What activities to do in Edinburgh?

Edinburgh is a city with something for everyone - whether you're after a cultural experience, a quiet trip into the countryside or a glass of Scotch whisky. And thanks to the city's compact size, you can do 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 sees its biggest influx of visitors in August, when several world-famous events take place at once:

• Edinburgh Festival Fringe - the world's largest arts festival, which transforms the city into a stage for thousands of performances during August. The streets, bars, churches and basements fill with theatre, stand-up, dance and music.
• Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo - a parade of military bands and pipers in front of Edinburgh Castle, held annually at dusk with fireworks and perfect choreography.
• Edinburgh International Festival - the official festival of classical music, opera, theatre and dance.

Outside of these main events, there are literary festivals, film shows, markets and food festivals throughout the year. Edinburgh's atmosphere is culturally packed even on a weekday.

Walks and hikes in the city

Edinburgh is a city you can walk all over. Whether you're into architecture, greenery or views, you'll find the perfect route.

The most popular hike is to Arthur's Seat - a 250-metre-high extinct volcano in Holyrood Park, just a few minutes' walk from the historic centre. Any moderately fit hiker can make the climb, and you'll be rewarded with views across the city, the North Sea and the Scottish Highlands.

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

Visits to museums and galleries

The National Museum, Art Gallery or Writers' Museum - Edinburgh offers dozens of institutions for those who want to get a glimpse under the hood of Scottish history, literature and art. In addition, most museums are free to enter.

Scottish food and whisky

There's far more to Scotland than whisky and haggis - although these two icons are definitely worth a taste.

The city has a number of traditional pubs and modern restaurants serving Scottish specialities.

Alcohol lovers shouldn't miss a visit to one of the local distilleries or whisky museums. We recommend the Scotch Whisky Experience right by the castle, where you can be guided through the history and flavour of the famous drink.

Sightseeing visits

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

• The Royal Mile - the historic street that connects the castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
• 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 with pubs and bars, but also with traditional folk nights and trendy clubs. You can dance to live music in the Grassmarket, go to a concert at the Usher Hall or enjoy cocktails overlooking the castle.

Excursions to the surrounding area

You can combine exploring the city with nature or the sea in one trip. Several beautiful places can be easily reached by train or bus.

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