Location: Old Town
Top Things to do in Old Town
Things to do in Edinburgh, Scotland: The Best Points of Interest & Landmarks
Edinburgh is Scotland’s capital city, renowned for its heritage, culture and festivals.
Take a long walk around the centre to explore the World Heritage Sites of the Old Town and New Town, as well as all the area’s museums and galleries. Then stop for a delicious meal made from fresh Scottish produce before heading out to take in one of Edinburgh’s many events — including the famous summer festivals of culture, or the Winter Festivals of music, light and ceilidhs.
Restaurants in Edinburgh
1. Scott Monument
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,739 reviews
A 200-foot spire dedicated to Sir Walter Scott, the famous Scottish poet.
Reviewed By Andrew081 - St. Albans, United Kingdom
One cannot fail to be impressed by the 61m high Victorian Gothic monument to Scottish author Sir Walter Scot (his books included Rob Roy and Ivanhoe) Completed in 1846 the monument, on Princes Street, is blackish in colour giving it an eerie beauty. The spire is decorated with 64 figures representing various characters from the writer’s novels. In contrast to the blackened construction, the white marble statue of Sir Walter Scott, with his dog Maida, that shines. The monument is split into four levels, but there ere are 287 steps up to the top (cost £8).
2. Royal Mile
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 25,301 reviews
Stretch of road connecting Edinburgh Castle with Holyrood Palace, the Queen's residence in Scotland.
Reviewed By BarryE308 - Lake Stevens, United States
This is an unbeleivable place to see people. The shops and historic places are all fantastic, but is is the interplay of thousands of visitors that ebb and flow about the walk that makes it special. You can be in a flowing sea of street performers, bagpipes and excitement, then step down a narrow Close and find yourself in a secret garden with lovely flowers and only the chirping of birds, Wonderfull..
3. The Real Mary King's Close
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 17,429 reviews
Hidden beneath the Royal Mile lies Edinburgh’s deepest secret: a warren of hidden ‘closes’ where real people lived, worked and died. For centuries they have lain forgotten and abandoned…until now. Visit Edinburgh's most famous Close, which makes Edinburgh's Hidden History unmissable.
Reviewed By plutomad
We found this attraction by accident, and this made our Edinburgh trip unforgettable. We didn’t know what to expect but this place is fascinating. My only warning would be that the attraction is very dark, there are many stairs and low ceilings, sloping and cobbled floors which makes this attraction almost impossible for those with mobility issues. However if you can manage the physical restrictions you are in for a real treat. You are guided through these underground streets by a well versed guide who helps to emerge you in the history and who in our case was happy and capable of answering all questions. There is no photography inside the attraction which was really disappointing, and you can Of course pay to have an official photo taken, we didn’t bother, but have not stopped telling people about this attraction it was amazing.
4. Castle Rock
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 280 reviews
This massive rock towering over Edinburgh is the setting for Edinburgh Castle and serves as one of the most defining symbols of Scottish history.
Reviewed By pasowine - Paso Robles, United States
What a rock - no wonder the Castle was so strategic! An absolute must see in Edinburgh. In fact, the rock dominates the skyline from just about everywhere in Edinburgh. So much to see and do, from the moment you start walking up the Royal Mile to the Castle at the top of the Castle Rock. Don't miss the included guided tours and audio self-tour at the Castle as well.
5. Riddle's Court
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 33 reviews
Riddle's Court is a unique survival, a 16th Century courtyard House set behind the Royal Mile, just a stone's throw from Edinburgh Castle. The property contains significant architectural features documenting its 400 year history. Many aristocratic, influential and creative people have lived here or been associated with this building including King James VI, Sir John Clerk of Penicuik, Sir David Hume and Sir Patrick Geddes. Riddle's Court is the historic jewel in Edinburgh's Old Town. Hidden away until recently, it is a beautiful and atmospheric building making it a unique venue for exceptional events, conferences and spectacular entertaining. Riddle's Court also houses the Patrick Geddes Centre which hosts learning events, study days, lectures, live music and tours; tickets are available at Eventbrite.co.uk.
Reviewed By Margo7850p
Full of history and charm it is a real gem in the heart of Edinburgh's old town. A picturesque merchant's house, situated close to the Edinburgh's famous castle. Sixteenth century courtyard house which just has been wonderfully restored. A visit here is like stepping back in time. It is little tucked away, but including exquisite painted ceilings, authentic working fireplaces and panelled rooms. Definitely worth a visit.
6. St John's Episcopal Church
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 44 reviews
Reviewed By ian_dempster - Wigan, United Kingdom
As an avid Church visitor this is a most strikingly beautiful church inside. The decor is stunning with magnificent ceiling and beautiful stained glass windows. A very serene church.
7. Memorial Duke of Buccleuch
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 18 reviews
Reviewed By Y8837LLgabriela - Ploiesti, Romania
The monument is situated in the Parliament Square, Edinburgh, on the Royal Mile. This is a tribute to an important Scottish conservative politician, and it was erected in February 1888. This memorial is placed in front of St Giles Cathedral.
8. William Wallace Statue
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 42 reviews
Reviewed By scottmW2380ZF - Swedesboro, United States
It is a statue to the right of the entry gate to Edinburgh Castle. May disappoint Mel Gibson/Braveheart fans but Wallace is depicted in period armor. He did not wear kilt, did not wear blue facepaint, and was not five foot tall. While you are there, look to the left to also pay respects to the staute of Robert the Bruce, another hero son of Scotland.
9. Ross Fountain
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 34 reviews
Reviewed By macedonboy - Glasgow, United Kingdom
The Ross Fountain is a fountain in Princes Street Gardens gifted to Edinburgh city by gunmaker Daniel Ross in 1862. It's last restoration was in 2018 and now the fountain is predominantly painted in turquoise, brown and gold. Around the base of the fountain, there are mermaids, walrus, lion heads and cherubs. At the top are featured four semi-nude female figures alluding to the Scottish Enlightenment, representing science, arts, poetry and industry. A wonderful statue, no matter the weather in Edinburgh. Edinburgh Castle to the south of the fountain provides a stunning backdrop for the fountain for those postcard picture perfect photos.
10. The Great Hall
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 42 reviews
Reviewed By GauravC697 - New Delhi, India
The Great hall certainly is a marvel of the old era...The wooden roof is a splendor in itself...It is displaying weapons and armors reminiscent of its glorious military past..It is located in the crown square of the castle..a tic is needed to visualize its splendor..
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