

15 unmissable Edinburgh landmarks and historic sights
Edinburgh has a long and rich history, much of which can be explored through the city's gorgeous landmarks.
Whether you're in Edinburgh with family and friends, or on a romantic getaway, every street in this beautiful city is legendary. Edinburgh has been occupied since the 7th century, so it's unsurprising that Scotland's capital is so full of historic landmarks. From the fortified grandeur of Edinburgh Castle to the floral whimsy of the Princes Street Gardens, the growth of Auld Reekie from a settlement to major city can be seen wherever you go. Want to see where the man who inspired Braveheart fought his enemies? Or explore Arthur's Seat? Then you're in luck—natural landmarks of Edinburgh's history are an equally integral part of the Scottish capital.
Historic and architectural landmarks in Edinburgh

You'll certainly get a workout walking up these stairs!
1. Scott Monument
A Victorian monument dedicated to author Sir Walter Scott, this Gothic tower is more than 200 feet tall and is the second largest monument to a writer in the world. Located in Princes Street Gardens, the Scott Monument has 287 steps, 4 internal levels, and external viewing platforms offering exceptional views of the city.
Highlights:
Be warned: the stairs get narrower as you make your way up. If you don't like tight spaces, you might want to stick to the lower levels.
Address and opening hours:
E. Princes St Gardens, Edinburgh EH2 2EJ. Open daily, 10:00 AM-3:30 PM.

The cross is an important (and bloody) part of Edinburgh's history.
2. Mercat Cross
On your list of Old Town tourist attractions, Mercat Cross should be top of your Edinburgh landmarks. Historically, this was the site of public punishments and executions. It's also where important civic announcements were (and still are) made. The original cross was made of wood, and an octagonal cobblestone mosaic marks the spot on the street where it once stood.
Highlights:
Look out for the unicorn perched on the very top. It's the unlikely but much-loved Scottish national animal.
Address:

Spend a day exploring the shops alongside famous landmarks.
3. The Royal Mile
Linking Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace, the Royal Mile is an Edinburgh landmark not to missed. The mile passes by many famous spots such as the City Chambers, the site of the Old Tollbooth gallows, and the entrance to John Knox House.
Highlights:
When you reach St. Giles Cathedral, look down to find the Heart of Midlothian, an 18th-century mosaic set directly into the street. Traditionally, it's good luck to spit on it.
Address and opening hours:
Meet at 555 Castlehill, Edinburgh, EH1 2ND. Tours start at 2:00 PM.

See the inspiration behind the iconic Mel Gibson movie.
4. The Wallace Monument
Just outside Edinburgh is the National Wallace Monument. This 67 meter high towering edifice celebrates 13th-century hero and 'Braveheart' inspiration Sir William Wallace. It's located on Abbey Craig, the hilltop where legend says Wallace viewed the gathering English armies in 1297.
Highlights:
Inside the monument, you'll see the Wallace Sword displayed in the Hall of Heroes, but provenance has never been truly settled.
Address and opening hours:
Abbey Craig, Hillfoots Rd, Stirling FK9 5LF. Open daily, 9:30 AM-5:00 PM.

The castle sits atop an intrusive crag, which forms part of the Stirling Sill geological formation.
5. Stirling Castle
Today it's known for its scenic views, but Stirling Castle has an indisputably bloody past. It has guarded the River Forth crossing for centuries, and this ancient fortification was central to the 14th century Wars of Scottish Independence, acting as a stronghold for both William Wallace and Robert the Bruce. The castle is one hour from central Edinburgh by train, which makes this landmark an excellent day trip.
Highlights:
Stirling Castle was an active military base until 1964, and the on-site Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders Regimental Museum reflects this.
Address and opening hours:
Castle Wynd, Stirling FK8 1EJ. Open daily, 9:30 AM-6:00 PM.

Edinburgh straddles seven major hills, so bridges were constructed to connect the city together.
6. South Bridge
A feat of 18th century engineering, Edinburgh's South Bridge is one of five constructed to span the city's natural valleys and hills. If you want to see its arches from the inside, take a tour of the vaults to learn the ghoulish history of this now mostly subterranean Old Town landmark.
Highlights:
Of the 19 originally built, only one arch remains visible from ground level, at the corner of Cowgate and South Bridge.
Address and opening hours:
30 South Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1LL. Tour times vary.

Edinburgh Castle is Scotland's number one historic landmark.
7. Edinburgh Castle
Inside or outside, Edinburgh Castle is an architectural gem and Edinburgh's must-see historic landmark. Tour the castle to learn about the incredible 1,000-year history of the most attacked building in Britain.
Highlights:
The castle is home to three military museums and is still an active military base for the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards.
Address and opening hours:
Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NG. Open daily 9.30 AM - 5:00 PM.
Scenic and natural landmarks in Edinburgh

Climb Arthur's Seat for the best views of Edinburgh.
8. Arthur’s Seat
About a mile east of Edinburgh's center, an ancient volcano known as Arthur's Seat offers panoramic views of the city and beyond. It is rumored to be named for the legendary King Arthur, and is the location of the legendary Camelot. At the summit you'll be able to see the remains of a hill fort and Iron Age cultivation terraces.
Highlights:
A trek to the summit takes about 2 hours and can be deceptively tiring. Remember to pack water. For an easier ascent, start at Queens Drive and go via Dunaspie Loch.
Address:

The road was created by engineered by General Wade during the subjection of Scotland.
9. The Rest and Be Thankful Viewpoint
The aptly named Rest and Be Thankful is a viewpoint for hikers on the east side of Corstorphine Hill in Edinburgh's Nature Reserve. A well-marked circular loop takes around 90 minutes, offering beautiful views of the city from an elevation of almost 200 meters.
Highlights:
Don't restrict yourself to the main route. There are some lovely winding paths and plenty of off-track woodland areas to explore.
Address and opening hours:
Edinburgh EH12 6UD. Open 24 hours.

The whole family will love a trip to the stunning Loch ness in the Scottish Highlands.
10. Loch Ness
Try and glimpse the legendary Scottish monster on a trip to Loch Ness. If you want a better chance at a sighting, take a boat cruise or hike along its shores. Loch Ness is around 4 hours from Edinburgh so a weekend excursion is recommended, especially as it's one of the top places to visit in Scotland.
Highlights:
It's not just Nessie that lives around the loch. You'll also see an unmistakably hairy herd of Highland Cows in the bank-side fields.
Address and opening hours:
Meet at 521 Lawnmarket, Edinburgh EH1 2PE. Tours start at 8:00 AM.

Calton Hill is a must-visit fir first-timers to the city.
11. Calton Hill
Calton Hill offers natural vistas (and the best sunsets), and the surrounding neighborhood is full of restaurants and bars for a great night out in Edinburgh. Abutting Leith Walk and close to the historic waterside of Portabello, Calton Hill is famed for its collection of historic landmarks, particularly the Parthenon-inspired National Monument.
Highlights:
Visit on Hogmanay (New Year's Eve) for an unrivaled view of the fireworks, or time your trip for May Day and the Beltane fire and drum celebrations.
Address and opening hours:
Edinburgh EH7 5BN. Open 24 hours.

This is arguably one of the most scenic rail journey's in the world.
12. Glenfinnan Viaduct
The vistas from the Glenfinnan Viaduct are astounding but can only be accessed from the West Highland Railway Line and is around 3.5 hours from Edinburgh via Glasgow. As the steam train makes its way through the highland scenery, you'll get 381 meters of viaduct viewing from a height of 30 meters.
Highlights:
Movie buffs might recognize several 'Harry Potter' filming locations. Keep an eye out for the Black Lake, the site of the Triwizard Tournament, and the Hogwarts shoreline.
Address and opening hours:

Castle Rock is millions of years old.
13. Castle Rock
You might have already visited Edinburgh Castle, but did you pay attention to the crag on which it sits? Castle Rock is an ancient volcanic hill offered the perfect defensive elevation, which is why the castle was built here. This towering natural fortification can be seen for miles.
Highlights:
The closest you can comfortably get to the base of Castle Rock is via Johnstone Terrace or Castle Wynd North.
Address:

You cn spend several days exploring this enormous garden.
14. Royal Botanic Garden
Set over more than 70 acres, Edinburgh's Royal Botanic Garden offers over 13,500 different species of botanicals. Originally founded as a 'psychic' (medicinal) garden, the Garden has amassed an unparalleled Living Collection of plants, as well as the largest botanical research library in the country.
Highlights:
Due to its elevation, the Garden offers a panoramic view of the city skyline. Keep your camera handy for some #instagramworthy shots.
Address and opening hours:
Edinburgh EH3 5NZ. Open daily, 10:00 AM-6:00 PM.

This is the perfect location for a relaxed afternoon.
15. Princes Street Gardens
Nestled in the valley between Old Town and new, Princes Street Gardens is an oasis of calm from the bustle of the nearby city streets. A World Heritage Site, you'll find a diverse range of monuments and memorials all over, and is particularly idyllic during Edinburgh's summer. Be sure to hunt out the Floral Clock, which was first planted in 1903. 30,000 flower and foliage varieties are annually used to commemorate special anniversaries.
Highlights:
If you visit during Edinburgh Fringe, the West Gardens Band Stand hosts musical events, and during the Christmas period a seasonal market runs along the east side.
Address and opening hours:
Princes St, Edinburgh EH2 2HG. Open daily, 7:00 AM. Closing times vary, depending on the time of year.
FAQs
What is the oldest historic landmark in Edinburgh?
One of the oldest historic landmarks in Edinburgh is St Margaret's Chapel. Constructed in the 12th century, you'll need visit Edinburgh Castle to see it. The oldest building you can walk past that retains its original facade, however, is John Knox House. Located on the High Street, it was built around 1490.
What are some free landmarks to visit in Edinburgh?
There are free Edinburgh landmarks almost everywhere you look. From Mercat Cross in Old Town to the Bow Well at the foot of Victoria Street in the Grassmarket, the story of the city is written in every brick and gable.
Are there any guided tours that focus on the architecture of Edinburgh's landmarks?
If you want a guided tour focusing on architecture, take any of the walking tours. From the above-ground landmarks of the Royal Mile to the subterranean street of Real Mary King's Close, history is told through the buildings you see.
How can I get the best views of scenic landmarks in Edinburgh?
If you're feeling energetic, climb to the top of Arthurs's Seat. The cityscape is panoramic. If you'd like the best views of scenic landmarks in a more central setting, visit Camera Obscura in the Outlook Tower in Castlehill. It offers some of the best rooftop views in the city. You could also visit one of Edinburgh's best museums, the National Museum of Scotland. Travel to the fifth floor for views over the city.
What are some natural landmarks near Edinburgh worth visiting?
Just north of the city center, the Royal Botanic Gardens offer around 70 acres of natural landscape and a unique view of Edinburgh Castle. Visit The Botanics at any time of the year for a glorious walk through the Living Collection of plants from around the world.
Read more about Edinburgh

エディンバラ でできる最もロマンチックなことの一つは、ただ…散歩することです。この街は素晴らしく、恋人同士や新婚旅行者にとって、見るものややることがたくさんあります。オールド・リーキーには多くの 隠れた名所 があり、あらゆる場所で楽しめるアクティビティが満載です。記念日のアイデアをお探しなら、スカイ島への旅行で贅沢な時間を過ごしてみてはいかがでしょうか。完璧なデートをしたいなら、市内観光はきっと感動を与えるでしょう。カップルで一日中楽しむアクティビティから、手をつないで散歩するだけのシンプルなものまで、これらのアイデアはロマンスを盛り上げること間違いなしです。