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Top things to do in Edinburgh

Loch Ness & The Scottish Highlands Day Tour
Summer deal
Tours • From Edinburgh

Loch Ness & The Scottish Highlands Day Tour

Book now for today
English guided
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
★ 4.4 (139) • 3K+ booked
From € 57.19
20 off
Sale
Edinburgh Castle Ticket with Guided Tour
Tours • Edinburgh

Edinburgh Castle Ticket with Guided Tour

English guided
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
★ 4.5 (103) • 4K+ booked
From € 49.70
Palace of Holyroodhouse Ticket in Edinburgh
Historical sites • Edinburgh

Palace of Holyroodhouse Ticket in Edinburgh

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Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
★ 4.7 (108) • 3K+ booked
€ 24.40
€ 25.69
3 Day Isle of Skye, The Highlands & Loch Ness Tour from Edinburgh
Tours • From Edinburgh

3 Day Isle of Skye, The Highlands & Loch Ness Tour from Edinburgh

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English guided
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
★ 4.6 (59) • 1K+ booked
From € 268.55
Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off City Sightseeing Bus Pass
Tours • Edinburgh

Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off City Sightseeing Bus Pass

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Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
★ 4.7 (52) • 1K+ booked
€ 22.19
Klook Pass Edinburgh
Attraction passes • Edinburgh

Klook Pass Edinburgh

Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
★ 4.9 (15) • 600+ booked
€ 60.75
€ 78.35
Klook exclusive
Edinburgh Castle: Express Guided Tour with Entry Ticket
Historical sites • Edinburgh

Edinburgh Castle: Express Guided Tour with Entry Ticket

Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
★ 5.0 (2) • 500+ booked
From € 43.25
€ 45.55
The Scotch Whisky Experience Entry and Whisky Tasting
Tours • Edinburgh

The Scotch Whisky Experience Entry and Whisky Tasting

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English guided
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
★ 4.5 (35) • 1K+ booked
€ 32.10
Old Town and Underground Ghost Tour in Edinburgh
Tours • Edinburgh

Old Town and Underground Ghost Tour in Edinburgh

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English guided
Afternoon departure
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
★ 4.3 (25) • 600+ booked
€ 20.55
Holy Island, Alnwick Castle & Northumbria Tour from Edinburgh
Tours • Edinburgh

Holy Island, Alnwick Castle & Northumbria Tour from Edinburgh

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Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
★ 4.5 (13) • 200+ booked
€ 74.25
Loch Ness, Glen Coe and The Highlands Day Tour from Edinburgh
Tours • From Edinburgh

Loch Ness, Glen Coe and The Highlands Day Tour from Edinburgh

Book now for today
English guided
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
★ 3.8 (12) • 400+ booked
From € 83.49
Jacobite Steam Train & Scottish Highlands Guided Tour
Klook's choice
Tours • From Edinburgh

Jacobite Steam Train & Scottish Highlands Guided Tour

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English guided
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
★ 4.2 (17) • 400+ booked
€ 254.29

Top attractions in Edinburgh

Tourist attraction
4.9/5(27K+ reviews)

Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh, United Kingdom, stands proudly atop Castle Rock as a world-famous icon and leading UK heritage attraction. Set within Edinburgh's World Heritage Site, this mighty fortress has served as a royal residence, military fortress, and royal palace throughout Scottish history. Explore the Great Hall, Royal Palace, St. Margaret’s Chapel, and the Crown Jewels. Visit the Scottish National War Memorial, National War Museum, and the daily One O’Clock Gun. Walk through David’s Tower, Castle Esplanade, Western Defences, and the New Barracks. Don't miss the Castle Houses and Military Prison, key parts of its history. Consider the audio tour to learn about James VI, Robert the Bruce, and the castle’s complex past. With views of the Firth of Forth, Edinburgh City, and the West End, it’s a must-see. Book tickets online for guaranteed entry and the best price.
Tourist attraction
4.9/5(43K+ reviews)

Edinburgh Old Town

Discover Edinburgh's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site at the heart of the City of Edinburgh, where Scotland’s history, culture, and stunning architecture come to life. Explore the Royal Mile, the main street connecting Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Park, and stroll through iconic spots like Victoria Street, Cockburn Street, and South Bridge. From the historic buildings of Chambers Street and the National Museum to the sweeping views atop Arthur’s Seat and Calton Hill, this world heritage area blends the charm of old buildings with the energy of the city centre. Take part in walking tours, visit museums, enjoy restaurants and pubs, and uncover hidden corners that inspired Harry Potter. With links to the Scottish Reformation, the neoclassical New Town, and efforts by the Town Trust and Edinburgh Council, the Old Town is the perfect place to explore, whether on foot or two wheels.
Park
4.9/5(31K+ reviews)

Holyrood Park

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and rich history of Holyrood Park, a majestic royal park located at the south end of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, near Holyrood Palace, the official residence of the monarch in Scotland. Climb Arthur’s Seat, the highest point in the city, or explore the dramatic Salisbury Crags, Radical Road, and the ruins of St Anthony’s Chapel. With scenic spots like St Margaret’s Loch, Duddingston Loch, Hunter’s Bog, and Dunsapie Loch, the park offers diverse routes, footpaths, and walks for all levels. Managed by Historic Environment Scotland, the park features interesting geological formations like Hutton’s Section, Samson’s Ribs, and Whinny Hill, with four hill forts offering sweeping views. Access is easy from the city centre, with car parks at Dunsapie Loch and Queen’s Drive. Ideal for small group visits, this free site remains open year-round for nature, history, and wildlife lovers.
Museum
4.9/5(40K+ reviews)

National Museum of Scotland

Discover the wonders of the National Museum of Scotland, a captivating destination nestled in the heart of Edinburgh where history, culture, and innovation converge under one roof. This iconic museum, a harmonious blend of Victorian Venetian Renaissance and modern architectural styles, offers an unforgettable journey through time and across cultures. With thousands of fascinating objects showcased across diverse galleries, the museum stands as a testament to Scotland's rich heritage and innovative spirit. Whether you're a history buff, a science enthusiast, or simply curious, the National Museum of Scotland promises an engaging and enriching experience for visitors of all ages. A visit here is not just a walk through history, but a vibrant exploration of the rich tapestry of human achievement and creativity.
Historical site

National Wallace Monument

Nestled atop the scenic Abbey Craig, the National Wallace Monument stands as a towering tribute to one of Scotland's most revered heroes, Sir William Wallace. Perched majestically above the fields of Stirling, this iconic 67-meter sandstone tower not only commemorates the legendary Battle of Stirling Bridge but also invites visitors to delve into the passionate story of a patriot and martyr whose legacy continues to inspire. Offering breathtaking views and a deep dive into Scottish heritage, the National Wallace Monument is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and travelers alike, making it an essential stop on any journey through Scotland's rich past.
Zoo
4.9/5(29K+ reviews)

Edinburgh Zoo

Welcome to Edinburgh Zoo, a captivating wildlife haven nestled in the heart of Scotland's capital. Embark on an unforgettable adventure at this vibrant sanctuary, home to over 2,500 incredible animals from across the globe. Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast or a curious traveler, Edinburgh Zoo offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and witness the wonders of wildlife conservation. As a beacon of conservation and education, the zoo invites visitors to explore a world where nature is cherished and protected. With its commitment to reversing the decline of endangered species, Edinburgh Zoo stands as a testament to the power of collective efforts in wildlife conservation. From exploring the largest outdoor penguin pool in Europe to catching a glimpse of the elusive Sumatran tigers, Edinburgh Zoo promises a day filled with wonder and discovery for animal lovers of all ages.
Historical site
5.0/5(2K+ reviews)

Doune Castle

Nestled in the heart of Scotland, Doune Castle is a captivating destination that beckons history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. This majestic medieval fortress, known as the home of Regent Albany, 'Scotland’s uncrowned king', offers a unique glimpse into Scotland's storied past. With its rich historical tapestry and cinematic allure, Doune Castle is not only a historical marvel but also a pop culture icon, having starred in the cult classic 'Monty Python and the Holy Grail.' Whether you're a fan of medieval history or simply seeking a picturesque escape, Doune Castle promises an unforgettable journey through time, blending historical intrigue with its charming role in film history.
Eurail Global Pass
Rail passes • Valletta

Eurail Global Pass

Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
★ 4.6 (2,536) • 100K+ booked
€ 283.00
Free 1 eSIM per booking (app only)
5 off attractions
BritRail Pass for England, Wales and Scotland
Rail passes • Dumfries and Galloway

BritRail Pass for England, Wales and Scotland

Book now for tomorrow
Instant confirmation
★ 4.8 (253) • 6K+ booked
From € 123.60
5 off
Edinburgh car rentals | Rent a car for Palace of Holyroodhouse, Isle of Skye, The Highlands, Loch Ness
From € 16
Edinburgh airport - Edinburgh City
Airport trains & buses • Edinburgh

Edinburgh airport - Edinburgh City

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Instant confirmation
★ 4.6 (30) • 1K+ booked
From € 5.29
5 off
United Kingdom Train Tickets
Rail passes • From London

United Kingdom Train Tickets

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Instant confirmation
€ 30.00
5 off
BritRail Spirit of Scotland Pass
Rail passes • From Edinburgh

BritRail Spirit of Scotland Pass

Book now for tomorrow
Instant confirmation
★ 3.0 (2) • 100+ booked
€ 188.00
5 off
Edinburgh|Edinburgh Airport Private Airport Transfer
Private airport transfers • Edinburgh

Edinburgh|Edinburgh Airport Private Airport Transfer

Bestseller
Instant confirmation
★ 4.4 (93) • 700+ booked
€ 44.09
Up to 10 off
ScotRail Spirit of Scotland Mobile Pass
Rail passes • From Edinburgh

ScotRail Spirit of Scotland Mobile Pass

€ 189.55
5 off
ScotRail Central Scotland Rover Mobile Pass
Rail passes • From Edinburgh

ScotRail Central Scotland Rover Mobile Pass

€ 71.50
5 off
ScotRail Scottish Grand Tour Mobile Pass
Rail passes • From Edinburgh

ScotRail Scottish Grand Tour Mobile Pass

€ 113.15
5 off
ScotRail Highland Rover Mobile Pass
Rail passes • From Edinburgh

ScotRail Highland Rover Mobile Pass

€ 121.85
5 off

Hotels in Edinburgh

Britannia Hotel Edinburgh
Hotels • Edinburgh

Britannia Hotel Edinburgh

Instant confirmation
★ 3.1 (1,292)
From € 100.30
Point A Edinburgh Haymarket
Hotels • Edinburgh

Point A Edinburgh Haymarket

Instant confirmation
★ 4.4 (1,686)
From € 108.29
Premier Inn Edinburgh - Princes Street
Hotels • Edinburgh

Premier Inn Edinburgh - Princes Street

Instant confirmation
From € 174.55
Garner Edinburgh Haymarket by IHG
Hotels • Edinburgh

Garner Edinburgh Haymarket by IHG

Instant confirmation
★ 4.0 (1,016)
From € 106.00
Hub By Premier Inn Edinburgh Haymarket
Hotels • Edinburgh

Hub By Premier Inn Edinburgh Haymarket

Instant confirmation
★ 4.4 (50)
From € 101.72
Wilde Aparthotels, Edinburgh, Grassmarket
Hotels • Edinburgh

Wilde Aparthotels, Edinburgh, Grassmarket

Instant confirmation
★ 4.7 (1,006)
From € 185.51
20 off
Premier Inn Edinburgh Park - Airport
Hotels • Edinburgh

Premier Inn Edinburgh Park - Airport

Instant confirmation
★ 4.0 (156)
From € 125.09
ibis budget Edinburgh Park
Hotels • Edinburgh

ibis budget Edinburgh Park

Instant confirmation
★ 4.1 (1,135)
From € 82.19
Premier Inn Edinburgh - South Queensferry
Hotels • Edinburgh

Premier Inn Edinburgh - South Queensferry

Instant confirmation
From € 51.82
Apex Waterloo Place Hotel
Hotels • Edinburgh

Apex Waterloo Place Hotel

Instant confirmation
★ 4.6 (2,121)
From € 230.56
Premier Inn Edinburgh Cc Waverley
Hotels • Edinburgh

Premier Inn Edinburgh Cc Waverley

Instant confirmation
★ 4.2 (132)
From € 124.85
ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge - Royal Mile
Hotels • Edinburgh

ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge - Royal Mile

Instant confirmation
★ 4.2 (1,941)
From € 186.43

Reviews of Edinburgh activities

Pan ******
2026-07-10 16:32:09
Fantastic 5.0
It is definitely one of the wonderful experiences I’ve ever had. Despite the unpredictable weather, everything went quite decent. The guide, Mark, is a knowledgeable and sophisticated person who is an excellent story teller as well. He made the whole trip an unforgettable one. Likewise, the B & B we stayed is also fabulous, and the generosity and hospitality of the owner really stunned me.
ZHOUTIAN **
2026-03-31 21:05:09
Fantastic 5.0
amazing 3D2N tour with HAGGiS highland tour guide with Liz, who was very knowledgeable and enthusiastic, highly recommend booking with them for a wonderful drive through isle of skye. We even saw the snow ❄️! This is March, it's Spring! But shortly after it was sunny again. Typical UK weather so be sure to pack warm. Rmb to take your motion sickness medicine if you have any as the roads can get windy but there were plenty of rest stops maximum every two hours or so. The lodging was a warm cozy 2 nights stay with Skye Inn at Portree, which is super comfortable and had such delicious breakfast. Only complaint was that the tour wasn't long enough so that we could see more castles and more of Isle of Skye's beautiful skylines.
Klook User
2026-05-10 17:52:28
Fantastic 5.0
my guide and driver for the day was Keith (09 May 26). I chooses the lochness and highlands tour . the drive was very informative and educational, I am able to appreciate the history of Scotland and the highlands . The areas that we went to and nature was beautiful too. The drive felt safe and I was also able to appreciate the scenery along the way .
Nicole *******
2026-07-11 14:24:39
Fantastic 5.0
The arrangements were nearly perfect. Originally, we had difficulty getting entry tickets to Edinburgh Castle on their official website. While most travel agencies no longer have tickets for the day, we managed to get ours on Klook. The QR code was issued in less than a minute. The waiting place was convenient and the tour guide, Ignas, was easily identifiable. Yet, Ignas spoke with a very strong Scottish accent, which made it not always easy to follow. So, although he was very knowledgeable and helpful, the details of the description were not always fully understood. Nevertheless, the view at and from the castle was magnificent. Even though the path looked very steep and far from the city centre, it wasn’t difficult to get there. The rooms were definitely worth visiting. The souvenir shop also sold gifts that were exclusive to the castle. we also met the Queen and King James for a lovely photo. I would definitely recommend this visit.
Ysabel ************
2026-04-08 12:32:25
Fantastic 5.0
the tour started on time and gave a very good background of whisky. it ended with a short but sweet taste of a whisky of your choice. would recommend for whisky lovers— though it may leave you wanting to try more of the whisky kinds.
Chriselda ****************
2026-04-10 04:44:43
Fantastic 5.0
The buses were all on time, and the audio commentary on the buses was super useful to learn more about Edinburgh's history. We also loved all the stops and attractions at every stop. We definitely enjoyed this tour.
Klook User
2026-05-08 18:20:15
Fantastic 5.0
The Old Town and Underground Ghost Tour in Edinburgh was a really enjoyable experience, mainly because of the tour guide, James Douglas. He was extremely active, social, funny, and knew exactly how to keep everyone engaged. His sense of humor made the time fly by. Honestly, during all my travels, I have never had a tour guide this entertaining and energetic. He was genuinely very good at what he does, and it made the whole experience much better. I was expecting a little more from the tour itself besides walking around the city and visiting the underground tunnel area, but I still learned a lot about Edinburgh’s history and its magnificent architecture. Big thanks to James Douglas for the wonderful time and positive energy throughout the tour. Definitely one of the most memorable guides I’ve had during my travels.
Louis ****
2026-06-10 20:54:36
Fantastic 5.0
Fun and educational trip. Tom is a very entertaining story teller. I learned a lot of Scottish History on the way. We stopped by many scenic places. Excellent tour. 100% recommend to everyone!

Quick facts about Edinburgh

Local weather

  • DEC - FEB

  • MAR - MAY
    14°

  • JUN - AUG
    19°

  • SEP - NOV
    16°

General info
  • Time zone

    No time difference

  • Currency

    1EUR = 0.86GBP

  • Official languages

  • Best time to visit

    Edinburgh Fringe Festival

  • Recommended trip duration

  • Flight time

    When departing from Los Angeles

What to know before visiting Edinburgh

Best Places to Visit in Edinburgh

Edinburgh Castle

This fortress sits on top of Castle Rock and is one of Scotland’s top attractions. Inside, you can see the Crown Jewels, the Great Hall, and the Stone of Destiny. The views of the city are amazing.

Royal Mile

The Royal Mile connects Edinburgh Castle with Holyrood Palace. It’s full of historic buildings, souvenir shops, and cafés. You can also stop by St Giles Cathedral and Mary King’s Close along the way.

St. Giles' Cathedral

This church is famous for its gothic architecture and beautiful stained glass windows. The Thistle Chapel inside is especially detailed and worth a visit.

Grassmarket

A lively square full of pubs, restaurants, and shops. It’s right below Edinburgh Castle and perfect for people-watching or enjoying a local drink.

Arthur’s Seat and Holyrood Park

Climb Arthur’s Seat, an ancient volcano in Holyrood Park, for one of the best views in Edinburgh. It’s a popular hike and easy to reach from the city centre.

National Museum of Scotland

This free museum has exhibits on Scottish history, science, and world cultures. The Grand Gallery is bright and impressive, and the rooftop terrace has great views.

Dean Village

A peaceful area by the Water of Leith, just a short walk from Princes Street. The old houses and riverside views make it a great photo spot.

Greyfriars Kirkyard

One of Edinburgh’s oldest graveyards and a favorite for Harry Potter fans. It’s also home to the story of Greyfriars Bobby, the loyal dog statue nearby.

Tips for Visiting Edinburgh

1. Book Early During Festivals

Edinburgh gets very busy in August during the Fringe Festival and Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. Hotels and shows sell out fast, so book tickets and rooms early to save money and stress.

2. Pack for All Weather

The weather in Edinburgh can change quickly. Bring layers, a light rain jacket, and good walking shoes. Even in summer, it can be cool and windy.

3. Use Public Transport

While Edinburgh is walkable, buses and trams are great for longer trips. You can pay with contactless cards. The tram also connects the city centre to Edinburgh Airport in about 30 minutes.

4. Take Day Trips

Edinburgh is the perfect city to start exploring more of Scotland. You can take day trips to the Scottish Highlands, Loch Ness, or Stirling Castle. Closer to the city, visit the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh or Royal Yacht Britannia for easy half-day adventures.

How to Get to Edinburgh

By Flight:

Edinburgh Airport (EDI) is the main airport for Scotland, about 8 miles from the city. You can take a tram, bus, or taxi to reach Edinburgh's city center

By Train:

Edinburgh Waverley Station is the main train station, right in the heart of the city. It has direct connections from London, Glasgow, and other UK cities.

By Bus:

Long-distance buses arrive at Edinburgh Bus Station, near St Andrew Square. From there, you can walk or catch a tram to your hotel or attractions.

FAQs about Edinburgh

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