EDINBURGH - What to see and do in the Scottish capital?

July 3, 2026

Are you planning to visit Edinburgh? Here are some tips and recommendations for your trip to the Scottish capital:

Where to stay?

Old Town: This is the historic heart with its cobbled alleyways (the "closes") and the Royal Mile.
New Town: Don't let the name fool you, this neighborhood dates back to the 18th century. It is the hub of neoclassical elegance, perfect for shopping (Princes Street and George Street).
Stockbridge: A village-like neighborhood with its stone townhouses, parks, and a Sunday market.
Leith: The former port district, which has become ultra-trendy. This is where you will find the best seafood restaurants and an alternative nightlife scene by the water.

Walking: Edinburgh is a city best discovered on foot. Be careful, though: it is built on seven hills, so expect plenty of stairs and quite steep inclines!
Buses (Lothian Buses): They are frequent and cover the entire city. You can pay via contactless at the entrance and exit ("Tap on, Tap off"). Night buses are also very reliable.
Tram: There is only one line, but it is very convenient for connecting the airport to the city center and heading down to the port of Leith.
Taxis and Black Cabs: Widely available, they are useful for getting home late at night or if the city's elevation changes are too tiring.

Edinburgh Castle: Overlooking the city from its volcanic rock. It houses the Honours of Scotland (the Scottish Crown Jewels).
The Royal Mile: The main street of the Old Town, connecting the Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse (the King's residence). It is divided into 6 distinct sections and is scattered with alleyways and courtyards.
Victoria Street: A curved, two-level street with colorful facades that is said to have inspired Diagon Alley in Harry Potter.
Arthur’s Seat: An extinct volcano located right in the middle of the city. A hike of about an hour offers the most beautiful panoramic view of Edinburgh and the sea.
Calton Hill: Easier to access than Arthur's Seat, this hill is dotted with neoclassical monuments (the "unfinished Parthenon") and offers an iconic view of Princes Street at sunset.
Dean Village: A former milling village on the banks of the Water of Leith. A timeless haven of peace for a bucolic stroll.

Rugby: This is the king of sports in Scotland. The legendary Murrayfield stadium hosts the matches of the national team. The atmosphere during the Six Nations tournament is indescribable.
Football: Local rivalry is intense between the city's two clubs: the Hearts (Heart of Midlothian) in the west and the Hibernian (Hibs) in the east.
Golf: Scotland is the cradle of golf. Although the most famous courses (St Andrews) are an hour's drive away, there are many magnificent and accessible courses around the city.
Highland Games: If you are visiting in the summer, look into traditional games in the area (caber tossing, Scottish dancing).

Haggis, Neeps and Tatties: The national dish (savory pudding containing sheep's pluck, turnips, and potatoes). Don't be shy, it's delicious! Vegetarian versions are also excellent.
Cranachan: The traditional Scottish dessert made with cream, toasted oats, honey, raspberries, and of course, whisky.
Afternoon Tea: An institution in the grand hotels of the New Town or at the tea room of the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
Seafood: Head to Leith to enjoy locally caught oysters or mussels.

Historic Pubs: For a pint of local beer or a "dram" of whisky. The Bow Bar or The Jolly Judge are perfect for a cozy atmosphere.
Whisky Tasting: Visit the Scotch Whisky Experience to learn the basics, or head to a specialized bar like the Devil's Advocate, nestled in a medieval alley.
Live Music and Ceilidh: Don't leave without seeing a traditional Scottish dance (Ceilidh). Places like the Ghillie Dhu host evenings where everyone can participate.
Ghost Tours: Edinburgh is renowned for being one of the most haunted cities in Europe. Many tours offer the chance to visit the city's underground vaults (South Bridge Vaults) after dark.