University of Edinburgh Tours and Activities

University of Edinburgh featuring heritage architecture and heritage elements
University of Edinburgh showing heritage elements and heritage architecture
University of Edinburgh showing heritage architecture and heritage elements
University of Edinburgh showing heritage architecture and heritage elements
University of Edinburgh

The campus of Edinburgh's venerable educational institution is spread seamlessly around the architecture of the city and opens to the public during year-round events.

Explore the campuses of the University of Edinburgh and soak up the academic atmosphere in its museums and galleries. Sights such as the quad of the Georgian Old College and the Gothic towers of New College on the Mound are iconic parts of the cityscape.

Visit the university, which was established in 1583 and has been at the cutting edge of academia ever since. The Higgs boson particle, Dolly the Sheep and the works of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle all have their origins here in its halls.

Learn about niche areas of study in the university's museums. See Renaissance flutes and a Nepali bowed lute in the Musical Instrument Museum or examine life masks in the Anatomical Museum, both of which have limited opening hours. The Natural History Collections and the Cockburn Geological Museum present research from their respective departments and are available for public viewing by appointment.

The Talbot Rice Gallery, the university's main gallery, features a permanent collection of contemporary art as well as visiting exhibitions. Discover the artists of the future at rooms displaying the work of students at Edinburgh College of Art. Works from across different disciplines are regularly presented for the public in the college's maze of halls and corridors.

Ponder life's big questions with intellectuals at one of the university's public lectures. Researchers and academics share or debate their thoughts in venues including George Square Lecture Theatre. Topics are wide ranging, covering anything from sustainable development to the life of women under the Romans.

Visit the University of Edinburgh in August and experience the unique atmosphere of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. A month of comedy and art, with hundreds of performers taking over the city, uses the student union buildings to stage shows. Laugh for hours at some of the best comedians in the country or experiment with daring theater and acrobatics.

The University of Edinburgh is spread over different campuses linked by the Lothian Buses network. Book in advance for some of the museums and lectures since demand is great.

Plan a trip to see University of Edinburgh

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
First Pleasance Luxury Apartment

First Pleasance Luxury Apartment

4 out of 5
Southside
per person
Oct 5 - Oct 11
found 13 hours ago
Roundtrip non-stop flight included
Montreal (YUL) to Edinburgh (EDI)
8.4/10 Very Good! (5 reviews)
The Scotsman Hotel

The Scotsman Hotel

4 out of 5
Old Town Edinburgh
per person
Sep 8 - Sep 13
found 1 day ago
Roundtrip non-stop flight included
Halifax (YHZ) to Edinburgh (EDI)
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,004 reviews)
The staff and the service was excellent, the room was lovely. Couldn't recommend more!

Reviewed on Jul. 31, 2025

First Lasswade Road House

First Lasswade Road House

4 out of 5
Gilmerton
per person
Oct 13 - Oct 19
found 1 day ago
Roundtrip flight included
Toronto (YYZ) to Edinburgh (EDI)
7.6/10 Good! (4 reviews)

Tours & day trips

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Loch Ness, Scottish Highlands, Glencoe and Pitlochry Tour

Loch Ness, Scottish Highlands, Glencoe and Pitlochry Tour

Activity duration is 12 hours and 30 minutes
9.4 out of 10 with 85 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is CA $165 per adult
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Private & custom tours

See all 183 activities
Edinburgh: Scottish Tasting Platter at The Tolbooth Tavern

Edinburgh: Scottish Tasting Platter at The Tolbooth Tavern

Activity duration is 1 hour
10.0 out of 10 with 3 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is CA $49 per adult
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Adventure & outdoor

See all 23 activities
Scottish Highlands, Castles, Glencoe Day Trip from Edinburgh

Scottish Highlands, Castles, Glencoe Day Trip from Edinburgh

Activity duration is 11 hours
Free cancellation available
Price is CA $437 per adult
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Holiday & seasonal tours

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Edinburgh: Underground Vaults Evening Ghost Tour with Whisky

Edinburgh: Underground Vaults Evening Ghost Tour with Whisky

Activity duration is 2 hours
9.0 out of 10 with 17 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is CA $53 per adult
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Classes & workshops

See all 11 activities
Queensferry: Maid of the Forth 1.5-Hour Sightseeing Cruise

Queensferry: Maid of the Forth 1.5-Hour Sightseeing Cruise

Activity duration is 1 hour and 30 minutes
9.8 out of 10 with 6 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is CA $33 per adult
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Popular places to visit

George Square

George Square

You can find out about the history of Edinburgh when you stop by George Square. Discover the area's acclaimed art scene and notable monuments.

George Square
The Meadows which includes heritage elements

The Meadows

One of Edinburgh’s largest public parks is an attractive open space with tree-lined walkways, picnic areas and sporting facilities.

The Meadows
Greyfriar\'s Bobby featuring outdoor art and street scenes

Greyfriar's Bobby

Visit a cemetery that has entered into legend because of a faithful dog who waited for years by his master’s grave.

Greyfriar's Bobby
Greyfriars Kirk

Greyfriars Kirk

You can find out about the history of Edinburgh when you stop by Greyfriars Kirk. Add the area's notable monuments or shops to your travel plans.

Greyfriars Kirk
National Museum of Scotland which includes interior views as well as a large group of people

National Museum of Scotland

Science, nature, history and culture come together in this spectacular museum, which celebrates learning about the world and all its wonders.

National Museum of Scotland

Edinburgh University Collection of Historic Musical Instruments

You can study the exhibits at Edinburgh University Collection of Historic Musical Instruments, a museum with a storied past, during your travels to Edinburgh. Discover the area's entertainment choices and shops.

Edinburgh University Collection of Historic Musical Instruments

Best Lodging Options Near University of Edinburgh

Apex Grassmarket Hotel

Apex Grassmarket Hotel

4 out of 5
31-35 Grassmarket, Edinburgh, Scotland
Apex Grassmarket Hotel
Apex Waterloo Place Hotel

Apex Waterloo Place Hotel

4 out of 5
23-27 Waterloo Place, Edinburgh, Scotland
Apex Waterloo Place Hotel
CoDE Pod – The CoURT - Edinburgh

CoDE Pod – The CoURT - Edinburgh

2 out of 5
1 a Parliament Square, Edinburgh, Scotland
CoDE Pod – The CoURT - Edinburgh
YOTEL Edinburgh

YOTEL Edinburgh

4 out of 5
Erskine House, Queen Street, Edinburgh, Scotland
YOTEL Edinburgh
Aparthotel Adagio Edinburgh Royal Mile

Aparthotel Adagio Edinburgh Royal Mile

4 out of 5
231 Canongate, Edinburgh, Scotland
Aparthotel Adagio Edinburgh Royal Mile
Radisson Blu Hotel, Edinburgh City Centre

Radisson Blu Hotel, Edinburgh City Centre

4 out of 5
80 High Street The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, Scotland
Radisson Blu Hotel, Edinburgh City Centre
Virgin Hotels Edinburgh

Virgin Hotels Edinburgh

5 out of 5
1 India Buildings, Victoria Street, Edinburgh, Scotland
Virgin Hotels Edinburgh
Apex City of Edinburgh Hotel

Apex City of Edinburgh Hotel

4 out of 5
61 Grassmarket, Edinburgh, Scotland
Apex City of Edinburgh Hotel
ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge - Royal Mile

ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge - Royal Mile

3 out of 5
77 South Bridge, Edinburgh, Scotland
ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge - Royal Mile
See all 2,854 properties in University of Edinburgh
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near University of Edinburgh

At the University of Edinburgh, visitors can enjoy a vibrant array of activities, including captivating theatre performances and exciting festivals. Explore guided tours of the university’s historic accommodations, engage with local sports groups, and discover scenic walking routes that showcase the beautiful surroundings. Whether you're seeking entertainment or cultural experiences, the university area offers a delightful mix of opportunities for all visitors.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience near the University of Edinburgh, visit Tron Kirk, a vibrant public market just 644m away. The Hub, also 644m away, offers unique finds, while Tartan Weaving Mill, 805m away, showcases charming Scottish crafts and souvenirs.

Recreation

Explore Murrayfield Stadium for an energetic atmosphere and enjoy various sports events. Take a refreshing dip at the Royal Commonwealth Pool, perfect for families. For a serene escape, hike Blackford Hill and bask in nature's tranquility, ideal for wellness and relaxation.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of Bedlam Paintball, located 1.6km from the University of Edinburgh, where you can engage in adrenaline-pumping paintball battles. For winter sports enthusiasts, the Midlothian Ski Centre, 1.4km away, offers great skiing opportunities. Climbing enthusiasts can head to the Edinburgh International Climbing Arena Ratho, situated 12.9km away, for an exhilarating outdoor climbing experience.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near the University of Edinburgh. Catch a show at the Edinburgh Playhouse Theatre or the King's Theatre for a cultural evening. For a fun adventure, visit Camera Obscura and World of Illusions, where you can enjoy family-friendly entertainment just a short walk away.

Find the best attractions near University of Edinburgh

When visiting the University of Edinburgh, you'll find a wealth of attractions such as museums, monuments, and the iconic Edinburgh Castle. These points of interest provide a blend of cultural experiences perfect for families and city explorers alike. Don't miss the chance to explore the historic university campus and immerse yourself in the rich heritage that surrounds this vibrant city.

  • Edinburgh Castle: Perched atop Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle offers breathtaking views and rich history. Explore ancient stone walls, the Crown Jewels, and the Stone of Destiny, while soaking in the romantic culture that permeates this iconic fortress.
  • Grassmarket: A lively area filled with shops, pubs, and eateries, Grassmarket boasts a family-friendly atmosphere. Its outdoor vibes invite you to enjoy local cuisine and vibrant street performances, all set against a backdrop of historic buildings.
  • St. Giles' Cathedral: Renowned for its stunning architecture and intricate stained glass, St. Giles' Cathedral is a cultural gem. Experience its serene ambiance and rich history through guided tours or by attending a service.

Best time to go to University of Edinburgh

Visitor numbers around University of Edinburgh is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit University of Edinburgh can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around University of Edinburgh falls in July, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature around University of Edinburgh falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January38.5°F (3.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February39.4°F (4.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March41.5°F (5.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
April45.1°F (7.3°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
May50.0°F (10.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
June55.2°F (12.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
July58.1°F (14.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
August57.4°F (14.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
September54.3°F (12.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
October49.5°F (9.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
November43.5°F (6.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
December39.6°F (4.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for University of Edinburgh

When visiting the University of Edinburgh, you can save money by exploring free attractions like the Royal Mile, Princes Street, and Grassmarket. Consider travelling during the off-peak months from January to March for lower hotel prices. Booking about a month in advance or checking last-minute deals on Expedia can help you find cheaper accommodations, especially on Tuesdays. Don’t forget to use Expedia’s tools to compare rates and bundle your hotel with flights for additional savings. Keep an eye out for special offers and flexible booking options to maximise your budget!

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around University of Edinburgh are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around University of Edinburgh is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around University of Edinburgh is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around University of Edinburgh is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To discover the most affordable prices and special offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some money by combining your hotel stay at the University of Edinburgh with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.