The capital of Scotland, Edinburgh is a city rich in history, culture, and stunning architecture. From ancient castles perched on volcanic crags to centuries-old streets lined with medieval buildings, Edinburgh felt like stepping back in time. During my visit, I explored some of the city’s most iconic historical landmarks, each of which left me mesmerized by its beauty and storied past. In this blog, I’ll share my detailed experiences of the top historical sites you must visit when in Edinburgh, along with practical tips on how to get there, ticket prices, and what to expect.
1. Edinburgh Castle: A Fortress of History
Located atop Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle dominates the city skyline and is arguably one of the most famous landmarks in Scotland. The castle has played a central role in Scottish history for over a thousand years, from being a royal residence to a military fortress.
How to Get There:
Edinburgh Castle is located at the top of the Royal Mile in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town. You can easily walk to the castle from the city center or take a bus to the nearby Princes Street. I stayed in a hotel just a 15-minute walk from the castle, which made getting there effortless.
Ticket Prices and Discounts:
I pre-booked my tickets online through the official Edinburgh Castle website, which is highly recommended to avoid long queues. The entry fee was around £19.50 for adults, with discounts available for students, seniors, and children. There are also family tickets if you’re visiting with a group.
Personal Experience:
Walking through the castle gates felt like entering a different era. The history is palpable, with every stone telling a story of battles, monarchs, and sieges. One of the highlights for me was seeing the Honours of Scotland (the Scottish crown jewels) and the Stone of Destiny, used in the coronation of Scottish kings. I also loved the panoramic views of the city from the battlements—on a clear day, you can see all the way to the Firth of Forth. If you’re a history buff, don’t miss the National War Museum within the castle complex, which offers fascinating insights into Scotland’s military history.
Recommendation Rating: 10/10
The castle is an absolute must-see, offering a deep dive into Scotland’s past. It’s well worth the ticket price, and I recommend allocating at least two to three hours for your visit to fully explore the grounds.
2. The Royal Mile: A Walk Through History
Stretching from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Royal Mile is a historic street filled with centuries-old buildings, quaint shops, and landmarks. Walking along the cobblestone streets, I could feel the weight of history under my feet.
How to Get There:
The Royal Mile is easy to find as it connects two of the city’s most famous landmarks. It’s about a 5-minute walk from Edinburgh Castle to the start of the Royal Mile, and the street is pedestrian-friendly, making it ideal for a leisurely stroll.
Attractions Along the Way:
As I made my way down the Royal Mile, I passed by iconic landmarks such as St Giles’ Cathedral, with its stunning Gothic architecture, and the Canongate Kirk, the church where many prominent Scots are buried. You can also explore Mary King’s Close, an underground street that offers guided tours into Edinburgh’s haunted history.
Personal Experience:
The Royal Mile is perfect for history enthusiasts and shoppers alike. I spent a good few hours just wandering, taking in the architecture and browsing the numerous shops selling traditional Scottish goods. Don’t forget to stop by one of the many cafés or pubs along the way—I had a delightful lunch at a quaint little pub where I tried traditional haggis. The Royal Mile also hosts various street performers, adding to its vibrant atmosphere.
Recommendation Rating: 9/10
While not a singular landmark, the Royal Mile encapsulates the spirit of Edinburgh’s Old Town. Every step you take is steeped in history.
3. Palace of Holyroodhouse: A Royal Residence
At the end of the Royal Mile stands the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. The palace has witnessed significant historical events, from royal ceremonies to turbulent political intrigue.
How to Get There:
The Palace of Holyroodhouse is located at the bottom of the Royal Mile. It’s about a 15-minute walk from Edinburgh Castle, or you can take a bus or tram to the nearby stops. I chose to walk, enjoying the scenic journey down the Royal Mile.
Ticket Prices and Discounts:
Entry to the palace costs around £17.50 for adults, with discounts for students, seniors, and families. I purchased my ticket online, which also included an audio guide that provided valuable insights as I toured the palace.
Personal Experience:
The palace is a mix of grandeur and history, with richly decorated state apartments and stunning art collections. I was particularly fascinated by the connection to Mary, Queen of Scots—her chambers are preserved here, and it’s where some of the most dramatic events of her reign took place, including the murder of her secretary, David Rizzio. The gardens are equally beautiful, offering a peaceful retreat with views of Arthur’s Seat in the distance.
Recommendation Rating: 9.5/10
For anyone interested in royal history, the Palace of Holyroodhouse is a must-visit. It’s less crowded than the castle and offers a more intimate look into Scotland’s royal past.
4. Calton Hill: Edinburgh’s Iconic Skyline
For breathtaking views of the city and a glimpse of Edinburgh’s historic monuments, a trip to Calton Hill is essential. The hill is home to several notable landmarks, including the National Monument, the Nelson Monument, and the Dugald Stewart Monument.
How to Get There:
Calton Hill is a short walk from Princes Street, making it easily accessible from the city center. I recommend walking if you’re able, as it’s a gentle incline to the top of the hill.
Admission:
Calton Hill is free to explore, making it a great budget-friendly option. You can climb the Nelson Monument for a small fee if you want an even better view of the city.
Personal Experience:
I visited Calton Hill at sunset, and it was one of the most magical moments of my trip. The views over Edinburgh, with the castle silhouetted against the sky, were unforgettable. The National Monument, inspired by the Parthenon in Athens, adds a dramatic touch to the hilltop, and the various other monuments provide fascinating insights into Scotland’s past.
Recommendation Rating: 10/10
If you’re looking for stunning views and a peaceful escape from the busy streets, Calton Hill is perfect. It’s also a great spot for photographers.
5. The Scott Monument: A Tribute to a Literary Legend
Standing in Princes Street Gardens, the Scott Monument is a towering Gothic structure dedicated to Sir Walter Scott, one of Scotland’s most famous writers.
How to Get There:
The Scott Monument is located in the heart of Princes Street Gardens, easily accessible by foot or public transport. I took the bus to Princes Street, which dropped me off right near the monument.
Ticket Prices:
You can climb the monument for a small fee of around £8. The climb is steep, but the views from the top are worth it.
Personal Experience:
Climbing the narrow spiral staircase of the Scott Monument was a challenge, but reaching the top rewarded me with panoramic views of the city. The monument itself is an impressive piece of architecture, with intricate carvings and statues that celebrate Scott’s literary achievements.
Recommendation Rating: 8.5/10
The Scott Monument is a must-visit for literature lovers, and the views from the top make the climb worthwhile.
6. Arthur’s Seat: An Ancient Volcano in the Heart of Edinburgh
For nature lovers and hikers, Arthur’s Seat is the ultimate destination. This extinct volcano offers spectacular views of Edinburgh and the surrounding landscape.
How to Get There:
Arthur’s Seat is located in Holyrood Park, just a short walk from the Palace of Holyroodhouse. I hiked up from the palace, which took about an hour at a leisurely pace.
Admission:
Arthur’s Seat is free to explore, making it one of the best budget-friendly activities in Edinburgh.
Personal Experience:
The hike up Arthur’s Seat was invigorating, and the views from the summit were breathtaking. You can see the entire city spread out below you, with the Firth of Forth in the distance. It’s a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city while enjoying some of the best natural scenery Edinburgh has to offer.
Recommendation Rating: 10/10
Arthur’s Seat is a must for anyone who enjoys hiking and outdoor adventures. The sense of accomplishment when you reach the top, combined with the stunning views, makes it one of my favorite spots in Edinburgh.
Edinburgh is a city that blends history, culture, and natural beauty in a way few places can. Whether you’re wandering through ancient castles or hiking up volcanic hills, the city offers endless opportunities to explore its rich past and vibrant present.
