Experience The Magic: 12 Must-Do Activities In Edinburgh

Edinburgh is rightly considered to be one of the most enchanting cities in the world with its extraordinary history, active cultural life, and incredible architecture. It is a city that offers so much for visitors, including ancient castles and narrow streets that are worth exploring. 

1. Explore Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle is a crucial sight of the city standing tall on a peak of an old volcano. This amazing and ancient castle was used as a royal residence, a fortification, and even a jail for centuries. See the historic St Margaret's Chapel, the One O'clock Gun for the sound check, the royal Room with Scotland's royal jewels, and naturally the amazing views of Edinburgh.

2. Stroll the King’s Road

It is a one-mile-long road that passes through Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Avenues adorned with numerous structures, the Royal Mile is packed full of shops, pubs, restaurants, and more historic tales. Wind your way through its tight closes and wynds; get into St Giles’ Cathedral; take a break at whisky shops for a taste of the real thing.

3. All Visit the Real Mary King’s Close

If you want to be a bit spooked then you should go for the Mary King’s Close tour, which is a journey through the dark history of Edinburgh. Some of the small alleys and corridors of the Royal Exchange were covered when the existing structure was constructed in the 18th century. The following is an example: Go underground to discover how people’s home environments and streets changed during plague epidemics in the 1600s.

4. Calton Hill beautiful sight in Edinburgh.

To access some of the finest views of Edinburgh, one should visit Calton Hill. The peak of this volcanic hill sitting on the city’s eastern fringe will afford you spectacular panoramic shots of Edinburgh Castle, Princes Street Gardens, the Scottish National Monument, and other landmarks. Available in both the evening and morning it is especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset.

5. A Stroll in Princes Street Gardens

Lying between the fortress of Edinburgh Castle and the shopping precinct of Princes Street, these splendid gardens provide a delightful oasis amid this busy city. Take a romantic walk in the park with curvy lanes, meet the clock of flowers, and enjoy the view of the castle. And don’t forget the Mound area where one can also go to the National Gallery of Scotland and the Royal Scottish Academy.

6. Discover More about the Lively Leith Region

Take a trip to the city’s Leith neighborhood situated on the coast of the Water of Leith to find out why it’s considered to be the coolest neighborhood in Edinburgh. Stroll along the bright Shore area of taverns, restaurants, and cafes framed by old warehouses and docks. This place is home to the Royal Yacht Britannia – don’t miss visiting; Try gin at small-batch distilleries; And of course, don’t forget to step into the colorful bars like the Malt & Hops Pub.

7. Visit the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland

The Palace of Holyroodhouse is one of the most iconic structures and it has been the palace for the British monarchs in Scotland. One could visit the State Apartments, or take a stroll around the remains of Holyrood Abbey. Remember to see the Historic Apartments, in which Queen Mary resided as well as the Great Gallery with gems of art from the Royal Collection.

8. Devour Delicious Haggis

Visiting Scotland and not to taste its national delicacies or the most famous one – haggis is simply impossible. This meat pudding is made from sheep’s organs and oats with some spices added before it is filled within the stomach and boiled. Though some people may not like it particularly enjoyed with mashed turnips or potatoes, haggis is one dish that can only be tasted and not described. You can find it in eateries all over Edinburgh or variations mixed up with other culinary styles.

9. Touristic Trail of Grassmarket Street

Stretched over several levels and featuring cobblestone terrain, Grassmarket Street is one of the best places to party in Edinburgh, with many pubs to visit. Formerly, this place was a market for cattle, but today, it is home to a vibrant nightlife under Edinburgh Castle. It’s preceded by such authentic Scottish pubs as The Last Drop, White Hart Inn, and Biddy Mulligan’s.

10. Scottish folk music can be heard live.

The final component of any traditional Scottish experience is, of course, the music – particularly folk music, ranging from melancholic ballads to exuberant drinking and dancing songs accompanied by the fiddle or bagpipes. Catch a view at the folk music bar, Sandy Bell or Whistlebinkies Bar, or during the Scottish Nights in August at The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

11. Take a tour around the Scotch Whisky Express.

Here on the Royal MILE, everyone from serious whisky drinkers to those who are yet to try whisky can explore the world of Scotland’s popular drink. Sleigh-ride in whisky barrels, view the largest collection of Scotch whisky in the world, and sample a variety of whiskies under the guidance of experts. Of course, do not leave the shop without visiting the tasting room containing over three hundred bottles.

12. Hike Up Arthur's Seat

Though not an elevated peak, this extinct volcano is perfect for the physically active as it offers incredible views of Edinburgh up top. The trail is situated at the end of the Royal mile and the trail covers 822ft a distance through meadows and steep rocky ground to reach the summit of Arthur’s Seat. It is best to visit at sunrise so that you can avoid the many people that will likely flock to the area. Edinburgh’s breathtaking geography has never been demonstrated quite like this: the one-hour round-trip hike is indeed an incredibly challenging but jaw-dropping adventure.

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