Top Things To Do In Edinburgh

Tailoring each tour to your wishes by locals who love their city

Tourists enjoying the views of Edinburgh below from Arthur's Seat

Top things to do in Edinburgh

From exploring cool neighborhoods to eating with the locals to seeing iconic sites, these are some of our favorite experiences

When in Osaka
make sure to try
“kushikatsu”!

See the city like
you would with a friend who lives there

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When in Osaka
make sure to try
“kushikatsu”!

See the city like
you would with a friend who lives there

Wondering what to do in Edinburgh?

Edinburgh is so perfectly intertwined with its landscape that it seems to have sprouted naturally from the ground. Draped elegantly across undulated hills and overlooking the sparkling sea, the Scottish capital shows off without even trying. In this stunning cityscape that demands exploration, amazing things to do in Edinburgh are around every cobbled corner. Whether you’re the type of traveler who wants to marvel at one architectural feat after the other, taste the very best of Scotland’s humble toasties and haggis, or soak up the city’s centuries-old high culture, art, and literature, the things to do in Edinburgh will keep you coming back for more.

Meet some of our Edinburgh local hosts

Like the people who travel with us, they have different backgrounds and interests – but they’re all so passionate about the place they call home, they choose to spend their free time sharing it with the like-minded travelers matched to them.

We’ve handpicked them and we’ll match you to your perfect one!

A tourist taking photos of Edinburgh's cityscape from the top of Arthur's Seat

A stunning cityscape

Few places in the world are as beautiful as Edinburgh. The Scottish capital’s charm isn’t just owing to its picturesque jumble of historic buildings, but to the gorgeous natural landscape it’s sprouted from. The things to do in Edinburgh spotlight just how lovely the city is. Razor-thin cobblestone alleys wind between breathtaking Gothic architecture and towering spires, and lamplit streets lined by medieval tenements exist under the watchful eye of a 900-year-old castle perched atop an extinct volcano. You’d be forgiven for thinking you’d stepped into the pages of a storybook.

Tourists walking along Victoria Street in Edinburgh with a local guide

Art for the ages

The art and culture scene in the city is ripe for exploration – many things to do in Edinburgh reveal a city that inspires creativity in all its forms. You could visit contemporary spaces like the Ingleby Gallery, or simply stroll the streets of Leith and discover its renowned street art scene. Edinburgh is also a literary icon, and its storytelling heritage is tangible in the Old Town, where you could explore the Scottish Storytelling Centre and look out for poems inscribed into the pavements. Whatever you decide, the things to do in Edinburgh will surprise and delight all lovers of art.

Tourists enjoying al fresco dining at a Scottish pub in Edinburgh with a local guide

The best of Scottish food

There’s no better place to indulge in authentic Scottish cuisine than right here in its capital city – and, luckily, some of the most memorable things to do in Edinburgh involve food in one way or another. The cuisine is hearty, homely, and incredibly delicious – perfect for those atmospheric rainy days the city is so famous for. From cozy cafés serving shortbread or scones slivers of salmon at a local market, Scottish food can’t help but make you feel good. Of course, one of the best things to do in Edinburgh is tasting its iconic haggis, washed down with a dram of single malt whisky.

Edinburgh travel tips and inspiration from our Travel Magazine

Find essential city info, travel tips and the best things to do in Edinburgh and around the world recommended by our local hosts

Latest reviews from our guests

Doug was waiting for us at the meeting point at the agreed time. We walked together around the city explaining the most important aspects at each stop. Great stories and valuable historical information. He is an easy going and flexible guide who we recommend to contact, specially if you want to cover the best places of this beautiful city in a short time visit and at your own pace.

May 2024

JOSE R
In addition to the old city we visited new city and some other out-of-bitten tracks. Thus, I’ve got different angle of the city.

May 2024

Zhamilya O
He walked us all through the city. We even had a great pit stop at a chocolate place. Learned a ton about history and the architecture. Has a great afternoon.

May 2024

Kelly S
We had a wonderful visit to Scotland. Our tour guide took us throughout the Royal Mile. We learned many hidden secrets about this amazing city. He made sure that we made all the stops on our list. He also pointed out many beautiful spots that as a tourist you might miss with knowing where to look. I would highly recommend this private tour.

May 2024

Janine E