Edinburgh Showcase
Edinburgh is Scotland's historic capital. Springboard of the Scottish Enlightnment and centuries-old centre for education in medicine, science and engineering. It's the seat of the Scottish government and its myriad sights attract millions of visitors every year from every corner of the world.
Things to do and see in Edinburgh
Free attractions
The National Museum of Scotland showcases a unique combination of world-class collections, programmes, places and people. Admission is free and there is no need to book.
Visit National Galleries Scotland to marvel at spectacular views over Edinburgh and discover the very best of Scottish art from 1800 to 1945. Includes works of pioneering artists such as William McTaggart, Anne Redpath, Phoebe Anna Traquair, Charles Rennie Mackintosh and the Glasgow Boys. Admission into the gallery is free and there is no need to book.
Royal Botantic Garden is set in over 70 acres of beautiful landscape and just one mile north of the city centre and offers superb panoramic views of the city skyline featuring Edinburgh Castle. Admission to the gardens is free.
The Royal Mile is culturally significant as the heartbeat of Edinburgh's history and heritage. Its architecture, from the medieval to the present, stands as a witness to the city’s evolution. The Mile's role as a vibrant hub for festivals, events, and cultural experiences makes it a living museum of Scotland’s past and present.
Greyfriar's Kirkyard Cemetery is situated in the heart of Edinburgh's Old Town, Greyfriars Kirk was founded in 1620 and is the first church to be built in post-Reformation Edinburgh. The graveyard is particularly famous for the grave of Greyfriar’s Bobby, a Skye Terrier who reportedly guarded his owner’s grave in the Kirkyard for fourteen years. You can also find Bobby’s statue outside of the graveyard and give his nose a rub for good luck.
Arthur's Seat is the highest point of Holyrood Park, an ancient volcano with a fort and a panoramic view of the city. This large, grass covered hill is the remains of an extinct volcano that erupted 350 million years ago.
Finally, Princes Street is Edinburgh's main shopping street, set in the shadows of Edinburgh Castle.
Paid attractions
 |
Edinburgh Castle is perched on a volcanic plug and has dominated the skyline of Scotland’s capital city for centuries. Admission is £19.50. |
|
The Royal Yacht Britannia was a royal residence for over 40 years and sailed over 1,000,000 nautical miles on 968 Royal Family state visits where they also entertained prime ministers and presidents. Admission is £19.50. |
 |
 |
The Palace of Holyroodhouse has close associations with some of Scotland’s most well-known historic figures such as Mary, Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie. Learn how today it is used by The King when carrying out official engagements in Scotland. Admission is £20 when booked in advance. |
|
Step down onto the streets for a guided tour beneath the Royal Mile in Real Mary King's Close to travel back in time with one of The Close’s former residents. Admission includes a guided tour for £22.50. |
Embark on a Johnnie Walker signature tour with live performances, light shows, whisky cocktails and more. An 1.5 hour tour and tasting experience is £30 |
|
The Scotch Whisky Experience was created by the whisky industry, it’s a great opportunity to explore the world of Scotch whisky and try some along the way. Prices varying £23-48 for tour & tasting experience. |
Popular food and drink areas
Grassmarket is nestled in the heart of Edinburgh's historic Old Town, with stunning views of Edinburgh Castle, the Grassmarket is one of the most picturesque and lively areas of the city with an assortment of shops, pubs, bars, restaurants and cafes to suit all tastes and budgets. It is only a 10-minute walk from the Edinburgh Futures Institute.
Rose Street is a historic and charming street behind Princes Street with an array of shops, pubs, bars, restaurants and cafes.
Edinburgh Street Food is a market-style canteen filled with a variety of independent food businesses and international cuisines.