Edinburgh

St Giles' Cathedral, the historic "Mother Kirk of Scotland", has been a focal point of religious and civic life on the Royal Mile since 1124. Its architecture is a tapestry of centuries, but the cathedral is most famous as the epicentre of the Scottish Reformation under firebrand minister John Knox. While the main body of the kirk is imposing, its greatest artistic treasure is the Thistle Chapel, an astonishingly detailed 1911 Gothic space housing Scotland's chivalric order. You can admire the beautiful stained-glass windows, see an original National Covenant, and find the bronze memorial to Robert Louis Stevenson. Just outside the west door, the Heart of Midlothian set into the cobbles is traditionally spat upon for luck. Free tours and audio guides help unravel the complex history within this essential Edinburgh landmark.

Kick off your visit to Edinburgh with a visit to the Old Town. With its narrow winding streets, medieval architecture and centuries-old buildings, this charming district is the best place to get a glimpse into the city's rich heritage. Stroll along the famous Royal Mile, a vibrant thoroughfare lined with shops, traditional pubs and historical sites. Explore the hidden 'closes' and alleys that unveil stories of Edinburgh's past, and visit iconic landmarks like the imposing Edinburgh Castle and the beautiful St Giles' Cathedral.

Dive into Edinburgh's historic past and discover the city's acclaimed landmarks and hidden secrets on this Royal Mile guided walking tour. Follow your guide along Edinburgh's legendary Royal Mile as you gain a fascinating insight into the famous writers, poets, and inventors who have called the city home. Hear tales of Scotland's national bard, Robert Burns, and see top landmarks like St Giles' Cathedral and the National Galleries of Scotland.

Calton Hill offers one of Edinburgh's most accessible and spectacular viewpoints with a 360-degree panorama of the city, the Firth of Forth and Arthur's Seat. A UNESCO World Heritage site, its summit is dotted with neoclassical monuments, earning it the nickname "Edinburgh's Acropolis". Key structures include the unfinished National Monument, modelled after the Parthenon; the Nelson Monument with its time-ball telescope; and the Dugald Stewart Monument, a familiar city landmark. Importantly, the hill is also home to St Andrew's House, the headquarters of the Scottish Government, and the historic Old Royal High School. Today, the former City Observatory houses Collective, a contemporary art gallery. A short, gentle climb from Princes Street, Calton Hill is an unmissable stop for any traveller.

Explore the lives of over 1,000 animal species from all over the world. Watch giant pandas, big cats, penguins and other birds, or take part in some of the interactive activities offered by this non-profit zoological park. Don't miss out on the Edinburgh Zoo gardens, a lush paradise with countless exotic flowers and plants.

Founded in 1670, the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is one of the world's oldest and most respected scientific gardens in the world. Its beautifully landscaped grounds offer a serene escape with a rich collection of plants, from a world-famous rock garden to colourful rhododendron displays. The splendid Victorian Palm Houses are a major highlight, housing exotic flora (entry fee applies). A second key attraction is the modern, eco-friendly John Hope Gateway, which features exhibitions on biodiversity and sustainability. More than just a park, it's a living institution of global significance, perfect for a peaceful stroll or deeper exploration.

The Scottish Parliament Building at the foot of the Royal Mile is a striking, award-winning complex designed by the late Catalan architect Enric Miralles. Opened in 2004, its unconventional forms are deeply symbolic, intended to represent an open, well-rooted democracy. The journey through the building is a key part of the experience, moving from the cave-like Main Hall up to the light-filled Debating Chamber. You can take a free guided tour to understand the architecture's meaning, watch parliamentary debates from the public gallery (tickets required, typically Tuesday-Thursday), or explore the exhibition space. It is a must-see for its bold design as much as for its political significance.

Beneath Edinburgh’s South Bridge lie a network of 18th-century chambers known as the Underground Vaults. Originally used for storage by bridge merchants, these damp, lightless spaces later descended into slums, illicit taverns, and hideouts for criminals and body snatchers. A one-hour guided tour will lead you through this spooky labyrinth, with costumed guides sharing dark tales of the city’s past inhabitants, from the desperate poor to the infamous Burke and Hare body snatchers. For daredevils seeking a stronger thrill, the same operator offers themed variations. These include ghost tours focusing on paranormal activity, tales of persecution and witchcraft, or visits to a nearby cemetery, often incorporating displays of historical torture devices.

Step into the Edinburgh Dungeon and experience 500 years of Scotland’s most haunting history. Be captivated by the performances of theatrical actors, mesmerising storytelling, and cool special effects that bring the scenes and stages to life. The bravest ones can also hop on one of the two scary rides. Guided tours depart every 10 minutes.

Alongside the King's Theatre, the Festival Theatre stands as one of Edinburgh's premier venues for performing arts. Its modern architectural marvel is a sight to behold, but the true magic lies within its doors. Immerse yourself in the mesmerising world of national opera and ballet shows, where talented performers grace the stage with their artistry.

Princes Street Gardens is a dramatic swathe of greenery in Edinburgh’s very centre, directly beneath Castle Rock. These twin parks — East and West — were created in the 1820s after the draining of the polluted Nor Loch, a medieval defensive lake. They are separated by The Mound, an artificial hill formed from excavation debris during the New Town’s construction. The West Garden is larger and home to the Ross Bandstand, a stage for summer concerts and Hogmanay celebrations. Near The Mound entrance, the intricate Floral Clock blooms with a new design each year since 1903. More than just a scenic shortcut, the gardens are a testament to city-making: a Victorian solution to urban blight that became one of Edinburgh’s most beloved civic spaces, perfect for a stroll, a picnic, or simply admiring the iconic views.

Arthur’s Seat is the rugged centrepiece of Holyrood Park, an ancient volcano shaped by ice ages. Its summit, rising 251 metres above the city, offers one of Edinburgh’s most rewarding panoramas, stretching from the Forth bridges to the Highlands. A climb from Holyrood Palace takes around 45 minutes, leading past dramatic Salisbury Crags and the ruins of St Anthony’s Chapel. The park itself is a Site of Special Scientific Interest, home to diverse geology and wildlife around Duddingston Loch. More than just a hike, Arthur’s Seat is a journey through natural and ancient history — a must for experiencing Edinburgh’s wilder side without leaving the city.

For a cinematic experience that breaks from the ordinary, the Dominion Cinema offers a touch of Art Deco elegance and a dash of modern comfort. Designed by architect Thomas Bowhill Gibson and opened in 1938, this Category B listed building features several screens furnished with cosy sofas instead of standard seats. It’s an ideal setting for a film, whether you're settling in for a classic or a romantic feature. The historic ambiance and unique seating make a visit here an event in itself.

Step aboard the extraordinary Royal Yacht Britannia, a fantastic floating museum located in the historic port of Leith in Edinburgh. Embark on a fascinating journey that offers a glimpse into the life of the British royal family, exploring the luxurious interiors and elegant decks of this former royal yacht. After immersing yourself in regal history, treat yourself to a delightful tea experience at the Royal Deck Tea Room, where you can indulge in delicious treats and savour the moment. Her Majesty's Yacht Britannia guarantees a truly royal experience, allowing you to delve into the legacy of this iconic vessel that served the British monarchy from 1954 until 1997.

The Edinburgh Festival Fringe is the world's largest arts festival, transforming the Scottish capital each August into a global stage. For three weeks, the city surrenders to a creative explosion where every conceivable space becomes an art venue: from grand theatres and pubs to parks and shipping containers. The programme is vast and open-access, spanning comedy, theatre, circus, cabaret, and music, featuring everyone from emerging artists to household names. The historic Royal Mile is the festival's heart, busy with street performers and companies offering free previews. While hundreds of shows are ticketed, the street events provide a constant, free spectacle. It is an overwhelming, uncurated and utterly unique celebration of live performance.