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Edinburgh Attractions: Places to Visit in Edinburgh

Things to do in Edinburgh

 

Attractions (174)

Activities (102)

Nightlife (69)

Shopping (67)

All (174)
Cultural (59)
Museums (35)
Sports (19)
Landmarks (15)
Amusement (14)
Outdoors (13)
Performances (13)
Zoos & Aquariums (1)
Name

Attractions travellers recommend

Arthur's Seat
Arthur's Seat
Ranked #1 of 174 attractions in Edinburgh
4.5 of 5 stars 2,060 reviews
Category: Geologic Formations; Mountains
Owner description: Arthur's Seat is one of four hill forts, dating from around 2,000 years ago. Situated within Holyrood Park, as well as it's... more » Owner description: Arthur's Seat is one of four hill forts, dating from around 2,000 years ago. Situated within Holyrood Park, as well as it's rich cultural heritage, the park offers walks, solace, wildlife, volcanic geology and unparalleled vistas of the city from its many vantage points. The park has several Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) designations due to its exceptional range of grassland habitats and its internationally important volcanic geology. Ranger service on site. « less
Map | Visitor photos (372)
Edinburgh Military Tattoo
Edinburgh Military Tattoo
Ranked #2 of 174 attractions in Edinburgh
4.5 of 5 stars 992 reviews
Category: Performances
Military musical spectacular filled with talented performers, pipes, drums, and visual lights and fireworks.
Map | Visitor photos (242)
Royal Yacht Britannia
As featured in 3 days in Edinburgh
Royal Yacht Britannia
Ranked #3 of 174 attractions in Edinburgh
4.5 of 5 stars 2,627 reviews
Category: Ships
Owner description: 'Scotland’s best visitor attraction' (VisitScotland). Experience what life was like on board The Royal Yacht Britannia with a... more » Owner description: 'Scotland’s best visitor attraction' (VisitScotland). Experience what life was like on board The Royal Yacht Britannia with a fascinating audio tour of five decks. Discover this floating palace that served the British Royal Family for over forty years. Highlights of the tour include the elegant State Apartments, the Crew’s Quarters, the Engine Room and the stunning Royal Deck Tea Room. Complimentary audio guide in 22 languages. Open year round with free parking at Ocean Terminal. Only 15 minutes from Edinburgh city centre « less
Map | Visitor photos (535)
National Museum of Scotland
National Museum of Scotland
Ranked #4 of 174 attractions in Edinburgh
4.5 of 5 stars 2,567 reviews
Category: Museums
Owner description: Explore the diversity of the natural world, world cultures, science and technology, art and design and Scottish history, all... more » Owner description: Explore the diversity of the natural world, world cultures, science and technology, art and design and Scottish history, all under one roof. « less
Map | Visitor photos (252)
Gilmerton Cove
As featured in Edinburgh off the beaten path
Gilmerton Cove
Ranked #5 of 174 attractions in Edinburgh
4.5 of 5 stars 225 reviews
Category: Historic Sites
Owner description: Enter one of Scotland's most curious heritage sites. An archeological mystery that has baffled investigators for over 300... more » Owner description: Enter one of Scotland's most curious heritage sites. An archeological mystery that has baffled investigators for over 300 years. Gilmerton Cove is a series of chambers and passageways lying hidden beneath the streets on the South side of Edinburgh. Join us on a guided tour and help us unravel the mysteries of this strange mysterious labyrinth. « less
Map | Visitor photos (54)
Xtreme Karting and Combat Edinburgh, Newbridge
Xtreme Karting and Combat Edinburgh
Ranked #6 of 174 attractions in Edinburgh
5 of 5 stars 139 reviews
Category: Race Car Tracks
Owner description: Experience the thrill of motorsport or combat at Xtreme Karting / Xtreme Combat in Edinburgh! Suitable for ages 8+ (please... more » Owner description: Experience the thrill of motorsport or combat at Xtreme Karting / Xtreme Combat in Edinburgh! Suitable for ages 8+ (please call for details of karting or combat sessions available for your age group) we aim to ensure a fun and adrenaline packed experience! Xtreme Karting opened in January 2011 and was awarded the 5 star rating from Visit Scotland, classed as "exceptional", in March 2011! Feedback so far from customers has been fantastic as testified by our Tripadvisor reviews!The centre features a purposely designed customer lounge area, with large windows overlooking the whole track area, as well as a large 1st floor viewing gallery, both areas feature the latest in race timing displays, allowing spectators to watch all the action on the track in complete comfort. The professionally designed track is set within a 42,000 sq ft unit, and features the latest barrier protection systems to ensure the safety of drivers. The exciting track layout has been specially designed with hairpin bends, sweeping corners and long straights providing adrenalin packed racing for novices and seasoned experts! The track is tested to the limit by our high performance EVO 5 Karts, specially tuned to deliver blistering performance!e can offer an adrenalin packed race event, corporate meeting facilities, practice sessions, cadet parties, etc! Xtreme Combat launched in August 2012, allowing groups to come along to prebooked events and experience the fun and excitement of our urban combat arena. After equiping you with MP5 laser tag weapons, you will undertake a serious of fun missions (examples include team elimination, top secret documents, bomb the base, VIP transfer, domination, last man standing etc) designed to ensure you experience a fun, adrenaline packed combat experience! Unlike paintball our weapons fire infr red beams that are incredibly accurate ensuring you use the red dot weapons sight fitted to each weapon, so no pain and no costly ammo refills!Our centre is located in Newbridge Edinburgh (just 500 yards from the Newbridge roundabout, Junction 1 on the M9) allowing easy access from across the whole of Central Scotland! Contact us for more details! « less
Map | Visitor photos (34)
Old Town
As featured in 3 days in Edinburgh
Old Town
Ranked #7 of 174 attractions in Edinburgh
4.5 of 5 stars 623 reviews
Category: Historic Walking Areas; Neighbourhoods
Owner description: Edinburgh's oldest neighborhood, dating back to medieval times: these small streets are lined with wool shops, pubs and... more » Owner description: Edinburgh's oldest neighborhood, dating back to medieval times: these small streets are lined with wool shops, pubs and historical monuments. « less
Map | Visitor photos (129)
Edinburgh Delta Force Paintball - Amberwood
Edinburgh Delta Force Paintball - Amberwood
Ranked #8 of 174 attractions in Edinburgh
5 of 5 stars 54 reviews
Category: Game/ Entertainment Centres
Owner description: Delta Force Paintball Edinburgh (Amberwood) is based on the western outskirts of Edinburgh. Located within the Bathgate... more » Owner description: Delta Force Paintball Edinburgh (Amberwood) is based on the western outskirts of Edinburgh. Located within the Bathgate Hills, the centre has an amazing outlook to Lothian and the surrounding areas, be sure to bring your camera. In addition to the scenery, our incredible game zones consist of bridges, graveyards and replica villages provide players with an adrenalin-fuelled day of paintball action. Our Edinburgh paintball centre has been awarded 4 stars by the Scottish Tourist Board. « less
Map | Visitor photos (23)
Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
As featured in Edinburgh for young kids
Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
Ranked #9 of 174 attractions in Edinburgh
4.5 of 5 stars 2,448 reviews
Category: Lookouts; Speciality Museums; Historic Sites; Science Museums; Landmarks/ Points of Interest
Owner description: Enjoy unique 360 degree panoramic views over Edinburgh from the fascinating Camera Obscura and rooftop terrace. In World of... more » Owner description: Enjoy unique 360 degree panoramic views over Edinburgh from the fascinating Camera Obscura and rooftop terrace. In World of Illusions, experience five floors of interactive hands-on optical illusions, tricks and fun things to do including vortex tunnel, mirror maze and shrinking room. Get involved, play, touch everything. Great fun for all ages and nationalities, whatever the weather. Scotland’s oldest purpose-built attraction, established in 1835. Tickets are valid all day, just get your hand stamped and come and go as you please all day long. If you don't see everything we give you a free pass to come back the next day. Unique money back guarantee if not fully satisfied. Free Wifi. 'Best family attraction in Britain’, The Telegraph. 'Five Stars, outstanding, world class', VisitScotland. Bring your camera - lots of photo opportunities throughout. Allow about 2 hours. Please note the attraction is located in a listed 17th Century building over 5 floors without a lift. Open every day, open late on holidays. Latest news: Autowed has arrived - get married, renew vows or become 'best friends forever', with our friendly robotic wedding machine. « less
Map | Visitor photos (408)
Holyrood Park
As featured in Edinburgh for free
Holyrood Park
Ranked #10 of 174 attractions in Edinburgh
4.5 of 5 stars 438 reviews
Category: Parks; Castles
Owner description: Holyrood Park is a unique historic landscape in the heart of the city, whose dramatic crags and hills give Edinburgh its... more » Owner description: Holyrood Park is a unique historic landscape in the heart of the city, whose dramatic crags and hills give Edinburgh its distinctive skyline. Within the park is a wealth of history and archaeology spanning thousands of years. Arthur's Seat is one of four hill forts, dating from around 2,000 years ago. As well as it's rich cultural heritage, the park offers walks, solace, wildlife, volcanic geology and unparalleled vistas of the city from its many vantage points. « less
Map | Visitor photos (118)
Inchcolm Abbey
As featured in Edinburgh off the beaten path
Inchcolm Abbey
Ranked #11 of 174 attractions in Edinburgh
4.5 of 5 stars 116 reviews
Category: Historic Sites
Owner description: David I established a priory here which became an abbey in 1235. It is now the best-preserved group of monastic buildings in... more » Owner description: David I established a priory here which became an abbey in 1235. It is now the best-preserved group of monastic buildings in Scotland. The island is famed for its seals, wildlife and coastal defences from two World Wars.Inchcolm means ‘Columba’s Isle’, though the ‘Iona of the east’ has no known link with St Columba. The island is dominated by its dramatically located abbey complex, comprising the best-preserved group of monastic buildings in Scotland. The Augustinian canons settled here in the early 12th century, enjoying the island’s isolation and tranquillity. However, its location in the Firth of Forth also made it a target for English naval raids throughout the wars with England from the 14th to the mid-16th century. The brethren increasingly spent more time ashore in Fife. After the Protestant Reformation of 1560 brought monastic life to an end, the island continued to serve in the defence of the country right up to the Second World War. The island’s remains testify to this history of conflict as well as the history of the medieval church in Scotland. The abbey must be reached by boat. « less
Map | Visitor photos (44)
Royal Botanic Garden
As featured in Edinburgh for free
Royal Botanic Garden
Ranked #12 of 174 attractions in Edinburgh
4.5 of 5 stars 961 reviews
Category: Gardens

The Royal Botanic Garden is about 2kms north of Princes Street. It is super and free although entry into the glasshouses is liable to be charged for. The site covers 31 hectares... more »

Map | Visitor photos (146)
Scottish National Gallery
As featured in 3 days in Edinburgh
Scottish National Gallery
Ranked #13 of 174 attractions in Edinburgh
4.5 of 5 stars 721 reviews
Category: Art Museums

Located in the heart of the city at the intersection of Princes Street and The Mound housing the national collection of fine art.  Entry is free although there are sometimes... more »

Map | Visitor photos (30)
Scottish National Portrait Gallery
As featured in Edinburgh for free
Scottish National Portrait Gallery
Ranked #14 of 174 attractions in Edinburgh
4.5 of 5 stars 516 reviews
Category: Art Museums
Owner description: Visit one of Edinburgh’s most iconic buildings and explore a fascinating overview of Scotland past and present though a... more » Owner description: Visit one of Edinburgh’s most iconic buildings and explore a fascinating overview of Scotland past and present though a wealth of imagery encompassing painting, photography, sculpture and film. Meet the people who have helped shape the nation’s identity at home and abroad from Mary, Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie and Robert Burns, through to more recent pioneers in science, sport and the arts.. See this outstanding national Collection in its newly refurbished 19th century home, from the suite of grand, top-lit galleries to smaller, intimate rooms, and discover the new Photography Gallery and the atmospheric Victorian Library. Round off your trip to the Portrait Gallery with a visit to our new café. Serving a delicious menu of fresh dishes and classic recipes, our team are passionate about sourcing the very best local ingredients and seasonal produce. A great place for lunch or even just a coffee break, our family-friendly venue is one of the best cafes in Edinburgh. Admission is free. Charges may apply for special exhibitions. « less
Map | Visitor photos (21)
Princes Street Gardens
As featured in 3 days in Edinburgh
Princes Street Gardens
Ranked #15 of 174 attractions in Edinburgh
4.5 of 5 stars 1,062 reviews
Category: Gardens; Parks
Impeccably landscaped park and woodland surrounding Edinburgh Castle.
Map | Visitor photos (140)
Calton Hill
Calton Hill
Ranked #16 of 174 attractions in Edinburgh
4.5 of 5 stars 941 reviews
Category: Lookouts; Geologic Formations
Historic neighborhood lined with monuments dating back to the Enlightenment.
Map | Visitor photos (301)
Palace of Holyroodhouse
As featured in 3 days in Edinburgh
Palace of Holyroodhouse
Ranked #17 of 174 attractions in Edinburgh
4.5 of 5 stars 1,237 reviews
Category: Historic Sites; Castles
This is an official residence of the Queen and the Royal Family.
Map | Visitor photos (334)
Royal Mile
Royal Mile
Ranked #18 of 174 attractions in Edinburgh
4.5 of 5 stars 2,805 reviews
Category: Historic Walking Areas; Scenic/ Historic Walking Areas; Landmarks/ Points of Interest

Edinburgh 's Royal Mile is one of the most famous streets in the world and a must see for all visitors to Edinburgh .  It is in the Old Town, the historic heart of the city, and... more »

Map | Visitor photos (445)
Edinburgh International Climbing Arena
Edinburgh International Climbing Arena
Ranked #19 of 174 attractions in Edinburgh
4.5 of 5 stars 54 reviews
Category: Sports Complexes
Map | Visitor photos (18)
National War Museum of Scotland
National War Museum of Scotland
Ranked #20 of 174 attractions in Edinburgh
4.5 of 5 stars 213 reviews
Category: History Museums
Owner description: Within the historic setting of Edinburgh Castle, accounts of battles lost and won are told through military artefacts and... more » Owner description: Within the historic setting of Edinburgh Castle, accounts of battles lost and won are told through military artefacts and personal collections. Find out about the life of Scots at war, from the First World War trenches to the Home Front, and learn how conflicts, both at home and abroad, have shaped Scotland's image and reputation over the centuries. « less
Map | Visitor photos (30)
Edinburgh Castle
As featured in 3 days in Edinburgh
Edinburgh Castle
Ranked #21 of 174 attractions in Edinburgh
4.5 of 5 stars 4,090 reviews
Category: Castles
Owner description: A mighty fortress, the defender of the nation, and a world-famous visitor attraction – Edinburgh Castle has dominated the... more » Owner description: A mighty fortress, the defender of the nation, and a world-famous visitor attraction – Edinburgh Castle has dominated the skyline for centuries. And the high volcanic rock on which it stands has been occupied for thousands of years. Today it is home to Scotland’s crown jewels, three military museums, the Scottish National War Memorial, the Prisons of War exhibition, and much more.The castle offers a fabulous day out – an experience not to be missed. « less
Map | Visitor photos (2061)
The Filmhouse
The Filmhouse
Ranked #22 of 174 attractions in Edinburgh
4.5 of 5 stars 105 reviews
Category: Cinemas
A small, three-screened theater playing Scotland's most innovative independent films.
Map | Visitor photos (1)
St. Giles Cathedral
As featured in 3 days in Edinburgh
St. Giles Cathedral
Ranked #23 of 174 attractions in Edinburgh
4.5 of 5 stars 518 reviews
Category: Religious Sites; Landmarks/ Points of Interest
This is the main church of The Church of Scotland.
Visitor photos (210)
Surgeons' Hall
As featured in Edinburgh off the beaten path
Surgeons' Hall
Ranked #24 of 174 attractions in Edinburgh
4.5 of 5 stars 180 reviews
Category: Speciality Museums
Owner description: Surgeons' Hall houses one of the largest and most historic collections of surgical pathology in the World. Developed as a... more » Owner description: Surgeons' Hall houses one of the largest and most historic collections of surgical pathology in the World. Developed as a teaching museum for students of medicine, its fascinating collections, including bone and tissue specimens, artefacts and works of art, have also been open to the public since 1832, making it one of Scotland’s oldest Museums. The History of Surgery Museum traces the story of surgery in Scotland from 1505 to the present day through objects, images and artworks. The Dental History section incorporates the outstanding object and art collection of Menzies Campbell, and is rated as one of the top three in Britain. In 2010, the upper gallery of The History of Surgery Museum was transformed into a temporary exhibition space with ‘Skin Deep’ as the first in a series of new subjects. Popular exhibitions include The Real Sherlock Homes and the story of Burke and Hare. We also run a programme of events and highlight tours, more information can be found on our webpage. « less
Map | Visitor photos (11)
Greyfriars Church
Greyfriars Church
Ranked #25 of 174 attractions in Edinburgh
4.5 of 5 stars 93 reviews
Category: Cemeteries; Landmarks/ Points of Interest; Religious Sites; Architectural Buildings; Historic Sites
Historical church famous for its cemetery where Bobby, a loyal terrier, kept watch over his master's grave for 14 years.
Map | Visitor photos (56)
The Scotch Whisky Experience
As featured in 3 days in Edinburgh
The Scotch Whisky Experience
Ranked #26 of 174 attractions in Edinburgh
4 of 5 stars 666 reviews
Category: Factory Tours; Speciality Museums; Tourist/ Visitor Centres
Owner description: Take a barrel ride as you actually become part of the whisky making process. Experience for yourself our regional whiskies... more » Owner description: Take a barrel ride as you actually become part of the whisky making process. Experience for yourself our regional whiskies and whether you like fruity, sweet or smoky flavours our experts will help you select your perfect dram.Enter the vault containing the world’s largest collection of Scotch Whiskies and enjoy a special tutored nosing and tasting. Explore Scotland’s whisky history from the very beginnings through to the global success of today. « less
Map | Visitor photos (137)
Georgian House
Georgian House
Ranked #27 of 174 attractions in Edinburgh
4.5 of 5 stars 99 reviews
Category: Historic Sites
Fully restored period house.
Map | Visitor photos (6)
Scott Monument
Scott Monument
Ranked #28 of 174 attractions in Edinburgh
4.5 of 5 stars 279 reviews
Category: Monuments/ Statues
A 200-foot spire dedicated to Sir Walter Scott, the famous Scottish poet.
Map | Visitor photos (231)
Craigmillar Castle
Craigmillar Castle
Ranked #29 of 174 attractions in Edinburgh
4.5 of 5 stars 110 reviews
Category: Castles
Map | Visitor photos (61)
Lyceum Theatre
Lyceum Theatre
Ranked #30 of 174 attractions in Edinburgh
4.5 of 5 stars 27 reviews
Category: Theatres
Map | Visitor photos (8)
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