Edinburgh’s top 10 attractions

Scotland has long been considered one of the most beautiful countries in the world and when you’ve experienced its dramatic hilltop castles, breathtaking lochs and wild beaches, you’ll find it hard to disagree.

Nowhere is the beauty of this dramatic country more apparent than in its capital city Edinburgh, where history echoes in every street. The Gothic architecture, stunning surroundings and one of the world’s best festivals make this an unmissable place to visit.

Whether you want to spend a weekend in Edinburgh or plan a longer stay, the following top 10 attractions are sure to keep you busy.

Edinburgh Castle

The skyline of the city has been dominated by this epic hilltop castle since the 12th century, and many set their watches by the daily 1pm gun salute. The castle is perched on top of an extinct volcano and offers glorious panoramic views of the city.

Highlights include St Margaret’s Chapel, the National War Memorial, the Scottish Crown Jewels and the famous Stone of Destiny, returned from London in 1996. This is the most visited attraction in Scotland, so be sure to get there early to avoid the lines or buy tickets in advance.

The Royal Mile

The castle sits at the top end of the Royal Mile, Edinburgh’s most famous street and home to many of its best attractions. Starting at the castle, going downhill is the most enjoyable route.

Further down is the site of the 17th-century Scottish Parliament and spectacular St Giles Cathedral. Opposite you’ll find the entrance to Mary King’s Close, a step back in time to a perfectly preserved version of 17th-Century Edinburgh.

Other attractions include the Brass Rubbing Centre and the Museum of Childhood. The Royal Mile then ends at the Palace of Holyrood House and science center, Dynamic Earth.

Holyrood House

The end of the Royal Mile brings you to the King’s official residence in Scotland. Holyrood House originated in the 12th century when it was first founded as a monastery. But most of the Palace dates from the time of Charles II, who was crowned King in Scotland in 1651.

Most impressive for visitors are the 17th-century apartments, including Mary Queen of Scots’ bed chamber and the Great Gallery of 89 portraits of Scottish kings. The ghost of Agnes Simpson, executed for witchcraft, is said to roam the palace, so watch out!

Arthur’s Seat and Holyrood Park

Beside Holyrood House is the entrance to this park, the best place to escape the bustle of the city. Pass St Margaret’s Loch through wild, dramatic landscape to the top of Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano that keeps watch over the city from 800 feet up.

There are sweeping views of the Firth of Forth and Ben Lomond, and it’s amazing to realize that you’re only one mile from the city center. The area is popular with rock climbers as well as walkers.

Museum of Scotland

The merger of the Royal Museum with its modern neighbor has created a huge collection of some 20,000 artifacts – all of which can be viewed for free. From ancient Egyptian relics to an early form of guillotine, Elton John’s stage outfits and the remains of Dolly, the world’s first cloned animal, it’s a fascinating and diverse museum. The contrast between the two adjoining buildings is striking and there are regular exhibitions on everything from Scottish kings to natural history, art and technology.

National Galleries of Scotland

Next to Waverley Station, at the foot of the Mound on Princes Street, the Scottish National Gallery houses one of the best art collections in Europe, from the Renaissance through to post-Impressionism. Masterpieces by Monet, Cezanne, Rembrandt, Degas and Van Gogh are accompanied by an outstanding Scottish collection, including well-known works from Raeburn and Ramsey.

The National Portrait Gallery, a couple of blocks away, is another highlight. Don’t miss the huge processional work depicting many of Scotland’s most famous people – from Bonnie Prince Charlie to Sean Connery.

The Scott Monument

One of the city’s most iconic Gothic landmarks, the Scott Monument is the largest monument to a writer in the world. Dedicated to Sir Walter Scott, whose works include Ivanhoe and Rob Roy, it took four years to construct, looming large over Princes Street Gardens.

The sculpture shows the author seated and there are some 64 characters from his novels built into the monument. Climb the 287 steps to a series of platforms for impressive views of the city.

Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

Take a short 10-minute drive out of Edinburgh’s Old Town to the 70-acre Royal Botanic Gardens just north of the city center. Since opening in 1670, the garden’s collection has expanded to more than 13,500 plant species from across the globe.

Discover towering Giant Redwood trees, the largest collection of Vireya rhododendrons and colorful dwarf daffodils. Then venture into the Glasshouses to encounter some of the more tropical species, including palm trees, orchids and carnivorous plants, like the Venus flytrap.

Edinburgh Dungeon

If a thrilling, scary trip through history floats your boat then head to the Edinburgh Dungeon for depictions of the grisliest aspects of Scotland’s past. The acting is impeccable, and the special effects are excellent, creating a gripping 80-minute experience.

Plagues, torture chambers, graveyards and ghosts all await, culminating in a mock execution. It’s not for the faint-hearted so if it’s not for you, catch your breath in the nearby Princes Street Gardens.

Edinburgh Festival

The busiest and most exciting time to visit Edinburgh is during the festivals in August. Media and celebrities flock from around the world to see the best music, theater, opera, dance and comedy. There are actually two festivals, the most famous of which is the Edinburgh Fringe, one of the world’s largest arts festivals with over 50,000 performances in 300 venues across the city.

The streets are filled with performers and members of the creative community. One of the highlights is the comedy program, where many famous comedians have launched their careers, including the likes of House star Hugh Laurie and TV host Trevor Noah.

Do you have a favorite Edinburgh attraction? Tag us in your best photos from Scotland’s capital on Instagram. If you’re exploring Scotland further, you might be interested in our guide to the country’s Royal sights.