Edinburgh is an incredible city filled with history, culture and charm. From iconic landmarks and historic castles to beautiful gardens and scenic viewpoints, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Edinburgh. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend break or planning a longer stay. In this guide, I’ll share some of the city’s highlights, along with practical tips to help you plan your trip.
Edinburgh was one of our first trips with our son after the COVID-19 lockdowns, when he was just two years old, making it a particularly special destination for us. Although many of the places we visited weren’t specifically aimed at children, they were enjoyable for the whole family. I’ll share our experiences alongside ideas and recommendations to help you make the most of your own visit.
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The Best Things to Do in Edinburgh
Here I will share the best things to do in Edinburgh based on our experience there. Further down in this travel guide, I will share some more useful information about planning your trip, including where to eat and where to stay!
Explore Edinburgh Castle
Of course, a trip to Edinburgh wouldn’t be complete without visiting Edinburgh Castle! It really is an iconic attraction and one of the best things to do in Edinburgh. My husband has a particular interest in history, so this was somewhere he was really keen to explore. Our toddler also had a great time here, so it really is a great option for all ages.
Edinburgh Castle is a historic fortress which gives fascinating insights into Scotland’s past. Highlights include the Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny and St Margaret’s Chapel, which is the oldest surviving building in Edinburgh. As the castle is located on top of a hill, it also offers amazing views over Edinburgh!
A family photo outside Edinburgh Castle.
Our toddler also had a great time exploring Edinburgh Castle and was very pleased with the toy helmet we bought him as a souvenir! Some parts of the castle do have a lot of steps, so consider bringing a baby carrier if you might need one. There are also activity worksheets available for older kids.
Adult tickets cost £23.50, children are £11.50, and under-7s go free. As this is one of the most popular things to do in Edinburgh, you should book tickets in advance. I found the best ticket price to be directly on Edinburgh Castle’s website; however, if they are sold out, you can also try providers such as Get Your Guide.
Stunning views from the walls of Edinburgh Castle.
Walk The Royal Mile
Stretching from Edinburgh Castle, down to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Royal Mile runs through the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town and is one of the city’s most famous streets.
It’s a lovely walk, full of atmosphere, historic architecture and plenty to discover along the way. You’ll find independent shops, cafés, restaurants and narrow alleyways, which offer a glimpse into Edinburgh’s past.
Children will especially love watching street performers and people playing bagpipes.
The Royal Mile can be busy, so if you’d prefer a quieter stroll and better opportunities to take photographs, I’d recommend visiting early in the morning.
Stunning buildings along the Royal Mile.
See The Palace of Holyroodhouse
As you reach the end of The Royal Mile, you’ll see The Palace of Holyroodhouse. We didnt end up going inside ourselves, and I really wish we had! Unfortunately, we ran out of time to go in, but we did get a quick look at the outside. It just looked beautiful!
Tickets are cheaper if booked in advance. Adult tickets are currently £22, children are £11 and under-5s visit for free. Book Palace of Holyroodhouse tickets in advance here.
The pretty exterior of the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh.
Climb Calton Hill
Climbing Carltion Hill is a fun and free thing to do in Edinburgh. I was a little nervous about doing this with a toddler in a pushchair (stroller), but luckily, it was a much easier climb than I expected it to be. It is quite steep, but it only takes about 5-10 minutes to get from the bottom to the top. This makes it a perfect activity for families with young children.
It is absolutely worth the effort for the stunning views over the city. If you’re looking for more great views in Edinburgh, read this detailed guide next!
The view from the top of Calton Hill.
Climb to the Top of Arthur’s Seat
If you’re looking for a bit more of a hike, climbing Arthur’s Seat is a popular activity to add to your Edinburgh itinerary. This ancient volcanic hill sits within Holyrood Park and offers panoramic views across the city and surrounding countryside from its 251-metre summit.
We decided not to make the climb when we visited Edinburgh as it is not pushchair-friendly, but it’s well worth considering if you’re visiting with older children or are toddler-free! The paths can be steep and uneven, particularly near the summit, so make sure to wear sturdy shoes.
View of Arthur’s Seat.
Visit The Royal Botanic Gardens
The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is a beautiful place to escape the bustle of the city, particularly during the summer months. Spreading over 70 acres, the gardens are home to an impressive collection of plants, colourful flower displays and peaceful walking paths.
If you enjoy nature, this is a must-visit. Personally, I loved the glasshouse and the adorable Botanic Cottage surrounded by wildflowers, pictured below.
We visited on a beautiful, sunny day, which made exploring the gardens even more enjoyable. I’d recommend checking the weather before your visit if you want to make the most of the outdoor spaces.
Best of all, entry to the gardens is free, making this a lovely option if you’re looking for free things to do in Edinburgh. After a long renovation project, the Palm House has reopened to visitors; however, it does require a separate ticket. Check the official website for the latest visitor information before you go.
Enjoying Edinburgh’s Royal Botanic Garden.
Take a Walking Tour
There are plenty of options for walking tours in Edinburgh. Being Harry Potter fans, we chose to do a Harry Potter walking tour and really enjoyed it! I’ve also published a guide on the best Harry Potter locations in Edinburgh, should you wish to do a self-guided tour.
If you’re not a Harry Potter fan, there are also general Edinburgh Old and New Town tours, as well as ghost tours. They’re a great way to explore the city and learn some interesting facts along the way.
We did our tour with City Explorers, who have daily tours available. The tours are free, although it is common courtesy to tip your guide, which seems completely fair!
Victoria Street in Edinburgh is said to be the inspiration for Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter series.
Marval at the National Museum of Scotland
I have never seen such a beautiful museum as the National Museum of Scotland! Located in the heart of Edinburgh, the museum is a wonderful mix of striking architecture, fascinating history and interactive exhibits. The magnificent Grand Gallery, with its soaring ceilings and natural light, is particularly impressive and makes the building worth visiting in its own right.
Best of all, general admission to the museum is free. It’s also an excellent option for a rainy afternoon, particularly if you’re visiting with children, as there are interactive displays and hands-on activities to keep younger visitors engaged. Looking for more free things to do in Edinburgh? Read this guide next
The National Museum of Scotland.
Enjoy One of Edinburgh’s Other Free Museums
While the National Museum of Scotland is probably the city’s best-known museum, there are plenty of other fascinating places to explore. Whether you’re interested in history, literature, money or everyday life in Edinburgh, there’s something to suit most interests.
Some other options worth considering include the Museum on the Mound, where you can learn about the history of money and even see what £1 million looks like, and the Museum of Edinburgh, which tells the story of the city through fascinating objects and historical artefacts. Literature lovers might also enjoy the Writers’ Museum, dedicated to the lives of Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott and Robert Louis Stevenson.
The Scottish Storytelling Centre is another option to look into, particularly if you’re interested in Scotland’s rich storytelling traditions.
I’m a strong believer that you dont need to see and do everything! I’d recommend picking the places that genuinely interest you most rather than trying to squeeze them all into your itinerary. It’s much nicer to have time to enjoy a few places properly than to rush from one attraction to the next.
Wander Through Princes Street Gardens
Separating Edinburgh’s old and new towns. Princes Street Gardens is a beautiful place for a stroll or a picnic. It is the perfect place for a relaxed stroll. If you’re visiting Edinburgh as a family, there is also a great castle-themed playground for kids to burn some energy.
For me, a highlight of this park was the Ross Fountain. Not only is it a beautiful fountain in its own right, but it also has gorgeous views of Edinburgh Castle in the background.
The Ross Fountain in Princess Street Gardens.
Shop in the New Town
While the Old Town of Edinburgh is historic and full of culture, the New Town is known for its shops and restaurants. From high street brands to luxury retailers and independent stores, Edinburgh has something for everyone.
If you enjoy shopping, Multrees Walk is the place to head for luxury designer brands, while the nearby St James Quarter is a modern shopping destination with a wide range of popular retailers, restaurants and places to stop for a coffee.
For something a little different, it’s also worth exploring the surrounding streets, where you’ll find independent shops and boutiques alongside well-known brands. Whether you’re looking for designer fashion, everyday essentials or simply fancy a browse between sightseeing, Edinburgh’s New Town has plenty to offer.
How Many Days Do You Need in Edinburgh?
I’d recommend a minimum of two days in Edinburgh to explore the main sights, wander through the historic Old Town and enjoy some of the city’s restaurants and cafés without feeling too rushed.
If you have three days or more, you’ll have extra time to visit attractions at a slower pace, explore the New Town and its shops, or head further afield. If you enjoy museums, walking or discovering places beyond the main tourist areas, you could easily spend longer.
Ultimately, how long you need will depend on your interests and travel style. I’d avoid trying to squeeze everything into one trip and instead choose the attractions that appeal to you most.
Where to Stay in Edinburgh
Edinburgh has a wide range of accommodation, from affordable city-centre hotels to elegant boutique properties and luxury stays. Choosing the right area can make a real difference to your trip, particularly if you’re visiting for a weekend and want to spend less time travelling between attractions.
We stayed in Edinburgh’s Old Town, which I think is a great base for first-time visitors. You’ll be close to many of the city’s most famous sights, including Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile, making it easy to explore on foot.
The New Town is another excellent option, particularly if you enjoy shopping and restaurants. If you’re visiting with children, I’d also consider what facilities you’ll need, such as family rooms, breakfast options and enough space to relax after a busy day sightseeing.
When we visited Edinburgh, we stayed in a lovely Airbnb. Unfortunately, the exact place is no longer available, but I have found some other great options to share. Alternatively, you can browse all current accommodation options here.
Best Budget Hotel: Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh – Royal Mile
If you’re looking for a comfortable, central base without spending a fortune on accommodation, the Holiday Inn Express Edinburgh – Royal Mile is worth considering. Its location makes it convenient for exploring the historic Old Town and visiting many of Edinburgh’s main attractions on foot.
The complimentary breakfast, where included under the applicable rate, can also help keep your overall trip costs down. It’s a practical option for couples and families who would rather spend their budget exploring the city than on a luxury hotel.
Best Mid-Range Hotel: DoubleTree by Hilton Edinburgh City Centre
The DoubleTree by Hilton Edinburgh City Centre is another option to consider if you want a well-located hotel with the familiar facilities of a major hotel brand. Situated close to Edinburgh Castle, it provides a convenient base for sightseeing, restaurants and exploring the Old Town.
Best Aparthotel for Families: Wilde Aparthotels Edinburgh Grassmarket
I really like an aparthotel, especially when travelling with children. They offer more space and flexibility than a traditional hotel room. At the time of writing this guide, I would have chosen Wilde Aparthotels Edinburgh Grassmarket. It looks like a great affordable luxury option in a central location.
Best Luxury Hotel: The Balmoral
For a special occasion or a luxurious city break, The Balmoral is one of Edinburgh’s most iconic hotels. Its distinctive clock tower stands prominently above Princes Street, and its central location makes it an excellent base for exploring the city in style.
J.K. Rowling completed Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows while staying there. This adds an extra point of interest for Harry Potter fans visiting Edinburgh.
👉 Check all Edinburgh accommodation availability and current prices here.
Where to Eat in Edinburgh
You’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to places to eat and drink in Edinburgh. We visited some lovely cafés and restaurants during our trip that I’d happily recommend if you’re looking for somewhere to eat between sightseeing. In Edinburgh, you’ll find most of the chain resteraunts, along with a lot of independant options. Below, I’ve listed our highlights:
- Brunch at Em’s Kitchen: Visiting a pink café is always high on my to-do list, and this one didn’t disappoint! It’s a lovely option if you’re looking for somewhere a little different to start your day.
- Tea and cake at Mimi’s Bakehouse: Another Instagram-worthy spot, Mimi’s Bakehouse is known for its tempting selection of cakes and sweet treats. We enjoyed visiting so much that it was worth letting our toddler skip his nap!
- Cocktails at Tigerlily: Tigerlily is a stylish spot for drinks, but it also serves food. We enjoyed a cocktail while our son had dinner from the children’s menu, making it a lovely option for an evening out as a family. The staff were also really great with our son, giving him a mini rubber duck (thats usually in one of the cocktalis) to play with!
- Dinner at @Pizza: update unfortunately, this place has now closed.
If you’re not sure where to start, George Street and the surrounding New Town streets are a good area to explore, with plenty of restaurants and bars to choose from.
As restaurants and opening hours can change, I’d recommend checking the latest details before visiting.
Mimis Bakehouse and Em’s Kitchen – great places to eat in Edinburgh!
FAQ’s on Visitng Edinburgh
If you’re visiting Edinburgh for the first time, I’d prioritise Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile and the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, particularly if you’re visiting in summer when the gardens are at their best. These highlights offer a lovely mix of Scottish history, historic streets and beautiful outdoor spaces. If you have extra time, the National Museum of Scotland is also well worth a visit.
Yes! Two days is enough to see many of Edinburgh’s main highlights, including Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile and some of the city’s most popular museums and viewpoints. However, you could easily fill three or four days if you’d like to explore at a slower pace, visit more attractions and enjoy Edinburgh’s cafés, restaurants and shops without rushing.
Absolutely! We visited Edinburgh with our son when he was two, and he had a lovely time. Some of our highlights included Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh and the National Museum of Scotland. There’s a great mix of history, outdoor spaces and interactive attractions, making Edinburgh an enjoyable destination for families as well as adults travelling without children.
Tigerliy, a great stop for cocktails or dinner.
Final Thoughts on Visiting Edinburgh
Edinburgh is a beautiful city with so much to offer, from its historic castle and charming Old Town streets to its fascinating museums, beautiful gardens and fantastic places to eat. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend break or spending a few days exploring Scotland’s capital, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
We loved exploring Edinburgh as a family, and even though our son was only two at the time, there was plenty for us all to enjoy together. I’d recommend choosing the attractions that interest you most rather than trying to fit everything into one trip. It’s much nicer to have time to soak up the city’s atmosphere along the way.
If you’re planning a visit, I hope this guide has helped you discover some of the best things to do in Edinburgh and inspired you to start planning your own trip!
Read More About Edinburgh in These Guides:
All the Harry Potter Locations in Edinburgh
The Best Free Things to Do in Edinburgh
The Best Views and Photo Spots in Edinburgh
Other UK Destinations You’ll Love:
Looking to explore more of the United Kingdom? Read our travel guides about these destinations next:
London – The Cotswolds – Cambridge
Thank you so much for reading my guide about the best things to do in Edinburgh. I hope you have an amazing time in Scotland.
Happy Exploring,
A London mum sharing stylish, family-friendly travel guides.
I In our travel guides, I show you that you can still travel as a family and create beautiful memories, even when trips aren’t full of kid-centric activities.
When I’m not planning our next adventure, I also share timeless style inspiration and ideas for living more thoughtfully and sustainably.