Things to do in Edinburgh

Best Things to do in Edinburgh

Planning a trip and wondering about the top things to do in Edinburgh? From historic landmarks to modern experiences, the city offers something for every traveller, making it a perfect getaway in 2026.

With over 975 activities in Edinburgh, there is plenty to explore. Visit some of the most popular tourist attractions in , including iconic sites, vibrant neighbourhoods and cultural hubs. Whether you’re exploring bustling markets, sampling local delicacies or relaxing at scenic spots, every corner has something new to discover.

With experiences starting at INR 351, it’s never been easier to plan your perfect trip. Make the most of your visit to Edinburgh in January and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Unmissable Things to Do in Edinburgh for Every Traveller

About Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a city that knows how to balance charm and history. The medieval Old Town sits with its cobbled streets and hidden closes, while the elegant New Town opens up with wide Georgian squares and neat rows of townhouses. All of it is overlooked by the iconic castle, sitting proudly on Castle Rock.

Some of the well-known Edinburgh tourist attractions like historic sites and museums share the same appeal here, with places such as Edinburgh Castle, Arthur’s Seat, and the Royal Mile topping most lists. Each stop shows you a new side of the city, i.e., grand, scenic, and full of character.

There are endless things to do in Edinburgh, whether you want to spend a quiet morning in galleries, climb hills for wide views, or explore lively pubs at night. It’s the variety that makes it one of the best things to do in Edinburgh style destinations—there’s something new to discover every day.

Unique Experiences

Underground Vaults Walking Tour in Edinburgh Old Town

You can step down from the busy streets into ancient vaults beneath South Bridge and let your guide share tales of journeying through Edinburgh’s hidden chapters, including crime, survival, and even bodysnatching rumors. It’s one of those quietly immersive things to do in Edinburgh, and perfect if you're exploring indoor things to do in Edinburgh on a chill or rainy day.

• Where: South Bridge, Old Town
• Pricing: It starts from INR 2,600 per person
• Timing: About 1 hour; slots available from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM
• When to Visit: Year‑round, but especially great in winter when the walking above feels brisk

The Chocolatarium Chocolate Tour Experience in Edinburgh

You can find yourself shaping chocolates, choosing flavours like chili or gin-infused, then tasting everything from haggis-flavoured truffles to classic dark bars. It’s one of the sweetest things to do in Edinburgh this weekend, especially when you’re looking for something delightfully different to brighten a day.

• Where: Central Edinburgh (producer’s workshop)
• Pricing: It starts from INR 2,800 per person
• Timing: Around 1 hour 30 minutes; flexible slots available from 10:30 AM to 6:30 PM
• When to Visit: All year round

Arthur’s Seat Hike and Calton Hill

You can step away from the busy streets for a relaxed, guided climb up Arthur’s Seat, then wander over to Calton Hill to take in sweeping city views. It’s one of those things to do in Edinburgh that blends calm hiking with a little elevation, and it’s often listed among the awesome things to do in Edinburgh for a mix of nature and panorama that feels both gentle and rewarding.

• Where: Starts in the Old Town, rallying near the Royal Mile
• Pricing: It starts from INR 4,200 per person
• Timing: Around 3 hours, with slots available at 9:30 AM, 12:30 PM and 3:30 PM
• When to Visit: May to September

Sightseeing Tours

City Sightseeing Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour + Kids Go Free

You can hop onto a double-decker bus and cruise past the castle, Holyrood Palace, the Royal Mile and more. The audio commentary is helpful and keeps things light. It’s one of those things to do in Edinburgh that gives you a great overview, especially perfect if you want to take in the beauty of the city.

• Where: Central stops around the Old Town and New Town
• Timing: Buses run from around 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, looping every 1 hour 10 minutes
• Pricing: It starts from INR 4,300 per person
• When to Visit: April to September

Ghost Bus Tour of Edinburgh

You can climb into a vintage double-decker with dim lighting and brace for Edinburgh’s darker stories, ranging from haunted streets to grim history. It’s a little theatrical, a little eerie, and a very memorable way to experience the city, making it one of those cool things to do in Edinburgh when you're in the mood for something atmospheric.

• Where: Starts at 130 High Street, Royal Mile
• Timing: About 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes; slots available at 6:00 PM, 7:30 PM and 9:00 PM
• Pricing: It starts from INR 5,100 per person
• When to Visit: All year round, but feels especially fitting in late autumn or winter

Day Trips

Edinburgh: Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle and the Kelpies Day Tour

You can head out and find yourself stepping into history at Stirling Castle, zooming through the scenic Trossachs, and stopping by the Kelpies' giant equine forms before strolling Loch Lomond’s banks. It’s one of those things to do in Edinburgh that mixes nature and heritage effortlessly and stands out among awesome things to do in Edinburgh for a full day with sharp pacing.

• Where: Round-trip from central Edinburgh
• Pricing: It starts from INR 5,800 per person
• Timing: About 9 hours 30 minutes; starts at 8:45 AM
• When to Visit: May to September

St Andrews & the Kingdom of Fife Day Trip

You can cross the Forth Bridge, wind along the coast through fishing villages, stroll through the heart of St Andrews, and visit a historic abbey before heading home. For a mix of sea breeze, architecture, and legend, this is one of those fun things to do in Edinburgh this weekend if you want something honestly atmospheric.

• Where: Heads north from the city to St Andrews and surrounding Fife villages
• Pricing: It starts from INR 6,000 per person
• Timing: Around 9 hours
• When to Visit: April to October

Boat Tours

Full Day Private Tour to Loch Ness With Boat Trip Included

You can start on a boat ride away from the city, taking in the views of the picturesque Highland town of Pitlochry. Expect stories, sea breezes, and maybe even a glimpse of seals or puffins. It’s one of the more classic things to do in Edinburgh, great when you want a blend of city and sea.

• Where: Edinburgh
• Pricing: It starts from INR 1,09,000 per group (up to 6)
• Timing: Around 12 hours, usually starts at 8:00 AM
• When to Visit: April to September

Stunning 90-Minute Firth of Forth Sightseeing Cruise Adventure

This is a lighter, more focused cruise. You can board a sightseeing boat, glide under the iconic Forth Rail Bridge, glance over to Inchcolm Island, and keep an eye out for wildlife. It’s a peaceful contrast to city life and easily one of the cool things to do in Edinburgh when you want something scenic and calm.

• Where: South Queensferry, a short ride from the city centre
• Pricing: It starts from INR 4,300 per person
• Timing: About 1 hour and 30 minutes; departures from 12:15 PM to 3:45 PM
• When to Visit: April to October

Getting Around

Walking: The Old Town and New Town are compact. You can wander from the castle down to Holyrood and cover plenty of ground in one go. Perfect if you’re looking to tick off several top ten things to do in Edinburgh in a single day.

Local Buses: They are handy if you want to switch between central sights and neighbourhood spots.

Trams: A straightforward way to reach the airport or glide between key stops in the city centre.

Taxis and Rides: Useful after dark, especially if you’ve been exploring some of the cool things to do in Edinburgh that carry on into the evening.

Cycling: Dedicated paths make it easy to cycle around the city or take a ride out towards the shoreline.

Rail: Frequent trains from Waverley Station connect you with towns and countryside nearby, making day trips easy without much planning.

Traveller Tips

• Wear good shoes: Between the cobbled streets in the Old Town and the climb up to Calton Hill or Arthur’s Seat, a pair of solid walking shoes makes your day a lot easier.
• Watch the weather: Rain can appear out of nowhere, even in summer. A light waterproof is smarter than an umbrella.
• Mind the festivals: August is exciting but packed. Plan for spring or late autumn for quieter streets. If visiting during festivals, book everything early.
• Carry some cash: Most places accept cards, but small cafés or market stalls may prefer notes. Handy for snacks between activities.