Old Town Edinburgh: Top 10 Stops for Your Day Tour

Do you want to feel the magic of cobblestone streets, historic landmarks, and quirky little alleys? Welcome to Edinburgh’s old town. This place is a real-life storybook in itself. Whether you are a history buff or someone who loves perfect photo spots, follow my one-day itinerary to one of my favorite parts of the capital city of Scotland: Edinburgh its majestic, authentic old town.

Well, this whole city is a perfect blend of all those fairytales we all have dreamt about in childhood, where the ancient castle standing on rock looms overhead like a dancing diva and the beauty of royal mile with all those fantastic shops selling everything from haggis flavored snacks to kilts. alright, I know you have already started dreaming but now close your eyes and imagine those street performances in full bagpipe glory.

So tighten your seatbelt and get ready to ride the enchanting Rollercoaster ride of history, mystery, and the right amount of whimsy, don’t be so excited that you forget your umbrellas and raincoats don’t.

1. Edinburgh Castle

Are you ready to start one of the most magical days of your life in Edinburgh’s old town with a showstopper that even devils are afraid of. Standing on the castle rocks as if handpicked by the gods it is a done deal of history and grandeur. Walk straight into the medieval blockbuster of kings, queens, and battles standing for over 900 years. 

The must-watch here is the crown jewels the shiny royal bling, the stone of destiny which the Scottish kings were desperate to sit upon, the great hall a spectacular medieval banquet room, or medieval Pinterest if you are a history buff and want to witness Scotland’s military history you can go to National War museum within the castle.

Love exploring historic landmarks? After Edinburgh Castle, take a road trip along Scotland’s North Coast 500 for stunning castles and scenic routes.

I heard this from one of the locals there about the famous 1 O’clock gun. Yes, a gun is fired boom every day at 1 p.m. except Sundays from the castle ramparts, a tradition followed since 1861. Originally, this was a way for ships in the Firth of Forth to synchronize their clocks. Additionally, for a different angle, you can head down to the Princess Street Garden for a picture of the castle on the rock.

It will always be my recommendation to prebook your tickets beforehand for the castle visit, as there are limited slots and they are almost booked out on the same day. The tickets will cost you around 19.50-22.00 pounds, depending on the variety of categories. The castle’s opening time is from 09:30 a.m. to 05:00 p.m. Make sure you plan your visit and spend 2.5 to 3 hours, as this majestic castle will take your time with its beauty.

2. St Giles’ Cathedral

A very short walk from Edinburgh Castle is the St Giles Cathedral often known as the High Kirk of Edinburgh, don’t you stop here from reading the word cathedral it is not a Sunday morning place, please as it’s not just a cathedral it is a heart of Scottish Reformation.

It is not a must-visit place because of its gothic architecture but because of its standing history of 900 years and the aura which will make you feel like you have found a hidden pocket of heaven and the best part is that this place is for FREE.

The exterior architecture of the cathedral is impressive but the moment you step in the sheer beauty of Gothic art stained-glass windows and intricate stonework will hit your heart. Make sure you visit the real jewel of St Giles the Thistle Chapel a crown jewel of photos for blessing your feed. 

Alright now I will give you the task to spot the angel playing the bagpipes on the walls -yes that’s right even the angles host the bagpipes you are in Scotland anyway. This place holds a very soothing aura the calmness will request you to stay here for a bit longer.

The safest time to visit this place will be between 09:00 am to 05:00 pm.

3. Advocates Close

Alright, let me explain to you what a close is in Scotland. It’s a simple passage between buildings that connects two streets, but this close holds years of history and countless stories within its ancient walls. Additionally, this close offers a perfect blend of breathtaking views. It was built in the 16^th century and named after the early residents of this place, the advocates or lawyers, from whom the name came.

It’s a golden mine for photography lovers as the view of Scott Monument is framed perfectly by the close descending steps specially popular on social media and it is one of the most pictured spots in Edinburgh.

This place is very close to the Giles’ Cathedral and it connects the Royal Mile to Cockburn Street. I recommend visiting at an odd time because I waited in the queue to capture my perfect shot. I would say this tiny piece of Edinburgh speaks volumes about the city’s layered history.

4. Real Mary’s King Close

Let’s give our time to the mysterious and spooky underground town of Edinburgh right beneath the royal mile, I can guarantee this place will give you chills, thrills, and nervous laughs. So, grab your sense of adventure and deep dive into the world of history where ghost stories are there in every corner.

Edinburgh started to build around this close and eventually, they got buried. There are 3 major horror stories here let me give you a quick overview of the spookiest one. There is still considered to be a little girl named Annie who haunts the close there is a back story that her family abandoned her during the plague. I know that’s creepy, but visitors bring her dolls, so she gets plenty of company and toys.

Book your tickets way in advance as its one of the most important attractions of the town, it opens from 10am to 5pm daily. The tickets start from 21 pounds for adults and 14.95 for kids. You are going to take the best of spooky stories for those nights with you friends and cousins along with some serious good pictures with the plague doctor Statue (go there and figure out what is this now?).

5. Camera Obscura & World of Illusions

Can you imagine a place where optical illusions meet science experiments, where everything around you is moving—the floor, mirror, except your legs? You can spend hours and hours in this five-story magic building, where you will be attracted by the illusions, holograms, and interactive exhibits. I can guarantee you never get enough of The Ames rooms or mirror maze.

Leave your logic at the door when you enter here and get ready to confuse and amuse yourself.

There are 4 major attractions in this place first being The Camera Obscure show where you will witness the unique real-time view of Edinburgh street through original 1835 optical device I would call it a running medieval Netflix. Second being vortex tunnel where the walls will make your mind rotate on a stationary bridge and you will not stop laughing because of the balance.

The next stop is the Mirror Maze, a labyrinth of reflections that challenges you to find the way out without colliding with a “clone” (or an equally confused friend). Finally, end your journey on the Rooftop Terrace, where panoramic views of the Old Town skyline await, making it one of the best photo ops in the city.

The magic starts at 9:30 am and finish at 07:00 pm you have to book tickets in advance which will cost you £19.50 for adults and discounted price for seniors, kids and students. You can spend a day here but ideal time would be 1.5 to 2 hours for completing everything .

6. National Museum of Scotland

You cannot skip a museum when you are on your vacation in the United Kingdom, the museum hold a corner stone in their culture and this beautiful place Is worth giving your time. This museum is divided into 2 parts the royal museum building and the newer Scottish gallery wing. If you want to get rid of the famous Scottish rain without spending a single penny(yes this is free) this a solid gateway for you. It will be my personal recommendation to carry yourself a map otherwise you will get lost and wear your most comfortable shoes because there is a lot to explore.

The major attractions include Dolly the sheep-the world’s first cloned mammal and perhaps the museums most famous resident, preserved in all her woolly glory, then you can step in the Natural World galleries where the sheer scale of history unfolds from T-rex skeleton to life sized pandas, meteorites and exotic taxidermy.

Next comes The Scottish History and Archaeology Galleries take you through Scotland’s epic past. Here, you’ll find the famous Lewis Chessmen medieval chess pieces carved with expressive Viking-like faces, plus ancient relics from Mary, Queen of Scots, all showcasing Scotland’s royal and cultural heritage.

Fashion lovers can admire historical and contemporary styles in the Fashion and Style exhibit, a runway through the ages. Meanwhile, science buffs will love the Science and Technology Galleries with interactive exhibits exploring everything from space exploration to engineering.

The museum opens daily from 10 am to 5 pm you can visit their official website for more accurate hours, this place is free you can directly enter here no reservations are required, and on average you will spend 2-3 hours in this place. If you are a fan of free attractions like National museum of Scotland, you’ll enjoy exploring our guide on London for free-Top 10 things to Do.

7. Greyfriars Kirkyard and Greyfriars Bobby

Before entering the kirkyard, you have to meet the most loyal celebrity pub, Greyfriars Bobby. You’ll spot his statue just outside the kirkyard. He stood guard by his master’s grave for 14 years, rain or shine. His heartwarming dedication has made him a local legend. People still leave flowers, sticks, and dog treats at this statue, and yes, you should rub his nose for LUCK.

Once you’ve paid your tribute to Bobby, you can wander through the kirkyard gates and into the history-soaked graveyard of Greyfriars. This isn’t your average cemetery; Greyfriars is practically bursting with tales of hauntings, historical intrigue, and even a bit of Harry Potter magic. The place has existed since the 1560s, so naturally, it’s had a while to collect legends. Look around for the tombstone of Thomas Riddell, said to have inspired J.K. Rowling’s infamous Voldemort.

This place is open 24/7, so feel free to visit anytime (though daylight does make it easier to spot those hidden Harry Potter gems). There is no entry fee. Allow yourself 2-3 hours to explore, and then head to Greyfriars Bobby’s Bar for a cozy drink.

8. Grass Market

This beautiful market nestled beneath the imposing Edinburgh castle has a fascinating history as the city’s main trading hub since the 14^th century. Once bustling with selling cattle, horses, and fresh produce, it also served as a notorious execution site. Today, remnants of its dark past, such as the Maggie Dickson plaque commemorating the “Half-Hangit Maggie,” coexist with vibrant shops and cafés, adding an air of intrigue to the area. Edinburgh has plenty of delicious yet affordable meal options – discover them here in 10 Best Cheap Eats Edinburgh | Budget Meals Under £15

The major attractions of this market include:

Harry Potter shops like Museum Context and The Boy Wizard

Maison de moggy-Scotland’s first cat café. A perfect escape for cat lovers, it’s wise to reserve a spot due to its popularity.

St. Cuthbert’s Church: This stunning Gothic church, dating back to 1127, offers a peaceful retreat with beautiful architecture and views of Edinburgh Castle.

West Port Garden: A hidden gem for some greenery, this serene garden is ideal for a picnic or a moment of relaxation, especially during spring and summer.

Armchair Bookshop: This charming independent bookstore offers a cozy atmosphere to browse a curated selection of books, perfect for book lovers seeking a quiet moment.

Red Door Gallery: Located nearby, this gallery features contemporary art and handmade crafts, showcasing the work of local artists and providing a unique shopping experience.

Pub Hopping: Explore historic pubs like The White Hart Inn and The Last Drop, each steeped in history and offering a wide range of local brews. The Last Drop’s name pays homage to the area’s darker past.

Weekend Market: Every Saturday, the Grass market transforms into a lively farmer’s market from 10 am to 5 pm, showcasing fresh produce, artisan crafts, and local snacks. It’s a delightful way to immerse yourself in local culture.

Grass Market is open all day take your self 3-4 hours to explore all the spots thoroughly. The Grass Market’s history complements the elegance of the the new town check out our complete guide to New Town Edinburgh Things To Do: Top 10 Attractions.

9.  Vennel Viewpoint

This place feels as if it’s plucked straight away from the painting, a hidden gem with a touch of magic. Located down a narrow stairway near Grassmarket, this staircase leads you through the city’s quitter corners until, suddenly Edinburgh’s castle bursts into view, towering above the rooftops.

 The best time to visit this place is right before the sunset. The golden hour casts a warm glow across the castle walls, and the city below seems to hold its breath. It’s one of those moments where time slows, and you can feel the magic of Edinburgh sinking in.

Snap a photo, but don’t rush off just yet. Let yourself linger, drinking in the view as the last rays of sunlight give way to the cool, dusky twilight. This viewpoint is a quiet finale to a day of adventure, a perfect place to reflect on everything you’ve seen, felt, and discovered in Edinburgh’s captivating Old Town. The Vennel viewpoint is just one of Top 10 instagrammable places in Edinburgh you just can not miss.

10. Cowgate, including Elephant House Cafe and South Bridges

Cowgate is a hidden area under the royal mile, a place with a gritty charm and underground vibe often bustling with nightlife, it’s a hub of Edinburgh’s bar and music scene perfect for an evening detour. once a route for the cattle hence the name. The famous pub here is Three sister pub which is quite renowned for its live music.

If you head up from Cowgate, George IV Bridge and the South Bridge bring you back into the heart of Old Town’s daily hum. The bridges not only offer sweeping views over Edinburgh’s undulating landscape but are also home to quirky shops and cafés.

Don’t miss The Elephant House café, rumored to be where J.K. Rowling started her magical journey writing Harry Potter. For book lovers, the National Library of Scotland nearby is an absolute treat, offering a quiet haven for a midday break.

Edinburgh’s Old Town is pure magic—from epic castles to hidden alleys with centuries-old secrets. Whether you’re into history, or ghost stories, or just want that perfect photo, this place has something unforgettable around every corner. So grab this guide, pack a sense of adventure, and get ready to make some amazing memories in one of Scotland’s most enchanting spots. Happy exploring!