Top 10 Activities in Edinburgh

Top 10 Must-Do Activities in Edinburgh

• Edinburgh is a highly visited city in Europe.
• The activities listed are suited for a 3 to 4 day stay.

Edinburgh Castle

• Edinburgh Castle has overlooked the city for over 1,000 years.
• The castle contains the Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny, used in the coronation of Scottish Kings.
• St. Margaret's Chapel is the oldest surviving building in Edinburgh, dating back to the 12th century.
• The 1:00 PM gun tradition started in 1861 to help ships synchronize their clocks.
• Allocate at least half a day to visit.

Dean Village

• Dean Village is a tranquil oasis near the city center.
• Cobblestone streets and the Water of Leith add to the village charm.
• Historically, it was the heart of Edinburgh's milling industry; remnants are still visible.

Walking Tours

• Walking tours are a great way to experience Edinburgh's unique vibe.
• Numerous tours cover history, paranormal activity, and even Harry Potter themes.
• City Explorers offers a free walking tour.
• Tipping is customary for free tour guides.

Greyfriars Kirkyard

• Greyfriars Kirkyard is a historic cemetery.
• The graveyard inspired JK Rowling.
• Tombstones bear names similar to characters like Thomas Riddle (Lord Voldemort).
• Evening ghost tours explore the cemetery's eerie side.

Calton Hill

• Calton Hill offers some of the best views of Edinburgh.
• The National Monument of Scotland, an unfinished replica of the Parthenon, sits on the hill; nicknamed "Scotland's disgrace".
• The Nelson Monument provides more views from the top.

Salisbury Crags

• Salisbury Crags are dramatic cliffs in Holyrood Park.
• Hiking up the Crags provides views of the city and beyond.
• From the top, you can see Arthur's Seat, and the Firth of Forth.

Niddry Street Vaults

• The vaults are a series of underground chambers beneath Edinburgh.
• Originally built in the late 18th century for taverns, workshops, and storage.
• Later, the vaults housed the city's poorest residents and were associated with crime.
• The vaults are considered one of Edinburgh's most haunted locations.

Victoria Terrace

• Victoria Terrace is an elevated street with a view of the Grassmarket.
• The street features colorful buildings, cafes, and shops.
• Street performers and artists contribute to the atmosphere.
• Said to have been one of the inspirations for Diagon Alley.

Greyfriars Bobby

• Greyfriars Bobby, a Sky Terrier, is known for guarding his master's grave for 14 years.
• A statue of Bobby stands outside Greyfriars Kirkyard.
• Rubbing the dog's nose on the statue is said to bring good luck.

The Royal Mile

• The Royal Mile is a historic street in the Old Town.
• Stretches from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
• The street features museums, historical sites, and shops selling traditional Scottish goods.