Our list of top attractions in Edinburgh caters to every interest and taste. Climb extinct volcanoes for sweeping city views, or descend into hidden streets on ghost tours for a dynamic retelling of Scottish history. Or explore world-class museums and sample authentic Scotch whisky at an award-winning pub in Old Town.
Read all about it and more in this Fly Coach list of attractions and famous places to visit in Edinburgh.
8 Fun Attractions & Famous Landmarks in Edinburgh
While Edinburgh serves as an ideal base for day trips, like to the Scottish Highlands, many visitors find the city so captivating, they never want to leave.
Visit some of the most iconic places in Edinburgh.
1. Royal Mile
The Royal Mile is one of the top sights in Edinburgh, forming a historic route through the heart of the Scottish capital. It stretches from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, with St Giles’ Cathedral standing proudly at its centre.
It’s a route that perfectly reflects the beautiful city, offering historic sites, the Scottish Parliament, culture, stories and even a touch of the supernatural.
For a different perspective, join a free ghost tour starting on the Royal Mile. For around 90 minutes, knowledgeable guides lead you through haunted sites and tell ghostly tales.
2. Edinburgh Castle
Castlehill, Edinburgh
Perched atop Castle Rock in Edinburgh's city centre, this iconic fortress is one of the country's bloodiest historic buildings. Over centuries, Edinburgh Castle has witnessed countless sieges, battles, and coronations throughout Scotland's history. It has served as a royal palace, military stronghold and prisoner of war.
Today, visitors can discover centuries of fascinating culture and architecture while taking in unparalleled views across Scotland's capital. Don't miss the firing of the One O'Clock Gun, a tradition dating back to 1861. The castle houses priceless national treasures, including the Stone of Destiny and the Scottish Crown Jewels.
3. National Museum of Scotland
Chambers Street, Edinburgh
The National Museum of Scotland is one of the best attractions in Edinburgh, packed with educational exhibitions of Scottish history, science and the natural world. Located a short walk from the city centre, it's the perfect place for indoor sightseeing on rainy days.
The museum features over 20,000 objects across seven floors, from dinosaur fossils to space technology. Discover important artefacts like the ancient Lewis Chessmen and see Dolly the Sheep, a visitor favourite. With regularly changing exhibitions, events, workshops, and food options, it's something new with every visit.
4. Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art
Belfort Road, Edinburgh
The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art offers a free collection spanning modern art from the 1860s to contemporary works. Located in two Georgian mansions on either side of Belfort Road, Modern One and Modern Two feature two sculpture parks alongside their indoor exhibits.
Highlights include an exceptional Surrealist collection featuring works by Salvador Dalí and others, plus paintings by iconic figures such as Henri Matisse and Pablo Picasso. Modern One features a Sensory Sculpture Trail, a top Edinburgh attraction that engages visitors through interactive experiences in nature beyond traditional gallery viewing.
5. The Georgian House
7 Charlotte Square, New Town
Though less well-known than some of the other famous places in Edinburgh on this list, the Georgian House is a hidden gem in the New Town. What makes tours of this historic house so fascinating is the dual perspective it offers.
Witness the grandeur of the "upstairs" living quarters and the "below stairs" world of the servants. Hear the service bells ringing, each with its distinct pitch to summon specific staff members, and marvel at the opulent furnishings and art of the drawing room.
6. Tipsy Midgie
67 St Leonard's Hill, Edinburgh
With one of Edinburgh’s most extensive collections of single malt whisky, Tipsy Midgie has held the title of Scotland's Best Whisky Bar in multiple years. This outstanding selection ranges from top-shelf Scotch whiskies to budget-friendly "approachable drams."
Choose between chocolate or cheese whisky pairings to make your tasting experience even more memorable, with expert staff to guide you through Scotland's liquid gold.
7. Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
549 Castlehill, Edinburgh
The first purpose-built tourist attraction in the city, Camera Obscura and World of Illusions, offers 100 mind-bending experiences of optical illusions. Every floor brings surprises.
Watch as visitors shrink and grow in the Ames Room, navigate a dizzying vortex tunnel, and create colourful shadows on phosphorescent walls. For a sensory break, the rooftop terrace offers spectacular views and photo ops with Old Town as your backdrop.
8. National Monument
Calton Hill
One of the city’s most important sights, the National Monument is a distinctive feature of Edinburgh’s skyline. Often nicknamed the “National Disgrace,” now more affectionately than critically, it remains unfinished despite construction beginning in 1826.
Located in a beautiful setting on Calton Hill, the monument features 12 striking neoclassical columns and offers excellent views of the city.
Check out our blog for more posts on wonderful museums and sights around Edinburgh and Dundee.
Fly-Coach: Hop On, Jet Off!
Fly Coach operates a direct bus from Edinburgh Airport to Dundee. Tickets can be booked online or at our CityHub located on Commercial Street, Dundee.
- Free with National Entitlement or Young Scot Card: Travel free on a turn-up-and-ride basis, or secure your seat online for a £1 booking fee.
- Ample luggage: One large (75×50×32 cm) or two medium (70×45×30 cm) suitcases
- Professional service: Our friendly, uniformed drivers will assist with luggage.
- Wheelchair accessible: Compliant with Public Service Vehicles Accessibility Regulations (PSVAR)
Call us biased, but our coach service is one of the top attractions in Edinburgh Airport. Book your pass today.