14 Fun Things To Do in Edinburgh Scotland You Won’t Want To Miss

Make sure to include these 14 fun things to do in Edinburgh when planning your trip to Scotland.

Edinburgh, Scotland is a great city to visit and a place we keep returning to.

It has old-world charm and modern activities, all within a compact area.

Despite being the capital of Scotland, it preserves the intimate charm of a smaller city.

The best part is that you can wander the medieval and Georgian streets by day, and enjoy a live music performance or theater show at one of its modern venues by night.

Given the wide range of fun things to do in Edinburgh, it’s hard to narrow down a list.

We each have our preferences, but we’re sharing some of our favorites and hope they inspire you to visit Edinburgh, Scotland soon.

1. Visit Edinburgh Castle

If there is one thing you don’t want to miss and needs to be at the top of your list is visiting Edinburgh Castle.

Perched atop Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle is a must-visit landmark that dominates the city’s skyline.

This historic fortress offers breathtaking views of Edinburgh and takes you through Scotland’s past.

Step inside to explore the Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny, and St. Margaret’s Chapel, the oldest surviving building in the city.

Don’t miss the famous One O’Clock Gun, fired daily (except Sundays), and take a stroll through the castle grounds.

How many castles have you visited with a dog cemetery that overlooks the city gardens? Or with breathtaking views of the whole city?

Apart from stunning views from the top, it’s just as breathtaking when seen from the town below, where it stands majestically—especially when illuminated at night.

A visit to Edinburgh Castle can be so much fun for children and adults and is a perfect way to start your visit to Edinburgh.

There are guided tours available, as well as the option to explore the castle on your own with audio guides.

We highly recommend purchasing tickets online through the official website of Edinburgh Castle.

2. Stroll through Old Town

In addition to its remarkably well-preserved medieval town, Edinburgh has the unique feature of being built across multiple levels.

Yes, parts of the city rise over two stories high, creating a web of streets that makes navigating the Old Town both fun and challenging.

As you explore, you’ll encounter narrow alleys, known as “closes,” that wind their way between buildings, leading to hidden courtyards, charming shops, and historic homes stacked along the streets.

If you’re a Harry Potter fan, you’ll love wandering through these charming, narrow streets—it often feels like you’ve stepped straight into Diagon Alley.

The city’s layered structure adds to its character and offers endless opportunities for discovery around every corner.

3. Discover The Real Mary Kings Close

If you’re not claustrophobic, a visit to The Real Mary King’s Close is a must.

This underground area is a preserved section of the city that was once a thriving, bustling part of Edinburgh but was buried during the construction of the Royal Exchange in the 18th century.

Despite being hidden from view for centuries, it was inhabited until the late 1600s and offers a rare glimpse into life in Edinburgh’s past.

When you visit Mary Kings Close, you wander through narrow, dimly lit passageways, and uncover stories of the people who lived there.

Guides are dressed in period costumes sharing stories and bringing the history to life.

It’s an immersive and slightly spooky experience, making it not just educational but also a fun way to explore a different side of Edinburgh.

4. Visit Princess Street Gardens

Princes Street Gardens is a delightful spot for a stroll, or to unwind amid a little nature in the middle of the city.

As you explore the gardens, don’t miss some of its iconic landmarks:

• The Ross Fountain is a 19th-century cast-iron fountain. Its intricate design and vibrant colors make it a favorite photo spot.
• The Scott Monument is a towering Gothic structure dedicated to Sir Walter Scott. You can climb the 287 steps to the top for breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
• The Old Cemetery at the Parish Church of St. Cuthbert is a peaceful and historic site tucked away at the west end of the gardens. If you like exploring old gravestones and memorials you can find some old unique examples here.

5. Explore Dean Village

Once a thriving milling community, Dean Village dates back to the 12th century and was home to numerous water mills powered by the Water of Leith.

Today this hidden gem boasts cobbled streets, charming homes, and a great pathway along the river.

Spot the beautiful Well Court building made of red sandstone and built to house mill workers in the 1880s.

Walk along the Water of Leith Walkway for peaceful views of the river.

If you enjoy discovering cemeteries there is Dean Cemetery, a resting place for many of Edinburgh’s notable figures.

6. Stroll through New Town

In stark contrast to Old Town’s web of streets and lanes, New Town is a masterpiece of urban planning.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site was meticulously designed in the 18th century.

It is a masterpiece of Georgian architecture with its well-laid-out streets, elegant squares, and grand terraces.

Start your explorations at Charlotte Square, a beautiful symmetric square at the head of George’s Street.

The highlight of this square is the Bute House, the official residence of Scotland’s First Minister.

George’s street is filled with old Georgian gems.

Don’t miss the Assembly Rooms a key location for events in the past and today.

Peek into the grand lobby of the Royal Bank of Scotland and enjoy its soaring ceilings and stunning design.

End your walk at the lively St Andrew Square, a hub of activity with restaurants, bars, and shops.

This square is home to seasonal markets and other events.

7. Go Shopping at Multrees Walk and St James Quarter

If you like shopping or even enjoy looking at the windows of high-end stores walking at Multreess Walk and St. James Quarter is a must.

Across the street from St Andrew Square, you’ll find Multrees Walk, a small outdoor shopping mall with high-end stores.

From there cross the street into a veritable mini-city, St James Quarter.

A mega mall with stores, restaurants, and even car rental.

If you love shopping you can spend the day here!

8. Take a Tour and a Class at The Chocolatarium

This small store off of the Royal Mile is great for finding locally made chocolates.

They offer 90-minute tours of their shop with chocolate tasting and even making your own chocolates!

You can book your tour and contact them through their website to ensure a space.

I went on my last day and they didn’t have any classes scheduled.

But I did taste and purchase some amazing Scottish chocolates.

9. Go Whisky Tasting

This is Scotland after all and if you like whiskey you don’t have to leave Edinburgh to have a great whiskey tasting experience.

Right off Princess Street, you’ll find Johnnie Walker Princess Street with whiskey tasting, a rooftop bar, and more. Book a tasting at their official website.

Another well-known Whiskey experience is The Scotch Whiskey Experience for information and opening hours visit their official website.

10. Art Museums

If you’re an art lover you’ll enjoy a visit to Modern One.

Home to a modern art collection and a charming sculpture garden this museum will satisfy your art cravings without having to spend half a day there.

We visited during the afternoon and stopped by at their charming cafe where we had a delicious tea and cake.

Not only was the tea and cake delicious they also had an outdoor space where you could sit to enjoy a sunny day.

If you have children this is a great area for them to run safely to their hearts’ content.

Across the street, you’ll find Modern Two.

Housed in what used to be the Dean Orphanage the Modern Two mostly houses temporary exhibitions.

If you don’t want to see the current exhibition, a stroll around the building to view the modern sculpture and the Dean Cemetery is well worth your time.

11. Climb up to Calton Hill

For more fantastic views of Edinburgh and a breathtaking sunset climb up to Calton Hill.

From this vantage point, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of Old Town, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Scottish Parliament Building, and even Arthur’s Seat on one side.

On the other side, you can take in views of the St James Quarter, New Town, and Stockbridge.

Equally captivating is the sight of the Forth Bridge and the Firth of Forth in the distance.

If the views alone aren’t enough to entice you, Calton Hill is also home to several monuments, including the National Monument and the Nelson Monument.

It even has an old observatory that has been transformed into an art space.

This iconic hill offers a perfect blend of history, art, and natural beauty, making it a fun spot to visit in Edinburgh.

12. Visit the Royal Botanic Gardens

Located about 1 mile (1.6km) north of Queens Street the Royal Botanic Garden spans 70 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, making it a must-visit destination while in the city

With many plant collections, fun pathways, and charming open spaces, it’s a great spot for exploration for children and adults.

Moreover, the gardens are thoughtfully designed to be accessible for visitors with limited mobility, ensuring that everyone can fully experience this captivating area.

If you visit during the Christmas season you can’t miss their light show.

It is one of the best I have visited. See our post on Experiencing the Botanic Gardens Christmas Illuminations here.

13. See a Show at The Edinburgh Playhouse or The Lyceum

No list of fun things to do in Edinburgh can be complete without some nighttime activities and Edinburgh has plenty.

Two of the best-known venues for popular and critically acclaimed plays are The Lyceum Theatre and the Edinburgh Playhouse.

To view what’s showing at The Lyceum Theatre visit their official website.

For current and future offerings at Edinburgh Playhouse visit their website.

Of course, there are many other venues with comedy, dinner and show, music, and classes.

I like to use the Visit Scotland website and the What’s On Edinburgh site to see what’s playing while planning my visit.

14. Go Bar Hopping on Rose Street

With names like The Shoogly Peg and Never Really Been Here, this pedestrian-only lane is filled with bars and restaurants and a ton of revelers every night.

This narrow but lively strip runs parallel to two of Edinburgh’s main streets, Princes Street and George Street, and is lined with traditional and iconic pubs every few yards for almost a mile.

Pick one or try to do the Rose Street Challenge.

But don’t miss this traditional and fun experience that can only be found in Edinburgh.

Bonus: Catch a Festival

Starting in June Edinburgh is full of festivals.

Summer brings with it a Children’s Festival, the Jazz and Blues Festival, the International Festival, and the Art Festival.

Of course, August brings the two best-known festivals: The Fringe and the Royal Military Tattoo (bagpipes not ink).

In winter you’ll find Princess Gardens and the squares on George’s Street brimming with Christmas joy during Winterfest.

New Year’s brings another well-known activity, Edinburgh’s Hogmanay Festival, with its spectacular bonfires and enchanting fireworks above Edinburgh Castle.

During these events, the fun in Edinburgh is everywhere.

Making the Most of Your Edinburgh Trip

Whether you’re young or old, traveling as a family, with friends, or on your own Edinburgh has a ton of fun things to do.

This list is just a taste of the possibilities and provides some sources for you to explore according to your preferences.

We hope that you are inspired by some of these and that you enjoy all of the fun things to do in Edinburgh Scotland.

Have a fun trip!