During your visit to Edinburgh, you’ll naturally have the urge to tick off some of the city’s top sights, whether you’re into the whole touristy thing or not. Here’s a list of unmissable Edinburgh attractions for you to ponder when planning your trip. 

6 Unmissable Attractions in Edinburgh

Edinburgh Castle 

I suppose we should start with the most obvious, both in terms of popularity and location. Edinburgh Castle is Scotland’s most visited tourist attraction, and it’s perched on the remains of a volcano which last erupted over 365 million years ago. Visit the Great Hall, the Crown Jewels and St Margaret’s Chapel; the oldest building in the city. If you’d rather not pay the high entrance fee, you can admire the grand entrance from the Castle Esplanade or photograph the impressive structure in all its elevated glory from Princes Street Gardens. 

National Museum of Scotland 

The National Museum is a national treasure, and it’s in great shape after a £47.4 million refurbishment in 2011. The museum is an ideal escape from inclement weather, and is filled with a range of engaging exhibits to satisfy every interest; from wildlife and outer space, to Scottish history and foreign culture. The roof garden boasts views of Edinburgh’s rooftops, and the interactive games for kids are also a big hit with adults. Oh, and it’s free! 

Arthurs Seat 

Climbing up Edinburgh’s most iconic chunk of volcanic rock is essential. There are a variety of trails to choose from; around and up to Salisbury Crags, past a pond and ruined abbey, or straight up to the very top. Regardless of your route, the views across the city skyline and beyond are stunning. For a different perspective, you also ascend Calton Hill from the city centre. At the top you can visit Nelson’s Monument and the National Monument of Scotland; it was never finished and is known as “Edinburgh’s Disgrace,” but we think it’s cool the way it is.

The Old Town 

This historic part of the city is a hotspot for tourists, and for good reason. The centuries-old streets, charming buildings and cute cobbles are worth the hype. The Royal Mile is the centrepiece of the Old Town, running from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyrood House. Wander inside the spectacular St Giles Cathedral, and don’t forget to look up at the striking clock on The Canongate Tolbooth. Venture off the Royal Mile and walk down Victoria Street; one of Edinburgh’s most photographed spots, thanks to the curved cobbled street and colourful facades. Once at the bottom, go for a refreshment in one of the traditional pubs in the lively Grassmarket area. 

Edinburgh Vaults 

Edinburgh has a deep and dark history, and these creepy underground chambers are the perfect introduction. Constructed in the 18^thcentury under a series of arched bridges in the Old Town, the vaults were cold and damp with little daylight or ventilation; a very unpleasant place indeed! They became inhabited by criminals, body snatchers and some of the city’s poorest people. They are steeped in superstition, and spooky happenings are quite the norm – not surprising at all! Go underground on a ghost tour with Mercat Tours for a unique and eerily entertaining experience. 

Royal Botanic Garden 

Escape the city centre altogether, and venture into Edinburgh’s New Town in search of some glorious green spaces. The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh was one of the first botanic gardens in the UK; the original garden’s history begins in 1670. Nowadays, the garden is bursting with over 13,000 beautiful plant species across 116 hectares of land. Meander through the Rock Garden, relax in the Chinese Garden and visit the oldest – and most beautiful – glasshouse in the garden; the Tropical Palm House.

Intrepidus Outdoors

If you are interested in escaping the city for the day we deliver a range of outdoor activities including hill walking, canyoning, coasteering, and canoeing. We provide these adventures to lots of clients including stag and hen groups, adults visiting Edinburgh and also a kids holiday clubs. At Intrepidus we also like to provide interesting and informative blog posts about our experiences of Edinburgh! Hope you enjoyed. 🙂