7 Amazing Things To Do In Old Town Edinburgh
Old Town Edinburgh is packed with history, cobblestone streets, & surprises at every turn.
During my recent 4-day trip, I set out to explore it all. Here’s my list of 7 Amazing Things to Do in Old Town Edinburgh that you won’t want to miss on your next visit.
1. Explore The Royal Mile
The Royal Mile is the beating heart of Old Town Edinburgh.
But it’s not actually a mile! It’s a Scots mile, at 1.13 miles long.
Touristy? Sure, but it’s popular for good reason.
The street is lined with landmark historic buildings, cobblestones, and over 80 narrow passageways called “closes.”
You’ll find restaurants, cafes and tourist shops here, as well as some of Edinburgh’s smaller museums.
During the day, the Royal Mile buzzes with street performers, and you’re sure to hear the sound of bagpipes.
After dark, a walk along the Royal Mile will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a Gothic novel!
2. Discover Edinburgh’s Hidden Closes
With over 80+ of these passageways, don’t try to see them all! Here are the ones I recommend you to add to your list:
Advocate’s Close
Advocate’s Close is my personal favorite and one of the most photographed spots in Old Town Edinburgh.
Head down the steps for a perfectly framed view of Scott Monument and the Princes Street Gardens in the distance.
Go early or late if you want a photo without the crowds!
Real Mary King’s Close
This is probably the most famous close in Old Town Edinburgh.
It was sealed off in the 17th century and sits beneath the City Chambers.
I recently joined this tour and loved it!
A character actor leads you beneath the streets, sharing stories of the people who once lived and worked there.
It’s on the touristy side, but you’ll get a real sense of what life must have been like for Edinburgh’s residents in days gone by.
Lady Stair’s Close
This is another of my favorite Old Town Edinburgh closes.
This one leads your to the Writers’ Museum.
Even if you skip the museum (you shouldn’t!) the courtyard is a lovely spot.
3. Uncover Old Town Edinburgh’s Hidden Gems
Look deeper and you’ll find that the Royal Mile still has a few spots to explore:
Museum of Edinburgh’s Courtyard
Step into the small Museum of Edinburgh on Canongate, and you’ll find a quiet courtyard filled with old stones.
These architectural fragments are from the city’s past, some dating back to the late 15th century.
Paisley Close
Look up at the entrance to Paisley Close, and you’ll see a stone carving of a young boy’s face.
It marks a tragic event from 1861, when a building collapsed on this site, killing 35 people.
The boy, Joseph McIvor, was famously rescued from the rubble, shouting, “Heave awa’ lads. I’m no’ deid yet!”
His survival helped push for safer housing standard in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Chessels Court
This quiet corner of Old Town is lined with mansions built in 1748.
Legend has it a burglary here inspired Robert Louis Stevenson’s Jekyll and Hyde.
Now, it’s a residential area — and home to a charming living heart of ivy.
4. Step Inside St. Giles Cathedral
Located right on the Royal Mile, this is the historic parish church of Edinburgh and a central Old Town landmark.
St. Giles dates to 1124 and has been a working church for over 900 years.
The beautiful ceiling of St. Giles’ Cathedral is worth the visit alone.
But while you’re there, make sure to check out the stained-glass windows.
Short walking tours are available twice a day. You can also buy and download audio tours.
Entry is donation based.
5. Check Out Grassmarket
Another must-visit spot in Old Town Edinburgh is Grassmarket.
Tucked beneath the shadow of Edinburgh Castle, Grassmarket is a hive of activity.
Once a medieval marketplace, it was also the site of public executions.
Today, it’s a lively hub for independent shops, restaurants, and pubs—including the White Hart Inn.
Founded in 1516, it’s Edinburgh’s oldest tavern. It serves classic Scottish pub fare, including award-winning haggis, hearty pies, and a wide choice of ales and whiskeys.
My advice? Skip the overpriced tourist traps on the Royal Mile and enjoy a meal in one of Grassmarket’s historic pubs. Then head over to Mary’s Milk Bar for some delicious ice cream!
While you in Grassmarket, check out the Mary Dicksons pub, named after Mary Dickson—better known as “Half-Hangit Maggie.”
In 1724, Mary was sentenced to death but miraculously survived her hanging, earning her a place in Edinburgh folklore.
For more rich stories of Edinburgh’s past, book a Big Bus Tour!
I took this tour on my recent visit to Edinburgh, and it’s a great way to get to know the city! It’s especially good if you’re short on time or ready to take a break from walking—and the many, many steps!
Grassmarket also hosts a Saturday market. Here, you can pick up handmade products from local vendors as souvenirs.
6. Visit the Writers’ Museum
Tucked away at Lady Stair’s Close, the Writers’ Museum is well worth a visit.
It celebrates Scottish literary legends like Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson.
Even if you’re not a literary buff, the exhibits are charming.
The courtyard outside is a peaceful escape from the bustling Royal Mile.
Entry is free, but donations are welcome.
7. Walk Victoria Street
Victoria Street is one of Old Town Edinburgh’s most photographed streets.
Its colorful, winding facade is lined with quirky shops, cafes, and boutiques.
This street perfectly captures the mix of history and local character that makes Old Town so special.
Take your time wandering—it’s quieter in the morning.
My Top Recommended Tours in Old Town Edinburgh
Real Mary King’s Close Tour – Experience Old Town’s hidden streets beneath the Royal Mile with live actors.
Edinburgh Castle Guided Tour – Learn the history of Scotland’s most famous fortress with a knowledgeable guide.
Edinburgh Darkside Tour: Witches, Hauntings and Body Snatchers – Explore the eerie side of Edinburgh. Perfect for those who love spooky stories – seriously good!
Where to Stay in Old Town Edinburgh?
Stay at the Virgin Hotel
For location and views, the Virgin Hotel on Victoria Street can’t be beat.
I book clients here often, and it’s always a hit!
Some rooms offer views of Edinburgh Castle, and the rooftop terrace is incredible. Shops, pubs, restaurants, and the Royal Mile are all just steps away.
Book through me to enjoy exclusive VIP perks including daily breakfast for two and $100 hotel credit for spa, dining, or amenities
For a more budget-friendly stay that’s great for families, I recommend Wilde Aparthotels in Grassmarket. Steps from the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, and Grassmarket, it’s surprisingly quiet for such a central location.
Rooms are modern, clean, and spacious, with kitchenettes, blackout curtains, and thoughtful touches that families love.
For more ideas on where to stay in Old Town Edinburgh, check out:
Best Hotels in Old Town Edinburgh for Every Budget
Top 3 Must-Know Tips for First-Time Visitors to Edinburgh
- Comfortable shoes! I’m not joking—every day is leg day in Edinburgh! It’s a hilly, historic city with steps and cobblestones literally everywhere.
- Avoid Festival Dates. If you’re planning your first trip to Edinburgh, I recommend you avoid the month of August. Whilst it’s fun, it will also be heaving with visitors! August is when the Fringe Festival, International Festival, Art and Book Festival all take place.
- Accessible Travel in Edinburgh. If you have accessibility needs, work with your travel advisor to find ways to allow you to navigate the city and have the best possible experience.
This post may contain affiliate links for tours, hotels, and products (including Amazon). If you make a purchase through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!
