Visiting Edinburgh? Not sure where to go? Not to worry, I’ve picked 20 great places to visit in Edinburgh that encompasses the best scenery, history, culture and entertainment that Edinburgh has to offer.
1. Royal Yacht Britannia
Take a fascinating tour of the Royal Yacht including the deck, private and staff quarters. You don’t have to be a royalist to enjoy this attraction and it’s suitable for school age children who tend to love boats anyway. Prices between £7.50 – £11.75.
Looking for wholesome outdoor family fun? East Links is what you’re after. Personally I think it knocks spots off Edinburgh Zoo. Great for busy children who need to let off steam. Prices around £11 per ticket. Read a full review of East Links Country Park
Fancy a flutter during your visit? Race meetings are held throughout the summer months. A family race day is held at the end of September which represents great value with rides, attractions, face painting and more…
Treat yourself to an ice cream sundae or an irn bru sorbet (yes, really!). Luca’s have two parlours, one in Musselburgh, the other is located in Morningside. Both parlours have a cafe that offers a menu that covers breakfast, lunch and dinner at very reasonable prices.
5. Ocean Terminal
Time for a spot of shopping at the shore. You’ll find high street favourites including Debenhams, Fat Face, Schuh and Waterstones as well as some independent shops and a good selection of cafes, restaurants and bars.
6. South Queensferry
Take a stroll beside the Firth of Forth. Stop for a spot of launch or take a boat trip to Inchcolm Island.
Take an educational trip back in time at this city centre attraction. Read a full review of Dynamic Earth.
8. The Real Mary King’s Close
Go underground to discover the secrets that lay beneath Edinburgh’s cobbled streets. One of my favourite attractions in Edinburgh and one of the first places I’d take a visitor. Prices range from £7.45 – £12.95.
Catch a top class production at Edinburgh’s leading theatre The Playhouse.
10. Holyrood Palace
Visit Her Majesty’s official Scottish residence at the foot of The Royal Mile. Prices range from £6.50 to £10.75
11. George Street
Great for shopping, eating and drinking. Shop at Cath Kidston, Joules, Hollister, White Stuff and Gant. Eat at The Livingroom, Browns and The Gourmet Burger Kitchen. Drink at Tiger Lily and The Candy Bar.
12. Park on the Meadows
Arguably the best children’s play park in the whole of Edinburgh. Be warned, it gets busy on sunny days. Pack a picnic and a few pounds for the ice cream van. Public toilets on site is a real bonus when the kids don’t want to leave.
13. Cramond
Take a stroll away from the hustle and bustle along the picturesque prom at cramond.
14. Inverleith Boating Lake
Kids will love watching the boats, feeding the ducks and seeing the baby swans. More info and photos on Inverleith Boating Lake here.
15. Edinburgh Zoo
The Giant Pandas are causing quite a stir, head to Edinburgh Zoo to see them. Prices from £11-£15.50.
16. The Casino
Fancy a game of poker or roulette while you’re away. Head for my favourite casino, the Genting Stanley at Fountainpark. Poker game 7 nights a week plus cash games starting from 50p/50p.
17. Cineworld IMAX
Visit Edinburgh’s only IMAX screen at Cineworld, Fountainpark. More on Cineworld’s IMAX screen here.
18. Gorgie City Farm
A fun and friendly Urban farm that’s been around for 30 years. Open 7 days a week. Entry is free though donations are welcome.
19. The Stand Comedy Club
Live comedy 7 nights a week. Housed in a Georgian basement in the heart of Edinburgh close to restaurants and bars.
20. Edinburgh Castle
A must see if it’s your first visit. Be there at one ‘o’ clock to see the one ‘o’ clock gun go off or any time for fantastic views across the city.
