View of Edinburgh skyline from Holyrood Park
Edinburgh
Edinburgh is Scotland's capital; a city filled with history, culture, engaging attractions and beautiful architecture. Spend your time exploring its cobbled streets, hidden closes, world-class festivals and lively food and drink scene. Find out what makes Edinburgh so special, from its status as a UNESCO City of Literature and UNESCO World Heritage Site, to being named one of Time Out's top cities in the world.
Things to do in Edinburgh
Learn more about Edinburgh's history, explore beautiful outdoor spaces and go behind-the-scenes on a guided tour.
14 Hidden gems and things to do in Edinburgh
Explore some of Edinburgh's best hidden gems from stunning city views to a tranquil Japanese Friendship garden.
10 Amazing free things to do in Edinburgh
Find free things to do and places to go in Edinburgh, including the National Museum of Scotland, Botanic Gardens and more.
Leith: one of the world's coolest neighbourhoods
Discover what makes Leith one of the coolest neighbourhoods in the world, from Michelin star restaurants to quirky pubs and festivals!
Museums & galleries in Edinburgh
From science to medicine museums to portrait galleries, there's sure to be a place that will thrill you.
7 Local shops to visit in Portobello
Head to Edinburgh's seaside hidden gem and explore the local shops in Portobello.
Inspiration for Edinburgh city breaks
The Balmoral Hotel in Edinburgh
Places to stay
Whether you’re looking for an elegant hotel, a quirky B&B, a self-catering apartment or a budget friendly hostel, there are lots of accommodation options throughout Edinburgh.
Salisbury Crags by Arthur's Seat
Tours, routes & trails
Edinburgh offers a fantastic range of tours, including walking, ghost and history tours around the city centre. Get ideas for how to spend your time here with our itineraries, or head out for a city walk to soak up the sights.
Unique experiences in Edinburgh
There's always something new to discover in Edinburgh, but it's pretty special to be able to explore three UNESCO sites in the city which celebrate its architectural, engineering and cultural heritage.
Edinburgh: UNESCO Creative City of Literature
Explore the capital city's historic connections with literature and the spoken word, through attractions and events held throughout the year.
Lost Shore Surf Resort
Come and visit Europe’s largest inland surfing destination, open now!
Old & New Towns of Edinburgh
One of the most architecturally significant cities in the world, thanks to the dramatic contrast of its Old and New Towns, a recognised UNESCO site.
Princes Street Gardens
Low Emission Zones (LEZ)
If you’re travelling by car to Edinburgh, your vehicle must comply with emission standards. You may be fined if you drive through an LEZ zone. This mostly impacts diesel vehicles registered before September 2015 and petrol vehicles registered before 2006.
What's on in Edinburgh
Museum of Edinburgh
© @thefrancescareggio
Events in Edinburgh
Soak up the incredible atmosphere of the capital with a range of events and festivals to get involved in. Whether theatre, art, comedy, circus, literature or culture is your thing, there truly is something for everyone to enjoy.
Places to eat in Edinburgh
From Michelin-star meals to incredible independent eateries, Edinburgh offers an amazing selection of places to eat. It's no wonder it's been named the Most Exciting Food Destination in The Good Food Guide Awards 2025!
7 Heavenly hot chocolate spots in Edinburgh
Discover some heavenly hot chocolate spots in Edinburgh. Including Moo Pie Gelato, Uplands Roast, Aemilia, Mimi's Bakehouse and more!
10 Quirky places to eat in Edinburgh
Check out Edinburgh's most unique and quirky dining experiences and discover your new favourite places to eat in the city.
8 of the best pizza places in Edinburgh, recommended by an Italian
What better way to visit a city than to combine food and sightseeing?
9 Best coffee shops to try in Edinburgh
Discover the best coffee shops to try in Edinburgh. Including Machina Espresso, William & Johnson, Brew Lab, Lowdown, Fortitude and more.
Top 9 whisky tasting bars in Edinburgh
Edinburgh has an amazing history which is soaked in the whisky industry.
Gin cocktails to try in Edinburgh
Discover the gin cocktail and cheese experience at Pickerings Gin in Edinburgh, including a distillery tour and making your own seasonal cocktails.
12 of the best vegan restaurants in Edinburgh
Discover some of the best vegan restaurants in Edinburgh to book.
The Ultimate Edinburgh Menu - bakers and baristas
Delve into Forever Edinburgh's foodie guide to the city's best bakers and baristas.
Explore further
Dunbar Cliff Top Trail
© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam
Edinburgh & The Lothians
It's really simple to take time out of Edinburgh and explore the nearby Lothians. Head to the beach or forest parks, discover more about the heritage of the area, or enjoy some incredible outdoor activities.
St Monans Breakwater in the East Neuk of Fife
© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam
Nearby regions
Edinburgh & The Lothians are surrounded by other unique and fascinating regions to explore. Extend your trip and take the chance to slow down and really connect with Scotland. Head to the coastal towns of Fife, soak up the colourful history of the Scottish Borders, or enjoy the scenery around Loch Lomond & The Trossachs. You can easily pop over to Glasgow, Scotland's largest city, too.
A tip from your local expert
Find experiences
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