26+ Best Things to Do in Edinburgh for First-Time Visitors

Visiting the land of bagpipes, whisky, and Highland cows? Yes! I’m talking about the beautiful city of Edinburgh. If you’re wondering which experiences in Edinburgh are actually worth adding to your itinerary, then you’re in the right place. I’ve got you covered, from iconic landmarks and historic must-sees to local favorites and a few underrated gems you might not expect. This list rounds up the 26+ best things to do in Edinburgh, whether you’re here for a quick weekend or a longer stay!

Consider this your go-to guide for making the most of Scotland’s capital without feeling overwhelmed. So let’s get into it 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿👇

Read more on the United Kingdom 🤍

• A First Timer’s Guide to the Best 2 Day London Itinerary
• Your Complete Guide to Where to Stay in London for First Time Visitors

This site contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them (which will likely go towards overpriced airport wine or buying my dog more unnecessary toys). However, none of that impacts the integrity of my reviews. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

26+ Best Things to Do in Edinburgh at a Glance

Short on time? Here are my top picks for the best boutique hotels in Edinburgh:

• Bonnie Hotel Haymarket – A cozy, modern hotel in the Haymarket area offering a comfortable, no-frills stay with easy transport links, ideal for budget-minded travelers who still want a stylish base.
• Old Waverley Hotel – A classic, traditional hotel on Princes Street with old-school charm and unbeatable location, perfect for travelers who value convenience and character over trendy design.
• Hotel Indigo Edinburgh – A stylish boutique hotel blending contemporary design with local touches, well-suited for travelers who want comfort, personality, and a central location near all the top things to do in Edinburgh!
• Market Street Hotel – A sleek, modern boutique stay near the Royal Mile, known for its chic interiors and rooftop champagne bar, ideal for travelers looking for a lively yet polished city stay.
• Tigerlily Hotel – Bold, glamorous, and right on George Street, Tigerlily combines eye-catching design with a buzzing bar and restaurant scene, making it a great choice for those who want nightlife built in.
• Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel – A refined, design-forward hotel in Edinburgh’s New Town, offering elegant rooms, excellent dining, and a relaxed luxury vibe that feels polished without being stuffy.
• InterContinental Edinburgh The George – This is where I personally stayed! A grand, historic hotel on George Street delivering classic luxury, timeless service, and a prestigious address for travelers seeking a more traditional upscale experience. Close to all the top things to do in Edinburgh!
• Virgin Hotels Edinburgh – Playful yet luxurious, this bold hotel in the Old Town blends modern comforts with dramatic design and social spaces, perfect for travelers who want a high-energy, statement-making stay. Located right on Victoria Street, one of the top things to do in Edinburgh!

26+ Best Things to Do in Edinburgh

Alright friends, let’s get into this list of 26+ of the best things to do in Edinburgh!

Based on my own visit, I’ve rounded up the most memorable things to do in Edinburgh, from iconic, top-rated attractions to hidden gems and underrated spots you might otherwise miss.

This list is a good mix of touristy and off-the-beaten-path. So grab your kilt and let’s go 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

#1: Cruise Through Edinburgh on a Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

Okay yes I know this is touristy AF but I told you this was going to be a combination of touristy-ish recommendations combined with some more underrated things to do. Also this is a list of the top things to do in Edinburgh for first-time visitors soooo what better way to knock out all the top sights in Edinburgh in less than a couple hours??

One of my favorite things about visiting Edinburgh was seriously how compact it was. I feel like in cities like London, Paris, or Rome – I easily clock like 20,000+ steps and that’s only by visiting a couple neighborhoods.

Whereas in Edinburgh, I was pushing about 10,000+ steps and basically saw the whole city. This might be a downside for some people but I loved it. Which is also why the hop-on-hop-off bus makes so much sense in Edinburgh.

You literally get to see all the top hi-lights such as Edinburgh Castle, National Museum of Scotland (free entry), Grassmarket, St. Andrews Square, the Royal Mile, and more in less than a couple hours.

I always buy my tour tickets from GetYourGuide because they’re reputable and also offer free cancellation up until the last minute in case your plans change! Tickets for the hop-on-hop-off bus cost around ~$25 USD/person and can be booked here directly via GetYourGuide.

Other Top-Rated Edinburgh Bus Tours

• Edinburgh: City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour – definitely the one I recommend as it’s the classic one that allows you to get on/off at any of the stops all day!
• Edinburgh: Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tour City & Britannia Combo
• Edinburgh: Big Bus Hop-On, Hop-Off Tour by Open-Top Bus

#2: Hike Arthur’s Seat for the Best Views in Edinburgh

Is anyone a One Day (Netflix series) fan???? Even if you’re not… a hike to Arthur’s Seat is definitely one of the top things to do in Edinburgh. BUT IF YOU ARE THEN YOU ABSOLUTELY MUST HIKE ARTHUR’S SEAT.

Sorry I was fan-girling so hard all around Edinburgh thinking about all the places that Dex and Emma visited before taking their love story to London.

Okay anyways, back to hiking the the iconic Arthur’s Seat as one of the top things to do in Edinburgh.

Arthur’s Seat is an extinct volcano sitting right in the middle of the city, which is honestly crazy to me 🤯

Rising about 823 feet above sea level, it’s the highest point in Holyrood Park and delivers panoramic views over Edinburgh’s Old Town, New Town, and on a clear day, all the way out to the Firth of Forth. It’s one of those hikes where the payoff-to-effort ratio is very much in your favor.

What to expect: this isn’t a technical hike, but it is a proper uphill walk with rocky paths, uneven terrain, and a steady climb that will get your heart rate up, especially if it’s windy. It takes most people about ~45-60mins to reach the top depending on the route and how often you stop.

There are a few different ways to get to the summit, depending on how ambitious you’re feeling. My suggestion would be to take the main path from Holyrood Palace. It’s the most popular and most gradual, making it a solid option for first-timers or anyone wanting the easiest ascent.

The other two routes are via Salisbury Crags and Dunsapie Loch. Both are slightly harder and more technical than Holyrood Palace so I wouldn’t advise those routes for first-timers

Wear sturdy shoes, bring a light jacket even on sunny days, and try to go early in the morning or around sunset for the best light and fewer crowds.

It’s one of the best free things to do in Edinburgh and an absolute must if you want to see the city from above without leaving town.

#3: Take a Scottish Highlands Day Trip to See Hairy Coos

Can you believe I flew 5,000 miles just to see some cute little cows??? I mean how could you not!!! Also holy hell is the rest of Scotland absolutely beautiful with its rolling hills, magical lakes, and fairytale towns.

During my recent visit to Edinburgh, I decided to take a day trip up north to Glencoe, Pitlochry, Loch Ness, and Fort William which are all up in the Scottish highlands. It was a loooong 12-hour day but such a great way to see a completely different part of Scotland.

If you’ve never heard the term before…highland coos are basically Scotland’s most iconic (and most photogenic) residents. “Coo” is just the Scots word for cow, and once you hear it, you’ll never call them anything else again.

These shaggy legends are officially known as Highland cattle, and their long horns and fluffy fringe aren’t just for looks. That thick coat helps them survive harsh Highland weather, from sideways rain to cold winds, while their horns were traditionally used for defense and digging through snow for food.

The hi-light of my day trip to the Scottish Highlands were definitely seeing the coos and yes, they were every bit as adorable in real life as Instagram promised. We pulled over at one of the classic roadside spots where a small herd was hanging out, completely unfazed by us tourists snapping photos!

Other Top-Rated Scottish Highlands Day Trips from Edinburgh

• From Edinburgh: Loch Ness, Glencoe & The Highlands Day Trip – this is the exact tour that I went on. I really enjoyed the tour guid and all the logistics were really well-planned. Just be prepared for a long day and make sure to bring plenty of snacks 😊
• From Edinburgh: Glenfinnan Viaduct, Glencoe & Highlands Tour – this is the tour to book if you’re a Harry Potter fan and want to see the famous “Hogwarts Express”. Just keep in mind that the train only runs from spring-fall and doesn’t run during winter.
• Edinburgh: Loch Ness, Scenic Walk, Glencoe & Whisky Day Tour – this is the original tour I was gonna book but I visited Edinburgh while pregnant so I would’ve had to skip the whiskey tasting but I know a few other travel bloggers who went on this exact tour and loved it!
• Hairy Coos & Highland Views: A Short Escape from Edinburgh – for those short on time but still want to see the adorable little coos!

#4: Browse Local Handmade Goods at Tron Kirk Market

I’m not one to go out of my way for a “church” unless it’s part of a guided tour but Tron Kirk Market is different and is one of those Royal Mile stops that actually feels worth your time.

An important heads up: Tron Kirk Market is located on The Royal Mile at 122 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1SG, United Kingdom and open 10am-6pm Saturdays – Tuesdays. They are closed Wednesday – Friday.

Set inside a historic 17th-century church, this modern makers market brings together over 20 Scottish artists and designers, all curated by the Scottish Design Exchange.

Translation: no cheesy souvenirs here, just genuinely cool and really unique well-made pieces from local creatives.

Inside, you’ll find a beautiful space with high ceilings and stained glass all-around. Like I said, churches are usually pretty boring to me (sorry I’m not religious) but Tron Kirk Market is stunning. You can find local vendors selling handmade pottery, jewelry, original art, prints, and more.

Pro tip: Pick up a print from Edinburgh Illustrations. It’s the kind of souvenir or gift that feels thoughtful and design-forward, not like something you paid 2£ for on the Royal Mile.

#5: Eat Your Way Through Edinburgh on a Food Tour

The say the best way to experience a city is through its fooooood. Don’t worry I promise I’m not talking about haggis – Scotland’s national dish made of minced sheep’s heart and liver 🤮

I’m talking about an Edinburgh Food Tour!!! Which actually does contain a pit stop to try Haggis but there’s plenty of other non-sheep’s heart food to eat as well. It’s the national dish so you definitely have to try it but you don’t have to finish it that’s for sure. Or at least that’s what I did!

As one of the top things to do in Edinburgh, this food tour starts at 12pm everyday and it was such a great way to try all the Scottish classics in a short amount of time. Our guide, Craig Michael, led us through Old Town while telling us about Scotland’s history, hardships, and traditions shaped the food.

We stopped at a bunch of different places and tried all the classics like haggis with neeps and tatties, Cullen skink, Scottish cheeses, cakes, and even a surprise secret dish, plus a few sips of Lowland single malt whisky to round it out.

Again, I was pregnant so didn’t partake but everyone else on the tour seemed to love it.

It was the perfect excuse to get some steps in while stuffing our face throughout Edinburgh. If you want a fun, filling intro to Scottish food that actually explains what you’re eating and why it matters, this tour is an easy yes (even though haggis is a heck no for me).

Other Top-Rated Edinburgh Food Tours

• Edinburgh: Food Tour with Scotch, Haggis, Secret Dish & More – definitely the best food tour in Edinburgh that gives you a taste of all the Scottish classics!
• Edinburgh: Donuts, Sweet Treats & the Royal Mile Adventure – food tour focused more specifically on sweets and pastries but still delicious!
• Eating Edinburgh: Old Town Food & Drinks Tour – another great option for those wanting more of the traditional classics as it includes 5 food stops + 2 drinks

#6: Fuel Up with a Traditional Scottish Breakfast

You might be familiar with an English breakfast but what about a Scottish one? Spoiler alert – the bacon is still never gonna be as crispy as America 🥓 😣

A proper Scottish breakfast usually comes stacked with eggs, bacon, sausage, black pudding, tattie scones, baked beans, mushrooms, and tomatoes. It’s hearty, filling, and absolutely meant to carry you through a full day of exploring.

I ordered mine from The Coffee Mill Café, which feels like such an underrated gem that I was *this close* to gate-keeping it. But I won’t. Because their traditional Scottish breakfast was absolutely delicious and everyone should know about it!!!

Oh and make sure you order one of their fruit smoothies. They’re made with fresh fruit and apple juice and I was not expecting it to be that good but it was 🍓

If and when this place blows up, just remember that I told you about it first!!!!

#7: Unwind with a Traditional Afternoon Tea at Edinburgh’s Most Iconic Hotel

There are few hotels where you step inside and immediately think “oh wow. I feel royal AF”

Well, I guarantee you will feel that way when you walk into The Balmoral, a Rocco Forte hotel.

Afternoon tea is one of those classic things to do in Edinburgh that feels indulgent in the best way. And this was easily one of the most memorable afternoon teas I’ve ever experienced (and I used to live in London so I’ve experienced a lot).

At The Balmoral, you can expect UNLIMITED tea and over 88+ DIFFERENT teas to choose from!!! I wanted to try a little bit of everything so I tried the traditional Earl Grey, the South African Rooibos tea, and a Taiwanese ice tea. All were 10/10 delicious.

As for the food, the experience came with egg and chicken finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, some puff pastry bites, and 4 delicious dessert chouxs.

I actually booked the £190 afternoon tea + spa package which came with access to all their facilities, the afternoon tea experience, and a 60minute spa or facial treatment. (Keep reading for more details on my spa experience as well).

It was seriously the best way to spend ~6 hours on my last day in Edinburgh.

#8: Design Your Own Tweed Bag at The Islander

Wanting to leave Edinburgh with a souvenir that’s actually useful and genuinely Scottish?

Well now you can! By designing your own Harris tweed bag at The Islander in a hands-on bag making workshop.

The session takes place at their Canongate workshop, where small groups are guided through making a Harris Tweed mini satchel from start to finish for ~$105 USD/person.

It starts with choosing the details, everything from the tweed pattern and leather color to the strap and handle, then assembling the bag yourself using simple tools with help from the team.

The whole experience takes about 60–90 minutes, feels approachable even with zero crafting skills, and never rushed. It’s interactive without being overwhelming, and there’s something oddly satisfying about walking out with a bag that’s fully functional, well made, and completely customized

I highly recommend booking tickets in advance on GetYourGuide as this tends to be a really popular thing to do in Edinburgh!

#9: Wander Down Circus Lane, One of Edinburgh’s Prettiest Streets

As I was walking down this pretty street in Edinburgh, I was literally thinking to myself “why is this street called circus lane. edinburgh is many things, but chaotic or circus-like definitely isn’t one of them”

Well after a quick ChatGPT search, it turns out the name actually comes from St Stephen’s Circus, the circular Georgian square that Circus Lane originally served as a service road for.

Back in the 18th and 19th centuries, this lane was used by tradespeople, deliveries, and horses accessing the rear of the grand homes around the circus.

Over time, the word “circus” stuck, referring not to entertainment, but to the circular layout of the surrounding streets, a common architectural term in Georgian Britain.

Regardless of how it got its name, Circus Lane tucked away in the Stockbridge neighborhood is one of the best spots for those postcard-perfect Edinburgh photos.

It’s also a great excuse to linger in Stockbridge for a bit. You can stroll over to St Stephen Place for local shops like Treen and Golden Hare Books, then settle into one of the many excellent cafés or restaurants nearby.

It’s an easy area to explore at a relaxed pace and well worth setting aside a couple of hours.

#10: Sip Your Way Through a Scottish Whisky Experience

What’s a visit to Europe without a little (or a loooooot of) alcohol?

As you might know…whisky has been part of Scotland’s story for centuries, with records going back to the late 1400s, and Edinburgh has long been a 🔑 player in blending, bottling, and sending Scotch out into the world.

While many distilleries sit out in the Highlands or on the islands, Edinburgh is one of the best places to actually learn how whisky came to be, how styles differ, and why Scotch tastes the way it does today.

Which is why a whisky tasting is consistently one of the top things to do in Edinburgh. Even if you’re not a fan of the alcohol, it’s a really great educational experience.

There’s the polished, highly immersive Johnnie Walker signature tasting, a 90-minute experience that starts with a flavor quiz and ends with three cocktails tailored to your taste profile, with NA options available too.

But Edinburgh also offers plenty of alternatives if something more low-key is the goal.

You can go on a modern tour and tasting at Port of Leith Distillery (I talk more about paying a visit to Leith below) or opt for a more laid back tasting of 4 single malt Scotch whiskies with a local whisky expert inside a classic pub.

Other Top-Rated Edinburgh Whiskey Tasting Experiences

• The Johnnie Walker Signature Experience – definitely one of the top-rated experiences and things to do in Edinburgh. This is easily the most famous whisky tour option in Edinburgh
• The Scotch Whisky Experience Tour and Tasting – if you want an experience that’s slightly less famous but just as interactive and fun this is it!
• Whisky Tasting and Storytelling in a Historic Pub – a great option for those who aren’t a fan of crowds but still want to experience one of the top things to do in Edinburgh!
• The Lost Close Underground Scotch Whisky Tasting – for my spooky travelers who don’t mind a little haunted ghost stories with their whisky
• Port of Leith Distillery Tour & Tasting – one of my personal favorites as I really enjoyed paying a visit to Leith (I talk more about Leith later in the blog post)

#11: Capture a Retro Souvenir at STILLSAUTOMAT

There’s no better souvenir than photos am I right? (Or do I think that because I’m a photographer lol)

But no seriously – this one’s a fun and slightly hidden top thing to do in Edinburgh! And it only takes a few minutes.

Locate inside STILLSAUTOMAT, this is Scotland’s only analogue photo booth and it’s such a fun little throwback. You get classic vertical black-and-white strips with four frames, and yes, you can pay contactless right inside the booth, which feels very modern for something so retro.

They also sell a solid selection of 35mm film (I grabbed a few rolls myself) and are super helpful if you need quick troubleshooting with cameras or lenses.

Overall, it’s a great hidden gem on Cockburn Street and a really unique souvenir to take home.

#12: Go for a Walk Along Leith’s Scenic Waterfront

Okay I talked about paying a visit to Leith earlier when I mentioned the Port of Leith Distillery Tour & Tasting so you might be wondering what’s so special about Leith? Or where the heck it even is?

Located in northern Edinburgh near the water, Leith was historically a gritty working port but also Edinburgh’s gateway to the world. For centuries it functioned as the city’s main harbor, handling trade, shipbuilding, and whisky exports before eventually falling into decline.

Today, Leith feels like one of Edinburgh’s biggest comeback stories. Former warehouses and docklands have been reimagined into waterfront apartments, creative spaces, and some of the city’s most exciting restaurants and bars.

Getting there is also super easy.

I took the tram directly from St Andrews Square to the Port of Leith stop and was there in under ~20 minutes. Or if it’s a nice day, you can also wander along Leith Walk, where independent shops, cafés, and eateries line the route.

Between the waterfront views, headline attractions like the Royal Yacht Britannia and the Port of Leith Distillery, and a food scene anchored by multiple Michelin-starred restaurants, Leith has firmly earned its reputation as one of Edinburgh’s most up-and-coming neighborhoods and is well worth carving out time to explore.

#13: Learn About Edinburgh’s History on a Guided Walking Tour

As some of you might know…I’m a huge fan of walking tours. Especially when I solo travel. I was pregnant visiting Edinburgh though so I almost skipped an Edinburgh walking tour but I figured it’d be a great way to get some steps in and learn about the city!

Edinburgh’s history spans medieval Old Town closes, royal drama, and centuries of stories layered right into the streets themselves. There are plenty of walking tour options to choose from, but I really enjoyed this 2-hour Old Town History and Tales Tour.

It was only ~2 hours long and we covered a ton of ground including local landmarks like Mercat Cross, St. Giles Cathedral, and the Grassmarket. We also got a lot of random Harry Potter facts along the way which I totally loved and nerded out on.

I thought the 2-hour Old Town History and Tales Tour was a great balance of depth and efficiency, I learned a lot, and it wasn’t an all-day thing.

The best part about Edinburgh is that if you want something a little more niche than straight history, there are a ton of other themed options like a Harry Potter walking tour, a haunted witches + history walking tour, and a nighttime ghost tour!

Other Top-Rated Edinburgh Walking Tours

• Old Town History and Tales Walking Tour
• Full-Day Small Group Walking Tour with Tickets
• Dark Secrets of the Old Town Ghost Walking Tour
• Harry Potter Magical Guided Walking Tour

#14: Discover the Best Pastries in Edinburgh

Okay I debated including this but I want YOU to be the judge of whether Lannan Bakery & Pastry can be considered the best pastries in Edinburgh or not.

Located in Stockbridge, Lannan Bakery has quickly become one of Edinburgh’s most hyped pastry stops, and a big reason why comes down to the talent behind it (but also social media).

Founded by pastry chef Darcie Maher, who opened Lannan Bakery in 2023, Maher draws on her experience at places like The Palmerston, Twelve Triangles, and Flour Water Salt.

Her bakes lean classic but refined, with beautifully laminated pastries, standout morning buns, and sourdough loaves that regularly sell out.

I’ll be honest…maybe I’m spoiled for choice in San Francisco and New York but I thought the pastries here were just alright. They were good don’t get me wrong. But nothing compared to what I’ve eaten in Paris and even London 🤷🏻‍♀️

So I’ll let you be the judge on whether or not this place is worth the hype and please let me know!

#15: Stroll Along Colorful Victoria Street

Taking a stroll along Victoria Street is easily one of the top things to do in Edinburgh.

Victoria Street is one of those places that barely needs an introduction, because you’ll immediately want to start snapping photos once you turn onto the street.

The curve of brightly colored buildings, independent shops, and winding cobblestones makes it one of Edinburgh’s most photographed streets, and for good reason.

It’s an easy, scenic stroll that also happens to be a great spot to pop into quirky boutiques, grab a coffee at the exact café JK Rowling used to sit at (more on this next), and soak up the Old Town atmosphere without committing to a full itinerary stop.

#16: Visit the Café That Inspired J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter

Is Victoria Street the inspiration behind modern-day Diagon Alley?! Well that’s what everyone says! Although I don’t think JK Rowling ever actually said that herself but we can pretend.

Even if she didn’t flat out say that Edinburgh is the exact inspiration behind Diagon Alley…she 100% did visit The Elephant House on numerous occasions and work on the Harry Potter series there.

So for all you potterheads…this should definitely be at the top of your list of things to do in Edinburgh! And it’s right on Victoria Street so you can knock out two birds with one stone.

I popped into The Elephant House for a delicious hot cocoa which even came with marshmallows and a chocolate frog. I was lucky enough to get seated by the window so try to ask for that if you can! It was a great way to kill some time just people watching from up above.

#17: Take a Walk Through Greyfriars Kirkyard

Okay I promise this is my last Harry Potter-esque recommendation for Edinburgh. BUT it’s not even that Harry Potter coded I swear.

Greyfriars Kirkyard is one of those quietly fascinating things to do in Edinburgh that sneaks up on you with how much history is packed into one small space. This 16th-century graveyard is best known as the resting place of Greyfriars Bobby and for inspiring a few familiar names in the Harry Potter series, including Tom Riddle.

Most people are perfectly happy wandering through on their own, but if you want more context on the real people buried here and the true story behind Greyfriars Bobby, I’d recommend joining this short, yet highly educational Greyfriars Kirkyard tour.

#18: Climb Calton Hill for Iconic Sunset Views

If you’re looking for an iconic thing to do in Edinburgh that doesn’t require a full hike like Arthur’s Seat, then Calton Hill is the way to go.

This super short (like, less than 10 minute) uphill walk delivers sweeping views of the city, from Edinburgh Castle to the Firth of Forth.

Try to get there ~45 minutes before sunset so you can catch the skyline glow. Calton Hill is perfect for photos, a quick pause between sightseeing stops, and one of the most iconic viewpoints in Edinburgh.

#19: Shop Local at Stockbridge Farmers Market

Find yourself in Edinburgh on a Sunday? Amazing!

If you happen to be looking for low-key things to do in Edinburgh on Sunday, then Stockbridge Farmers Market is a great stop. Just keep in mind that they only operate on Sundays!

But here, you’ll find fresh baked goods, local produce, cheeses, and small-batch treats from Scottish makers.

It’s casual, community-driven, and a nice excuse to snack your way through a Sunday morning. Or save your stomach for Lannan Bakery just around the corner.

#20: Enjoy a Peaceful Walk Through Dean Village

I normally wouldn’t use the word “fairytale” to describe Edinburgh. I feel like that word is usually reserved for places in France or Germany but Dean Village is different.

Dean Village feels like a hidden pocket of calm just minutes from the city center. Cobblestone paths, old mill buildings, and the Water of Leith make it one of the most peaceful things to do in Edinburgh when you need a break from crowds.

It’s especially pretty in the morning or early evening. So make sure to bring your camera because every corner is postcard-worthy. If you end up going early in the morning (which is what I did), it’s also right around the corner from The Palmerston, a lovely place for breakfast, pastries, and coffee.

#21: Catch Live Stand-Up at The Comedy Cellar

For a fun nighttime addition to your list of things to do in Edinburgh, head to The Comedy Cellar Edinburgh.

There are nightly shows that feature a mix of local talent and touring comedians, so every show feels a little different.

It’s intimate, laid-back, and perfect if you want laughs without a big production.

Just make sure to check the lineup and reserve tickets in advance!

#22: Snap a Pic with the Adorable Paddington Bear

Paddington Bear may be London-born, but this lovable British icon has made his way to Edinburgh thanks to a UK-wide statue trail tied to the Paddington films.

This quick stop is one of the most wholesome things to do in Edinburgh, especially if you’re already near Princes Street.

📍42 St Andrew Sq, Edinburgh EH2 2AD, United Kingdom

Located right at St. Andrews Square – you’ll find the adorable Paddington Bear sitting patiently on his bench, ready for photos!

It takes two minutes but makes for a fun, unexpected memory. Great for kids and nostalgic adults alike.

#23: Dive Into the Exhibits at the National Museum of Scotland

If you want FREE indoor things to do in Edinburgh that are actually worth your time, the National Museum of Scotland delivers. The exhibits span Scottish history, science, design, and global culture, and it’s easy to spend a few hours here without realizing it.

Did I mention that entry is free? Seriously. My American brain can’t comprehend this.

Ps. Don’t skip the rooftop terrace for city views. I had no idea you’d see such epic views from the top of this building. I feel like this is still kind of a hidden gem that nobody knows about???

I didn’t see the rooftop mentioned in a lot of my research so I’m telling you about it now!!!!

#24: Indulge in Old-World Luxury at The Balmoral Spa

Okay y’all I’ll be honest. I’m 34 and have been really into self-care lately while traveling. I used to be able to go go go for 96 hours straight and not stop. But these days? I try to reserve time to slow down on my trips.

And there’s no better way to slow down than a visit to the spa, especially at The Balmoral, a Rocco Forte hotel, an absolute icon in Edinburgh.

The Irene Forte Spa inside The Balmoral Hotel is the kind of place where it’s very easy to accidentally spend an entire day and feel zero guilt about it. As I mentioned earlier, I booked the £190 afternoon tea + spa package, which came with traditional afternoon tea, one facial or massage treatment, and gave full access to the gym, sauna, steam room, pool, and relaxation areas.

My treatment was scheduled for 4pm so I basically spent the entire day at The Balmoral. I started with a 12pm workout, followed by a long shower and plenty of lounging around. Around 2pm, I changed and headed upstairs for afternoon tea in Palm Court (more on that below), then wrapped up the day with my first ever prenatal massage, which was honestly glorious.

Thoughtful, gentle, and exactly what my body needed.

If you’re looking for a spa day in Edinburgh that feels luxurious but unrushed, then a visit to the spa inside The Balmoral Hotel is a must. And personally I thought the tea + spa package were such great value for money. £190 for basically ~6 hours of relaxation time. Such a steal!

#25: Uncover Edinburgh’s Dark History Underground

If you’re looking for one of the top things to do in Edinburgh after dark, there are quite a few different underground tours that dive straight into the city’s eerie past 👻

Why does Edinburgh have such a dark history you might ask?

Well, beneath the Old Town, underground vaults and narrow closes once housed the city’s poorest residents during the 18th and 19th centuries, when overcrowding, disease, and extreme poverty were rampant.

Above ground, public executions, grave robbing, and body-snatching were part of everyday life, most infamously tied to Burke and Hare, who murdered victims to sell their bodies for medical research.

Thanks to Netflix, I know there’s a lot of people out there that have a fascination with serial killers (including myself) which is why a haunted tour is one of the top things to do in Edinburgh. Especially for history lovers who want something a little spookier.

Top-Rated Edinburgh Night Tours

• Evening Underground Ghost Tour
• Dark Secrets of the Old Town Ghost Walking Tour
• Haunted Underground Vaults and Graveyard Tour
• Late-Night Underground Vaults Terror Tour
• Underground Vaults Evening Ghost Tour with Whisky

#26: Spend Time at the National Portrait Gallery

If you’re into culture-forward things to do in Edinburgh, the National Portrait Gallery is an easy add and it’s completely free.

The gallery is open daily from 10am to 5pm and the collection tells Scotland’s story through art, photography, and famous faces inside a seriously beautiful building!

#27: Make Your Way to the Top of Scott Monument

If you’re walking around Princes Street, there’s no way you can ignore the Scott Monument. This towering Gothic spire was built in the 1800s to honor Sir Walter Scott, one of Scotland’s most celebrated writers, and it’s been dominating the skyline ever since.

Climbing to the top is easily one of the top things to do in Edinburgh if you’re up for a bit of a workout.

The narrow spiral staircase winds its way up through the monument before opening up to panoramic views over Princes Street, the Old Town, and beyond. It’s a little tight and definitely gets your heart rate up, but the views at the top make it completely worth it.

Aaaaaand that’s my complete list of the 26+ best things to do in Edinburgh for first-time visitors!

Did you end up doing anything from this list? Let me know in the comments below!

Visiting other parts of Scotland?

Check out my other travel guides on Scotland here.

Visiting other parts of Europe?

Check out my other travel guides on Europe here.

Looking for travel inspiration to somewhere else?

Check out all my international travel guides here!