Things to do in Edinburgh

Edinburgh, nestled in the heart of Scotland, offers a myriad of activities to suit every taste. History enthusiasts can explore the impressive Edinburgh Castle, steeped in centuries of history and serving as a royal residence since at least the 12th century, or wander through the medieval streets of the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site rich with stories from the past.

Art aficionados will delight in the city's vibrant cultural scene, with must-visit spots like the Scottish National Gallery showcasing both contemporary and classic artwork. For those seeking outdoor adventures, the nearby Pentland Hills and Arthur's Seat, an ancient volcano and one of the city's most famous landmarks, provide opportunities for hiking, cycling, and panoramic views of the city. Foodies will relish the eclectic culinary scene, from traditional Scottish pubs serving hearty meals to upscale restaurants offering gourmet Scottish cuisine.

What's included for Things to do in Edinburgh

Great Days Out in Edinburgh

Edinburgh offers a plethora of activities and days out that promise excitement and fun for visitors of all ages. Adventure seekers can unleash their inner adventurer at Go Ape Dalkeith Edinburgh, where they can navigate exhilarating treetop courses featuring zip lines, Tarzan swings, and high ropes. With various courses tailored to different skill levels, participants can test their agility, strength, and bravery in an unforgettable outdoor setting. 

For those intrigued by the darker side of history, The Edinburgh Dungeon provides a spine-chilling experience filled with interactive exhibits, live actors, and thrilling rides. From exploring the city's grisly past to witnessing dramatic reenactments, visitors can immerse themselves in a theatrical journey that promises to both entertain and frighten.

Additionally, families can enjoy a day of active fun at Gravity Fountain Park, Edinburgh, where trampoline courts, climbing walls, and other gravity-defying attractions cater to all ages. With a wide range of activities designed to keep everyone moving and entertained, Gravity Fountain Park ensures a dynamic and exciting day out for the whole family. Whether you’re swinging through the trees, delving into dark history, or bouncing to new heights, Edinburgh offers a diverse range of experiences that guarantee an unforgettable adventure.

Escape Rooms and VR in Edinburgh

Embark on an exhilarating journey into the realms of mystery and imagination with Edinburgh's diverse array of escape rooms and virtual reality experiences. Dive headfirst into thrilling narratives and immersive scenarios as you and your team decipher clues, solve puzzles, and race against the clock to escape from intricately designed rooms at venues like Escape Edinburgh and Locked In Edinburgh. Whether you're a seasoned sleuth or a newcomer to the world of escape rooms, Edinburgh offers a variety of themed challenges to suit every taste and skill level.

For those seeking a more futuristic adventure, step into the immersive world of virtual reality at The Realm VR. Here, you can battle alien invaders, explore enchanted landscapes, or embark on adrenaline-pumping simulations. With its blend of innovation and entertainment, The Realm VR promises an unforgettable thrill ride for adventurers of all ages, offering a cutting-edge experience that transports you to new and exciting worlds.

Motorsports in Edinburgh

While Edinburgh may not be synonymous with motorsports, adrenaline junkies and racing enthusiasts can still get their fix in and around the city. Xtreme Karting Edinburgh offers high-speed thrills on challenging tracks, perfect for competitive racing with friends or family. For those seeking an off-road adventure, Scottish Quads provides exhilarating quad bike treks through rugged terrain, offering a unique way to experience the great outdoors. Additionally, MadMax Adventures caters to thrill-seekers with exciting 4x4 off-road driving experiences, where participants can tackle challenging obstacles in powerful vehicles.

These activities ensure there's something for every motorsport enthusiast in Edinburgh and its surrounding areas. Whether you're navigating rugged terrain on a quad bike, tackling challenging courses in an off-road vehicle, or enjoying high-speed karting action, Edinburgh's motorsport activities provide plenty of excitement and adrenaline-fueled fun for all.

Combat Zone in Edinburgh

For those seeking an adrenaline-fueled thrill, Edinburgh boasts a diverse array of combat sports and target activities sure to satisfy any enthusiast. Test your tactical prowess and teamwork skills with exhilarating games of paintball at Bedlam Paintball Edinburgh, where immersive scenarios and state-of-the-art equipment promise an unforgettable experience for players of all levels. Alternatively, venture into the futuristic battlegrounds of Laser Station Edinburgh for heart-pounding laser tag battles, where interactive gameplay and advanced technology transport you to the front lines of epic skirmishes.

For urban adventurers looking for a unique thrill, Black Axe Throwing Co. in Edinburgh offers an exciting axe-throwing experience. Step into the excitement of axe throwing and immerse yourself in this ancient art right in the midst of Edinburgh's vibrant streets. Whether you're a fan of the adrenaline rush from paintball, the futuristic vibes of laser tag, or the precision challenge of target sports, Edinburgh's urban combat sports and target activities scene has it all, promising an electrifying experience for all who dare to join in.

On The Water in Edinburgh

For those seeking an adventurous escape, Edinburgh and its surroundings offer a range of exciting outdoor activities that promise to immerse you in nature's beauty. Edinburgh Boat Charters provides an exceptional aquatic experience, where you can sail the serene waters of the Firth of Forth, enjoying breath-taking views and perhaps spotting local wildlife. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day on the water or a thrilling sailing adventure, Edinburgh Boat Charters has something for everyone.

For those who prefer land-based excitement, Scotland's Canyons offers thrilling canyoning experiences that take you through stunning gorges and waterfalls. Guided by experts, participants can rappel down cliffs, slide down natural water slides, and plunge into crystal-clear pools, making for an adrenaline-pumping adventure amidst Scotland's rugged landscape.

Additionally, Biggar Adventures caters to outdoor enthusiasts with a variety of activities, including hiking, rock climbing, and mountain biking. Whether you're trekking through scenic trails, scaling rocky crags, or navigating challenging bike routes, Biggar Adventures ensures a memorable experience for adventurers of all skill levels. Whether you're sailing, canyoning, or exploring the great outdoors, Edinburgh and its surroundings provide an array of exhilarating activities that promise an unforgettable adventure.

Aerial Adventures in Edinburgh

Experience the thrill of flight with East of Scotland Microlights, Skydive St Andrews, and the Scottish Gliding Centre. At East of Scotland Microlights, you can take to the skies with a paramotoring lesson, where expert instructors will guide you through the basics of piloting a powered paraglider, letting you command the controls and feel the exhilaration of flight.

For a different kind of aerial adventure, Skydive St Andrews offers an exhilarating skydive experience, giving you the chance to leap from an aircraft and enjoy an incredible freefall before safely landing back on solid ground.

Meanwhile, the Scottish Gliding Centre invites you to enjoy the serene experience of gliding. With introductory flights and courses available, you'll get a peaceful and panoramic view of the Edinburgh countryside from a glider. Whether you're seeking the thrill of paramotoring, the excitement of skydiving, or the tranquillity of gliding, these activities offer unforgettable experiences in Scotland's skies.

Culture and Tours in Edinburgh

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of history and culture that permeates every corner of Edinburgh, a city steeped in centuries of heritage and tradition. Begin your journey through time at Edinburgh Castle, a majestic fortress offering panoramic views of the city and housing the Crown Jewels of Scotland, providing a poignant glimpse into the nation's royal past.

For a deeper exploration of the city's storied history, embark on a Yaldi Tour. These guided tours, led by knowledgeable locals, take you through Edinburgh's most iconic landmarks and hidden gems, sharing tales of medieval monarchs, Enlightenment thinkers, and the city's vibrant cultural evolution. To experience the city at your own pace, the City Sightseeing Hop On Hop Off Edinburgh bus tour is an excellent option. This flexible tour allows you to explore various attractions, including the Palace of Holyrood House, the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland, where you can wander through the State Apartments and delve into the history of the royal family in Scotland.

Whether you're admiring the majestic views from Edinburgh Castle, uncovering hidden stories with Yaldi Tours, or enjoying the convenience of the hop-on-hop-off bus, Edinburgh's history and culture promise a fascinating journey through the annals of time.

Wildlife and Sealife in Edinburgh

Edinburgh's natural beauty offers a wealth of opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts. Begin your journey at Beirhope Alpacas, where you can interact closely with these charming animals. Enjoy peaceful guided walks through scenic landscapes with friendly alpacas, providing a unique and relaxing way to immerse yourself in nature.

For a captivating marine experience, visit Deep Sea World in North Queensferry. This attraction features an array of local and global marine life, from impressive sharks and rays to engaging interactive exhibits. It’s a great way to explore the underwater world just a short drive from Edinburgh’s city centre.

Edinburgh Zoo adds another layer to your wildlife adventure, home to a diverse collection of animals from around the globe. Wander through the zoo’s expansive grounds to observe a variety of species in well-designed habitats, offering insights into their lives and conservation efforts. Whether you’re walking with alpacas, discovering marine marvels, or exploring the zoo’s animal kingdom, Edinburgh provides unforgettable ways to connect with nature and wildlife.

Adventure and Theme Parks in Edinburgh

Edinburgh offers a dynamic range of adventure experiences with attractions like Ninja Warrior UK Adventure Edinburgh. At Ninja Warrior UK Adventure Edinburgh, you can immerse yourself in an exhilarating obstacle course inspired by the famous TV show. This venue challenges your agility and strength with a variety of exciting obstacles, providing a thrilling experience for both seasoned athletes and casual adventurers.

For those seeking more outdoor excitement, G2 Outdoor delivers with its array of high-energy activities, including heart-pounding watersports and an impressive high ropes course. Meanwhile, Foxlake Adventures offers a unique mix of water-based fun and aerial challenges in a picturesque setting. From wakeboarding to navigating the aerial ropes course, Foxlake provides a day full of adrenaline and adventure. These attractions make Edinburgh a prime destination for thrill-seekers looking for unforgettable experiences.

Free Things to do in Edinburgh

Explore the wealth of free activities awaiting you in Edinburgh, where adventure and relaxation come without a price tag. Take a leisurely stroll through the enchanting Holyrood Park, where rugged hills, tranquil lochs, and historic ruins provide a serene backdrop for exploration and contemplation. Alternatively, immerse yourself in nature at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, where you can wander through diverse plant collections and enjoy peaceful moments amid beautiful landscapes.

Dive into the vibrant atmosphere of Grassmarket, a historic market square nestled beneath Edinburgh Castle. Here, you can browse stalls filled with local produce, unique crafts, and delicious street food, all while soaking up the lively ambiance of this bustling marketplace. Immerse yourself in the city's cultural heritage with Free Tours in Edinburgh. These tours offer a unique opportunity to explore the city's rich history, architectural marvels, and hidden gems, all guided by knowledgeable locals who bring Edinburgh's stories to life.

Eating Out and Places to Stay in Edinburgh

Dining in Edinburgh is a culinary adventure with a diverse array of options to tantalize your taste buds. Experience the city's vibrant bar scene by visiting Cask Smugglers, known for its inventive cocktails and lively atmosphere. For a cozy, eclectic dining experience, Under The Stairs offers a unique menu in a charming, intimate setting. Bar Tonic stands out with its creative drinks and relaxed vibe, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. Whether you're savoring sophisticated cocktails or enjoying delectable dishes, Edinburgh's dining scene promises a gastronomic journey for every palate.

For a comfortable stay in Edinburgh, Sykes Holiday Cottages offer an excellent selection of accommodations. Choose from charming city-centre apartments, cosy countryside retreats, or spacious family homes, all fully equipped with modern amenities for a relaxing stay. Whether you prefer the city buzz or countryside tranquillity, Sykes Holiday Cottages provide easy access to Edinburgh's attractions while offering a peaceful retreat to return to at the end of the day.

Local Events & Festivals in Edinburgh

Edinburgh hosts a vibrant array of events and festivals celebrating its rich cultural diversity. The Edinburgh International Festival is renowned for its vibrant parades, music, dance, and global cuisine, attracting thousands annually. The Edinburgh Fringe Festival, one of the world's largest arts festivals, draws performers and audiences from around the globe, transforming the city into a lively hub of creativity and entertainment with shows in various venues.

Another highlight is the Edinburgh International Film Festival, one of the longest-running film festivals in the world, showcasing a diverse selection of international cinema. The Edinburgh Hogmanay Celebration marks the Scottish New Year with spectacular fireworks, live music, and traditional festivities, drawing visitors from near and far to ring in the new year in style. These events highlight Edinburgh's dynamic arts scene and its commitment to celebrating diversity, creativity, and cultural heritage.

Summary for Things to do in Edinburgh

Edinburgh, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse array of activities, promises an unforgettable experience for all visitors. Whether you're exploring ancient landmarks, indulging in culinary delights, or immersing yourself in art and culture, the city captivates every traveler with its charm and diversity. From strolling through historic sites to embarking on outdoor adventures, Edinburgh offers a journey of discovery and delight.

We hope this information has been helpful. Edinburgh warmly invites you to explore, experience, and create lasting memories in this dynamic city nestled in Scotland's heart. With its thriving cultural scene, historical landmarks, and diverse culinary offerings, Edinburgh truly has something to offer everyone.