Visitors looking for what to do and places to see in Edinburgh are spoilt for choice. There are many fascinating places of interest in Edinburgh. From exploring the Royal Mile & visiting Edinburgh Castle in the Old Town to wandering off the beaten track and getting to know areas such as Leith Shore & Portobello. Here are some of the main things to do in Edinburgh not to be missed:
Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh castle is dramatically perched on top of jagged volcanic rock. Although seemingly inaccessible from below, the actual entrance is a large and welcoming esplanade at the top of the Royal Mile. The grounds are made up of many buildings, with a strong military emphasis due to it still being heavily used by the British Army. A number of museums within the grounds are also dedicated to military history. If you’re looking to experience something more regal you can see the Scottish crown jewels within the Royal Palace and wander through the surviving 16th Century Grand Hall. Throughout August, the Castle esplanade is transformed into an arena for the impressive Military Tattoo.
Insider Tip - The café within the castle grounds is full of goodies, but very overpriced. If you'd rather fill your belly beforehand, there's a legendary vegetarian 'tattie' shop just off the Royal Mile on Cockburn Street, just 10 minutes away from the castle.
Edinburgh Castle, Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NG
Royal Mile
A hub of activity all year round, the Royal Mile is crammed with street performers, market stalls, ghost tours and just about everyone in Scotland during the Edinburgh Festival. The Mile officially starts at the Castle and ends at the gates of Holyrood Palace. It’s home to many attractions such as The Whisky Heritage Centre, the Museum of Childhood and St. Giles Cathedral. However, just wandering up and down the Mile and soaking it all up is enough. As well as the main stretch, the many closes that lead off are also worth exploring.
Insider Tip - In summer months, expect long waits at the Mile's many chain restaurants, especially for al fresco dining. For something more unique, keep your eyes peeled for the well hidden Monteiths where you'll find amazing cocktails and fine Scottish Food. Stay ahead of the game and book on Fri & Sat.
Royal Mile High Street, Edinburgh EH1
National Museum of Scotland
After a £47m makeover, the city’s favourite museum re-opened this summer. It houses an array of large galleries exhibiting wonderful objects from Scottish history to other world cultures and natural history. Children will love the interactive galleries, especially Connect Gallery where they can get behind the wheel of a racing car simulator. As well as the objects on display, the building itself cannot fail to impress. From the atmospheric basement entrance up to the grand, light-filled Victorian hall with it’s glass ceiling, you can literally spend hours exploring this place. The museum is also known for it’s unique temporary exhibitions so be sure to check what’s on.
Insider Tip - If you're visiting with young children, let them run loose and burn off some energy in the Imagine gallery. There's even a storytelling corner with beanbags where you can collapse too!
National Museum of Scotland Chambers Street Edinburgh EH1 1JF
National Galleries of Scotland
Edinburgh is lucky enough to have 3 separate sites housing the city’s National Galleries. The Gallery on the mound is the most central, located just off Princes Street. This contains a vast collection of fine art, with works by all the great masters, including Rembrandt and Renoir. For a touch of something more contemporary, the Modern Art Gallery is within walking distance from Princes Street and is a rather grand building situated within it’s very own sculpture park. Visitors can picnic in the grounds and then inside, view the best of contemporary art displayed across spacious white walled rooms. The third site, the National Portrait Gallery is due to open in December 2011 after a much awaited renovation. This will house carefully curated portraits spanning the centuries. If this doesn’t do it for you, the impressive façade of the building alone is worth a visit. All 3 sites have their own individual character and all 3 are icons of the city.
Tip - After visiting the Modern Art Gallery, take a detour back to town through Dean Village (follow sign posts for the Wate of Leith). This tranquil village is full of character and picturesque buildings and only 5 minutes away from Princes Street.
National Gallery of Scotland The Mound, EH2 2EL, 75 Belford Road, EH4 3DR
National Portrait Gallery, 1 Queens Street, EH2 1JD
The Grassmarket
A bustling cobbled strip just below the old town, the Grassmarket is packed with an eclectic array of independent shops and galleries. The area is alive all day, every day and is an absolute mecca for vintage lovers. The pubs along this strip spread out onto the pedestrianized walkway, perfect for a pint and a sit down. During the summer months the area is a venue for anything from jazz festivals to French markets, whilst the festive seasons brings a sparkling Christmas market.
Princes Street
The central strip of the city, dividing the Old Town from the New Town, Princes Street is a unique destination. On one side there are the gardens dipping down and stretching the whole length of the street. These are a godsend if you need a break from the bustle of the city. An added extra is the breathtaking view of the castle above. The other side of the street is a busy one mile stretch of high-street shops and fast food outlets. The west end has some classier restaurants and bars, whilst the east end is home Waverley train station and the prestigious Balmoral Hotel. Edinburgh hosts a Hogmany Street party every New Years Eve, with entertainment and an extravagant fireworks display above the castle.
Arthur’s Seat
For a panoramic view of the city, a hike up Arthur’s Seat is a must. Rising from the grounds of Holyrood Palace, the unusual position of this long dormant volcano in the centre of the city makes it an odd, but much loved landmark. Arthurs Seat can be seen from almost everywhere in Edinburgh and no matter what the weather, you can always make out the vague outline of people at the top. There is a well trodden path up to the summit, or you could take an easier stroll an
Our sightseeing guide was written by local resident and tour guide, Jennifer Felton