Top Things to Do and See in Edinburgh

Summer in Edinburgh is nothing short of magical – even when it rains! With its dramatic skyline, seamless blend of old and new, and craggy natural surroundings, it’s easy to see why this is considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world. With so much to see and do, knowing where to start can be overwhelming. That’s where we come in!

Here’s our curated guide to help you discover the best of Tower Mains’ home city.

Discover Edinburgh’s Old Town

Stretching from Castle Rock down to Holyrood Palace, the Royal Mile is the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town. Strolling this (almost) mile-long stretch is one of the best ways to soak in the city’s charm. Begin at Holyrood and make your way uphill, stopping to admire St Giles’ Cathedral and the Heart of Midlothian, a mosaic heart marking the site of the former Old Tolbooth Prison.

Lose yourself in illusion at Camera Obscura, or browse the Writers’ Museum tucked within the Lawnmarket, celebrating literary legends like Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson. Round it off with a drink at Deacon Brodie’s Tavern, named after a respectable tradesman and deacon whose double life inspired R.L. Stevenson’s Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.

Take in the Views at Edinburgh Castle

No visit to Edinburgh would be complete without seeing Edinburgh Castle, an iconic symbol of Scotland’s heritage. Dating back to 1103, this iconic fortress offers unbeatable views over the city and beyond.

Steeped in history, it was once home to Mary, Queen of Scots, and Bonnie Prince Charlie. Inside, you’ll find the Honours of Scotland (the UK’s oldest crown jewels) and Mons Meg, a 15th-century cannon that was once state-of-the-art military tech.

Guided tours run year-round, giving visitors a glimpse into the castle’s fascinating past.

Soak Up the Buzz at the Fringe Festival (1st-25th August 2025)

Every August, Edinburgh transforms into a global stage with the arrival of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe – the world’s largest arts festival. From theatre and cabaret to comedy, circus, music, opera, and dance, the city bursts to life with talent from all corners of the globe. Whether you’re catching a headline show or stumbling upon a street performance, there’s always something to marvel at.

With venues scattered across the city, from grand theatres to intimate pubs, you’ll find performances to suit every taste. For a taste of local talent, check out some of the smaller, independent shows.

Our top tips:

  • Book ahead for popular shows as they can sell out fast.
  • Stay flexible – word-of-mouth gems are often the most memorable.
  • Explore beyond the big venue. Smaller, hidden spots often host incredible, up-and-coming acts.

Celebrate the Visual Arts (7th-24th August 2025)

Running alongside the Fringe, the Edinburgh Art Festival brings together contemporary artists from around the world in galleries, pop-ups, and outdoor installations across the city. Expect thought-provoking exhibitions, artist talks, and public art that spills onto the streets, offering a fresh perspective on the capital’s creative scene.

Catch the Sunset from Calton Hill

A stone’s throw from Princes Street is Calton Hill, which offers breathtaking views across the city; views we recommend taking in against a sunset sky.

Not only is it an excellent photo spot, but Calton Hill is also a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to several famous monuments. Atop sits the Athenian Acropolis, a monument intended to commemorate the Scottish servicemen who died in the Napoleonic Wars, alongside the City Observatory, a Greek temple-style building designed by William Henry Playfair in 1818. Here, Professor Thomas Henderson – appointed the first Astronomer Royal for Scotland in 1834 – discovered how to measure parallax and the distance to a star.

Newly opened, Cafe Calton sits at the summit, serving coffee with a side of city views – an ideal place to pause and take it all in.

Embrace Nature at the Royal Botanic Garden

When you’re ready to unwind, head to the Royal Botanic Garden, a 70-acre haven of greenery just north of the city centre. Founded in 1670, it’s one of the oldest and most respected botanical gardens in the world.

Perfect for a peaceful stroll or an afternoon picnic, the gardens are home to thousands of plant species from around the globe, including exotic flowers, towering trees, and beautifully designed glasshouses.

Embark on an Arthur’s Seat Adventure

For the adventurous, no visit to Edinburgh is complete without a hike up Arthur’s Seat – arguably one of the best views of the city and the surrounding area.

Part of Holyrood Park, a 640-acre Royal Park next to Holyrood Palace, Arthur’s Seat is a dormant volcano that last erupted over 350 million years ago during the Carboniferous period. The landscape was shaped by glacial erosion, which left behind the distinctive crags and cliffs seen today.

The hike is moderately challenging but well worth the effort. We recommend sturdy shoes and plenty of snacks and water. Once at the top, take a moment to soak in the breathtaking 360-degree panorama!

Uncover the City’s Spooky Side

With centuries of turbulent history, it’s no surprise that Edinburgh is considered one of the most haunted cities in the world. Its dark alleys, hidden vaults, and underground streets make for spine-tingling ghost tours.

Step into The Real Mary King’s Close – a preserved 17th-century street buried beneath the Royal Mile – and hear the chilling stories of plague victims, murderers, and ghosts said to roam the shadows. Or brave the Niddry Street Vaults, long associated with dark tales and paranormal sightings.

Want a more theatrical take? Try the Ghost Bus Tour, a black double-decker where storytelling meets live performance, complete with eerie effects and unexpected frights.

Sample the Best of Edinburgh’s Street Food Scene

Craving something delicious? Edinburgh’s thriving food markets serve up flavour, flair, and a great atmosphere.

  • Stockbridge Market (Sundays): From artisan cheeses to sizzling global dishes.
  • Neighbourgood Market (Summer): An alfresco feast with music, street food, and picnic benches.
  • Leith Market (Saturdays): Local produce, gourmet bites, and creative stalls.
  • Street Food Fridays: A rotating line-up of food trucks to kick-start your weekend.

Perfect for foodies or those wanting a taste of something different, the markets showcase the city’s eclectic and ever-evolving culinary identity.

Finally… Have a Dram!

A visit to Edinburgh isn’t complete without a dram of the ‘good stuff.’ We recommend the Scotch Malt Whisky Society, which boasts the world’s largest collection of single-cask, single-malt whiskies. Join one of their expert-led tastings or take a tour of this incredible library of over 3,000 bottles and discover just how nuanced and fascinating Scotch whisky can be.

Whether you’re tracing the footsteps of royalty, scaling ancient volcanoes, immersing yourself in the arts, or nibbling your way through food stalls, Edinburgh is full of wonder waiting to be discovered. So lace up your walking shoes, grab your camera, and prepare to fall in love with this unforgettable city.