The Must-See Sites For Your First Trip to Edinburgh

As Scotland’s capital city, Edinburgh has quite a bit to do and see, which can be overwhelming on your first visit, especially if you only have a couple of days. I typically recommend spending 3-5 days in Edinburgh for your first time. I think this is a good amount of time to see the highlights without wearing yourself out with a jam-packed itinerary.

Here are the must-see sites for your first visit to Edinburgh:

Edinburgh Castle

A trip to Edinburgh wouldn’t be complete without visiting Edinburgh Castle. Perched atop Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle dominates the city skyline and is one of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks. This historic fortress has played a crucial role in Scotland’s history, from royal residences to military strongholds.

Inside, you can explore the Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny, and the National War Museum of Scotland. The castle’s ancient walls have countless stories to tell, which you can learn through a guided tour or an audio guide. It’s recommended that you buy your tickets online in advance!

Adult tickets are around £17.50, with discounts for children, seniors, and families.

Royal Mile (High Street)

The Royal Mile is a historic street that stretches from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Lined with shops, restaurants, pubs, and historic landmarks, it’s the beating heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town.

One of my favorite activities when visiting Edinburgh is simply walking down the Royal Mile. The street is packed with character, from the cobblestone streets to its medieval buildings. Along the way, you can stop at St Giles’ Cathedral, the Real Mary King’s Close, and a variety of quirky shops selling everything from tartan to whisky. 

Victoria Street

Victoria Street is one of the most picturesque streets in Edinburgh. You’ll know when you’ve arrived because it’s lined with the most colorful specialty shops selling everything from leather goods to whisky, to candles, and more. 

This street is said to have inspired Diagon Alley in Harry Potter, where the kids did their back-to-school shopping! If you’re a Harry Potter fan, make sure to visit Museum Context on Victoria Street to see all kinds of Harry Potter memorabilia.

Dean Village

Dean Village is on the outskirts of Edinburgh, so it’s a long walk or a taxi ride away. It’s mostly residential, so there’s not a lot to do in this area, but standing along the river that runs through it, surrounded by medieval buildings makes you feel like you’re in the middle of a fairytale!

This is a great place to spend an afternoon walking around, taking in the peaceful atmosphere and getting out of the busy city for a bit.

Palace of Holyroodhouse

The Palace of Holyroodhouse is the official residence of the British royals in Scotland. This magnificent palace at the end of the Royal Mile has a rich history and stunning architecture.

Since it’s still used today, visiting the Palace of Holyroodhouse gives you a glimpse into royal life. You can explore the State Apartments, the ruins of Holyrood Abbey, and the beautiful gardens. The palace is also home to the Queen’s Gallery, which hosts rotating exhibitions from the Royal Collection.

Adult tickets are around £17.50, and they come with an audio guide.

Arthur’s Seat

Arthur’s Seat is an ancient volcano and the main peak in the group of hills in Edinburgh’s Holyrood Park. It rises about 822 feet above sea level, offering spectacular views of the city from above.

The start of the trail is about a 30-minute walk from the center of Edinburgh, and it’s quite steep, but if you’re up for a bit of a hike, Arthur’s Seat is a must. The panoramic views from the top are absolutely worth the climb. It’s a great spot for a picnic or just to escape the city. There are multiple routes to the top, so it can be made easier or harder, depending on which route you take. That said, I saw kids climbing this hill, so it’s a family-friendly activity.

Princes Street Gardens

Princes Street Gardens is located right on Princes Street in the heart of Edinburgh, and they seem to separate the Old Town from the New Town. These beautifully landscaped gardens provide a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. You’ll see stunning views of Edinburgh Castle year round as well as flowers in the spring and Christmas Markets in the winter. 

These gardens have a sorted past as they were once used during witch trials, so I suggest taking a walking tour of Edinburgh to hear more about that story along with many more dark history tales.

While you’re here, make sure to stop by Scott Monument and Ross Fountain!