Where we’re from is where it’s at! Did you know that Edinburgh is rated as one of the top destinations in the UK for city breaks? Our hometown is one of the most unique cities in Europe and welcomes almost 4 million visitors every year. Edinburgh is a city of contrasts, structured from tall medieval buildings in the Old Town and bold Georgian architecture in the New Town. The dramatic contrast between these areas gained it a place on UNESCO’s World Heritage list.
Whether you're looking for evenings full of laughter during the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, or you’d prefer an outdoor adventure exploring landmarks such as Edinburgh Castle; there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this captivating city. Read on to discover our favourite things to do and see in Edinburgh this summer.
Experience Music and Culture at the Fringe Festival
The Edinburgh Fringe Festival is the biggest performance arts festival in the world and has been celebrated each summer since 1947. You can enjoy this year’s festivities across the city from 4th – 28th of August. Artists from all over the globe fill venues in both the Old and New towns with a variety of different shows to suit every taste. During the Fringe, you can experience routines by comedians, opera singers, exhibitionists and more!
Make sure to visit Edfringe.com before the festival begins to check out the 2023 line-up, book tickets or find a free show.
Explore the Historic Royal Mile
The Royal Mile is found in Edinburgh’s Old Town, a stretch of road beginning with Edinburgh Castle and ending on the doorstep of the Palace of Holyrood House – the Scottish Monarch’s official residence. These two royal landmarks contribute to the Royal Mile’s famous name. You can also take a tour of both famous sites: click here to book tickets for Edinburgh Castle, or click here to book tickets for Holyrood House.
In between, you can also find St Giles Cathedral, which held a historic memorial service for Queen Elizabeth II in 2022; Mary King’s Close, the city under the city; and the Writer’s Museum, home to personal items of three great Scottish writers (including Robert Burns himself!).
Have a Luxury Shopping Spree at Kiltane!
Kiltane is in the heart of it all on the Royal Mile, just a stone’s throw away from the Castle itself. Inside, you can indulge in our range of cashmere and lambswool keepsakes, including timeless knitwear, tailored Harris Tweed, traditional tartan scarves and unique checks all inspired by our Scottish heritage. Our expert team in-store can also offer style advice and help you find the perfect fit.
You can find us on:
336 -340 Lawnmarket, Royal Mile
Edinburgh, EH1 2PH
We’re open from 10am – 7pm daily.
Visit the National Museum of Scotland
Edinburgh is home to the National Museum of Scotland, a free-to-enter institution full of artifacts that tells the story of Scotland’s past and present. The museum also displays a range of collections from different cultures from around the world, the animal kingdom, various industries and so much more. From ancient relics to modern-day marvels, there's something for everyone to learn and enjoy right here in the city centre.
The museum is open from 10 am – 5pm each day. Plan your visit and view the museum map online here.
Explore the Royal Botanic Gardens Edinburgh
The RBGE is world-renowned for its expansive collection of rare plants as well as its innovative research in biodiversity and sustainability. The RBGE’s collection began in 1670 and has grown to house 13,500 different species of plants from all matters of habitats from around the world. The RBGE’s provides a source of knowledge and works to conserve plants, whilst creating beautiful and natural displays of throughout the garden.
The Botanics attract over 1 million visitors every year and is free to visit! Find out more on their website here.
Admire Edinburgh from Arthur's Seat
Arthur’s Seat towers over Edinburgh from the highest point of the city, standing tall at over 800 ft. The hill is formed by a dormant volcano and is situated in Holyrood Park. There are several myths surrounding this historic hill’s name, with many speculating its links to the legendary tales of King Arthur.
The park is free to visit and is open to be explored 24 hours a day with dedicated Park Rangers available on site. Conquering Arthur’s Seat is a challenge that is well rewarded by panoramic views of Scotland’s capital and surrounding areas.
Visit Historic Environment Scotland for details regarding park facilities, guided walks and more.
