Edinburgh’s Top 10 Tourist Sites to Visit in the Summer
Edinburgh is a city full of history, character and creativity. In summer, its streets, parks and waterfront fill with energy as visitors and locals explore everything the city has to offer. From world famous landmarks to peaceful hidden corners, Edinburgh has something for everyone. Here are ten of the best places to discover during the summer months.
Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle is the most famous landmark in the city. It sits high above Edinburgh on Castle Rock, which is a volcanic formation that is more than 350 million years old. The castle itself is much younger and can be traced back to the 12th century. Once you enter the castle grounds through the Royal Mile, you can enjoy beautiful views of the city. If you arrive late in the morning, you may hear the famous One O’Clock Gun being fired. Inside, you can also see the Crown Jewels of Scotland and the Stone of Destiny, which are important symbols of British royalty. Another highlight is Saint Margaret’s Chapel, a small building from around 1130 built by King David I and named after his mother. Castle tickets often sell out in summer, so it is best to book them early.
The Royal Mile
The Royal Mile is one of the most famous streets in Edinburgh and a great place to buy souvenirs. You can find inexpensive items like magnets and mugs, as well as more luxurious gifts such as cashmere clothing or Celtic jewellery. The street offers more than shopping, however. Two popular free museums are found here: the Museum of Childhood, which displays toys, books, games, and clothes from the 1700s to today, and the Writers’ Museum, which celebrates Scotland’s best‑known writers, including Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott and Robert Louis Stevenson. As you walk along the street, you will also see the impressive St Giles’ Cathedral. Although it has been changed many times, its origins go back to 1124, during the reign of King David I.
Palace of Holyroodhouse
At the bottom of the Royal Mile is the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the British monarchy in Scotland. Although it is mainly used for formal ceremonies and events, such as the large Holyrood Week Garden Party held every summer, it is open to visitors throughout the year. Inside, visitors can explore the historic rooms, including the bedchamber of Mary Queen of Scots. It was in a nearby room where she witnessed the murder of her close friend and secretary, David Rizzio, in 1566. After exploring the palace, many people walk through Holyrood Abbey, where some former Scottish monarchs were buried, including King James V. The surrounding gardens are lovely in summer, and after your visit you can enjoy lunch or afternoon tea at the Café at the Palace.
Arthur’s Seat and Salisbury Crags
Holyrood Park is home to Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano that last erupted about 340 million years ago, as well as the dramatic Salisbury Crags. Many myths and legends surround this hill, including stories that it may have been the location of the mythical Camelot. In the past, young women climbed the hill early on May Day morning to wash their faces in the dew, hoping it would make them more beautiful. There were also strange discoveries in the 1800s, including miniature coffins and dolls hidden in a cave, which added to the hill’s mysterious reputation. Today, Arthur’s Seat is prized mainly for its wonderful views over the city. The walk to the top can be steep, but the Salisbury Crags offer an easier alternative with similar views. The area is very popular with walkers, and you will also spot a range of wildlife along your way.
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
The Royal Botanic Garden was founded in 1670 as a place to grow medicinal plants. Today, it covers 70 acres and is one of the world’s most important scientific gardens, working on conservation projects both in Scotland and overseas. Entry is free, although some special exhibitions require a small fee, and any money you spend supports valuable environmental research. During the summer months, the garden is filled with colour. The Herbaceous Border and the Queen Mother’s Memorial Garden are especially beautiful. One of the garden’s most famous trees, a huge Himalayan cedar that was approximately 100 feet tall and 166 years old, sadly fell during Storm Éowyn in early 2025. Its stump remains as a reminder of the power of nature.
Mary King’s Close
Mary King’s Close is a set of underground streets and old houses beneath Edinburgh’s Old Town. They date back to the 17th century and can only be visited with a guided tour. The tours take visitors through the dark, narrow lanes and show what life was like hundreds of years ago. Some tours feature actors playing former residents, making the experience feel very real. Many people believe the Close is haunted, but some historians think that the strange sights and feelings might have been caused by toxic gases from the polluted Nor Loch, a marsh that used to lie nearby. Whether haunted or not, Mary King’s Close is an atmospheric place to explore, especially on a rainy summer day.
The Royal Yacht Britannia
The Royal Yacht Britannia was once the floating residence of the British Royal Family. It sailed for more than 40 years, travelling over one million nautical miles before being retired in 1997. Now permanently docked in Leith, it is one of the most popular attractions in the UK. Visitors can explore five different decks, including the royal apartments, where the family relaxed during long journeys. You can also see the crew’s living quarters and the engine room, which help you understand how more than 200 crew members worked together to operate the ship. After the tour, many people enjoy a drink or snack in the Royal Deck Tearoom, which overlooks Leith’s waterfront.
Dean Village
Dean Village is a quiet and picturesque area beside the Water of Leith. It dates back to the 12th century and was once the centre of Edinburgh’s grain‑milling industry. After the industry declined, a major fire in 1824 further damaged the area. Today, Dean Village is known for its peaceful atmosphere and charming old buildings, which make it feel like a scene from a fairytale. However, it is still a residential area, so take care not to disturb the people who live there.
Portobello Beach
Portobello Beach is only about 40 minutes from the city centre by bus. It has two miles of soft, golden sand and is a lovely place for a walk along the seaside. When you are done walking, you can visit the promenade or the high street, where you will find cafés, restaurants, small shops, and art galleries. On the first Saturday of each month, Brighton Park hosts a local market where independent makers sell crafts, food and artwork. The beach is also a popular place to swim during heatwaves, but it is important to check the Scottish Environment Protection Agency’s website to make sure the water is clean and safe. Even in summer, the sea is very cold, with an average temperature of around 13°C.
Greyfriars Kirk
Greyfriars Kirk is a historic church built in 1620, and it was the first new church built in Edinburgh after the Scottish Reformation. It is free to enter, although donations are appreciated. Inside, visitors can learn about its history and its most famous story: the tale of Greyfriars Bobby, a loyal dog who stayed by his owner’s grave for 14 years after his death. A small statue of Bobby stands outside the church. Many tourists rub the statue’s nose for good luck, although some locals dislike this tradition, as it damages the statue. The kirkyard around the church is open day and night and is a peaceful place for a stroll. On warm days, many visitors enjoy ice cream from Alandas, a Scottish family‑run gelato shop beside the church.
