Edinburgh

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Top 10 attractions in Edinburgh

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Edinburgh Castle
2026 Global 100 - Best Things to Do

Edinburgh Castle

10
4.7/5
2.9k reviews
Edinburgh Castle stands majestically on the volcanic cliffs above the Royal Mile, guarding Scotland for centuries—it once served as a royal residence, military fortress, and prison. Today, you can stand at the exact spot where the One O'Clock Gun fires, stroll through St. Margaret's Chapel, and explore the National War Museum on the west side, which showcases centuries of Scottish military history through uniforms, medals, and weapons, alongside the Crown Jewels displayed beside the Stone of Destiny. The castle esplanade echoes with the sound of bagpipes, the Crown's history predates the Act of Union, and the breathtaking views of the Firth of Forth stretch out before you. This historic British landmark still commands awe from people across the island.Edinburgh · 891m from downtown
Edinburgh Old Town
No. 2 of Best Things to Do in Scotland

Edinburgh Old Town

9
4.9/5
132 reviews
Edinburgh Old Town refers to the old town area of Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland. The district preserves many buildings from the European Middle Ages and the Scottish Reformation, including notable landmarks such as St. Giles' Cathedral, the General Assembly Hall of the Church of Scotland, the Surgeons' Hall, the National Museum of Scotland, the University of Edinburgh, and the Scottish Parliament Building. Strolling through the streets of Edinburgh Old Town, exploring the unique architecture, pubs, restaurants, and shops on either side, with the occasional sound of beautiful Scottish bagpipe music in the air, is a truly relaxing and enjoyable experience.Edinburgh · 487m from downtown
Palace of Holyroodhouse
No. 3 of Best Things to Do in Scotland

Palace of Holyroodhouse

8.8
4.7/5
382 reviews
The Palace of Holyroodhouse is located at the end of the Royal Mile in Edinburgh and serves as the official residence of His Majesty the King of Scotland, used for state ceremonies and official entertainment. This palace has been a royal residence for over 500 years and is deeply intertwined with Scotland's rich history. A visit to the palace includes the historic apartments of Mary, Queen of Scots, where many dramatic events occurred during her brief and tumultuous reign, including the brutal murder of her Italian secretary David Rizzio by her husband Lord Darnley. In the palace's State Apartments, visitors can admire the magnificent Great Gallery, where grand balls were held in September 1745 when Bonnie Prince Charlie established his Jacobite court at the palace. Today's State Apartments reflect the evolving tastes of successive monarchs, renowned for their exquisite plaster ceilings and an unparalleled collection of Brussels tapestries. They house a significant portion of the Royal Collection's artworks, many of which have long-standing connections to the Palace of Holyroodhouse and Scotland. A visit to the palace also includes the opportunity to explore the ruins of Holyrood Abbey and the palace's unique gardens, set against the backdrop of Arthur's Seat. At the palace café, visitors can enjoy homemade dishes made from local produce, ranging from light snacks and lunches to afternoon tea.Edinburgh · 997m from downtown
The Scotch Whisky Experience
No. 4 of Best Things to Do in Scotland

The Scotch Whisky Experience

7.5
4.4/5
233 reviews
TOURS & TASTINGS Silver Tour – ONE WHISKY – guided tour & tutored tasting with an expert Ideal for whisky first-timers & families Interactive & fun introduction to Scotch whisky Hosted in English with free audio guides in 21 languages A storytelling adventure for everyone, rich in visuals, aromas and sensory surprises. Discover the origins of whisky, art of whisky making and magic of maturation. Step inside the cask and experience its fiery creation – seen nowhere else in the world! Learn why the angels always take their share. Unlock the contrasting aromas and flavours of Scotland's five whisky regions. Journey across Scotland in our sweeping 180-degree cinema – from the mysterious Loch Ness to the ‘Harry Potter' steam train, past the iconic Forth Rail Bridge, over castles and distilleries. You'll even see Highland cows! Delve into the history and alchemy of creating the perfect blend. Explore the glass-and-marble vault of the world's most popular whisky collection – one of the seven wonders of the Scotch whisky world. Master the five steps to appreciating Scotch. Includes Tutored tasting of one single malt, blend or soft drink – you choose! Gift-boxed original Glencairn crystal whisky glass worth £7.00 to take home (adults only). Special whisky aroma card to take home. Digital tutorial on hosting your own tasting – includes the five steps to appreciating Scotch. Gold Tour – FIVE WHISKIES – guided tour & tutored tasting with an expert Get a REAL taste for Scotch whisky Ideal for whisky enthusiasts Includes Our SILVER TOUR with one whisky of your choice + all inclusions... PLUS Tutored nosing & tasting of four contrasting regional single malts. From the citrus notes of the Lowlands and fruitiness of Speyside to the heathery Highlands and unmistakable smokiness of Islay, our expert led nosing and tasting offers a complete journey across Scotland's whisky regions. One year membership of the Scotch Whisky Appreciation Society, with discounts in our award-winning specialist whisky bar and shop – home to 600 single malts, blends & Scotch whisky liqueurs.Edinburgh · 690m from downtown
Princes Street
No. 2 of Night Attractions in Edinburgh

Princes Street

6.7
4.8/5
339 reviews
The total length of Princes Street is only 1.5 kilometers. This street divides Edinburgh into two cities, the old and the new, the new city in the north and the old city in the south. The east end of Princes Street is connected to Calton Hill. The hill is not high and overlooks the city.Edinburgh · 627m from downtown
National Museum of Scotland

National Museum of Scotland

6.5
4.7/5
285 reviews
The National Museum of Scotland was formed by the merger of the original Scottish Museum and the Royal Scottish Museum, and is considered one of the buildings of Scotland in the 20th century, adding a lively modern atmosphere to Edinburgh's Old Town. The architectural design of the museum echoes the unique history and natural environment of Scotland, especially the Round Tower in Edinburgh, forming an ingenious connection between history and modernity. The building is clad in Scottish golden sandstone, creating a weather-beaten ancient look. The triangular entrance hall is as high as seven floors, creating a sense of space full of tension, which is vividly likened to a "bird cage". The light is good, and the sun can almost fill every corner of the hall. Decorative pieces such as fountains and fish ponds add to the natural appeal.Edinburgh · 709m from downtown
Edinburgh Bus Tours
No. 6 of Best Things to Do in Edinburgh

Edinburgh Bus Tours

6.3
4.9/5
16 reviews
Edinburgh Bus Tours offer an immersive experience to explore the rich history and culture of Scotland's capital. As a charming city, Edinburgh is renowned for its magnificent architecture, long history, and diverse cultural activities. The city sightseeing provides multiple carefully designed bus routes, covering major tourist attractions and hidden gems, allowing visitors to explore the city with ease and convenience. Hop aboard the open-top Edinburgh Bus Tours to admire the majestic Edinburgh Castle, stroll along the Royal Mile, and soak in the historic charm of ancient streets. The bus passes iconic landmarks like the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the National Museum of Scotland, and Princes Street Gardens, with each stop offering opportunities to delve deeper into the city's culture and history. The onboard multilingual audio guide provides rich background knowledge and fascinating stories, making your journey even more enriching. Whether it's your first visit or a return to the city, Edinburgh Bus Tours offer a comprehensive and flexible way to explore. Hop on and off at your leisure, tailoring your itinerary to your interests and pace while fully experiencing Edinburgh's unique charm. This isn't just a sightseeing trip—it's a cultural journey that lets you engage deeply with the city.Edinburgh · 363m from downtown
St Giles' Cathedral
No. 7 of Best Things to Do in Edinburgh

St Giles' Cathedral

6.3
4.5/5
169 reviews
St Giles' Cathedral is located on the Royal Mile in the city center of Edinburgh, Scotland. It is a representative religious building in Edinburgh and an important church of the Church of Scotland. Its religious history dates back to 1124, and the existing building has undergone expansions and renovations over several periods, featuring an overall medieval Gothic architectural style. The exterior is characterized by stone walls, pointed arched windows, and a striking crown spire. The spire rises high above the city blocks and is a highly recognizable view in the Royal Mile area. Today, it is still used for daily worship, while also being open to visitors and hosting concerts and cultural events.Edinburgh · 449m from downtown
The Edinburgh Dungeon
No. 8 of Best Things to Do in Edinburgh

The Edinburgh Dungeon

6.3
4.2/5
20 reviews
The Edinburgh Dungeon is a very popular experience for young people. There is no real dungeon here, but there are realistic historical scenes, and professional actors introduce and interpret Scotland's unbearable history for you, allowing you to experience it from all aspects of vision, hearing, and touch, as if you really went through a time tunnel back to the time when the story took place. This is not only an interesting and unforgettable experience, but also can bring some inspiration to people. It is worth a visit. It should be noted that since the experience here may have some scary scenes, tourists with poor mental state and too young should choose carefully.Edinburgh · 287m from downtown
Royal Mile
Selected for Night Attractions in United Kingdom

Royal Mile

6.1
4.7/5
419 reviews
The Royal Mile is the central avenue of the old city of Edinburgh. This avenue starts from Edinburgh Castle and ends at the Palace of the Holy Cross. The alleys on both sides are intertwined and form the skeleton of the old city. The ground paved with cobblestones has long been polished, and the buildings on the side of the avenue are simple and majestic, full of historical atmosphere. Kilt-clad street performers play bagpipes every afternoon, reminding visitors that they are in the old heart of Scotland. The Royal Mile is divided into four sections. A small slope in front of the castle is called Castlehill, where the Scottish Whisky Heritage Centre is located. The next small segment is called the Lawnmarket. After the intersection of George IV Bridge Street is called High Street (HighStreet), St Giles Church is on High Street. Like most cities in the UK, the High Street is Edinburgh's city centre and a bustling strip of business. The section after the intersection of St. Mary's Street is called Canongate. Pedestrians are gradually sparse, surrounded by medieval buildings. At the end of the road is the Palace of the Holy Cross. On the Royal Mile, take a seat in an atmospheric restaurant or bar, or pick up gifts from Scotland.Edinburgh · 349m from downtown

Experiences you can't miss in Edinburgh

Featured Day tours in Edinburgh

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Loch Ness, Scottish Highlands, Glencoe and Pitlochry Tour
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4.8/5
· 3.3k reviews· 289 booked
Duration: 750 mins
Free cancellation
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95% of travelers recommend
FromNZD 117.57
Ghost Bus Tour of Edinburgh
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4.3/5
· 639 reviews· 48 booked
Duration: 60–75 mins
English
Free cancellation
FromNZD 50.38
1-day tour to Scottish Highlands, Glen Coe + Loch Ness with Edinburgh round-trip
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116 booked
Duration: 2.8 hrs
English
Free cancellation
84 travellers saved
FromNZD 173.51
Edinburgh: Glenfinnan Viaduct, Glencoe & Fort William
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4.9/5
· 1.9k reviews· 193 booked
Duration: 12 hrs
Free cancellation
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97.6% of travelers recommend
5% off
Limited-time sale
FromNZD 100.68NZD 105.98
Luxury Whisky Tasting in Edinburgh's Underground Vaults | 90min
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4.8/5
· 60 reviews
Duration: 90 mins
English
Free cancellation
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32 consecutive positive reviews
FromNZD 227.94
3 Day : Isle of Skye & The Highlands Tour  (B&B Single Accommodation)
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FromNZD 1,246.95
Edinburgh Afternoon Tea Experience
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4.3/5
· 501 reviews
Duration: 90 mins
English
Free cancellation
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FromNZD 113.93

Featured Food & drink in Edinburgh

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Hard Rock Cafe Edinburgh
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FromNZD 63.20
90min Underground Whisky Tasting in Edinburgh's Old Town
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4.8/5
· 275 reviews
Duration: 90 mins
English
Free cancellation
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64 consecutive positive reviews
FromNZD 95.99
Gothic Edinburgh: afternoon tea tour of women's stories and hidden history
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FromNZD 110.79

Featured Cultural experiences in Edinburgh

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City Sightseeing Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour + Kids Go Free
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4.4/5
· 1.1k reviews· 54 booked
Free cancellation
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FromNZD 47.97
Palace of Holyroodhouse: Entry Ticket
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5.0/5
· 1 review· 26 booked
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FromNZD 51.77
Glenfinnan, Fort William and Glencoe Adventure from Edinburgh
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4.1/5
· 1 review
Duration: 735 mins
English
Free cancellation
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FromNZD 129.65
Scottish Highlands Glen Coe + Harry Potter filming location viaduct 1-day tour Edinburgh
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Duration: 2 hrs
English
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FromNZD 144.51
1-day tour to Scottish Highlands - Glen Coe + Loch Ness from Edinburgh round-trip
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Duration: 2.8 hrs
English
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FromNZD 173.51
Edinburgh: Harry Potter Walking Tour and Beer Tasting
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Duration: 5 hrs
English
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5% off
Limited-time sale
FromNZD 109.63NZD 115.4

Featured City sightseeing in Edinburgh

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Edinburgh hop-on hop-off bus in the United Kingdom
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4.9/5
· 17 reviews· 928 booked
English
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22 bookings in 7 days
FromNZD 32.00
United Kingdom Edinburgh hop-on hop-off bus - Big Bus Edinburgh
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4.8/5
· 4 reviews· 110 booked
English
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FromNZD 40.59
Top Edinburgh: Private guided tour with your mobile
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Duration: 1.6 hrs
English
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FromNZD 19.75

More things to do

Edinburgh Cruises

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Private Tours in Edinburgh

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Group Tours in Edinburgh

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Free things to do in Edinburgh

What travellers say about Edinburgh

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M54***718 October 2026
5.0
The magnificent castle embodies the history, culture, and glory of Scotland. The visitor pathways and signage were well-organized, and there was even an audio guide in Mandarin, which allowed tourists like us who don't speak English to gain a deeper understanding of the castle. The staff at the visitor center were warm and attentive, and the police officers in the square outside the castle were friendly and responsible, helping me find my lost wife.

Edinburgh Castle

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M Ahem3 May 2025
5.0
Awesome place! Had an amazing experience—highly recommended for everyone to visit!

Edinburgh Old Town

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Anonymous user24 September 2026
5.0
Visiting the Palace of Holyroodhouse was easily one of the highlights of my time in Edinburgh. Located right at the end of the Royal Mile, it offers a fascinating contrast to the medieval drama of Edinburgh Castle, providing a much more intimate glimpse into British and Scottish royal history.

Palace of Holyroodhouse

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D Day Travel28 November 2025
4.0
Very nice experience. You will get a free whisky glass after the wine tasting session. We acquired a lot of whisky knowledge and overall it is very interesting.

The Scotch Whisky Experience

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樂悠遊11 May 2022
5.0
Princes Street in Edinburgh is the main avenue that separates the old and new cities. Walking on this street, you can not only enjoy the pleasant gardens and the magnificent castle, but also enjoy shopping😁😁

Princes Street

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苏河家园26 July 2025
5.0
The National Museum of Scotland is a fusion of Victorian architecture and modern design. The exhibits in the museum cover themes such as natural history, science and technology, and world culture, including representative exhibits such as Tyrannosaurus Rex fossils, Iron Age gold ornaments, and cloned sheep Dolly specimens, covering all aspects of social life.

National Museum of Scotland

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DDB245 August 2026
5.0
Loved doing this hop on and off bus in Edinburgh. It is such a beautiful city and the drivers are so kind and friendly

Edinburgh Bus Tours

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YA MEI23 February 2023
5.0
Starting from the appearance of St. Giles Cathedral, it is so solemn and sacred! Walking into the church is even more awe-inspiring. Its architectural design, sculpture art, and historical traces are all touching and worth your visit!

St Giles' Cathedral

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M22***0017 November 2019
4.0
The cast and special effects in the castle will transport you to the real underground world of ancient Scotland, with extra fun and entertainment

The Edinburgh Dungeon

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Traveltheworld@bd25 February 2026
5.0
Walking the historic Royal Mile feels like stepping straight into a living storybook. Stretching from the castle down to Holyrood Palace, every cobblestone seems to carry centuries of character. The atmosphere is electric yet charming — street performers, cozy cafés, and little shops tucked into medieval buildings create a perfect blend of culture and warmth.What makes the experience truly special is how effortlessly history and everyday life coexist here. One moment you’re admiring stunning old architecture, the next you’re browsing handmade crafts or enjoying a relaxed coffee while bagpipes echo in the distance. The views along the way are beautiful, especially on a crisp day when the city feels extra magical.It’s lively without feeling overwhelming, touristy yet still authentic. Whether you’re exploring museums, discovering hidden closes, or simply wandering with no plan at all, there’s always something memorable around the corner.The Royal Mile isn’t just a place you visit — it’s a place you feel. A must-see for anyone wanting to experience the heart and soul of Edinburgh.

Royal Mile

Popular cities near Edinburgh

Frequently asked questions

What are the must-do things in Edinburgh?

Don't miss these attractions in Edinburgh: Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh Old Town, and Palace of Holyroodhouse. If you like Day tours, try Loch Ness, Scottish Highlands, Glencoe and Pitlochry Tour. If you enjoy Food & drink, try Restaurant reservation service for the popular The Dome in Edinburgh, UK.

You can give Restaurant reservation service for the popular The Dome in Edinburgh, UK and Hard Rock Cafe Edinburgh a try. Before you go, please check their opening hours and menus online. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

When choosing a tour, start with how much time you have and the kind of experience you're looking for. Trending options right now include Loch Ness, Scottish Highlands, Glencoe and Pitlochry Tour, Ghost Bus Tour of Edinburgh, and 1-day tour to Scottish Highlands, Glen Coe + Loch Ness with Edinburgh round-trip. Check the real-time availability and itinerary before you book.

As of 23 October 2026, the reference price for day tours and activities in Edinburgh is around NZD 50.38 – NZD 1,246.95. Rates vary by duration, group size, transport, tickets, meals, and any special admission requirements. Before you book, please confirm the billing currency and whether the price is quoted per person or per group.

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Change and cancellation policies vary by attractions and tours. Please check the product details page for more information.

Ticket prices may vary between weekdays and weekends, as well as during peak and off-peak seasons. When booking with Trip.com, you can also use Trip Coins to get extra savings. For more tips on booking discounted tickets, please visit Trip.com for the latest information.