Top 5 Attractions in Edinburgh

From Historic Castles, buildings and Museums to tasting the smooth “Scotch”, Edinburgh is infused with a blend of history and modern art. There is so much that a single person can do in this mystical town. Though Edinburgh is costly to travel, there are many free things which one can do. This blog consists of the top 5 attractions for which one has to splurge some money, so if you are looking for free things then check out this .

Edinburgh Castle

Being the heart of the city, the Edinburgh Castle stands high on Castle Rock attracting tourists from all over the world. The castle is rich in history as it is one of the oldest fortified places in Europe. When you climb the castle hill, you feel the tremble in the ground of the thousands of military soldiers that marched, and can hear the trumpets and bagpipes when the Kings and Queens arrive. For generations, kings and queens have called Edinburgh Castle home. Queen Margaret (later made a saint) died here in 1093. The chapel constructed in her memory by her son, King David I, is Edinburgh’s oldest structure. St Margaret’s Chapel continues to host weddings and christenings today.

Though parts of the Castle are still used for military purposes, the Castle comes under the list of UNESCO’s World Heritage sites. One can get a 360 view of the city as in the past, the castle’s position gave a strategic advantage to the military helping them fight off enemies.

Cost:
To enter the castle, the price for
Adults = £19.5
Children = £11.4

You can book the tickets through https://tickets.historic-scotland.gov.uk/webstore/shop/viewItems.aspx?cg=TKTS&c=GA#428279. Pre-book your tickets as they get sold out quickly, especially during peak tourist season. Edinburgh Castle: Guided Walking Tour 

2. Surgeons Hall Museum

This Museum is one of a kind. It is one of the most bizarre yet fascinating things one can go to. It is a pathology museum home to one of the largest and most historic pathology collections in the UK. Originally developed as a teaching museum for students of medicine, the museum has a vast collection of bones, tissues, artefacts and almost everything which one has in their body. The museum is an interactive experience where one can watch and learn about different medical fields and how operations are performed. If you are a fellow student of medicine then you should definitely visit this place.

Though it can get disturbing for some people as you are surrounded by organs, tissues, bones in glass jars, I highly recommend people to give this place a try as not many people know about this place. One can learn so much about the human body by just spending some time here. Photography is not permitted for obvious reasons.

Cost:
Adults = £9.5
Student with valid ID = £6
NHS Staff with valid ID £6
Children = £5

The Museum also does public walking tours that run at 2pm every Saturday and Sunday from the 20th of January until the 8th of December 2024. For the walking tour you have to buy tickets prior but just to visit the museum, you can buy them at the entrance.

3. Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

Camera Obscura and World of Illusions is a fascinating blend of history, science, and interactive fun. Housed in one of the city’s oldest buildings, it offers a unique experience that takes you through optical illusions, light tricks, and mind-bending exhibits. The Camera Obscura itself is a Victorian marvel, giving you a live panoramic view of Edinburgh projected in real-time. Beyond that, the five floors of interactive exhibits are designed to challenge your perceptions and spark curiosity, making it a great spot for both kids and adults. From holograms to a mirror maze, every corner is packed with surprises that make you question reality in the most entertaining way possible.

Cost:
Adults = £21.5
Children = £15.95

Tickets have various discounts available for families and groups.

 

4. The Royal Yacht Britannia

Her Majesty’s Yacht Britannia is the former Royal Yacht of the British monarchy. For over 44 years, she served the Royal family travelling a million miles making her one of the most famous ships in the world. She was home to the Royal Family and their 220 devoted crew members of Royal Yachtsmen; for Great Britain, she was a majestic symbol of the Commonwealth and a proud ambassador generating billions of pounds in trade deals; and for Queen Elizabeth II, she provided the ideal Royal residence for glittering state visits, official receptions, Royal honeymoons, and relaxed family holidays. Today, She is a five star attraction, retired from her services berthed at the Ocean Terminal in Leith where She welcomes over 300,000 visits each year!

Cost:
Adults = £19.5
Children (5-16) = £9.25
Under 5s = Free
Family (2 adults and up to 3 children) = £50

You can book the tickets through their website

5. Palace of Holyroodhouse

The Palace of Holyroodhouse, nestled at the end of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile, is a stunning symbol of Scottish heritage and royalty. Once the residence of Mary, Queen of Scots, this majestic palace offers a journey through centuries of history.The British monarch spends one week (known as ‘Royal Week’) at the Palace of Holyroodhouse each summer. Explore the lavish State Apartments, adorned with intricate tapestries and stunning works of art, and stroll through the serene ruins of Holyrood Abbey. As you wander through the royal gardens, you can almost hear the echoes of the past. It’s a must-visit for history enthusiasts and royal admirers alike.

Cost:
Adults = £19.5
Students = £17.5
Children (5-16) = £11.5
Under 5s = Free