Things To Do
Edinburgh Castle
Perched above the city, it’s impossible to miss Edinburgh Castle. You can visit inside, but we’ve found it equally fun (and free) to just walk around the terrace outside the entrance.
Arthur's Seat
An extinct volcano in the middle of the city, Arthur’s Seat offers unparalleled views of the Old Town and the distant landscape of the highlands. It’s only about a 30-minute hike to the top, and is beautiful for sunrise or sunset.
Palace of Holyroodhouse
Live like royalty by visiting the Palace of Holyrood, where the Queen stays on her visits to Edinburgh. This site is best paired with a hike up Arthur’s Seat. Be sure to check out the Abbey.
Calton Hill
With some of the best views of the city, and an easier climb than Arthur’s Seat, try to visit during sunrise or sunset.
Victoria Street
Visit the street that inspired Diagon Alley in Harry Potter! The street has colorful buildings, cute shops, vintage bookshops, and fun bars. Our ceremony venue is on this street, so it would be perfect to visit on Tuesday afternoon.
The Elephant House
Have a cup of tea and a pastry at the cafe where JK Rowling wrote Harry Potter!
Greyfriars Kirkyard
A must for any Harry Potter fan, this cemetery includes gravestones that inspired many names in the series.
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
To see some greenery, visit the botanical gardens just outside of the city center.
Stockbridge Market
Open every Sunday, the Stockbridge Market is the largest farmer’s market in the city, located just outside of Old Town. This neighborhood, in general, has some of the best local shopping in the city. Be sure to check out IJ Mellis Cheesemonger, Coco chocolatier, Stockbridge Tap, and the Scran & Scrallie.
Dean Village
Follow the Water of Leith to Dean Village to explore stunning architecture and gardens. Stop into Stockbridge before or after for coffee, lunch, or some shopping.
Circus Lane
Take photos along this Instagram-famous street, similar to Acorn Street in Boston.
Scottish National Portrait Gallery
Seeking a taste of culture? See the art at the Scottish National Gallery.
National Museum of Scotland
Visit this museum for natural history and industrial art exhibits, including Dolly the Sheep.
Real Mary King's Close
We haven’t been, but hear that a tour of this Old Town Street narrated by historical figures is worth a visit. For the Thompson clan, think Vintage Voices underground. Advanced booking online is recommended.
The Colonnades at the Signet Library
Stop by for “Edinburgh’s finest afternoon tea,” with seasonal sandwiches and cakes.
Princes Street Gardens
With views of the castle and access to the busiest shopping street in the city, the Princes Street Gardens are worth a visit!
Rose Street
Head to this charming street in New Town for pubs, restaurants, and shopping. It’s located right in between the busier Princes Street and Georges Street.
Leith
“A buzzing port district, Leith is home to hip creatives and longtime locals.” Visit craft breweries, eat seafood along the port, and see modern art galleries.
Jupiter Artland
Take a taxi or bus to this sculpture garden and modern art gallery located about 25 minutes outside of the city.
Armchair Books
Located just by the castle, this is just one of many charming bookstores in Edinburgh. Also check out Till’s Bookshop, the Old Town Bookshop, the Fruit Market Gallery, and Golden Hare Books.
The Stand Comedy Club
In August, Edinburgh hosts the famous Fringe festival. While we’re (intentionally) visiting after it ends, you can see a stand-up comedy show at this well-known club frequented by locals.
Dishoom Edinburgh
While you should certainly sample some Scottish staples (like haggis, neeps, and tatties), the U.K. has some of the best Indian food around! We’ll be having a family dinner at Dishoom, but encourage everyone to add at least one Indian restaurant to their itinerary. Mother India’s Cafe is also well-reviewed.
Mary's Milk Bar
Located in Grassmarket, Mary’s Milk Bar is a local gelato shop with flavors that change with the seasons, such as ricotta and fig in the fall or gooseberry sorbet in the summer.
The Last Drop
Located in Grassmarket just off Victoria Street, this is a traditional Scottish pub. Apparently the name is from when prisoners were allowed one last dram of whisky before heading to the gallows in the square outside. Also check out Sheep’s Heid Inn by Arthur’s Seat, Malt & Hops and Nauticus in Leith, Bennett’s Bar, or the Bow Bar just around the corner from The Last Drop. For more modern options, the Devil’s Advocate and Heads & Tales also come highly recommended.
The Scotch Whisky Experience
Take a tour around all the varieties of Scotch without leaving the city at the world’s largest collection of whisky. They have a variety of tours available daily. Try Andrew’s (and Ron Swanson’s) favorite, Lagavulin, or Lauren’s favorite, Glengoyne.
Edinburgh Gin Distillery
While Scotland may be known for Scotch, they also have a number of excellent gins. Visit this local distillery for a tour and tasting. We recommend the rhubarb and ginger gin!