If you’re looking for what to do in Edinburgh, no matter what kind of trip you're planning, this
Scottish gem has something for everyone. With incredible architecture, authentic history and
culture galore, Edinburgh is one of the most enchanting cities in the world. Meander the historic
streets, and at every turn, you’ll find something amazing to see or do.
An ever-evolving city, there’s always something new and exciting to discover. To help you
decide, we'll guide you through the best things to do in and near Edinburgh, from iconic
landmarks to hidden gems. With famous attractions like Edinburgh Castle offering a historical
feast and eco-wonders like the Botanic Garden providing a serene haven, you'll never run out of
options to fill your time.
There are so many great free things to do in Edinburgh that it was hard to pick our favourites. From museums to gardens, the city is crammed full of amazing attractions. While the following things to do are all technically free, it’s important to note that some places rely on the generosity of visitors to stay open, so it’s worth considering a donation if you can.
The National Museum of Scotland is not only a beautiful building worth visiting for its architecture, but it is also packed with fascinating exhibits. Start your visit in the Grand Gallery: a stunning atrium filled with awe-inspiring artifacts. Be sure to check out the Window on the World – the UK’s largest single museum installation – along with the exquisite ceramics on level three. From industrial heritage to vintage catwalk pieces, this fantastic museum offers countless hours of exploration and enjoyment.
Location: Chambers Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1JF
Opening times: Daily: 10am-5pm
Sat proudly on The Royal Mile, St Giles’ Cathedral holds over 900 years of history within its ancient walls. Pop in to admire the architecture and beautiful stained-glass windows, or if you have extra time to spare, we recommend you embark on a guided walking tour. The tours run daily at 10.30am or 2.30pm and are free to join. Lasting around 45 minutes, a knowledgeable guide will show you around the cathedral, sharing the rich history of the building along with the stories and secrets it houses.
Location: High St, Edinburgh, EH1 1RE
Opening times: Mon-Fri: 10am-6pm, Sat: 9am-5pm, Sun: 1pm-5pm
One of the most idyllic attractions in Edinburgh, completed in 2002, the Water of Leith Walkway is a 13-mile trail running through the city. Starting in Balerno and ending in Leith, the route passes through lots of areas of interest and offers a serene escape from the usual hustle and bustle of the city. If you don’t have the time to complete the full route (or if 13 miles sounds a tad overwhelming), don’t worry; the trail can be picked up at multiple locations. Keep a camera handy though, as there are plenty of picture-perfect moments wherever you join the route.
Location: Throughout the city
Opening times: Daily: 24 hours
The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is not just a garden; it’s a vibrant and tranquil escape from the busy city. Dating back 350 years, stroll through 70 acres of lush greenery, exotic plants and stunning floral blooms. Just a mile outside the city centre, the gardens are easy to get to and offer fabulous views of Edinburgh. So, grab your camera, pack a picnic and head to one of the city's greenest gems!
Location: 20a Inverleith Row, Edinburgh, EH3 5LR
Opening times: Daily, Nov-Jan: 10am-4pm, Oct & Feb: 10am-5pm, Mar-Sep: 10am-6pm
A visual history book where every picture tells a story, the National Galleries Scotland: Portrait (formally the Scottish National Portrait Gallery) is a treasure trove for art enthusiasts. Filled with portraits of Scotland’s most influential and notable figures, the gallery’s subjects span from the distant past to the modern day. And it’s not just the paintings that visitors go to admire; the neo-gothic architecture is something to behold – make sure you don’t miss the Zodiac ceiling in the Great Hall!
Location: 1 Queen Street, Edinburgh, EH2 1JD
Opening times: Daily: 10am-5pm
Money makes the world go round, and it most definitely makes this museum go round! Located in the historic Bank of Scotland Head Office, the Museum on the Mound is a deep dive into financial history. With quirky displays and fun facts that make learning about money anything but boring, there’s lots to entertain. Have a go at lifting a real gold bar and find out what a million pounds in cash actually looks like – let’s face it, it’s the closest most of us will ever get to seeing that!
Location: The Mound, Edinburgh, EH1 1YZ
Opening times: Tues-Fri: 10am-5pm, Saturday & Bank Holiday Mondays: 1pm-5pm
The short climb up Calton Hill is essential on any Edinburgh itinerary. Offering spectacular views at any time of day, a visit at sunrise or sunset is particularly magical. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the top of the hill is also home to iconic landmarks such as the Dugald Stewart Monument, the National Monument, the Nelson Monument and the Playfair Monument. Whether snapping selfies, enjoying a picnic or just taking in the scenery, Calton Hill is the perfect spot to unwind.
Location: Calton Hill, Edinburgh, EH7 5AA
Opening times: Daily: 24 hours
For outdoor enthusiasts, Holyrood Park offers a refreshing escape and a sense of adventure just minutes away from the Old Town. With its rugged trails, serene lochs and breathtaking views of Edinburgh, you could easily spend an entire day exploring this park. Hike the ancient volcano up to Arthur’s Seat and you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views across Edinburgh and beyond, but don’t worry if you don’t fancy the climb; the park is still full of natural beauty for you to enjoy.
Location: Queen's Dr, Edinburgh, EH8 8HG
Opening times: Daily: 24 hours
A village within a city, Dean Village is straight out of the pages of a storybook. Cobblestone streets lined with beautiful old buildings, cosy cafés, charming pubs and, of course, the River Leith running serenely through – this place is a hidden oasis just minutes from the heart of Edinburgh. Perfect for a peaceful stroll or a leisurely afternoon, the quaint bridges and lush greenery make it a photographer's dream.
Location: Dean Path, Edinburgh, EH8 8BH
Opening times: Daily: 24 hours
Some of the top attractions in Edinburgh do come with an entrance fee but believe us when we say – they’re worth it! Ticket prices can vary, but there’s often a deal to be had, so our advice is to think ahead and keep an eye out for any offers.
Step into the historic underbelly of Edinburgh and get ready for a spine-tingling adventure. Mary King’s Close, hidden underneath Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, is a labyrinth of underground streets that act as a stage for the chilling and thrilling stories of the city’s past. With enthusiastic and knowledgeable costumed guides bringing history to life, it's like being part of a living, breathing ghost story. Tours take around an hour, so it’s an easy activity to fit into a day in the city.
Location: 2 Warriston’s Close, High Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1PG
Opening times: Daily: 9am- late (closing time varies by season)
Cost: £25 for adults, £19 for children (5-15 years), no under 5s allowed
Once the royal residence of Queen Elizabeth II, The Royal Yacht Britannia is now a floating time capsule offering visitors a glimpse of royal history. Take a comprehensive tour of the yacht with the help of the fascinating audio guide, admire the rooms and facilities the Royal Family enjoyed, and get a feel for how life for the 240-strong crew was. Your time aboard wouldn’t be complete without a stop at the Royal Deck Tearoom for sandwiches and scones. Don’t just take our word for it; The Royal Yacht Britannia was voted Tripadvisor’s No. 1 attraction for 23/24 and is one of the best things to do near Edinburgh.
Location: Ocean Drive, Leith, Edinburgh, EH6 6JJ
Opening times: Nov-Mar: 10am-5pm, Apr-Aug: 9.30am-6pm, Sep: 10am-6pm, Oct: 10am-17:30pm
Cost: £19.50 for adults, £9.25 for children (5-17 years), under 5s free
Probably the most iconic tourist attraction in Edinburgh, Edinburgh Castle is usually at the top of most visitors’ agendas (and for good reason!). There’s so much history packed into this attraction that you could easily spend a full day exploring and still not see everything, so it’s worth planning your visit before you go to ensure you cover the highlights. Guided tours with local experts and audio guides are both great options for fully immersing yourself in the experience. There are also handy itineraries on the website if you’d prefer to guide yourself. Whether you're a history buff or just love a good story, Edinburgh Castle is a must-see.
Location: Castlehill, Edinburgh, EH1 2NG
Opening times: Daily: 9:30am-6pm in summer, 9:30-5pm in winter
Cost: £19.50 for adults, £11.40 for children (7-15 years), free for under 7s
Ready for a mind-bending experience that will leave you delighted and dazzled? Camera Obscura and World of Illusions is the attraction for you. With over 100 interactive exhibits for visitors to get their hands on, this fun and immersive experience deserves its spot in our list of the best things to do in Edinburgh. Expect thermal cameras, 3D cityscapes, a colour shadow wall and much more. You’ll be laughing from start to finish!
Location: 549 Castlehill, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, EH1 2ND
Opening times: Daily: 9am-late (closing times vary by day and season)
Cost: £22.95 for adults, £17.95 for children (5-15 years), free for under 5s
For the adrenaline junkies on the lookout for fun things to do in Edinburgh, look no further than The Edinburgh Dungeon. A spooktacular experience that promises to raise the hairs on the back of your neck, this fun-filled adventure gives you an immersive look at the more gruesome history of the city. With live actors bringing the stories to life and thrilling rides to top it all off, The Edinburgh Dungeon never disappoints.
Location: 31 Market Street, Edinburgh, EH1 1DF
Opening times: Daily, opening hours vary by season
Cost: Starts from £19 but varies by day. Offers are often available. No under 5s
allowed
With so many amazing things to do in Edinburgh, it can be hard to choose how to spend
your time. Luckily for you, our trains to Edinburgh are quick and easy to book, so if another visit is needed, we’ve got you covered!
For more inspiration on this fabulous city, check out our guides on the best things to dowith kids in Edinburgh and the best independent shops in Edinburgh. Happy exploring!
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