What Are The Things To Do In Edinburgh? Things You Cannot Miss Here

The charm of Edinburgh grows on you. I know that I am not the only one who felt like moving to the Scottish Capital after the first visit.  

So, even though Edinburgh happened to me many moons ago, I can vividly remember its moody weather and the beautiful architecture. More than anything, the cityscape stays with me.  

Also, if you are a “bucket-list” kind of traveler, the city harbors endless attractions. And this guide here is about the things to do in Edinburgh.  

What Are The Things To Do In Edinburgh?  

From visiting the beautiful Dean Village to exploring the majestic Edinburgh Castle, you cannot match the experience of the Scottish capital with anywhere else.  

These are my favorite things to do in Edinburgh. 

1. Visiting The Dean Village  

Visiting The Dean Village

Dean Village reminded me of the village of Belle from Beauty and the Beast. I took a short walk from Stockbridge to reach Dean Village.  

Furthermore, I just grabbed my coffee and roamed aimlessly. This is how you discover the best wonders and keep your plan spontaneous.  

2. Strolling Down The Circus Lane  

Strolling Down The Circus Lane

I discovered the Circus Lane while strolling along the Dean Village and beyond. The Circus Lane is just five minutes away from Dean Village.  

Every minute in the street is Instagrammable. 

3. Living The Dark Academia Moment At New College 

Living The Dark Academia Moment At New College

The dark academia fan in me was very happy visiting the New College. I stepped into the courtyard and saw a ballroom scene becoming alive before my eyes.  

4. Exploring The Edinburgh Castle 

Exploring The Edinburgh Castle

On top of Castle Rock, the castle is the crown jewel in the history of Edinburgh. Also, from the castle, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the surroundings. 

5. Wandering Along The Royal Mile  

Wandering Along The Royal Mile

The Royal Mile is also one of the historical palaces to see in Edinburgh. It is a thoroughfare, and it is a link between the Palace of Holyroodhouse and Edinburgh Castle.  

You will find many eateries, shops, and landmarks here.  

6. Hiking To The Top Of Arthur’s Seat 

Hiking To The Top Of Arthur’s Seat

This is a hike to reach the top of an ancient volcano. The hike is rewarding, and after reaching the top, I loved the vistas of the entire city.  

It’s a must if you are in Edinburgh. 

7. Enjoying The View Of The Edinburgh Castle From Vennel Viewpoint 

Enjoying The View Of The Edinburgh Castle From Vennel Viewpoint

You can enjoy a different perspective of the Edinburgh Castle from the Vennel Viewpoint. The surroundings are beautiful in all seasons.  

However, it is something different in autumn.  

8. Exploring The Harry Potter Shops On Victoria Street  

Exploring The Harry Potter Shops On Victoria Street

Now, everyone knows that Victoria Street is the inspiration behind the famous Diagon Alley in Harry Potter.  

No wonder that the street today has many Harry Potter-themed shops. So, it was a mix of walking down the historical moments and a Potterhead moment.  

9. Living The Willy Wonka Moment At The Chocolatarium 

The Chocolatarium, close to the Royal Mile, offers a 90-minute guided tour called The Tour of Chocolate.  

You will get to taste more than 40 flavors of chocolates here, and you can make your own chocolate bar and take it home.  

Furthermore, during the weekends, The Chocolatarium also offers Chocolate and Wine and Chocolate and Whiskey pairings.  

10. Enjoying Views From The Top Of Camera Obscura 

Camera Obscura has various exhibits and displays. However, to find Camera Obscura, you will have to reach the top of the building.  

This old telescope from 1835 is the oldest CCTV in the city. Through this, you can enjoy a view of the city down to the waterfront as it was back then. 

11. Visiting The Grave Of Tom Riddle At Greyfriars Kirkyard 

Visiting The Grave Of Tom Riddle At Greyfriars Kirkyard

Near the Royal Mile, Greyfriars Kirkyard is an iconic place to visit in Edinburgh. Here, you will find the graveyard of McGonagall and Tom Riddle.  

12. Taking A Stroll Up To Calton Hill 

calton Hill

Calton Hill is home to various iconic moments of Edinburgh. Furthermore, I loved it more for its sunrise and sunset views.  

13. Visiting The Museums Of Edinburgh  

Edinburgh has some of the most prominent and comprehensive museums in the United Kingdom.  

These are the museums you can explore in Edinburgh.  

National Museum Of Scotland  

You will get to know about Scottish history, technology, science, world cultures, and the natural world at the National Museum of Scotland.  

The important exhibits here are Dolly the Sheep, which was the first cloned mammal, the Lewis Chessmen, and the dramatic architecture of the Grand Gallery.  

You need at least 3 hours to explore this museum.  

The Museum Of Edinburgh 

The Museum Of Edinburgh

It is home to the National Covenant, one of the most important documents in the history of Scotland.  

Furthermore, you will find many historic artifacts related to the city in the museum.  

Writers’ Museum 

This is again a dream spot for dark academia fans. The unique setup and museum celebrate the likes of Robert Louis Stevenson, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Burns.  

Along with rare books, you will also find personal objects used by the prominent literary figures and paintings.  

Moreover, the museum offers free entry.  

Visiting the iconic Scottish National Portrait Gallery is one of the best free things to do in Edinburgh.  

Here, you will enjoy a journey through the history of Edinburgh with the photographs, sculptures, paintings, and movies. 

Surgeons’ Hall Museums 

It is one of the most prominent and fast surgical museums in the world. Here, you will get to know about the evolution of surgery and medicine.  

You will also come across the surgical instruments from the 19th century and many preserved specimens.

14. Buying Secondhand Books At Armchair Books 

It is a paradise for book lovers. You will get books from the 1800s and different centuries at this shop.  

So, you don’t just buy books from here; you carry a little moment of history home.  

15. A Fun Johnnie Walker Whiskey Tour 

1820 Rooftop Bar at Johnnie Walker is a great place to enjoy your drink and have the views of Edinburgh Castle.  

Furthermore, I loved the Johnnie Walker tour, learning about the history of this iconic drink.  

Along with the 1820 Rooftop Bar, these are the bars you can explore in Edinburgh. 

Other Bars In Edinburgh Why Famous 
Bramble Bar & Lounge One of the best bars in the UK Serves amazing, crafted drinks 
Hey Palu Serves the best classic Negronis 
Chaophraya Edinburgh Great Food Amazing views of Edinburgh Castle from the rooftop 
The Alchemist Theatrical Cocktails 
Wee Vault Amazing craft beers and meads 
The Royal Oak A Folk Music Pub 
Nauticus Bar Serves local spirits  

Where To Eat In Edinburgh?  

The Witchery,  The Pantry, and Taco Libre are my favorite spots to eat in Edinburgh.  

The Witchery has two dining halls, the Witchery itself and the Secret Garden, which is the main one. Despite being a celebrated place, the food here is quite reasonable. It’s around £30 for two people.  

We chose The Pantry as your brunch stop. It is close to the Circus Lane and Dean Village. I loved the coffee there.  

Moreover, at the end of Princes Street, Taco Libre is a casual place to appease your sudden hunger pangs. The tacos are great, but try the Margaritas once!  

Where To Stay In Edinburgh?  

The House of Gods and the Royal Mile at The Witchery are some of the most interesting places to stay in Edinburgh.  

The House of Gods offers a wild experience. On the other hand, the Royal Mile at The Witchery has the quintessential Gothic romance vibe. In the heart of the historic town of Edinburgh, the experience here feels out of this world.  

What Is The Best Time To Visit Edinburgh?  

Autumn is the best time to visit Edinburgh. You can feel the dark academia vibe of the city the best during the fall months.  

Furthermore, the summertime also offers a fairy tale experience with the Sun going down after 10 PM. 

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Meet Sibashree Bhattacharya, a travel enthusiast who has a decade-long experience in transcending virtual barriers with her words! Her deep love for travel is apparent from her travel escapades to the mountain, often taking her readers on a journey, her words acting as Portkey! Fun fact: Sibashree loves to dive deep into the history of the places she is about to visit, making her travels even more wholesome. If you were wondering how her articles are not short of time travel, this answers it!

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Thailand Travel Guide: This Is The Best Time To Visit Thailand!

BY  Abdul Aziz Oct 26, 2023

The climate in Thailand varies throughout the country, but the good part about it is that you can visit this place all year. The ideal seasons that Thailand sets its best foot forward are between November and early April. These months witness little to no rain, and the sky is as clear as it can be. The days become warm and ideal for going out. The beaches look stunning, and the several heritage sites become more convenient to visit. As April rolls in, the heat becomes unbearable, and with June, the monsoon season begins. Thailand being the jewel of southeast Asia, is also called the land of smiles, with most of its natives welcoming you warmly with their world-class hospitality skills. The country has developed its economy mainly through its tourism industry. This has given the country its uber-modern cities and state-of-the-art luxurious holiday destinations. Despite the urbanization, the tropical feel of this island country is untouched and held in sacred esteem. 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BY  Arnab Jul 25, 2023

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