Things to do in Edinburgh

Not Just Any Hotel – Only the Best Things to do in Edinburgh, Selected for You!

Jun 17, 2025 - Jun 18, 2025
2 adults, 1 room
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Good (884)

Gladstone's Land

10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Museum
477B Lawnmarket Royal Mile
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Gladstone's Land is a historic 500-year-old building in Edinburgh, showcasing Renaissance interiors and revealing the life of a wealthy merchant from the 17th century.

Duration: 1–2 hours.

Free. Special guided tours may require a booking in advance.

0.84
Good (104)

University of Edinburgh

10:00 AM–5:00 PM
University
EdinburghScotland
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The University of Edinburgh is a public research university established in 1582, located in Edinburgh, Scotland, known for its architectural significance and rich history.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Free entry to some areas; specific events may require a paid ticket.

0.86
Good (2159)

Museum of Childhood

Mo-Sa 10:00-17:00; Su 12:00-17:00
Museum
42 High Street Royal Mille
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Museum of Childhood in Edinburgh features extensive collections of historical toys, dolls, and games, documenting childhood from the 18th century to present day.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Good (16071)

Edinburgh Zoo

9:00 AM–5:30 PM
Zoo
Royal Zoological Society of Scotland
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Edinburgh Zoo, located in Edinburgh, UK, spans 82 acres and houses over 1000 rare animals, including giant pandas and koalas, with various educational programs and activities.

Duration: More than 3 hours.

Adults: £21.50, Children (3-15 years): £15.50, Under 3: Free. Discounts for families and seniors available.

Good (4242)

Dynamic Earth

10:00 AM–5:50 PM
Museum
112 Holyrood Rd
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Our Dynamic Earth in Edinburgh offers an interactive journey from the Big Bang to modern times, featuring a 360-degree dome theatre and engaging exhibits for all ages.

Duration: More than 3 hours.

Paid. Adult tickets: £12, Child tickets: £9, Family ticket options available.

Good (83)
Edinburgh Castle (Castlehill)
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The Royal Scots Dragoon Guards Museum in Edinburgh showcases the history and traditions of the regiment, located within the historic New Barracks of Edinburgh Castle.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Good (1727)

Deep Sea World

Mo-Su,PH 10:00-17:00
Aquarium
Forthside Terrace
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Deep Sea World in North Queensferry, Scotland, features Europe's largest collection of Sand Tiger sharks and a unique underwater tunnel experience for all ages.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Adult: £15.50; Child: £10.50; Family tickets available; discounts for online pre-purchase.

Good (1711)

BT Murrayfield Stadium

10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Stadium
Murrayfield 110 Roseburn Street
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Murrayfield Stadium in Edinburgh, UK, is Scotland's largest sports venue, known for hosting international rugby matches and major concerts.

Duration: 2-3 hours for tours or events.

Varies by event. Major rugby matches typically range from £30-£80.

Good (67)

Edinburgh International Conference Centre

9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Business Center
The Exchange 150 Morrison Street The Exchange Edinburgh
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The Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC) is a modern venue for conferences and events located in central Edinburgh, Scotland.

Duration: 1-2 hours for exhibitions and events.

Entry is generally free for public events; some specific conferences may charge fees.

Good (18042)

Palace of Holyroodhouse

Nov 01-Mar 29 09:30-16:30; Mar 31-Oct 31 09:30-18:00
Castle
Canongate
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The Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh is the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland, rich in history and royal significance.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Adults: £15, Children (5-17): £9, Under 5: Free. Family ticket available.

Good (117)

Omni Centre

10:00 AM–12:00 AM
Mall
Greenside Row
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Omni Centre in Edinburgh, UK, is a premier leisure and entertainment hub featuring restaurants, a cinema, and fitness facilities, perfect for food and fun.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Free. Specific events or cinema tickets may incur charges.

Newhaven Heritage Museum

1:00 PM–4:00 PM
Museum
Pier Place
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Newhaven Heritage Museum in Edinburgh showcases local maritime history, fishing traditions, and community life through artifacts and exhibitions.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some events may require a small fee.

Baberton Golf Club

7:00 AM–dusk
Golf Course
50 Baberton Avenue
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Baberton Golf Club, founded in 1893, features a picturesque 18-hole course designed by renowned architect James Braid set against the backdrop of the Pentland Hills.

Duration: Around 4 hours to complete 18 holes.

Visitor green fees apply. Membership options available.

Good (2607)

Portobello Beach

Open all day
Garden
Portabello Promenade
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Portobello Beach is Edinburgh's sandy seaside area, offering a resort-like atmosphere for locals and visitors alike, ideal for leisurely walks and recreational activities.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. No entry fee is required.

Good (89662)

Edinburgh Castle

Apr 01-Sep 30 09:30-18:00; Oct 01-Dec 23,Dec 27-31,Jan 02-Mar 31 09:30-17:00; Dec 24 09:30-16:00; Jan 01 11:00-17:00; Dec 25-26 off
Museum
Castle Esplanade
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Edinburgh Castle, Scotland’s top paid tourist attraction, showcases a rich history with 12th-century architecture, Crown Jewels, and panoramic city views.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Adults £20, Children £12, Family £54. Discounts available for seniors and students.

Braids Hill Golf Course

7:00 AM–8:00 PM
Golf Course
Braid Hills Approach
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Braids Hill Golf Course in Edinburgh offers a challenging 18-hole layout surrounded by scenic views, making it a top choice for golf enthusiasts.

Duration: Approximately 4 hours.

Paid. Green fees apply for visitors; discounts may be available for groups.

Carrick Knowe Course

7:00 AM–7:00 PM
Golf Course
12 Glendevon Park
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Carrick Knowe Course in Edinburgh offers a rich golfing experience set against scenic landscapes and historic architecture, suitable for all skill levels.

Duration: Approximately 4 hours.

Green fees apply; contact the course for current rates for adults and children.

Craigmillar Park Golf Club

7:00 AM–8:00 PM
Golf Course
1 Observatory Road
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Craigmillar Park Golf Club, founded in 1895 in Edinburgh, UK, offers a challenging 18-hole course with scenic views and rich history, perfect for golf enthusiasts.

Duration: 4 hours.

Green fees apply. Check the club's website for details on costs and membership options.

Duddingston Golf Club

7:00 AM–8:00 PM
Golf Course
Midlothian
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Duddingston Golf Club in Edinburgh features a historic 18-hole course set amidst scenic landscapes, with origins dating back to 1895 and a unique clubhouse design.

Duration: Approximately 4 hours.

Paid. Pricing varies by time of day and type of membership, with discounts for juniors and seniors available.

Edinburgh Playhouse

10:00 AM–6:00 PM
Theater
18-22 Greenside Pl
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Edinburgh Playhouse, a theater in Edinburgh, stages Broadway musicals, concerts, and dance shows. It is the largest working non-sporting theater in the UK.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Tickets vary; check specific events for pricing details.

Good (2)

Heriot-Watt University

9:00 AM–5:00 PM
University
Riccarton
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Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh is renowned for its leadership in global issues and quality teaching, specializing in applied research.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free access to campus facilities, though specific events may require tickets.

Mortonhall Golf Club

7:00 AM–9:00 PM
Golf Course
United Kingdom
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Mortonhall Golf Club in Edinburgh offers an 18-hole course set in picturesque woodlands, founded in 1892 by a local golfer. A historic site for golf enthusiasts.

Duration: Approximately 4 hours.

Green fees apply, check the official website for specific rates.

Good (574)

Ocean Terminal

Mo-Fr 10:00-20:00; Sa 10:00-19:00; Su 11:00-18:00
Mall
Ocean Drive Leith
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Ocean Terminal is Edinburgh's largest shopping centre, featuring a variety of fashion outlets, a cinema, and access to the former Royal Yacht Britannia.

Duration: 2–3 hours.

Free. Some attractions like the Royal Yacht Britannia require a paid ticket.

Silverknowes Golf Course

7:00 AM–7:00 PM
Golf Course
118 Silverknowes Road
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Silverknowes Golf Course, located in Edinburgh, offers a scenic coastal golfing experience with a challenging layout and stunning views of the Firth of Forth.

Duration: Approximately 4 hours.

Green fees apply. Pricing varies by time and age category, with discounts for juniors and seniors.

Leith Theatre

10:00 AM–10:00 PM
Theater
38-30 Ferry Road
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Leith Theatre is a historic venue in Edinburgh, UK, located on Ferry Road, offering a diverse range of performances and events in a unique architectural setting.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Prices vary by event. Some community events are free, while others require a ticket purchase.

Good (1337)

Georgian House

10:00 AM–5:30 PM
Museum
7 Charlotte Square
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The Georgian House offers an immersive look into 18th and 19th century New Town life in Edinburgh, showcasing elaborate architecture and period furnishings.

Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a ticket.

Caiy Stane

Open all day
Garden
United Kingdom
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Caiy Stane is a notable architectural structure located in Edinburgh, Scotland, recognized for its historical significance and unique features, set within beautiful surroundings.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. No special exhibitions or events requiring a paid ticket.

Bavelaw Castle

Open all day
Castle
United Kingdom
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Bavelaw Castle in Edinburgh, UK, features 18th-century architecture, surrounded by scenic nature and rich historical significance.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Access to the castle grounds is complimentary, but guided tours may incur a fee.

Good (4328)

Scott Monument

Mo-Su 10:00-21:00
Monument
East Princes Street Gardens
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Scott Monument in Edinburgh is a 200-foot spire dedicated to Scottish poet Sir Walter Scott, featuring 287 steps and 64 character carvings from his novels.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Good (8365)

Holyrood Park

Open all day
Park
Holyrood Park Education Centre 1 Queen's Drive
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Holyrood Park is a historic landscape in Edinburgh, spanning 263 hectares, offering walking paths, wildlife, and panoramic views from Arthur's Seat.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Some tours and guided experiences may have fees.

Good (18805)

Princes Street Gardens

7:00 AM–10:00 PM
Park
54 Princes Street
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Princes Street Gardens in Edinburgh is a landscaped park known for its public monuments, floral clock, and open-air concert venue, set against the backdrop of Edinburgh Castle.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events at the Ross Bandstand may require a paid ticket.

Swanston Golf Club

7:30 AM–7:00 PM
Golf Course
Swanston
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Swanston Golf Club, established in 1899, is a historic 18-hole course in Edinburgh, surrounded by scenic hills and offering a challenging play for golfers of all levels.

Duration: 2-4 hours, depending on play.

Green fees apply; typical rates are £50 for adults and £25 for juniors.

Liberton Golf Club

7:00 AM–8:00 PM
Golf Course
United Kingdom
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Liberton Golf Club, founded in 1893, offers a challenging 18-hole course in Edinburgh, known for its scenic views and rich golfing history.

Duration: 4-5 hours.

Paid. Day passes for visitors are available; membership options also exist.

Kingsknowe Golf Club

7:00 AM–7:00 PM
Golf Course
326 Lanark Rd. (Juniper Green)
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Kingsknowe Golf Club in Edinburgh offers a challenging 18-hole course, rich history, and scenic views, ideal for golf enthusiasts and casual players alike.

Duration: 3 to 4 hours.

Green fees apply. Check the official website for specific rates.

Ratho Park Golf Club

7:00 AM–8:00 PM
Golf Course
United Kingdom
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Ratho Park Golf Club in Ratho, UK, offers a historic 18-hole course designed by James Braid, surrounded by scenic views and natural parkland.

Duration: Approximately 4-5 hours.

Annual membership and green fees apply. Check the website for specific rates.

Ravelston Golf Club

7:00 AM–9:00 PM
Golf Course
Ravelston Dykes
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Ravelston Golf Club in Edinburgh offers a historic 18-hole course designed by the notable architect James Braid, known for its picturesque landscapes and challenging play.

Duration: Approximately 4 hours.

Access is exclusive; all visitors need to be accompanied by a club member.

Murrayfield Golf Club Ltd

7:00 AM–6:00 PM
Golf Course
United Kingdom
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Murrayfield Golf Club Ltd, established in 1899, offers a challenging 18-hole course set against a backdrop of scenic landscapes in Edinburgh, UK.

Duration: More than 4 hours.

Membership required; green fees apply for non-members.

0.86
Good (1761)

Museum of Edinburgh

Mo-Sa 10:00-17:00; Aug: Su 12:00-17:00
Museum
142 Canongate Royal Mile
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The Museum of Edinburgh showcases the city's history through iconic objects, housed in 16th-century Huntly House, featuring a unique audiovisual presentation.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

0.86
Good (959)

The Writers' Museum

We-Sa 10:00-17:00; Su 12:00-17:00; Mo-Tu 10:00-17:00
Museum
Lady Stairs House Lady Stair's Close Lawnmarket Lawnmarket
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The Writers Museum in Edinburgh showcases the lives of famous Scottish authors Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson, featuring rare manuscripts and personal exhibits.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Good (166)

Inverleith Park

07:00 AM–8:00 PM
Park
Inverleith Park Arboretum Place
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Inverleith Park in Edinburgh features expansive green spaces, stunning flower gardens, and scenic views of the city, providing a perfect respite for families and visitors.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free.

Good (47)
Royal Observatory Blackford Hill
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The Royal Observatory Edinburgh is a key astronomical institution featuring a university research group, UK Research Council establishment, and Visitor Centre on Blackford Hill.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events and group visits may require pre-booking.

Good (216)

Canongate Kirk

10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Church
153 Canongate
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Canongate Kirk in Edinburgh, Scotland, founded in 1688, serves the local parish and features graves of notable figures like Adam Smith and Robert Fergusson.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Special events may require a paid ticket.

Good (372)

John Knox House

10:00 AM–6:00 PM
Museum
Scottish Storytelling Centre
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John Knox House Museum, dating back to 1470, showcases Scotland's Reformation history within Edinburgh's oldest surviving tenement.

Duration: About 1.5 hours.

Adult - £6, Concession - £5, Children over 7 - £1, Children under 7 - Free.

0.9
Good (273)

The Parish Church of St Cuthbert

9:30 AM–6:00 PM
Church
5 Lothian Rd.
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The Parish Church of St Cuthbert, founded around 1100, is the oldest Christian site in Edinburgh, featuring 19th-century architecture and regular worship services.

Duration: 1–2 hours.

Free. Regular worship services do not require a ticket.

Good (17388)

Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

10:00 AM–5:50 PM
Museum
20 Inverleith Row
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Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh spans 72 acres, founded in 1670, showcasing diverse plant life and notable architecture in the heart of Scotland's capital.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a ticket.

Good (1437)
Melville Nursery
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Edinburgh Butterfly and Insect World features a tropical habitat showcasing various insects, snakes, and spiders, making it a popular family attraction in Scotland.

Duration: 2–3 hours.

Adults £8, Children £5. Family tickets available.