The city that inspired the author of Harry Potter, invites us to get lost in its narrow lanes and discover its little secrets.
Medieval lanes, Gothic buildings, lush green hills, and an iconic castle compose the enchanting image of Edinburgh that transports you back in time. The capital of Scotland is a city that blends history and modern life in cinematic fashion. Edinburgh is easy to explore on foot, and in three days you can discover the major highlights, stroll through its most atmospheric neighborhoods, and enjoy some of the experiences that make the city special.
Top attractions
From the Castle to the royal residence, Edinburgh offers many sights worth adding to your travel list.
Edinburgh Castle
Perched atop the volcanic crag of Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle stands as the city’s most iconic landmark, visible from almost every corner of the historic center. It’s one of Scotland’s most important historic attractions, home to the country’s crown jewels and St Margaret’s Chapel, the oldest building in the city. From the summit, you’ll enjoy impressive views over the city. If you plan to visit the castle, it’s best to book tickets in advance.
Royal Mile and St Giles’ Cathedral
The Royal Mile lies in the Old Town and is its most famous street. It links Edinburgh Castle with the Palace of Holyroodhouse, Scotland’s royal residence. Along the way you’ll encounter historic buildings, small shops, pubs, tiny arcades, and medieval closes. On the route you’ll also come across the striking St Giles' Cathedral, a church with a rich history. This Gothic landmark, among Edinburgh’s most popular attractions, dates to the 12th century and has undergone numerous renovations and changes over the years.
Palace of Holyroodhouse
At one end of the Royal Mile stands the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official royal residence in Scotland. The palace is intertwined with pivotal moments in Scottish history. Its historic halls, royal apartments, and the ruins of Holyrood Abbey make it a particularly engaging visit for anyone keen to learn more about the city and the country.
National Museum of Scotland
In the heart of the city sits the National Museum of Scotland, one of the United Kingdom’s most popular museums. It occupies an impressive building that marries 19th-century Victorian architecture with a modern extension. The museum houses a vast collection spanning from prehistory to recent years, with rare archaeological finds and cutting-edge technological innovations. Its interactive exhibits delight visitors of all ages, making it a free-to-enter learning space for everyone.
Scottish National Gallery
Art lovers shouldn’t miss the Scottish National Gallery. It’s set near Princes Street and the Princes Street Gardens, roughly midway between the Old and the modern city. The striking neoclassical building showcases an outstanding collection of paintings from the Renaissance to the 20th century, including works by El Greco, Rembrandt, Velázquez, Monet, and Van Gogh. You can visit the permanent collection free of charge.
Walks
Edinburgh is a city of breathtaking architecture, as if lifted from a Gothic fairytale. It’s well worth walking its historic center and getting to know the city on foot, even as you climb its hills.
Victoria Street and Grassmarket
From the Royal Mile, head to Victoria Street, the city’s most famous and photogenic street. You’ll recognize it instantly by its graceful curve and colorful shops. After snapping your photos, continue to the Grassmarket, the historic square in the castle’s shadow. For centuries this area was a key trading and market hub; today it’s a popular spot for food, drinks, and strolling, with plenty of restaurants and pubs. The colorful buildings, stone facades, and dramatic views of the castle make it one of Edinburgh’s most photogenic corners.
Greyfriars Kirkyard
Don’t be surprised to see crowds entering Greyfriars Kirkyard, one of Edinburgh’s most atmospheric and historic cemeteries. Located in the Old Town beside the Grassmarket area, it dates to the 16th century and is entwined with the country’s stories and legends. Old stone headstones and elaborate tombs create a setting that perfectly matches the city’s mysterious mood. Among its best-known spots is the grave of Greyfriars Bobby, a dog who, legend has it, stayed loyal to his owner even after his death. Greyfriars Kirkyard is also linked to the Harry Potter books, as J.K. Rowling is said to have drawn inspiration for certain character names from epitaphs found here—one reason it’s become popular with fans of the series.
Calton Hill
Just before sunset, visitors and locals alike climb Calton Hill. The hill sits very close to the city’s shopping center, just beyond Princes Street. The climb is short and relatively easy, making it ideal even if you don’t want to commit to a more demanding hike. From the top you’ll take in sweeping views across the city and Edinburgh Castle and watch the sunset. Beyond the vistas, Calton Hill stands out for its neoclassical monuments, such as the National Monument, an unfinished memorial inspired by the Parthenon, and the Nelson Monument, a 19th-century tower dedicated to Admiral Horatio Nelson.
Dean Village
Just minutes from the bustling center lies Dean Village, one of Edinburgh’s most picturesque neighborhoods. Here you’ll find a tranquil, village-like enclave built around the Water of Leith, with traditional stone houses, little bridges, and leafy riverside paths. You’ll immediately feel a sense of calm away from the crowds as you walk beside the water. Take a short stroll or follow part of the Water of Leith Walkway, which threads through several parts of the city. A particular highlight is Well Court, an impressive 19th-century residential complex on the riverbank.
New Town
The city’s modern side offers a different face of Edinburgh, without the Old Town’s medieval atmosphere. Created in the late 18th century as part of a major expansion, it features broad streets and grand squares. It’s also home to the house of inventor Alexander Graham Bell. The main thoroughfare is George Street, lined with stylish shops, restaurants, and bars, while Princes Street offers, on one side, a range of department stores and, on the other, striking views of the Castle. It’s worth sitting in one of the cafés and enjoying the view by the window.
University of Edinburgh
You’ll discover another side of the city with a stroll around the University of Edinburgh area, with its historic buildings, cobbled lanes, and lively student quarters. Founded in 1583, it’s one of the oldest English-speaking universities, with buildings scattered across various parts of the city. It’s among Edinburgh’s liveliest districts, full of cafés and pubs, and it’s just a few minutes from the National Museum of Scotland and the Grassmarket.
Stockbridge
If you want to explore another Edinburgh neighborhood, head a little north of the New Town to Stockbridge. Beloved by locals for its laid-back vibe, it’s known for its shops and small cafés. If you’re here on a Sunday, seek out the Stockbridge Market, a showcase of local producers and small businesses, with sweets and handmade goods.
Arthur’s Seat and Holyrood Park
If you have a little extra time, for a different perspective on the city you can climb Arthur's Seat. The hill lies within Holyrood Park and offers panoramic views over Edinburgh. The ascent is more demanding than a simple stroll, taking almost 2 hours, but the view from the top is worth it.
Edinburgh's bookstores
This city has a special relationship with literature and books, and you’ll sense it on a simple walk through its streets. After all, Edinburgh was the first city in the world to be designated a UNESCO City of Literature, connecting writers and readers every day through its bookstores. The Old Town is the perfect place to begin, with small independent bookshops tucked into its narrow lanes. In the modern city and around the University you’ll find many bookstore-cafés with hundreds of shelves and striking staircases—ideal for a restorative pause while picking up books of every genre.
What to try in Edinburgh
A visit to Edinburgh is the perfect chance to explore Scottish cuisine, from traditional flavors to contemporary twists. The most quintessential Scottish dish, usually served with mashed potatoes, is haggis: mince made from a sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs, mixed with oatmeal and seasoned with onions and plenty of pepper. Another classic is the Scotch pie, a meat pie made with hot-water crust pastry, traditionally filled with minced lamb or beef, as well as the soup Cullen skink, with smoked fish, potato, and onion. Settle into a pub for a beer and fish & chips, and don’t miss the country’s national drink, whisky. If you have time, you can book a guided tasting experience.
