14 Things You Must Do When Visiting Edinburgh

I’ve already laid out my Scotland itinerary so now I want to share my Edinburgh “must-do’s” – the 14 things you have to do when visiting the city.

We did a lot in our seven days there so it was really difficult to narrow this down to just 14, but I wanted to keep it short and sweet for anyone with just a few days to explore Old Smoky.

No trip to Edinburgh would really be complete without these stops on your list…so here you go!

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14 Edinburgh Must-Do’s

1. Stand in the oldest part of Edinburgh and the most besieged place in Britian, Edinburgh Castle. Take the free tour, see the Stone of Destiny, goggle over the oldest Crown jewels in Britian, and hear the One o’Clock Gun.

2. Roam the Royal Mile. You’ll be tempted to buy a touristy baubles but save your money for the bottle of Scotch you’re taking home (see #14).

3. Take afternoon tea at one of the city’s fabulous tea rooms. My favorite: Palm Court at The Balmoral.

4. Experience palatial splendor at Holyroodhouse, the Queen’s official residence in Edinburgh. Various royal family members will whisper in your ear (talk to you through the audio guide) as you move through each room.

5. Hike Arthur’s Seat – It’s steep but the view at the top is worth it.

6. Take a stroll through the oasis that is Dean’s Village.

7. Head to the New Town area for major shopping on Princes Street.

8. Then rest your weary shopping feet on a bench in the Princes Street Gardens.

9. Discover Diagon Alley (Victoria Street). Don’t miss Museum Content (for my fellow Potterheads), The Red Door Gallery, or La Barantine Victoria for macarons and espresso.

10. Walk through Circus Lane and fill up your camera roll.

11. Visit the Royal Botanic Gardens for a tranquil hour or two wandering the 70 acres of beautiful landscape.

12. Eat a meal in a traditional Scottish pub. Fish and chips for the cautious, haggis with neeps & tatties for the adventurous; always with a pint or a whiskey.

13. Gorge on sweet and savory treats galore at the Stockbridge Market (every Sunday from 10am-5pm).