Things to do in Edinburgh: 29 amazing ideas
There are plenty of things to do in Edinburgh, whether you’re after a fun day out packed with adventure or a relaxed stroll through historical haunts. For a start, wander down the Royal Mile (actually one mile and 107 yards long), the name given to the road that runs along the crest of the ridge linking the Castle with Holyroodhouse, a working 17th-century palace where Mary Queen of Scots once lived. Art lovers, meanwhile, should head to the National Galleries of Scotland on the Mound or the Gallery of Modern Art a few minutes away from the West End. For museums, there’s Dynamic Earth, which was built to celebrate the millennium, and the National Museum of Scotland on Chambers Street, which features important artefacts from Scottish History. If you’re after a shopping spree and a bite to eat, try the new St James Quarter, or for great pubs and restaurants, head to Leith and the Shore. To marvel at the city’s beauty, take a stroll up Calton Hill or Arthur's Seat, from where there are excellent views out to the sea.
How many days should I spend in Edinburgh?
We recommend spending two to three days in Edinburgh to give yourself ample time to explore all the nooks and crannies this historical city has to offer. From hiking up Arthur's Seat and looking out over Edinburgh to shopping in the city centre, these are the best places to visit in Edinburgh.