Nestled beside long extinct volcanoes and built on seven hills, Edinburgh offers spectacular scenery in a rugged setting. The city itself is visually impressive with the medieval buildings of the Old Town and the wide Georgian roads and spacious homes of the New Town. Edinburgh was declared a World Heritage Site in 1995.
The city’s crowning glory and the reason for its existence is Edinburgh Castle. For hundreds of years, this fortress perched on an ancient volcano defended the city from attack.
Start your exploration of Scotland’s capital city at The Royal Mile. This series of cobblestone streets links the castle with the Palace of Holyroodhouse, an official royal residence. Along the route you’ll come across some of the city’s most famous landmarks, including St. Giles’ Cathedral and Parliament House.
Just a short walk away is Princes Street Gardens, which runs the length of Princes Street, the city’s main shopping area. While you are enjoying this pretty green space, visit some of its memorials and monuments including the Scott Monument. This Gothic structure was built to honor the novelist Sir Walter Scott. Its viewing galleries offer good views of the city.
Enjoy even more beautiful views from the hills that rise over the city. Hike to the summits of Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano, and Calton Hill, which is home to a number of impressive monuments.
Veer off the beaten track and explore some of Edinburgh’s lesser-known sites. Dean Village is surrounded by countryside and is just five minutes from the city center. The port district has a wealth of bars, cafes and restaurants and is also the final resting place of the Royal Yacht Britannia. This magnificent vessel sailed the British royal family around the world for more than 40 years.
Two of the most popular months to visit Edinburgh are December and August. Overlapping arts festivals running through August include the Edinburgh Fringe and the Edinburgh Art Festival. December is packed with Yuletide attractions and markets, and is rounded off with one of the world’s most famous street parties: Edinburgh’s Hogmanay.
Edinburgh
Travel Guide
Visit Edinburgh
Edinburgh Travel Guide Video
Where to stay in Edinburgh
Old Town Edinburgh
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.
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.
New Town
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.
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.
Tollcross
Travelers come to Tollcross for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like Usher Hall and King's Theatre while you're in town.
West End
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.
Holiday Inn Edinburgh by IHG
"The room was definitely dated and there were three of us in the room and housekeeping only ever left two towels. We had to ask for extra a few times and toilet paper. The best part of this property is the restaurant. Great food and nice staff although on the slow side and not too attentive to guests. ..."
Reviewed on 2026/5/28
Dalmahoy Hotel & Country Club
"Beautiful place, the staff at the reception was very pleasant, and the breakfast was good."
Reviewed on 2026/5/29
Apex Grassmarket Hotel
"Perfect location to everything we wanted to do in Edinburgh. Very friendly staff, very clean room and loved the parking. Will be booking there for our next trip!"
Reviewed on 2026/5/29
Aparthotel Adagio Edinburgh Royal Mile
"The laundry facilities were great and the staff top notch. Location is very handy. Will definitely stay again on next trip to Scotland."
Reviewed on 2026/5/29
PREMIER SUITES Edinburgh Fountain Court
"There were 2 full washrooms for 2 rooms. This made getting ready in the morning less complicated. The checkin girl was fantastic, so polite and caring. She took the time to personally ensure all my questions were answered."
Reviewed on 2026/5/29
Fraser Suites Edinburgh
"An excellent apartment just steps from The Royal Mile. The staff were super nice and very helpful - ready to answer questions about local attractions and amenities like restaurants."
Reviewed on 2026/5/28
Popular places to visit
Edinburgh Castle
Fortress, palace and repository of the crown jewels, this landmark overlooking the city has played a crucial role in Scottish history.
Princes Street
During your trip to Edinburgh, you can enjoy retail therapy at Princes Street. Experience the fascinating museums and lively festivals in this walkable area.
Royal Mile
Explore this area in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town to find ancient buildings, historic relics, shops, museums and range of dining options.
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.
Grassmarket
During your visit to Edinburgh, you can search for that perfect souvenir at Grassmarket. Check out the top-notch restaurants or lively bars in this family-friendly area.
Murrayfield Stadium
Catch an event at Murrayfield Stadium, and enjoy other activities in Edinburgh such as golfing. Discover the lively festivals and shops in this walkable area.
Other places like Edinburgh
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- Visit Old Town Edinburgh
- Melville Monument
- Visit Rosewell
- Royal Yacht Britannia
- Gyle Shopping Centre
- Scotland Vacations
- Scottish Parliament
- Visit Dalkeith
- Scottish National Gallery
- Grassmarket
- Edinburgh Vacations
- St. Mary's Episcopal Cathederal
- Visit Barnton
- Visit Pencaitland
- St. Giles' Cathedral
- Edinburgh Castle
- Visit Muirhouse
- Scott Monument
- Visit Turnhouse
- Royal Mile
- The Hub
- Visit Liberton
- Scotch Whisky Experience
- Visit Prestonfield
- National Library of Scotland
- Writers' Museum
- University of Edinburgh
- Visit South Queensferry
- Heriot-Watt University
- Visit Roslin
- Visit Balerno
- Pet-Friendly Vacation Packages Edinburgh and Lothian
- Butterfly and Insect World
- Dean Village
- Arthur's Seat
- Visit Granton
- Princes Street Gardens
- Visit West End
- Edinburgh Park
- Highland Tolbooth Kirk
- Edinburgh Playhouse Theatre
- Victoria Street
- National Museum of Scotland
- Edinburgh Zoo
- Visit Tollcross
- Visit Scotland
- Visit Gilmerton
- Edinburgh Castle
- Princes Street
- Royal Mile
- University of Edinburgh
- Grassmarket
- George Street
- Edinburgh Zoo
- Edinburgh Playhouse Theatre
- Dean Village
- Edinburgh Park
- Princes Street Gardens
- National Museum of Scotland
- St. Giles' Cathedral
- Arthur's Seat
- Royal Yacht Britannia
- Victoria Street
- Scotch Whisky Experience
