37+ Free & Fun Things to do in Edinburgh Scotland

Visiting the Scottish capital city is a must for anyone heading to Scotland for the first time. Both its Old Town and New Town are both UNESCO sites with iconic, beautiful buildings. 

But it can be an expensive city which isn’t ideal if you’re also traveling to the Scottish Highlands, Islands, or to other cities. Luckily, there are plenty of free things to do in Edinburgh and many of these activities are the top things to do in the capital of Scotland anyway!

Ross Fountain in Princes Street Gardens with a view of Edinburgh Castle - photo by Keryn Means editor of Twist Travel Magazine
Ross Fountain in Princes Street Gardens with a view of Edinburgh Castle

Like Rome and Athens, Edinburgh is yet another European capital city built on seven hills that are beautiful places for a short walk. Most of the galleries and museums in Edinburgh city centre are free as are historic cemeteries, beaches, and other hidden gems.

This is your essential guide to absolutely all of the top free things to do in Edinburgh that won’t cost you a penny. You can spend less time worrying about your trip budget and more time exploring this incredibly beautiful city.

The Royal Mile in Edinburgh Scotland- photo by Keryn Means editor of Twist Travel Magazine
The Royal Mile in Edinburgh Scotland

FREE THINGS TO DO IN EDINBURGH

THE ROYAL MILE

The Royal Mile isn’t just any street in the Old Town, it’s the heart of Edinburgh. This cobblestone street is constantly buzzing with tour groups, street performers, bagpipers playing live music, souvenir stores, and historic buildings.

The Royal Mile is almost exactly one mile long (if you want to be specific, it’s 1.11 miles or 1.6 km). It stretches from Edinburgh Castle in the west all the way to Holyrood Palace in the east and it takes around 25 minutes to walk the whole length. 

As you walk from end to end, you’ll pass St. Giles Cathedral, the historic pub The World’s End, and lots of local history museums. 

There are lots of small alleys and courtyards that shoot off the Royal Mile that are also worth exploring. Check out Dunbars Close, Bakehouse Close (former Outlander location!), and the Canongate Kirkyard.

Victoria Street and terrace in Edinburgh Scotland- photo by Keryn Means editor of Twist Travel Magazine
Victoria Street in Edinburgh Scotland

VICTORIA STREET AND TERRACE

Connecting George IV Bridge on the upper level of the city to Grassmarket on the lower, the winding, cobblestone, and colorful Victoria Street has become an icon of the city. J.K. Rowling, author of the Harry Potter books, confirmed that Victoria Street was the inspiration behind the magical Diagon Alley.

There are plenty of parallels. Ah Ha Ha Jokes & Novelties was a joke shop (now closed) and the Bank of Scotland building used to be located at the top, like Gringotts Wizarding Bank.

Today, there is an officially licensed Harry Potter store called Museum Context on Victoria Street which is always packed. Head to the exact same but much quieter Museum Context store on Cockburn Street just off the Royal Mile!

Museum Context on Victoria Street in Edinburgh - photo by Keryn Means editor of Twist Travel Magazine
Museum Context on Victoria Street in Edinburgh

GREYFRIARS KIRKYARD

Since J.K. Rowling wrote the Harry Potter series while she was living in the city, Edinburgh is a great place to visit for Harry Potter fans for many reasons. She took inspiration from plenty of streets, schools, and even graveyards.

Greyfriars Kirkyard is a 16th-century cemetery on Candlemaker Row which is also one of the most popular, best free attractions in Edinburgh. Here, you’ll find the graves of two people who inspired the names of Harry Potter characters: William McGonagall and Thomas Riddell.

William McGonagall died in 1902 and was notorious for being a terrible poet. Thomas Riddell was a lawyer whose name Rowling took for Lord Voldemort’s original name, albeit with a different spelling.

Greyfriars Bobby Statue in Edinburgh Scotland
Greyfriars Bobby Statue in Edinburgh

GREYFRIARS BOBBY STATUE

Although Greyfriars Bobby is also buried in Greyfriars Kirkyard, his legacy isn’t connected to Harry Potter and is famous in his own right. Bobby was a Skye Terrier dog who grew famous for staying beside the grave of his master after he died for 14 years until his own death.

Whether or not this story is true is up for debate, but dog lovers everywhere will believe it’s possible. Bobby died in 1872 and his grave is front and center in Greyfriars Kirkyard. There is a popular statue of the certified Good Boy on the corner of Candlemaker Row and George IV Bridge and many rub Bobby’s nose for good luck.

THEMED FREE WALKING TOURS

Every major European city offers free walking tours for tips, but Edinburgh is one of the few that offers themed free guided tours. You can take a free walking tour with the theme of Dark History, Ghost, or Harry Potter.

Of course, you can still take a classic guided tour if you want! Learning about the city from a tour guide is the best way to find out about the history of the city.

St Giles Cathedral in Edinburgh Scotland- photo by Keryn Means editor of Twist Travel Magazine

ST. GILES’ CATHEDRAL

Located in the center of the Royal Mile, St. Giles’ Cathedral is the main Presbyterian church in Edinburgh. This Gothic structure dates all the way back to the 12th century and is where the Reformation minister John Knox used to preach.

Entrance to St. Giles Cathedral is totally free during mass and visitor opening hours, but you will need to pay £2 to take photos.

EDINBURGH FESTIVAL FRINGE

The Edinburgh Festival Fringe (often shortened to ‘the Fringe’) is the largest arts festival in the world. Yes, the world. During this month-long festival, the city swells from 500,000 to four million people. Every bar and theater in the city participates and becomes a performance space for comedians, theater troops, dancers, musicians, and more. There are always pop-up beer gardens and street food vendors too.

While the vast majority of the shows at Edinburgh Festival Fringe are ticketed, there are always free events at ‘PBH’s Free Fringe’. Many venues, like Monkey Barrel Comedy, will leave a small percentage of the seats free to those who line up at the door on a first-come, first-serve basis.

SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT BUILDING

Even though Scotland is part of the UK, it’s still a separate country with its own parliament and leaders. At certain times of the year, you can book a  free guided tour of the Scottish Parliament Building and also witness meetings from the gallery of the Debating Chamber.

Dean Village in Edinburgh Scotland- photo by Keryn Means editor of Twist Travel Magazine
Keryn Means in Dean Village, a popular village in Edinburgh Scotland

DEAN VILLAGE

You will not believe that this picturesque, pastoral neighborhood is located in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town just 20 minutes’ walk from Edinburgh Castle. Dean Village straddles the Water of Leith Weir and is a sleepy postcard-perfect place with quaint 19th-century buildings. There’s not much to do here but it sure will look great on Instagram!

Water of Leith Walkway running through Dean Village in Edinburgh Scotland- photo by Keryn Means editor of Twist Travel Magazine
Water of Leith Walkway running through Dean Village

WATER OF LEITH WALKWAY

Speaking of the Water of Leith, there is a 12.25 mile/19.6 km path called the Water of Leith Walkway that runs alongside the river that flows through the city of Edinburgh. It starts at a village on the outskirts of Balerno all the way to the mouth at the Firth of Forth in the Edinburgh neighborhood of Leith.

You probably won’t have time to walk all of it, but the section from Dean Village to Leith is beautiful.

COLINTON RAILWAY TUNNEL MURAL

The worst kept secret in Edinburgh, Colinton Railway Tunnel Mural is a hidden gem known only to locals. This is the largest heritage mural in Scotland created by 600 locals with the entirety of Robert Louis Stevenson’s poem From a Railway Carriage drawn along one of the tunnel’s walls.

This 140 m/460 ft former Victorian railway tunnel is also on the Water of Leith Walkway path so it’s the perfect free activity for a summer’s day.

PORTOBELLO BEACH

Edinburgh really does have everything, including beaches. Portobello (known as ‘Porty’ by locals) is a traditional seaside neighborhood with a promenade and plenty of cafes and fish and chip shops. The best time to visit Portobello Beach is on a clear day at sunset.

CIRCUS LANE

Looking for a great spot to shoot the most Instagrammable photos? Head to Circus Lane. It’s a cobblestone mews in the upmarket Stockbridge neighborhood with St. Stephen’s Church tower in the background.

CRAMOND ISLAND

Visiting Cramond Island is one of the top free things to do in Edinburgh for those with patience. It’s a tidal island, meaning you can walk to this island along its causeway only when the tide is out. It has lots of abandoned WWII buildings used to store weapons and Cramond Beach is a great place to go for a family day out.

Cold Town House in Grassmarket with views of Edinburgh Castle- photo by Keryn Means editor of Twist Travel
Cold Town House in Grassmarket with views of Edinburgh Castle

GRASSMARKET AND THE VENNEL

Edinburgh Castle might not be free, but many views of this iconic building are priceless. Head to Grassmarket, one of Edinburgh’s bustling bar districts, and walk up the steps next to the beloved ice cream shop Mary’s Milk Bar. This staircase is called the ‘Vennel’ and boasts one of the best free views of the castle.

Typewronger Books and Typewriters in Edinburgh Scotland - photo by Keryn Means editor of Twist Travel
Typewronger Books and Typewriters shop

EDINBURGH INDEPENDENT BOOKSHOPS

Okay, so you will have to spend money if you want to buy a book from one of these bookshops. But looking doesn’t cost anything! 

Edinburgh is a UNESCO City of Literature and it has an incredible selection of independent, second-hand, and specialty bookstores. Here are the best ones:

  • Armchair Books (second hand)
  • Tills Bookshop (second hand)
  • Rare Birds Bookshop (female and non-binary authors)
  • Toppings & Co. Bookshop (huge store for new titles)
  • Typewronger (Tom Hanks bought a typewriter from here!)

If you are heading to Portobello Beach, add The Portobello Bookshop and Tills & Company to this list.

Scottish Storyteller Centre in Edinburgh Scotland - photo by Keryn Means editor of Twist Travel Magazine
Children playing in a the Scottish Storyteller Centre

FREE MUSEUMS IN EDINBURGH

One of the best things about traveling in the UK is that the vast majority of museums offer free entrance to their permanent exhibitions. These free museums are a great way to spend those inevitable rainy days in Edinburgh.

NATIONAL MUSEUM OF SCOTLAND

When you walk into the bright, three-story-high atrium of the National Museum of Scotland from Chambers Street, you will not be able to believe that this museum is free. 

It’s packed full of innovative and interactive exhibits of natural history, world cultures, and Scottish history. Exhibits on the natural world and inventions are perfect for kids, whereas Scottish displays e.g. the history of tartan and William Wallace will interest adults. 

Don’t leave without checking out the gift shop or taking the elevator up to the roof for the viewpoint. Few visitors know about this hidden gem and it offers one of the best vantage points of Edinburgh Castle. Again, this is all 100% free!

Writers' Museum in Edinburgh Scotland
Writers’ Museum in Edinburgh

WRITERS’ MUSEUM

Edinburgh is a UNESCO City of Literature so check out the Writers’ Museum hidden in a courtyard behind the historic buildings of the Royal Mile. You can see displays dedicated to famous Scottish writers like the authors Sir Walter Scott and Robert Louis Stevenson and the poet Robert Burns.

MUSEUM OF EDINBURGH

While the National Museum covers history affecting the entire country, the Museum of Edinburgh focuses on the city. It showcases artifacts belonging to the city’s most famous residents (e.g. Scottish economist Adam Smith and Field Marshal Haig) as well as local ceramics, silverware, and other locally-made crafts.

The People's Story in Edinburgh Scotland- photo by Keryn Means editor of Twist Travel Magazine
The People’s Story in Edinburgh

THE PEOPLE’S STORY MUSEUM

While the Museum of Edinburgh focuses on the city’s architecture, art, and city planning, the People’s Story Museum unsurprisingly centers on the social history of Edinburgh. You’ll find slightly outdated yet informative displays of city life in the Scottish capital from the 18th century until the present day.

Museum of Childhood in Edinburgh Scotland
Museum of Childhood in Edinburgh Scotland

MUSEUM OF CHILDHOOD

The Museum of Childhood is more of a general interest museum but it’s still a fun place to visit. You’ll find lots of quirky dolls, puppets, board games, dollhouses, and other toys from the last 200 years in this beautiful 18th-century stone building.

MUSEUM ON THE MOUND

Have you ever seen £1 million in cash in real life?! You can at the Museum on the Mound! This museum showcases items all about the history and design of money over the last 4,000 years. Some of its top exhibits (apart from the huge stack of cash) include Scotland’s oldest banknote.

National Galleries of Scotland in Princes Street Gardens in Edinburgh Scotland- photo by Keryn Means editor of Twist Travel Magazine
National Galleries of Scotland in Princes Street Gardens

FREE ART GALLERIES IN EDINBURGH

There are three National Art Galleries of Scotland and Edinburgh is home to all three, plus a bonus one. Like museums, the UK tends to offer free entrance for art galleries too.

NATIONAL GALLERY OF SCOTLAND

Edinburgh’s main national gallery is located on The Mound overlooking the picturesque Princes Street Gardens. The National Gallery of Scotland displays the best of the best in European Masters like Vincent Van Gogh, Monet, and Johannes Vermeer. 

Naturally, there are plenty of paintings of Scottish landscapes or by famous Scottish artists. Some of the most famous are Bell Rock Lighthouse by J. M. W. Turner and The Skating Minister by Henry Raeburn.

SCOTTISH NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY

This is a much-loved gallery thanks to its mix of historic paintings and celebrity portraits. The Scottish National Portrait Gallery exhibits works chronologically so you can see the progression of Scottish history from Mary, Queen of Scots to photographs of local musicians, actors, and extraordinary everyday people.

It doesn’t hurt that the Portrait Gallery is housed in a gorgeous Victorian red brick building either.

SCOTTISH NATIONAL GALLERY OF MODERN ART

The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art is located in two buildings on opposite sides of the same street. One exhibits a temporary and ticketed exhibition but the other is a permanent and free gallery. 

It has a stronger focus on sculpture and mixed media than the other galleries. You can expect to see works from lesser-known, 20th-century Scottish artists like Samuel Peploe and Francis Cadell.

ROYAL SCOTTISH ACADEMY

An extension of the National Gallery of Scotland, the Royal Scottish Academy has ever-changing exhibits on modern art and architecture. There are 13 rooms of artwork by up-and-coming artists and other established (and living!) artists too.

Arthur's Seat Holyrood Park Edinburgh Scotland
Arthur’s Seat hike in Holyrood Park Edinburgh Scotland

BEST HILLS TO HIKE IN EDINBURGH

Hiking Edinburgh’s seven hills is absolutely one of the best free things to do in Edinburgh and some of the best ways to see more of the city. Here’s a rundown of all seven so you can choose the ones you’d like to tackle during your trip.

Castle Hill leading up to Edinburgh Castle in Scotland- photo by Keryn Means editor of Twist Travel Magazine
Grandfather and grandson hiking up Castle Hill to Edinburgh Castle in the rain

CASTLE HILL

This is probably the easiest hill to climb, because if you’re standing outside of Edinburgh Castle then you’ve reached the top of Castle Hill! This extinct volcano is where you’ll find Scotland’s most iconic landmark, Edinburgh Castle. The Esplanade in front of the castle is totally free and offers beautiful views of the Pentland Hills from one side and Princes Street Gardens from the other.

Calton Hill in Edinburgh Scotland- photo by Keryn Means editor of Twist Travel Magazine
Keryn Means, publisher of Twist, on Calton Hill with the Dugald Stewart Monument

CALTON HILL

Calton Hill sits at the end of Princes Street and you only need to climb a staircase to reach the top. There are tons of things to see at the top including the National Monument in honor of those who died in the Napoleonic Wars. Nelson Monument commemorates the British victory at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805 and it’s a beautiful place to watch the sunset.

Top of Arthurs Seat in Edinburgh Scotland
View of Arthur’s Seat looking over the city

ARTHUR’S SEAT

One of the best things to do in Edinburgh, free or not, is to hike Arthur’s Seat. This extinct volcano is Edinburgh’s highest point (823 ft/251 m) and offers unrivaled panoramic views across the city out to the Port of Leith.

CRAIGLOCHART HILL

Mark Twain said, “Golf is a good walk spoiled” but golf courses are everywhere in Scotland and to walk up Craiglochart Hil, you will need to walk through two! This hill is slightly outside of Edinburgh city center and is probably the quietest out of all seven.

BLACKFORD HILL

This 538 ft/164 m hill is such a gentle, easy climb that locals walk their days up and down this hill every day. You can see the whole of Arthur’s Seat and Edinburgh Castle from Blackford Hill.

BRAID HILL

One of the best ways to two hills in Edinburgh back-to-back is to hike up Blackford Hill and then onto Braid Hil just behind. This one is pretty cool because it’s home to the ‘Seven Hills Viewpoint’, the only place in Edinburgh where you can see the summit of every hill at the same time.

CORSTOPHINE HILL

Corstophine Hill is the only one of Edinburgh’s seven hills not to offer a viewpoint at the top as it’s covered in thick woodland but it does have a cool tower. Head towards Edinburgh Zoo for views across the Saughton and Slateford neighborhoods.

Princes Street Gardens in Edinburgh Scotland- photo by Keryn Means editor of TwistTravelMag.com
View of Edinburgh Castle and Princes Street Gardens

BEST PARKS AND GARDENS IN EDINBURGH

Edinburgh has tons of green spaces where you can take a short walk or enjoy a picnic and admire the scenery on those rare Scottish sunny days. These are a selection of the best parks and gardens in the city center of Edinburgh.

PRINCES STREET GARDENS

It’s impossible to visit Edinburgh without walking through Princes Street Gardens! It’s opposite Edinburgh Waverley Train Station and runs alongside the main shopping street in New Town. Visit Princes Street Gardens for the iconic Scott Monument and Ross Fountain with a great view of Edinburgh Castle.

The Scotts Monument in Princes Street Gardens- photo by Keryn Means editor of TwistTravelMag.com
The Scotts Monument in Princes Street Gardens

ROYAL BOTANIC GARDEN

Every inch of the 70-acre Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is planted and pruned to perfection. These beautiful gardens are the perfect place to visit on a summer’s day! Check out the rock garden and the colorful Chinese hillside and down miss the Palm House, the Royal Botanic Garden’s extravagant greenhouse.

View of Holyrood Palace from Arthurs Seat in Edinburgh Scotland
Holyrood Park in Edinburgh Scotland

HOLYROOD PARK

Home to Holyrood Palace and Arthur’s Seat, you could quite literally spend all day walking around this park and never cover the same area twice. Cycle along the Innocent Railway Tunnel path or walk along the ridge of the Salisbury Crags for alternative free things to do in Edinburgh.

THE MEADOWS

During a heatwave, this is where you will find the entire population of the city of Edinburgh. This popular spot has great children’s playgrounds, lots of benches and grass for lounging, and it’s super close to the city center.

Tolbooth Kirk in Edinburgh Scotland- photo by Keryn Means editor of Twist Travel Magazine
Festival information at Tolbooth Kirk in Edinburgh Scotland

ANNUAL EVENTS IN EDINBURGH

Edinburgh is known as the ‘festival city’ because of the sheer number of festivals it hosts, usually in August. While many of the events at these festivals are paid, there are often free street shows, markets, and performances in parks that are open to all. Here are some of the best suggestions.

  • Burns’ Night (January 25th)
  • Edinburgh Science Festival (March – April)
  • Celtic Beltane Festival (May)
  • Edinburgh International Children’s Festival (May – June)
  • Edinburgh Jazz and Blues Festival (July)
  • The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo (August)
  • Edinburgh International Festival (August)
  • Edinburgh Festival Fringe (August)
  • Edinburgh Art Festival (August)
  • Edinburgh Book Festival (August)
  • Edinburgh International Film Festival (August)
  • Scottish International Storytelling Festival (October)
  • Celtic Samhain Festival (October 31st)
  • Bonfire Night (November 5th)
  • St Andrews Day (November 30th)
  • Edinburgh Hogmanay Street Party (December 31st)
Canongate Kirk in Edinburgh Scotland- photo by Keryn Means editor of Twist Travel Magazine
Canongate Kirk in Edinburgh Scotland

Plan your trip to Edinburgh

This post contains affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission from your purchase. This adds NO extra cost to you.

Flying into Edinburgh?

Looking for the best flights to Edinburgh? We love to track flights via Expedia.com. Not only do we find great rates, but we earn points to use on future travel too.

You can also keep an eye on GOING deals, which is how we got to Ireland roundtrip from LAX for under $500 each. The free version is good, but the paid subscription will save you way more than the cost of the actual subscription. 

The Inn on the Mile in Edinburgh Scotland- credit Keryn Means publisher of TwistTravelMag.com
The Inn on the Mile along the Royal Mile

Hotels in Edinburgh

Find more Edinburgh hotels HERE

Need a Rental Car?

We use DiscoverCars.com to get the best rates and availability on rental cars. Find your car HERE, along with all of the extras you may need (insurance, car seats, ski racks, etc.)

Travel Insurance

Do NOT forget to buy travel insurance for your trip, even if you booked through a travel agent. 

Things do and will happen and it’s cheaper to buy travel insurance ahead of time instead of paying out of pocket later. 

Check out Travelex for rates on a single trip or an annual plan that could be right for you if you take more than one or two trips a year. 

Buy a SIM card? 

We all love our smartphones, but we don’t love those international roaming charges. Even if you have a travel pass, you could max out your service, which is why we always grab an eSIM card to pop into our phones. It’s especially great for the kids, as it limits what they can do and how much data they can use, but still allows them to text friends back home. 

Check out Airalo, our preferred eSIM card store for the best prices on eSIM cards and international data plans.

Don’t Forget about Your Vacation Photos!

Don’t forget to book your Flytographer session to capture awesome memories from your trip. We do it as often as we can, even though I’m a photographer. Sometimes, this mom just wants to be in a few photos with her kiddos.

Get $10 off your first photo session with the code: WALKINGONMEDIA

Train from the airport into Edinburgh- photo by Keryn Means editor of Twist Travel Magazine
Train from the airport into Edinburgh

How to get to Edinburgh

By Air

If you’re traveling internationally or from a distant location, flying is often the most convenient option. Edinburgh Airport (EDI) is the city’s primary international gateway. You can book a flight to Edinburgh from major airports worldwide. Once you arrive at Edinburgh Airport, you can easily access the city center by taxi, bus, or tram.

By Train

If you’re in the UK or Europe, taking a train to Edinburgh can be a scenic and comfortable choice. Edinburgh’s main railway station is Waverley Station, located in the city center. You can check schedules and book tickets through various railway operators like ScotRail, LNER (London North Eastern Railway), or CrossCountry.

By Bus

Several long-distance bus companies operate services to Edinburgh. The main bus terminal is Edinburgh Bus Station, which is centrally located near St. Andrew Square. Megabus and National Express are some of the major operators offering connections to Edinburgh from various cities in the UK.

By Car

If you prefer driving, you can reach Edinburgh by car. The city is well-connected to the UK road network. The major routes leading to Edinburgh include the M8 from Glasgow to the west, the A1 from the south, and the M90 from the north. Be aware of traffic conditions and parking availability, especially in the city center.

By Ferry

If you’re coming from Northern Ireland or some coastal areas, you can take a ferry to Edinburgh. The closest ferry terminals are in Rosyth and Newcastle, from where you can continue your journey by road or train to the city.

By Bike

For the adventurous traveler, there are cycling routes that lead to Edinburgh. The National Cycle Network includes paths that can take you to the city, and you can check local maps and guidelines for cycling in the area.

Once you’ve arrived in Edinburgh, you’ll find various transportation options within the city, including buses, trams, and taxis, making it easy to explore all the attractions this beautiful Scottish capital has to offer.

Victoria Street in Edinburgh Scotland- photo by Keryn Means editor of Twist Travel Magazine
Victoria Street in Edinburgh Scotland

A Quick Look at the History of Edinburgh

Early Settlement

Edinburgh’s history dates back to at least the Roman era, with evidence of early settlements in the area. The Romans referred to it as “Alauna” but did not establish a major presence.

Medieval Edinburgh

The city began to take shape during the 7th century when it was known as “Din Eidyn.” It became an important settlement in the Kingdom of Northumbria. In the 10th century, it came under Scottish control when King Indulf of Scotland captured it.

St Johns Scottish Episcopal Church in Princes Street Gardens- credit Keryn Means publisher of TwistTravelMag.com
St Johns Scottish Episcopal Church in Princes Street Gardens

David I and Royal Burgh

In the 12th century, King David I granted Edinburgh the status of a royal burgh. This marked the beginning of its growth as a significant urban center. Edinburgh Castle, which dominates the city’s skyline, was an important fortress during this time.

Wars of Independence

During the Wars of Scottish Independence in the late 13th and early 14th centuries, Edinburgh experienced several sieges and changes of hands between the Scottish and English forces. Notably, in 1314, the Scots regained control of the city after the Battle of Bannockburn.

View of Edinburgh Castle from Princes Street Gardens- credit Keryn Means publisher of TwistTravelMag.com
View of Edinburgh Castle from Princes Street Gardens

15th to 17th Centuries

The 15th century saw the construction of the Palace of Holyroodhouse, which became the royal residence in Edinburgh. In the 16th century, the city was a center of the Scottish Reformation led by figures like John Knox. The Union of the Crowns in 1603, when James VI of Scotland became James I of England, marked a significant point in Edinburgh’s history.

The Enlightenment

Edinburgh became a hub of intellectual and cultural activity in the 18th century. Figures like David Hume, Adam Smith, and Sir Walter Scott made significant contributions to philosophy, economics, and literature during the Scottish Enlightenment.

Union with England

In 1707, the Acts of Union merged the parliaments of Scotland and England, creating the Kingdom of Great Britain. Edinburgh remained the capital, and the city continued to thrive, becoming known as the “Athens of the North.”

Tolbooth Tavern and the People's Story Museum in Edinburgh- photo by Keryn Means editor of Twist Travel Magazine
Tolbooth Tavern and the People’s Story Museum

Victorian Era and Industrialization

The 19th century brought further development and industrialization to Edinburgh. The city’s Old Town and New Town were designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites for their well-preserved Georgian and Neoclassical architecture.

Modern Edinburgh

In the 20th century, Edinburgh continued to evolve into a modern, cosmopolitan city. It’s known for its festivals, including the world-famous Edinburgh Festival Fringe, which attracts artists and performers from around the globe.

Devolution

With the establishment of the Scottish Parliament in 1999, Edinburgh became the political capital of Scotland, and the city plays a key role in the nation’s governance.

EDEN in Edinburgh Scotland along Victoria Street
Shop in Old Town on Cockburn

Frequently Asked Questions about Edinburgh (FAQ)

What is the best time to visit Edinburgh?

The best time to visit Edinburgh is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is relatively mild, and various festivals take place.

Do I need a visa to visit Edinburgh as a tourist?

It depends on your nationality. Check the UK government’s official website to see if you require a visa for your visit.

What is the currency in Scotland?

Scotland uses the British Pound (£) as its currency.

Poet Robert Fergusson on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh- photo by Keryn Means editor of Twist Travel Magazine
Poet Robert Fergusson on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh

How can I get from Edinburgh Airport to the city center?

You can take a taxi, tram, or airport bus to reach the city center from Edinburgh Airport. If you are traveling solo, the tram is the easiest way to go. If you are traveling to Edinburgh with kids, you can still take the tram, but you will want to make sure you know exactly where your hotel or vacation rental is located. Edinburgh has some nice hills, especially if you are staying in Old Town, so you may need to get a taxi once you get off the tram. 

What are some must-visit attractions in Edinburgh?

Popular attractions include Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, Holyrood Palace, Arthur’s Seat, and the National Museum of Scotland.

Is it possible to take day trips from Edinburgh to other Scottish cities?

Yes, you can take day trips to cities like Glasgow, Stirling, and Inverness by train or bus.

Gardener's Cottage in Princes Street Gardens - photo by Keryn Means editor of Twist Travel Magazine
Gardener’s Cottage in Princes Street Gardens

Are there any free things to do in Edinburgh?

Yes, exploring the Royal Botanic Garden, walking through Holyrood Park, hiking Arthur’s Seat, checkout out all of the local monuments and memorials, and visiting the National Gallery of Scotland are free, along with everything else on our list above.

What’s the best way to explore the city’s historic districts?

Walking is the best way to explore Edinburgh’s historic Old Town and New Town.

Are there vegetarian/vegan-friendly restaurants in Edinburgh?

Yes, there are many vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants in the city. You’ll find a variety of options.

Public art in Edinburgh - photo by Keryn Means editor of Twist Travel Magazine
Public art in the New Town section of Edinburgh

How do I purchase tickets for the Edinburgh Festival Fringe?

You can buy tickets for the Edinburgh Festival Fringe online through their official website or at box offices in the city during the festival.

Can I use contactless payment methods like credit cards and mobile payments in Edinburgh?

Yes, contactless payment methods are widely accepted in Edinburgh.

Is tap water safe to drink in Edinburgh?

Yes, tap water in Edinburgh is safe to drink and of high quality.

Cadenhead's Whisky Shop on the Royal Mile- photo by Keryn Means editor of Twist Travel Magazine
Cadenhead’s Whisky Shop on the Royal Mile

What’s the legal drinking age in Scotland?

The legal drinking age in Scotland is 18 years old.

Are there any haunted tours or ghost walks in Edinburgh?

Yes, Edinburgh is known for its ghost tours, and you can take one to explore its spooky history.

How do I get to Arthur’s Seat, and how long is the hike?

Arthur’s Seat is easily accessible from the city center, and the hike takes around 1-2 hours, depending on your pace. Read our full guide to hiking Arthur’s Seat in Holyrood Park in Edinburgh. 

Nelson Monument on Calton Hill - photo by Keryn Means editor of Twist Travel Magazine
Nelson Monument on Calton Hill

What’s the weather like in Edinburgh during the winter months?

Winter in Edinburgh is cold and can be rainy. Be prepared for chilly temperatures.

Can I use public transportation to explore Edinburgh?

Yes, Edinburgh has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and trams, which can be convenient for getting around.

Scottish Storytelling Centre- photo by Keryn Means editor of Twist Travel Magazine
Scottish Storytelling Centre

What’s the best way to learn about Edinburgh’s history and culture?

You can join guided tours, visit museums, check out the Scottish Storytelling Centre, and explore historical sites to learn about the city’s rich heritage.

What are some traditional Scottish dishes to try in Edinburgh?

Don’t miss haggis, neeps, and tatties, as well as Scotch whisky. Edinburgh offers a wide range of Scottish cuisine to sample.

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