What to do in Edinburgh

Activities, attractions and tours

Calton Hill which includes a sunset, skyline and a city
Calton Hill which includes a sunset, skyline and a city
Edinburgh
Edinburgh Castle which includes a garden
Princes Street Gardens which includes a garden

Edinburgh Attractions

Looking for a taste of Scotland? Head to Edinburgh, the Athens of the North, and find all of the must see attractions on the map. Expedia is here to help you plan your itinerary. Whether you are popping in for business or pleasure, be sure to include Edinburgh activities and Edinburgh excursions to make this a trip you will never forget. There are so many things to do in Edinburgh that you will be hard pressed to fit everything on the list, so let Expedia.com help you to make the best choices for tourist and local spots.

Venture to Scotland's capital and experience the wonders of the Highlands and Loch Ness that are all within your grasp. Edinburgh has a unique flavor all in its own right as you walk High Street and include Edinburgh Castle on your Edinburgh tours. Favorite attractions in Edinburgh include Edina, Holyrood Palace, Mary's Kings Close, and the Edinburgh Vaults. Interested in all things spiritual? Look no further than St. Giles' Cathedral, Incholm, Greyfriars Kirkyard, and the Parish Church of St.Cuthbert. This is a land rich in history with fine examples of intricate architecture offering one of the finest vistas in the world.

One of the reasons why Edinburgh might be a top destination and one of the places on your bucket list, is because of how easy it is to get around. Public transportation is inexpensive and easily accessible. Take the train, a bus, or a taxi to get where you need to go at a fraction of the price of other popular tourist spots.

Expedia can assist you in finding lodging when you visit Edinburgh. Enjoy the quaint charm of Auld Reekie guest houses and take tours as well. Turn to Expedia.com to make all of your travel arrangements. Planning your trip to Edinburgh will be a breeze with all of the information you need only a click away. You won't miss a trick when you use us as your convenient, free travel agent. Make your plans, pack your bags, and get ready for your next adventure in the British Isles!


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What to do in Edinburgh


Discover the most popular places to visit in Edinburgh

Explore areas of Edinburgh

Old Town Edinburgh showing street scenes, outdoor eating and a city

Old Town Edinburgh

4.5/5(288 area reviews)

Preserving its medieval street plan, this UNESCO World Heritage Site features the Royal Mile, St. Giles' Cathedral, and the National Museum of Scotland. Explore narrow closes and hidden passages for a unique experience.

Old Town Edinburgh
Balmoral Hotel 8

Edinburgh City Centre

While you're in Edinburgh City Centre, take in top sights like Royal Mile or Edinburgh Castle, and hop on the metro to see more the city at St Andrew Square Tram Stop or Princes Street Tram Stop.

Edinburgh City Centre
Edinburgh which includes night scenes and heritage architecture

New Town

4.5/5(233 area reviews)

Discover original neo-classical and Georgian architecture in this UNESCO World Heritage Site, housing the National Gallery of Scotland and the Royal Scottish Academy Building. Shop along Princes Street, George Street, and the newly redeveloped St James Quarter.

New Town
Panoramic view over Leith in Edinburgh from above - travel photography

Leith

Undergoing significant regeneration, Leith boasts a busy port, the Royal Yacht Britannia, and Ocean Terminal shopping centre. The shore area offers charming pubs and restaurants, while cultural attractions include Leith Theatre and Leith School of Art.

Leith
Tollcross

Tollcross

5/5(8 area reviews)

Travelers come to Tollcross for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like Usher Hall and Royal Lyceum Theatre while you're in town.

Tollcross
Aerial view of historic city with cathedral and old town, Merchiston, Edinburgh, Scotland.

West End

4/5(67 area reviews)

Visitors to West End love its popular shops, and you can check out Dean Village and Johnnie Walker Princes Street. If you want to see more in the area, you can get around town on the metro at Haymarket Tram Station.

West End

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 


 

Day trip destinations from Edinburgh

Frequently asked questions

Is Edinburgh worth visiting?
Providing a mix of festivals and history, there's no shortage of things to do in Edinburgh. While you're here, visit Edinburgh Castle, a major attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Edinburgh?
Kick your day off with a visit to Edinburgh Castle and Edinburgh Zoo. Then, explore different areas of Edinburgh for a bite to eat and a little retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Edinburgh?
Edinburgh Castle is one of the top tourist attractions in Edinburgh and deserves a place on every must-do list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Edinburgh?
Three days will give you plenty of time to tick off many city attractions, like Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh Zoo and Grassmarket. The average stay in Edinburgh is three days. If you have the time to extend your vacation, Newbridge isn't far away.
Is Edinburgh a walkable city?
It all depends on what you plan to do and see in Edinburgh. Several top sights, such as Edinburgh Castle and Edinburgh Zoo, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a wander through some of Edinburgh's neighbourhoods, Edinburgh City Centre is 0.16 kilometres away from downtown, while Old Town Edinburgh is 0.64 kilometres away from the centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Edinburgh with kids?
What to do in Edinburgh for adults?
Scotch Whisky Experience and Edinburgh Gin Distillery are just two of the things to do in Edinburgh. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone to explore.
Are there free things to do in Edinburgh?
One of the easiest ways to find free things to do in Edinburgh is to chat to a local tour guide. You'll get insider views on cool neighbourhoods, parks and other major attractions you can experience without opening your wallet. Grassmarket is one spot that doesn't charge an entrance fee.

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