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Best Things to do in Edinburgh (2026)

Some of the most memorable things to do in Edinburgh involve going underground, climbing up or slowing down. The Real Mary King's Close leads you through a 17th-century street buried beneath the Royal Mile on a guided tour of about an hour, and children under five are not admitted. Further up the Mile on Castlehill, Camera Obscura and World of Illusions combines a Victorian camera show with floors of hands-on illusions and a rooftop terrace, while the Scotch Whisky Experience offers whisky tours for adults and a family-friendly option. All three are easy to combine with a morning at the castle.

For a slower pace, follow the Water of Leith Walkway through Dean Village to Stockbridge, a gentle riverside walk that feels far from the city centre even though it is only minutes from the West End. On Sundays, Stockbridge Market brings independent food and craft stalls to Saunders Street, and it sits right beside the walkway, so the two make a natural pairing. Book the timed attractions on the Royal Mile in advance in summer and during the August festivals, when slots fill quickly, and keep a wet-weather option in mind, as Edinburgh's weather changes fast.

5 places · Updated November 12, 2026

Our top 3 things to do in Edinburgh

  1. The Real Mary King’s Close Underground guided tour, Old TownGuided tours through a preserved 17th-century street hidden beneath the Royal Mile, led by costumed guides who tell the stories of the close's residents.
  2. Camera Obscura and World of Illusions Optical illusions attraction and rooftop viewpoint, Old TownA Victorian camera obscura and floors of hands-on optical illusions on Castlehill, topped by a rooftop terrace with panoramic views over Edinburgh.
  3. The Scotch Whisky Experience Whisky tour and tasting, Old TownGuided whisky tours and tastings on Castlehill, with the 3,384-bottle Diageo Claive Vidiz Collection and the Amber restaurant and whisky bar.