Discover the Majesty of the Royal Palace in Edinburgh
Explore the Royal Palace of Edinburgh, a majestic historical landmark rich in Scottish heritage and royal history, offering breathtaking views and captivating exhibitions.
Step into the royal history of Scotland at the Royal Palace, a magnificent historical landmark in Edinburgh. This iconic site invites tourists to explore its rich heritage, stunning architecture, and captivating exhibitions that tell the story of the Scottish monarchy. With its picturesque setting and fascinating collections, it's a must-visit for anyone looking to delve into Scotland's royal past.
A brief summary to Royal Palace
- Castlehill, Edinburgh, EH1 2NG, GB
- Monday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9:30 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience.
- Consider joining a guided tour for in-depth stories and insights about the royal family.
- Don’t miss the stunning views from the palace grounds; bring your camera!
- Check for special exhibitions or events happening during your visit for a unique experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking involved in exploring the palace and its surroundings.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, start from the center of Down and head northeast on the A24 towards Belfast. Continue on the A24 for about 30 miles until you reach the outskirts of Edinburgh. Follow signs for the city center, and then follow the A90. Once in Edinburgh, take the exit towards Castlehill. The Royal Palace is located at Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NG. There is limited street parking available, and you may need to pay for parking, which typically costs around £2.40 per hour.
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Public Transportation
To reach the Royal Palace via public transportation, start by taking a bus from Down to Belfast. From Belfast, board a train to Edinburgh Waverley Station. Once you arrive at Waverley Station, exit the station and head towards the Royal Mile. Walk along the Royal Mile, which will lead you directly to Castlehill. The journey may take approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, and the total cost for the bus and train can range from £20 to £30, depending on the time of booking and travel.
Discover more about Royal Palace
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Robert Louis Stevenson Memorial
0.3 km
A modest stone tribute nestled in Edinburgh’s Princes Street Gardens celebrating the enduring legacy of Robert Louis Stevenson.
Flodden Wall
0.3 km
Explore Edinburgh’s medieval Flodden Wall, a historic sandstone fortification built after 1513 to protect the city and shape its iconic Old Town skyline.
The Mound & Mound Place
0.4 km
Historic artificial slope linking Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns, home to iconic galleries, grand architecture, and vibrant cultural life.
The Parish Church of St Cuthbert
0.4 km
Edinburgh’s oldest Christian worship site, the Parish Church of St Cuthbert blends ancient heritage with stunning architecture and vibrant community life.
Gladstone's Land
0.4 km
Explore the historic charm of Gladstone's Land in Edinburgh, a captivating glimpse into Scotland's rich past with delightful cafes and stunning architecture.
Thomas Riddell's Grave
0.4 km
Explore the mystical Thomas Riddell's Grave in Greyfriars Kirkyard, a historic site rich with tales of the past and connections to the Harry Potter universe.
The Writers' Museum
0.4 km
Explore The Writers' Museum in Edinburgh, a tribute to Scotland's literary greats and a treasure trove for literature lovers seeking inspiration.
Lady Stair's House
0.4 km
Explore Lady Stair's House: A historic 17th-century building in Edinburgh celebrating Scotland's rich literary heritage and home to the Scottish Poetry Library.
Lady Stair's Close
0.4 km
Discover Lady Stair's Close, a serene historic courtyard in Edinburgh's Old Town, home to the Writers' Museum and Scotland’s literary heritage.
Floral Clock
0.4 km
Discover the world's oldest floral clock—a vibrant, living timepiece blooming with history and horticultural artistry in Edinburgh’s iconic Princes Street Gardens.
Lawnmarket
0.4 km
Discover Lawnmarket, a historic street in Edinburgh rich in culture, shopping, and stunning medieval architecture, perfect for an unforgettable visit.
Lothian Rd
0.4 km
Explore Edinburgh's Lothian Road: A bustling hub of history, culture, and contemporary charm awaits every traveler.
Rose St
0.4 km
Explore the vibrant atmosphere of Rose Street in Edinburgh, a perfect blend of local culture, dining, and shopping delights.
David Hume Statue
0.5 km
A striking bronze tribute to philosopher David Hume, blending classical imagery with Edinburgh’s Enlightenment heritage and a toe-rubbing tradition for luck.
George IV Bridge
0.5 km
Historic elevated street connecting Old Town to the South Side, lined with Victorian architecture and cultural institutions.
Unmissable attractions to see
Scottish National War Memorial
0.0 km
A solemn tribute within Edinburgh Castle honoring Scotland’s fallen heroes from World War I to today.
Great Hall
0.0 km
Step into the majestic Great Hall of Edinburgh Castle, a stunning medieval chamber showcasing royal history, architecture, and armory.
Forward and Half Moon Battery
0.0 km
Historic artillery batteries shaping Edinburgh Castle’s iconic silhouette with panoramic city views and centuries of military heritage.
Edinburgh Castle
0.0 km
Explore Edinburgh Castle, a majestic fortress atop Castlehill offering royal history, breathtaking views, and iconic Scottish heritage.
St Margaret's Chapel
0.1 km
Edinburgh’s oldest building, a serene 12th-century chapel atop Castle Rock honoring Queen Margaret’s enduring spiritual legacy.
Edinburgh Castle - Mons Meg
0.1 km
Discover Mons Meg, the colossal 15th-century siege cannon at Edinburgh Castle, a symbol of Scotland’s medieval military might and royal heritage.
The Royal Scots Dragoon Guards Regimental Museum
0.1 km
Explore over 300 years of Scotland’s only cavalry regiment in the historic New Barracks of Edinburgh Castle.
Edinburgh Castle - Mill's Mount Battery
0.1 km
Historic fortress atop Castle Rock offering iconic views, royal treasures, and rich Scottish military heritage in the heart of Edinburgh.
One O’Clock Gun
0.1 km
Experience Edinburgh’s iconic One O’Clock Gun, a historic maritime time signal fired daily from Edinburgh Castle since 1861.
National War Museum
0.1 km
Explore Scotland’s rich military history through artifacts, personal stories, and art within the iconic Edinburgh Castle.
The India Cross
0.2 km
A solemn Celtic cross memorial honoring the 78th Highlanders who fell during the Indian Rebellion, set against Edinburgh Castle’s historic Esplanade.
The Comedy Attic
0.2 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant comedy scene in the intimate attic of the historic Beehive Inn with top comedians and lively atmosphere.
The Witches Well
0.2 km
Explore The Witches Well in Edinburgh, a historical landmark steeped in folklore, offering a captivating glimpse into the city's dark past.
21 Grassmarket
0.2 km
Experience Edinburgh’s historic Grassmarket: a lively medieval marketplace beneath the castle, rich in stories, culture, and timeless charm.
Edinburgh Farmers' Market
0.2 km
Discover fresh Scottish produce and artisanal delights every Saturday with stunning views of Edinburgh Castle at Castle Terrace Farmers' Market.
Essential places to dine
Beehive Inn
0.2 km
Historic pub and vibrant entertainment venue in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket, blending traditional Scottish charm with lively dining and comedy events.
Amber Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience Scotland’s finest seasonal cuisine expertly paired with over 550 whiskies in the warm, amber-lit heart of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.
The Witchery by the Castle
0.2 km
A sumptuous gothic retreat on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, blending historic grandeur with romantic luxury and award-winning Scottish cuisine.
TIMBERYARD
0.2 km
Michelin-starred Modern British dining in a historic Edinburgh warehouse with seasonal, locally sourced cuisine and a celebrated natural wine cellar.
Maison Bleue
0.3 km
French-Moroccan dining in a historic Old Town setting with striking design and exceptional value.
Dine Edinburgh
0.3 km
Elegant Scottish brasserie above the Traverse Theatre, blending seasonal local flavors with refined service and a chic cocktail lounge.
Howies Restaurant
0.4 km
Historic charm meets fresh Scottish flavors on Edinburgh’s iconic Victoria Street, offering seasonal dishes in a warm, relaxed setting.
Whiski Rooms
0.4 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine and an extensive whisky selection at Whiski Rooms in Edinburgh's city center.
Ondine Restaurant
0.4 km
Edinburgh’s stylish seafood haven offering sustainable shellfish, fresh oysters, and elegant dining in a vibrant Old Town setting.
Makars Mash Bar
0.4 km
Scotland's beloved mash bar where premium Scottish meats meet nine distinctive potato creations.
Under The Stairs
0.5 km
Discover Edinburgh’s cozy underground gem blending rustic charm, creative plates, and vibrant cocktails beneath George IV Bridge.
Divino Enoteca Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar
0.5 km
Elegant Italian dining and wine bar in Edinburgh’s Old Town, blending authentic flavors with a cozy, romantic ambiance.
The Outsider Restaurant
0.5 km
Savor creative European cuisine with unbeatable Edinburgh Castle views in a lively, modern setting on George IV Bridge.
Badger & Co
0.5 km
A charming Wind in the Willows–themed gastropub in Edinburgh serving elevated Scottish pub classics and creative cocktails in a lively, welcoming setting.
Chaophraya Thai Restaurant
0.5 km
Sophisticated Thai dining with panoramic views of Edinburgh Castle, blending authentic flavors and stylish ambiance in the heart of New Town.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Portcullis Gift Shop
0.1 km
Edinburgh Castle’s largest gift shop, offering exclusive Scottish crafts, clan gifts, and souvenirs in a historic setting.
Godiva
0.2 km
Discover Edinburgh’s premier independent boutique blending vintage treasures with ethical, locally designed fashion in the heart of Grassmarket.
Herman Brown
0.3 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion and sustainable style at Herman Brown, Edinburgh’s iconic vintage clothing shop since 1983.
Armstrongs Vintage
0.3 km
Edinburgh's iconic vintage emporium in Grassmarket, brimming with bohemian dresses, chunky knits, and timeless treasures from decades past.
Carnivàle Vintage
0.3 km
Discover unique vintage clothing and timeless treasures in Edinburgh’s charming Carnivàle Vintage boutique.
The Enchanted Galaxy
0.3 km
Dive into a wizarding wonderland on Victoria Street, where Harry Potter treasures and fantasy fandoms burst from every shelf in Edinburgh's most enchanting gift shop.
The Court Curio Shop
0.3 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and artisan jewellery in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile at The Court Curio Shop.
Mr Wood's Fossils
0.3 km
Discover rare fossils, minerals, and meteorites in Edinburgh’s iconic shop founded by legendary fossil hunter Stan Wood.
Scottish Experience
0.4 km
Explore the essence of Scotland with unique gifts and authentic souvenirs at the Scottish Experience in Edinburgh.
Olde Edinburgh
0.4 km
Independent Scottish gift shop on historic Lawnmarket, specializing in authentic local crafts and traditional shortbread.
Edinburgh Gifts
0.4 km
Discover authentic Scottish treasures and local craftsmanship in the heart of Edinburgh on iconic Princes Street.
Heritage of Scotland
0.4 km
Discover authentic Scottish kilts, tartans, and treasures on Edinburgh's Lawnmarket, where Highland heritage meets Royal Mile magic in a shopper's delight.
I Love Scotland
0.4 km
Discover affordable, authentic Scottish souvenirs and gifts in the heart of Edinburgh at I Love Scotland on Bank Street.
Mangue - The Gift Shop
0.4 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures in a friendly boutique on Edinburgh’s vibrant Rose Street.
The Treasure Trove
0.5 km
Discover Edinburgh’s charming charity shop with unique handmade gifts that support local artisans and meaningful causes.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Dragonfly
0.2 km
Edinburgh’s oldest cocktail bar blending historic charm with innovative mixology in a cozy, lively setting.
The Wee Pub - The Smallest Pub in Scotland
0.3 km
Discover Scotland’s smallest pub in Edinburgh’s Grassmarket—a cosy, whisky-rich haven perfect for intimate gatherings and private celebrations.
The Bow Bar
0.3 km
A historic Old Town pub famed for its vast whisky selection, traditional ales, and authentic Scottish atmosphere.
SKYbar Edinburgh
0.4 km
Experience Edinburgh’s skyline with exquisite cocktails and stunning castle views at SKYbar, the city’s premier rooftop destination.
NQ64 Edinburgh
0.4 km
A neon-lit arcade bar in Edinburgh blending retro gaming classics with creative cocktails and a lively, nostalgic atmosphere.
Innis & Gunn Edinburgh City Centre Brewery Taproom
0.4 km
A vibrant craft beer haven in Edinburgh’s West End, famed for Scottish steak frites and an extensive rotating tap selection.
Deacon Brodies Tavern
0.4 km
Historic Royal Mile pub channeling Deacon Brodie's Jekyll-and-Hyde legacy with cask ales, hearty pies, and Old Town buzz—perfect for ale lovers and tale seekers.
BrewDog Edinburgh Lothian Road
0.5 km
Experience Edinburgh’s craft beer culture in a vibrant, historic setting with legendary wings, 28 taps, and a dog-friendly atmosphere.
Never Really Here
0.5 km
Edinburgh's ultimate speakeasy: knock the graffiti door for bespoke cocktails in an intimate, menu-free den of mixology magic.
The Oz Bar
0.5 km
A lively, affordable pub in Edinburgh’s city center with friendly staff, Australian flair, pool tables, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
All Bar One Exchange Plaza
0.5 km
Stylish and contemporary wine bar in Edinburgh’s heart, perfect for relaxed socializing and after-work drinks with attentive service.
The Raging Bull
0.5 km
Edinburgh’s vibrant cocktail bar famed for its Espresso Martinis, lively ambiance, and engaging cocktail masterclasses.
Frankenstein
0.5 km
Step into the gothic world of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein in a unique bar set within a historic church on Edinburgh’s iconic George IV Bridge.
Dirty Dick's Pub
0.5 km
Experience Edinburgh’s quirky and cozy Dirty Dick's Pub, famed for whisky, lively charm, and hearty Scottish classics on vibrant Rose Street.
Hoot The Redeemer
0.5 km
A quirky, tarot-themed cocktail bar in Edinburgh offering inventive drinks, playful games, and a lively, intimate atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Liquid Room
0.4 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
Club Tropicana
0.4 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant retro nightlife with classic disco hits and lively dance floors at Club Tropicana on Lothian Road.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
0.4 km
Edinburgh's retro dance den blasting 60s-90s hits amid quirky decor and sweaty dance floors—pure nostalgic escapism on Rose Street.
The Bongo Club
0.5 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
Legends
0.5 km
Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
Sneaky Pete's
0.5 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
El Barrio Latino
0.6 km
Edinburgh's sizzling Latin nightclub where salsa beats pulse through New Town nights, drawing dancers to its vibrant Hanover Street heart until the early hours.
Opal Lounge
0.6 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
Lulu Bar and Nightclub
0.6 km
Edinburgh's George Street gem: chic cocktails, thumping beats, and dance floors that ignite the night in upscale style.
PDT Please Don’t Tell
0.6 km
Edinburgh’s intimate speakeasy-style nightclub offering expertly crafted cocktails and a cozy, conversation-friendly atmosphere.
Shanghai Nightclub
0.6 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
Why Not Nightclub
0.6 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
Garibaldi's
0.7 km
Edinburgh's tiniest nightclub packs the biggest late-night punch on Hanover Street, with killer margaritas and a dance floor that never quits till 3am.
The Mash House
0.7 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
La Belle Angele
0.7 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
