1. Royal Mile: Located in the heart of the Edinburgh Old Town, the Royal Mile is one of the best places to visit in Edinburgh. You can explore several iconic attractions along the route including various important museums, monuments, and other points of interest. You will also be stunned by the exquisite mediaeval architecture that can be seen here along with the cobbled streets, historic buildings, souvenir shops, restaurants, street artists, and more. Some of the top places to see here include Saint Giles Cathedral and Canongate Kirk, among others.
Location: 109 The Royal Mile Royal Mile, Edinburgh EH1 1SG, United Kingdom.
2. National Museum of Scotland: If you are looking for the most important places to visit in Edinburgh, you should explore the National Museum for a deep insight into the country’s rich cultural history. The magnificent museum is housed in the Old Town in an elegant building and is spread across 6 floors.
Stroll through the various interesting sections here such as archaeology, fossils, art, fashion, science, or technology exhibitions which will help you learn much about Scotland’s past. The interesting installations and displays at various galleries and exhibitions such as a Formula 1 car or dinosaur makes it an ideal place to visit for children and adults alike.
Location: Chambers St, Edinburgh EH1 1JF, UK
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
3. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh: This is one of the nicest places to visit in Edinburgh especially if you are looking for a break from the bustle of the city and a respite amidst nature. This garden is actually a scientific research centre where one can learn about the study of plants, their diversity and conservation horticulture.
Located in the New Town, the massive park stretches across almost 28 hectares of parkland and features spectacular greenhouses, a Chinese garden, an arboretum, as well as the largest collection of rhododendrons in the world.
Location: Kew, England
Timings: 10 AM – 3 PM
Entry fees: about £13.50
4. Scottish National Gallery: If you are a classical art enthusiast, then mark your presence at the Scottish National Gallery which is one of the popular places to visit in Edinburgh. Housed in a splendid neoclassical building, the gallery is known for its exquisite displays of works by Scottish as well as international artists.
The exhibits here date back to the Renaissance period and go all the way to the beginning of the 20th century. Some famous artists whose work and collections are present at this gallery include Raphael, Titian, Rembrandt, Turner, Monet, Van Gogh and Gauguin.
Location: The Mound, Edinburgh EH2 2EL, UK
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
5. St. Giles Cathedral: If history and architecture interests you, then you must head out to the majestic St. Giles Cathedral which is also among the top tourist places to visit in Edinburgh. The mediaeval Gothic cathedral is situated on the iconic Royal Mile and is the oldest religious building in the city dating back to the 12th century. Enjoy witnessing the beautiful detailing on the cathedral from close quarters including its distinct facade, The Stained Glass, Memorials, unique bell tower, and typical Scottish architecture.
Location: High St, Edinburgh EH1 1RE, UK
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
6. Edinburgh Zoo: Visit Edinburgh Zoo, one of the most fun tourist places to visit in Edinburgh, especially if you are a wildlife enthusiast and looking forward to having wholesome entertainment with your loved ones. The zoo is spread across a massive area, is set amidst a picturesque parkland full of lush greenery and houses more than a thousand spectacular animals and birds.
Among its most popular inhabitants you can witness the country’s only giant pandas here. You can also enjoy looking at other fabulous creatures such as flamingos, chimpanzees, koalas, and others that call it home.
Location: 134 Corstorphine Rd, Corstorphine, Edinburgh EH12 6TS, United Kingdom
Timings: 10 AM – 4 PM
Entry fees: £21.95 approximately.
