From the old world charm to elegant new towns, and family day outs to cultural pursuits, the Scottish capital of Edinburgh is home to a plethora of tourist attractions that satisfy the taste of all types of holidaymakers. And if you’re planning a trip to this magical city, here’s a list of best places to visit in Edinburgh which are a must for everyone to explore on their next holiday to witness the true aura of this hilly capital.
10 Best Places To Visit In Edinburgh
- Edinburgh Castle
- Arthur’s Seat
- Calton Hill
- National Museum Of Scotland
- Camera Obscura
- Edinburgh Zoo
- Scott Monument
- Museum Of Childhood
- Scottish National Portrait Gallery
- The Queen’s Gallery
1. Edinburgh Castle
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Located at the top of the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle is one of the most iconic building in the city. Perched on top of an extinct volcano, the castle and its esplanade offer unmatched views of the Edinburgh city. It is one of the best Edinburgh attractions where one can explore some of the oldest, and most important buildings of the city, including St. Margaret’s Chapel, the National War Memorial, and the Half Moon Battery.
Location: Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NG, UK
Timings: Monday to Sunday – 9:30 AM to 6 PM
2. Arthur’s Seat
Situated in the luxuriant Holyrood Park, Arthur’s Seat is one of the famous Edinburgh point of interests. Standing 800 feet above the sea level, Arthur’s Seat is the highest point in the park, providing breathtaking views of the sea and nearby sites, including attractions like Edinburgh Castle, and the Scott Monument.
3. Calton Hill
Wondering what to see in Edinburgh? Visit the Calton Hill from where you can spectate picturesque views of the city. Carlton Hill is a blend of lively commercial areas, and quiet housing streets, and is home to the combined contemporary art gallery, the unfinished national monument, bars, and casual eateries cluster around the top of busy Leith Walk, where the Edinburgh Playhouse stages musicals and comedy.
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4. National Museum Of Scotland
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Explore the pleasures of the natural world, discover world cultures, and enthuse at treasures from around the world at the National Museum of Scotland. It is among the famous Edinburgh tourists attractions featuring a diverse range of art and design exhibits, interactive displays and games, and a variety of galleries and exhibitions, all in one visually stunning building.
Location: Chambers St, Edinburghh EH1 1JF, UK
Timings: All Days – 10 AM to 5 PM
5. Camera Obscura
Reflecting the vibes of Edinburgh’s Old Town, Camera Obscura is one of the most interesting places to visit in Edinburgh. It is a suitably gothic tourist attraction that boasts a visual live ‘tour’ of the city, using the famous Camera Obscura optical illusion to allow visitors to view a panorama of the surrounding area. The view of the city from the turret atop the building is also worth capturing some special moments.
Location: Castlehill, Royal Mile, Edinburgh EH1 2ND, UK
Timings: Friday to Monday – 9 AM to 9 PM; Tuesday to Thursday – 9:30 AM to 7 PM
6. Edinburgh Zoo
Home to over 1,000 fabulous animals, including the UK’s only giant pandas, Edinburgh Zoo is one of the top Edinburgh tourists attractions. Ideal for a fun-filled day out for families, Edinburgh Zoo is only a short bus ride from the city centre. The Zoo is situated in a beautiful parkland setting, and includes fabulous flamingos, cute koalas, cheeky chimpanzees, and many other animal species.
Location: 134 Corstorphine Rd, Edinburgh EH12 6TS, UK
Timings: All Days – 10 AM to 6 PM
7. Scott Monument
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Constructed to honor the Scottish novelist, Sir Walter Scott, the Scott Monument is world’s biggest monument dedicated to a writer. Dominating Edinburgh’s skyline with its gothic design, the Scott Monument is a must visit place during an Edinburgh sightseeing tour. You can simply marvel at it from below or, for just a few pounds, visitors are invited to climb the 287 steps to the top.
Location: Location: E. Princes St Gardens, Edinburgh EH2 2EJ, UK
Timings: April to September – 10 AM to 7 PM, and October to March – 10 AM to 4 PM
8. Museum Of Childhood
The Museum of Childhood was the first museum in the world to specialize in the history of childhood. Featuring a collection of children’s toys and playthings, this museum is one of the well-known things to see in Edinburgh. It is a perfect place to learn about the children of the past and see a fantastic range of toys and games, while adults can enjoy a trip down the memory lane.
Location: 42 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1TG, UK
Timings: Monday & Thursday to Saturday – 10 AM to 5 PM; Sunday – 12 Noon to 5 PM (Closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays)
9. Scottish National Portrait Gallery
Among the top 10 places to visit in Edinburgh is The Scottish National Portrait Gallery. An art museum on Queen Street, Edinburgh, the gallery holds the national collections of portraits. It also holds the Scottish National Photography Collection. The Scottish National Portrait Gallery is part of National Galleries of Scotland, a public body that also owns the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art and the Scottish National Gallery in Edinburgh.
Location: 1 Queen St, Edinburgh EH2 1JD, UK
Timings: All Days – 10 AM to 5 PM
10. The Queen’s Gallery
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One of the things to see in Edinburgh is the Queen’s Gallery. Situated in the Palace of Holyrood house, the Queen’s Gallery was opened by Her Majesty the Queen in November 2002 as part of the Golden Jubilee celebrations. Now, it hosts a program of changing exhibitions from the Royal Collection. A must visit if you are in Edinburgh. It is open to the public daily.
Location: Palace of Holyroodhouse, Canongate,, The Royal Mile,, Edinburgh EH8 8DX, United Kingdom
Timings: Thursday to Sunday – 9:30 AM to 6 PM; Closed from Monday to Wednesday
Mesmerized much? Include the above Edinburgh sightseeing places in the itinerary of your next Europe trip, and turn your vacation into an unforgettable journey!
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