art by Matisse, Picasso and Emin, as well as Scottish contemporaries. The landscaped grounds of the galleries also feature sculptures by Tony Cragg and Barbara Hepworth, amongst others. Don't miss their latest exhibitions for 2025, including work by Ian Hamilton Finlay and Everlyn Nicodemus. Nearby is a beautiful walk along the Water of Leith to the trendy village of Stockbridge, where you can grab a bite or explore the independent shops.

Top tip: After enjoying coffee and a slice of cake in the gallery's cafe, don't miss the recreation of Scottish artist Eduardo Paolozzi's original studio in Modern Two.

There are plenty of attractions around Edinburgh away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre. Lauriston Castle and Gardens is the perfect place to go for anyone visiting Edinburgh looking for Scottish history, peace and quiet and arresting views out across the Firth of Forth. Step back in time as you explore the castle's wonderfully preserved Edwardian interiors, and don't miss the daily guided tour to learn more about its fascinating background. You can also pick up a sweet treat from Mimi's Bakehouse in the grounds, popular with locals and visitors alike.

Top tip: Get some fresh air and explore the woodland walk that surrounds the castle, then retreat to the tranquil Japanese Garden, a true hidden gem in Edinburgh.