Edinburgh

Spend a day exploring Edinburgh

If you have just one day to explore Edinburgh, you can still experience many of the city’s key highlights and soak in its rich history. From iconic landmarks like Edinburgh Castle to vibrant streets filled with culture and local flavours, your time can be well-spent seeing the best the city has to offer.

Spend your day visiting historic sites, enjoying local cuisine, and wandering through charming neighbourhoods to get a full sense of Edinburgh’s unique character. With careful planning, you can cover major attractions and even discover hidden gems.

Essential Edinburgh Landmarks

You will encounter historic buildings, lively streets, and royal residences that capture Edinburgh's rich past. Each site offers unique architecture, stories, and experiences that shape the city’s identity.

Edinburgh Castle Highlights

Edinburgh Castle sits atop Castle Rock, offering panoramic views of the city. Inside, you can explore The Honours of Scotland: the Scottish Crown Jewels, a symbol of Scotland’s monarchy.

The castle's Great Hall displays medieval weapons and armour. You’ll also find the National War Museum, which traces Scotland’s military history. Listen for the famous 1 o’clock gun, fired by the Master Gunner every day except Sunday. Plan your visit early to avoid crowds. Guided tours provide context on battles, royal events, and architectural features, enriching your experience.

The Royal Mile Experience

The Royal Mile runs from Edinburgh Castle downhill to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. This street is lined with historic buildings, shops, and landmarks. You’ll pass St Giles’ Cathedral, known for its distinctive crown spire. The Royal Mile also hosts small museums and traditional pubs, where you can enjoy local cuisine and whisky.

Walking this route lets you absorb Edinburgh’s medieval character. Street performers and markets often add atmosphere, especially during festival season.

Palace of Holyroodhouse

The Palace of Holyroodhouse is the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. You can tour the grand state apartments decorated with 17th-century tapestries and portraits.

The palace grounds include the ruins of Holyrood Abbey, providing insight into Scotland’s religious history. Nearby, the Royal Gardens offer a peaceful spot to relax.

Tours often highlight Queen Mary’s chambers and the palace’s role in Scottish political events. Check opening hours as they vary seasonally.

Museums and Art Galleries

Visiting Edinburgh’s museums gives you insight into Scotland’s history and arts. The National Museum of Scotland is a top choice, where you can explore exhibits spanning natural history, technology, and Scottish culture.

For art lovers, the Scottish National Gallery houses works from masters like Botticelli and Rembrandt. You can also visit the Fruitmarket Gallery for contemporary exhibitions featuring local and international artists.

Most museums are centrally located and easy to reach on foot. Entry to many public museums is free, making them accessible stops during your day.

Scenic Walks and Panoramic Views

Edinburgh offers impressive vantage points where you can see the city’s historic skyline, natural landscapes, and distant hills. These locations provide clear, accessible routes for a rewarding experience on foot. You can enjoy a blend of urban and natural elements without straying far from the city center.

Calton Hill Vistas

Calton Hill is a short walk from Edinburgh’s main streets and presents one of the best spots for panoramic city views. From the summit, you can see landmarks like the Dugald Stewart Monument, the Scottish Parliament, and the Firth of Forth beyond.

It’s especially popular at sunset, when the city is bathed in warm light. The paths are well maintained and suitable for most fitness levels. You’ll find benches and open spaces to pause and take in the scenery.

The hill’s elevation is modest, so the climb is manageable. Calton Hill also hosts several historic monuments that add interest to your walk.

Arthur’s Seat Hike

Arthur’s Seat is an extinct volcano offering a more challenging but rewarding hike in central Edinburgh. The main route starts near the Palace of Holyroodhouse and winds upward over approximately 2 miles round trip.

The climb involves steep sections but is well marked and safe. From the summit, you’ll have sweeping views of the city, surrounding hills, and the Firth of Forth coastline.

Along the way, you can explore ancient terraces once used for cultivation and observe natural features like cliffs and lochs. The mix of natural beauty and historical context makes this walk a distinctive part of your day exploring Edinburgh.

Dean Village

Dean Village is a peaceful riverside spot just a short walk from the city centre. You’ll find cobblestone streets lined with well-preserved historic buildings that date back to the 19th century.

Take time to walk along the Water of Leith, which runs through the village. The path offers serene views of waterfalls, old mills, and lush greenery, making it ideal for photography and quiet reflection.

Look for small details, such as carved stonework on bridges and traditional iron lamps. Nearby cafes provide a calm place to rest while soaking up the village’s unique vibe.

The Grassmarket

The Grassmarket is a lively area known for its vibrant markets and bustling nightlife. Located below Edinburgh Castle, it’s filled with pubs, restaurants, and independent shops that reflect the city’s spirited history.

During the day, you can browse stalls full of local crafts, food, and antiques. The atmosphere is both historic and dynamic, with a backdrop of colourful buildings and cobblestone streets.

In the evening, the Grassmarket transforms into a social hotspot. You’ll find venues hosting live music and traditional Scottish fare, making it a great place to immerse yourself in local culture.