Edinburgh Castle: A Historical Gem Overlooking Scotland
Discover Scotland's rich history at Edinburgh Castle, a stunning fortress with breathtaking views and captivating stories of the past.
Edinburgh Castle, a stunning fortress perched atop Castle Rock, is a must-visit for any tourist in Scotland. Steeped in history, it offers breathtaking views and captivating stories of Scotland's past.
A brief summary to Scottish National War Memorial
- Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh, EH1 2YT, GB
- +441312267393
- Visit website
- 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
- Purchase your tickets online in advance to avoid long queues.
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for a quieter experience.
- Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes, as there are many steep paths and stairs.
- Check the schedule for any special events or historical reenactments during your visit.
Getting There
-
Walking
If you are in the city center, head towards the Royal Mile, which runs from the Palace of Holyroodhouse to Edinburgh Castle. From the Royal Mile, walk uphill towards the castle. You'll notice the castle on your right as you approach. The entrance is located at the top of Castlehill, where you will find signs directing you to Edinburgh Castle.
-
Bus
Catch a bus from the city center to the Edinburgh Castle. Bus numbers 35 and 36 frequently stop at the 'Lawnmarket' or 'Castle Terrace' stops, which are a short walk from the castle. Make sure to check the bus schedules, and disembark at these stops. From there, follow the signs leading up to the castle entrance.
-
Tram
Take the Edinburgh Tram from any of the tram stops in the city center. You can board the tram at any stop and get off at the 'Princes Street' stop. From Princes Street, walk up the Mound and continue towards the Royal Mile. As you walk, keep heading uphill until you reach the entrance of Edinburgh Castle.
-
Taxi
If you prefer a more direct route, you can hail a taxi from anywhere in the city. Tell the driver to take you to 'Edinburgh Castle' or 'Castlehill.' The taxi will drop you off close to the entrance, making it a convenient option if you are carrying heavy bags or traveling in a group.
Discover more about Scottish National War Memorial
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Robert Louis Stevenson Memorial
0.3 km
Discover the Robert Louis Stevenson Memorial in Edinburgh, a serene tribute to the literary genius amidst beautiful gardens and rich Scottish history.
The Vennel Viewpoint Edinburgh Castle
0.3 km
Experience stunning views of Edinburgh Castle from The Vennel Viewpoint, a must-see scenic spot for tourists exploring Edinburgh's rich history.
Princes Street Gardens
0.3 km
Experience the beauty and tranquility of Princes Street Gardens, a lush urban oasis in the heart of Edinburgh, surrounded by historic landmarks and vibrant culture.
Flodden Wall
0.3 km
Discover the Flodden Wall, a historical treasure in Edinburgh, revealing the city's rich past through its majestic architecture and engaging stories.
John Knox Monument
0.3 km
Explore the John Knox Monument in Edinburgh, a historic tribute to Scotland's revered Protestant Reformer, surrounded by stunning views and rich heritage.
Milne's Court
0.3 km
Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of Milne's Court, a must-visit landmark in Edinburgh's Old Town for every traveler.
The Mound & Mound Place
0.4 km
Explore The Mound in Edinburgh, a historic crossroads that connects the Old and New Town, rich in culture, architecture, and breathtaking views.
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.
Floral Clock
0.4 km
Discover the enchanting Floral Clock in Edinburgh, a stunning historical landmark blending horticultural artistry with the city's rich heritage.
The Writers' Museum
0.4 km
Discover Scotland's literary heritage at The Writers' Museum in Edinburgh, showcasing the lives of iconic authors and their enduring works.
Lady Stair's House
0.4 km
Explore the literary heritage and stunning architecture of Lady Stair's House, a historical gem in Edinburgh's Old Town.
Lothian Rd
0.4 km
Discover Lothian Road: A vibrant avenue in Edinburgh, blending historical charm with modern culture, connecting you to the city's top attractions.
Lady Stair's Close
0.4 km
Explore the enchanting Lady Stair's Close, a historic Edinburgh landmark filled with charm, stories, and rich Scottish heritage.
Thomas Riddell's Grave
0.4 km
Explore Thomas Riddell's Grave in Edinburgh's Greyfriars Kirkyard, a must-visit for Harry Potter fans and history enthusiasts alike.
Lawnmarket
0.4 km
Explore the historic Lawnmarket in Edinburgh, a vibrant street rich in culture, shopping, and stunning medieval architecture.
Unmissable attractions to see
Fight for the Castle
0.0 km
Explore the historical grandeur and stunning views at the Fight for the Castle, a true Edinburgh icon steeped in rich heritage.
Royal Palace
0.0 km
Explore the Royal Palace of Edinburgh, a majestic historical landmark rich in Scottish heritage and royal history, offering breathtaking views and captivating exhibitions.
Edinburgh Castle
0.0 km
Discover the majestic Edinburgh Castle, a historical landmark steeped in rich Scottish heritage and offering breathtaking views of the capital.
Great Hall
0.0 km
Discover the majestic Great Hall at Edinburgh Castle, a historical landmark steeped in Scotland's rich heritage and architectural grandeur.
St Margaret's Chapel
0.0 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich history of St Margaret's Chapel, the oldest building in Edinburgh, nestled within the iconic Edinburgh Castle.
Forward and Half Moon Battery
0.1 km
Explore the historic Forward and Half Moon Battery in Edinburgh, a captivating tourist attraction rich in military history and stunning views.
Edinburgh Castle - Mons Meg
0.1 km
Explore Edinburgh Castle, home to the iconic Mons Meg cannon and a gateway to Scotland's rich history and breathtaking views.
The Gatehouse
0.1 km
Explore The Gatehouse at Edinburgh Castle, a historical landmark steeped in rich Scottish heritage and breathtaking views.
Castle Rock
0.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Castle Rock, a volcanic peak in the heart of Edinburgh, home to the iconic Edinburgh Castle.
Edinburgh Castle - Mill's Mount Battery
0.1 km
Discover the rich history and breathtaking views at Edinburgh Castle - Mill's Mount Battery, a must-see tourist attraction in the heart of Scotland.
The Royal Scots Dragoon Guards Regimental Museum
0.1 km
Explore Scotland's military history at The Royal Scots Dragoon Guards Regimental Museum in Edinburgh, showcasing rich artifacts and engaging stories.
One O’Clock Gun
0.1 km
Experience the historic One O'Clock Gun at Edinburgh Castle, a captivating tradition that echoes through the city's rich maritime past.
National War Museum
0.1 km
Discover Scotland's military history at the National War Museum in Edinburgh, featuring captivating exhibitions and breathtaking views from the castle.
Statue of Frederick Duke of York and Albany on the Esplanade
0.1 km
Experience the historical legacy and artistic beauty of the Statue of Frederick Duke of York and Albany in Edinburgh's scenic Esplanade.
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
0.1 km
Immerse yourself in the captivating performances of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, a celebration of Scottish culture and military tradition against the majestic backdrop of Edinburgh Castle.
Essential places to dine
Amber Restaurant
0.2 km
Discover Amber Restaurant: A Culinary Gem Celebrating Traditional Scottish Cuisine Within The Scotch Whisky Experience.
TIMBERYARD
0.3 km
Experience modern British dining at Timberyard in Edinburgh - where local ingredients meet culinary excellence in an inviting atmosphere.
The Witchery by the Castle
0.3 km
Experience exquisite British cuisine in a luxurious setting at The Witchery by the Castle, right next to Edinburgh's iconic castle.
Dine Edinburgh
0.3 km
Experience exceptional Scottish cuisine at Dine Edinburgh – where traditional flavors meet modern flair in a charming brasserie setting.
Maison Bleue
0.3 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Maison Bleue in Edinburgh, where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition amidst charming surroundings.
Howies Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine with a modern twist at Howies Restaurant in Edinburgh - where tradition meets taste.
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
Experience exquisite seafood dining at Ondine Restaurant in Edinburgh - where local flavors meet sustainable practices.
Makars Mash Bar
0.4 km
Discover traditional Scottish flavors at Makars Mash Bar in Edinburgh – where hearty meals meet vibrant atmosphere.
Badger & Co
0.5 km
Discover Badger & Co in Edinburgh - where innovative cocktails meet British culinary delights in a vibrant atmosphere.
Chaophraya Thai Restaurant
0.5 km
Experience authentic Thai cuisine and stunning city views at Chaophraya Thai Restaurant in Edinburgh's vibrant dining scene.
Under The Stairs
0.5 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine and vibrant nightlife at Under The Stairs—Edinburgh's hidden dining gem.
Divino Enoteca Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar
0.5 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Divino Enoteca in Edinburgh - where every dish tells a story.
The Outsider Restaurant
0.5 km
Experience the best of British and European cuisine at The Outsider Restaurant in Edinburgh, where every dish tells a story.
The Pompadour
0.5 km
Discover exquisite fine dining at The Pompadour in Edinburgh - where culinary innovation meets stunning city views.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Portcullis Gift Shop
0.0 km
Explore the Portcullis Gift Shop for unique Scottish souvenirs and gifts, capturing the essence of Edinburgh's rich history and culture.
Godiva
0.2 km
Explore Godiva Boutique in Edinburgh for unique ladies' fashion, featuring designer and vintage clothing, alongside stunning handmade jewelry.
Herman Brown
0.3 km
Discover unique vintage clothing at Herman Brown, a charming shop in Edinburgh that offers a delightful selection of timeless fashion treasures.
Carnivàle Vintage
0.3 km
Discover the charm of bygone eras at Carnivàle Vintage, Edinburgh's premier vintage clothing shop for unique and stylish finds.
Armstrongs Vintage
0.3 km
Explore unique vintage fashion at Armstrongs Vintage in Edinburgh, a paradise for vintage lovers and fashion enthusiasts alike.
The Court Curio Shop
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts and exquisite jewelry at The Court Curio Shop on the historic Royal Mile in Edinburgh, a must-visit for every tourist.
The Enchanted Galaxy
0.4 km
Explore The Enchanted Galaxy in Edinburgh, a whimsical gift shop filled with collectibles, toys, and souvenirs that capture the spirit of Scotland.
House of Scotland
0.4 km
Explore the House of Scotland, a charming gift shop on the Royal Mile offering authentic Scottish souvenirs and unique local crafts.
Mr Wood's Fossils
0.4 km
Explore Mr. Wood's Fossils in Edinburgh, a treasure trove of natural history with an extraordinary collection of fossils, rocks, and collectibles.
Edinburgh Gifts
0.4 km
Discover unique Scottish souvenirs at Edinburgh Gifts, a charming shop in the heart of the city offering traditional crafts and local delicacies.
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
Explore Olde Edinburgh, a charming gift shop filled with unique Scottish souvenirs and handcrafted treasures in the heart of Scotland's capital.
Mangue - The Gift Shop
0.4 km
Discover unique gifts, exquisite jewelry, and stylish leather goods at Mangue - The Gift Shop in Edinburgh, a must-visit for every traveler.
Heritage of Scotland
0.4 km
Discover the essence of Scottish culture at Heritage of Scotland, your ultimate destination for traditional gifts and fashionable accessories.
I Love Scotland
0.4 km
I Love Scotland: Your ultimate destination for authentic Scottish gifts and souvenirs in the heart of Edinburgh.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Dragonfly
0.2 km
Dragonfly Cocktail Bar: Experience the art of mixology in Edinburgh’s stylish cocktail haven with creative drinks and a vibrant atmosphere.
The Wee Pub - The Smallest Pub in Scotland
0.3 km
Experience the charm of The Wee Pub, the smallest pub in Scotland, nestled in Edinburgh's historic Grassmarket area, offering local ales and a cozy atmosphere.
The Bow Bar
0.3 km
Experience the charm of Edinburgh at The Bow Bar, a historic pub offering a vast selection of whiskies and local ales in a cozy atmosphere.
NQ64 Edinburgh
0.4 km
Discover NQ64 Edinburgh, where retro gaming meets mixology in a vibrant cocktail bar that promises fun and unforgettable nights out.
SKYbar Edinburgh
0.4 km
Discover the breathtaking views and exquisite cocktails at SKYbar Edinburgh, the city's premier cocktail and events venue.
Never Really Here
0.4 km
Discover a cocktail paradise in the heart of Edinburgh at Never Really Here, where innovative drinks and vibrant atmosphere meet.
BrewDog Edinburgh Lothian Road
0.4 km
Experience the best of craft beer culture at BrewDog Edinburgh Lothian Road, where quality brews meet a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Scotland.
Deacon Brodies Tavern
0.4 km
Discover Deacon Brodies Tavern, a historic pub on Edinburgh's Royal Mile offering traditional Scottish cuisine and a vibrant atmosphere.
All Bar One Exchange Plaza
0.5 km
Discover All Bar One Exchange Plaza in Edinburgh - a vibrant wine bar offering an extensive selection of wines and delicious dining options in a cozy atmosphere.
Dirty Dick's Pub
0.5 km
Discover the unique charm of Dirty Dick's Pub, a lively gastropub in Edinburgh offering local flavors and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Oz Bar
0.5 km
Discover The Oz Bar in Edinburgh: your go-to spot for refreshing drinks, live music, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that captures the spirit of the city.
The Raging Bull
0.5 km
Experience exquisite cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere at The Raging Bull, Edinburgh's premier cocktail bar for an unforgettable night out.
Hoot The Redeemer
0.5 km
Discover the quirky charm and creative cocktails at Hoot The Redeemer, a unique bar experience in the heart of Edinburgh's vibrant nightlife.
The Caley Bar
0.5 km
Experience elegance and comfort at The Caley Bar in Edinburgh, a perfect retreat for cocktails and conversations in a stunning setting.
Frankenstein
0.5 km
Discover Edinburgh's Gothic gem, Frankenstein - a pub that blends history, vibrant nightlife, and unique decor for an unforgettable experience.