What to see and do in Edinburgh
Royal Mile
One of Scotland’s most celebrated streets, the Royal Mile connects the towering Edinburgh Castle with the Palace of Holyroodhouse – the Queen’s official Scottish residence. At the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, you’ll find a selection of shops and museums, not to mention the buzz around Edinburgh Festival when it arrives every August.
Edinburgh Castle
This fascinating fortress (EH1 2NG) sits atop Castle Rock at the height of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, containing centuries of history within its walls. Explore the expansive Great Hall and its displays of medieval weapons and armour. Then take a moment to pause in quiet reflection in St Margaret’s Chapel – Edinburgh’s oldest building.
Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
Edinburgh’s oldest visitor attraction (EH1 2ND) is a mind-bending, reality-altering experience, where cameras, machines and other tricks-of-the-light combine to make you see the city in a whole new way. Look down on the city through the famous Camera Obscura and seemingly pick up passers-by in your hands.
The Museum of Childhood
Take a trip down memory lane with this collection of exhibits, celebrating the history of playtime. With hands-on demonstrations of everything from Subbuteo to skipping, the Museum of Childhood (EH1 1TG) displays vintage toys, plus a selection of modern-day collectibles.
Edinburgh’s best hotels
The Balmoral
With over 200 rooms and suites to choose from, the Balmoral (EH2 2EQ) exudes class and tradition. Its refined rooms and high ceilings are the perfect place to rest after a long day exploring Edinburgh’s streets.
The Witchery by the Castle
This gothic retreat (EH1 2NF) boasts nine individually themed rooms in rich, dark styles. Choose from suites such as The Armoury and The Inner Sanctum, to stoke the fires of your imagination.
Fingal
Welcome aboard the Fingal ‘float-el’ (EH6 7DX), a former lighthouse tender moored on Alexandra Dock in Leith. Lay back in luxury with a selection of five-star cabins and an elegant ballroom to boot.
Edinburgh’s best places to eat
21212
Named after its old serving style, a choice of two starters, then one soup, 21212 (EH7 5AB) has since deepened its offering of eccentric dishes, served in cosy surroundings.
The Table
The Table (EH3 6QG) is just that – one breakfast bar-style table, perched beside the kitchen, for a quirky dining experience. Watch the chefs work their magic on a variety of traditional Scottish fare.
Locanda De Gusti
Hearty Italian cuisine served up in quaint rustic surroundings – that’s the magic of this little luxury spot, with a selection of seafood and perfect pizzas.
Best day trips from Edinburgh
Loch Lomond
You can reach one of Scotland’s most sensational sights in under two hours in your hire car, via the M8. Hike through changing scenery or simply gaze across the waters and find some calm.
Linlithgow Palace
Another important part of Scottish heritage, this rural retreat lies beside its own Loch west of Edinburgh along the M9. Enjoy amazing views over lush green parkland.
Glasgow
Mix up the traditional city vibe with a drive across the M8 to discover Glasgow’s take on modern culture. Check out an eclectic mix of museums, galleries and sites of sporting heroics.