What activities are there to enjoy in Edinburgh?

Edinburgh is a city where there’s something for everyone – whether you’re looking for a cultural experience, a peaceful trip into the countryside, or a glass of Scotch whisky. What’s more, thanks to the city’s compact layout, you can manage to see a surprising amount in just a few days.

The 10 best hotels in Edinburgh

Festivals and culture at every turn

Edinburgh is rightly regarded as the festival capital of the world. It experiences its biggest influx of visitors in August, when several world-famous events take place simultaneously:

• The Edinburgh Festival Fringe – the world’s largest arts festival, which transforms the city into a stage for thousands of performances throughout August. Streets, pubs, churches and cellars are filled with theatre, stand-up comedy, dance and music.
• The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo – a parade of military bands and bagpipers in front of Edinburgh Castle, held annually at dusk with fireworks and flawless choreography.
• Edinburgh International Festival – the official festival of classical music, opera, theatre and dance.

Aside from these major events, literary festivals, film screenings, markets and food festivals take place throughout the year. Edinburgh’s atmosphere is culturally vibrant even on a weekday.

Walks and hikes in the city

Edinburgh is a city you can explore from one end to the other on foot. Whether you’re interested in architecture, green spaces or views, you’ll find the perfect route here.

The most popular outing is a hike up Arthur’s Seat – a 250-metre-high extinct volcano in Holyrood Park, just a few minutes’ walk from the historic centre. Any reasonably fit walker can manage the climb, and you’ll be rewarded with views of the whole city, the North Sea and the Scottish Highlands.

Other popular routes include Calton Hill, the Water of Leith Walkway, The Meadows and Princes Street Gardens.

Visits to museums and galleries

The National Museum of Scotland, art galleries and the Writers’ Museum – Edinburgh offers dozens of institutions for those wishing to gain an insight into Scottish history, literature and art. What’s more, admission to most museums is free.

Scottish cuisine and whisky

Scotland has far more to offer than just whisky and haggis – although these two icons are certainly worth trying.

In the city, you’ll find a range of traditional pubs and modern restaurants serving Scottish specialities.

Lovers of spirits shouldn’t miss a visit to one of the local distilleries or whisky museums. We recommend the Scotch Whisky Experience, right next to the castle, where you’ll be guided through the history and flavours of this famous drink.

Sightseeing

Edinburgh is like a history textbook. As well as Edinburgh Castle, which dominates the city’s skyline, there are other sights well worth a visit:

• TheRoyal Mile – a historic street linking the castle to Holyroodhouse Palace.
• Holyroodhouse Palace – the official Scottish residence of the British monarch.
• St Giles’ Cathedral – a Gothic gem with unique stained-glass windows.
• Camera Obscura – an interactive museum of optical illusions and science.

Nightlife and music

Edinburgh comes alive at night, not only thanks to its pubs and bars, but also thanks to traditional folk evenings and modern clubs. You can dance to live music in Grassmarket, go to a concert at Usher Hall or enjoy cocktails with a view of the castle.

Day trips to the surrounding area

In a single trip, you can combine exploring the city with the countryside or the coast. Several beautiful destinations are easily accessible by train or bus.

• South Queensferry – a small town with an iconic railway bridge and boat trips to the island of Inchcolm.
• North Berwick – a seaside resort with a beach, Tantallon Castle and a marine life museum.
• Rosslyn Chapel – a mysterious chapel made famous by *The Da Vinci Code*, about 30 minutes by bus from the city centre.