Visiting Edinburgh for the First Time? Here’s What To See and Do

At the top of any list of must-see attractions in Edinburgh, the majestic Edinburgh Castle has sat atop the dormant volcano of Castle Rock for over a thousand years. Admire the castle’s picturesque hilltop setting from Princes Street, then wander uphill and into the castle. Don’t miss exploring the ancient fortress’s rooms and treasures, including the Crown Jewels and Stone of Destiny. Get more out of your experience with a walking tour to enjoy the castle and beyond, one of the top essential experiences in Edinburgh for first-timers.

Cutting through the Old Town’s medieval tangle of streets, alleyways, and wynds (lanes), the cobblestoned Royal Mile is Edinburgh’s most atmospheric pedestrian thoroughfare. The cobblestoned street runs from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse and features centuries-old granite buildings housing stores, bars, and restaurants. The Royal Mile is a staple of Edinburgh sightseeing tours, which include visits to landmarks like St. Giles Cathedral, and haunted history tours, which reveal the street’s dark side.

Dive into Scotland’s long, turbulent history and rich contemporary culture at the National Museum of Scotland. The museum is home to more than 20,000 artifacts, housing items from the Paleolithic era to present-day pop culture, like a stone carved by Picts, chess pieces made by Vikings, and a tartan suit designed by Vivienne Westwood. The World Cultures galleries take visitors around the globe, from ancient Egypt to Edo-period Japan, and a changing program of temporary exhibitions dive deeper into specific topics, from fossils to the Celts.

Back on the Royal Mile, the Scotch Whisky Experience immerses visitors in the heritage and flavors of Scotland’s national drink, whisky. Guided tours introduce visitors to the whisky-making process, the whisky-making regions of Scotland, and the art of blending. Visitors can sample a wee dram (or throw back a few) during a guided tasting and admire one of the world’s largest whisky collections, which is almost 3,400 bottles strong.

For a breath of fresh air and taste of the great outdoors without leaving the city, head up Arthur's Seat, an extinct volcano. At 823 feet (251 meters), it’s the highest point in Holyrood Park and one of the seven hills in and around the city of Edinburgh. The hike to the summit is steep and can be challenging on wet and windy days, but it rewards walkers with 360-degree views of Edinburgh and the surrounding Lothians.

For outstanding views with minimal effort, make the short climb up to the top of Calton Hill for excellent views across the city, from Edinburgh Castle to Arthur’s Seat, and (if the weather allows) the Firth of Forth (for the most picture-perfect view, get there for sunrise). Calton Hill is Edinburgh sightseeing for beginners, home to a number of attractions, including the unfinished National Monument and Collective, a contemporary art gallery. On New Year's Eve (Hogmanay), it's the perfect spot to see Edinburgh’s New Year fireworks.

Edinburgh has no shortage of excellent viewpoints, but the Scott Monument uniquely combines panoramic views with cultural heritage and history. Built in 1832 to commemorate the death of one of Scotland's best-known authors, Sir Walter Scott, the Scott Monument’s Gothic spire soars above Princes Street Gardens, looking like a rocket ready to shoot into space. Climb 287 steps up a spiral staircase to the top for beautiful views of the city and visit the first-floor Museum Room, which holds an exhibition on Scott's life and work.

Some of Edinburgh’s most fascinating stories live underground. A series of chambers built into the arches of the South Bridge in the 18th century, the Vaults served as living quarters for the city's growing population. However, they soon became associated with illicit activities and paranormal occurrences and so were abandoned. Nowadays, haunted Edinburgh tours and crime tours take visitors through the atmospheric chambers, sharing stories about the history of the vaults and the people who once inhabited them—and the ghosts that still do.

Related: 15 of the Scariest Ghost Tours Around the World

Just a brief walk from bustling Princes Street, Dean Village feels like a world away. Nestled in a lush valley, this tiny town boasts a patchwork of architectural styles, from slate-colored medieval stone buildings to multi-hued Tudor revival-style houses, and the cobblestone streets and hidden courtyards provide an escape from the crowds. Discover the village’s history and highlights as part of a half-day or full-day tour. Or, follow part of the Water of Leith, a riverside trail which travels 22 miles (35 kilometers) through the city and crosses the village.

Whether you’ve got a green thumb or not, the Royal Botanic Garden is worth the trip just outside of the city center, and is a staple on an Edinburgh travel itinerary for newcomers. A haven of tranquility, its highlights include a Scottish heath garden, a herbarium, giant redwood trees, and large Victorian greenhouses. In the spring and early summer, the garden’s slopes are painted in vibrant reds, pinks, and whites, home to one of the world's greatest collections of rhododendrons.