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Edinburgh

Medieval and elegant Edinburgh: castle, closes and hilltop views

October 20, 2026 · Streetly

Edinburgh

Edinburgh brings together a medieval Old Town, an elegant New Town and hills within easy reach. Discover what to see, how to dodge the crowds and where to eat like a Scot.

The great classics

Edinburgh Castle crowns the Old Town and the Royal Mile runs down to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Book your castle ticket and arrive first thing. Duck into the closes that branch off the Royal Mile, where you can escape the bustle.

Viewpoints and hills

Arthur's Seat gives a magnificent panorama and is reachable with a decent walk. Calton Hill is easier and offers a classic view with the National Monument. In the New Town, climb the Scott Monument and stroll through Princes Street Gardens.

Eating and drinking like a Scot

Try haggis with neeps and tatties, Cullen skink, or cranachan for dessert. A single malt whisky in a traditional pub is a classic, and Grassmarket and Victoria Street have a great atmosphere. Leith is perfect for fish and seafood, away from the tourist trail.

See food tours in Edinburgh ›

Museums, neighbourhoods and transport

The National Museum of Scotland is free and wide-ranging, and Greyfriars Kirkyard has plenty of charm. Dean Village is a peaceful corner beside the Water of Leith. The whole centre is walkable; wear comfortable shoes, because the hills and cobbles are unforgiving.

Sample 3-day route

A starting point for your trip; in Streetly you can adjust days, pace and interests and get your own version with a map.

  1. Day 1Edinburgh Castle → Royal Mile → St Giles' Cathedral → Palace of Holyroodhouse
  2. Day 2Calton Hill → Princes Street Gardens → Scott Monument → New Town
  3. Day 3Greyfriars Kirkyard → Grassmarket → Victoria Street → Arthur's Seat
  4. Optional extraDean Village → Leith

Practical tips

  • Book castle tickets in advance, especially in summer.
  • Wear comfortable shoes: there are hills and cobbles everywhere.
  • Bring an extra layer: wind and rain can arrive suddenly.
  • August is festival season; book accommodation well ahead.

Opening hours, prices and rules change. Always check official sources before you travel.

Create your Edinburgh route with Streetly: ordered stops, a map for each day and a budget.

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