With its cobbled streets, historic alleyways, and breathtaking skyline, Edinburgh is a city designed for exploration. Whether wandering through the medieval Old Town, discovering hidden courtyards, or stumbling upon tucked-away whisky bars, getting lost in Edinburgh is part of the adventure.
Whether you head to the city between June and August for the best weather, or prefer a quieter trip during January and February, Edinburgh caters to everyone.
This Edinburgh city guide will take you through the city’s most charming and historic spots, proving that Edinburgh is the perfect city to get lost in, both by car and on foot.
Why Edinburgh is the Perfect City to Get Lost in
Unlike cities with rigid grids, Edinburgh’s medieval Old Town, with various alleyways and unexpected viewpoints, creates an atmosphere where wandering is the best way to explore. Edinburgh’s streets don’t follow a predictable pattern, making every walk an adventure. You might start on the Royal Mile, duck into a hidden close, and suddenly find yourself in a peaceful courtyard or a centuries-old tavern.
Every corner of Edinburgh tells a story. Whether it’s the haunted vaults below the city, the grand Edinburgh Castle, or the remnants of ancient markets and hidden chapels, you can stumble upon history without even looking for it.
Many of Edinburgh’s best spots aren’t on the main streets. The winding alleys of the Old Town and the independent boutiques of Stockbridge or Dean Village are perfect places to accidentally discover a cosy café, an old bookstore, or a whisky bar.
Start with a Stroll Through the Old Town
Begin your adventure in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where history seeps from every stone. The Royal Mile, stretching from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, is packed with historic sites, quirky shops, and lively street performers. However, the real magic lies just off the main street, in the city’s hidden closes (narrow alleyways) that lead to unexpected courtyards and tucked-away cafés.
Drivers Tip: Park your car near Holyrood Park and explore the Old Town on foot – Edinburgh’s medieval streets are best enjoyed by wandering.
The City’s Hidden Underground
One of the most fascinating and eerie ways to experience Edinburgh’s history is through an Edinburgh underground tour. These tours take you beneath the city’s streets, revealing a world of abandoned vaults, forgotten passageways, and ghostly tales from Edinburgh’s past. The Real Mary King’s Close is a must-visit, offering a glimpse into 17th-century life in a hidden underground street.
Drivers Tip: Tours can sell out quickly, so book ahead if you want to explore beneath the city.
Cheers to History at the Edinburgh Gin Distillery
After a day of wandering, take a break at the Edinburgh Gin Distillery, where you can learn about the art of gin-making and sample award-winning spirits. Edinburgh has a long-standing love affair with gin, and this distillery is a perfect place to experience the city’s craft scene. Whether you opt for a full-tasting session or just a quick tour, it’s a stop worth making.
Drivers Tip: If you’re driving, pick up a bottle of Edinburgh Gin to enjoy later at your accommodation.
Admire the Views from Arthur’s Seat and Calton Hill
For breathtaking city views, take a short drive to Holyrood Park and hike up Arthur’s Seat, an ancient volcano that offers panoramic views of Edinburgh and beyond. If you’re short on time, Calton Hill provides a quicker (but equally stunning) viewpoint, perfect for catching the sunset over the city’s rooftops.
Drivers Tip: Drive up to Regent Road for easy access to Calton Hill’s viewpoint.
Head to Stockbridge and Dean Village
No Edinburgh road trip is complete without a spontaneous detour. Take a short drive to Stockbridge, a charming neighbourhood filled with independent shops, vintage boutiques, and cosy cafés. Just a short walk away, Dean Village feels like stepping into a fairytale, with its picturesque riverside setting and quaint historic buildings.
Drivers Tip: Park in Stockbridge and enjoy a scenic walk along the Water of Leith to Dean Village.
Edinburgh After Dark
As night falls, Edinburgh takes on a new personality. Whether you choose a candlelit whisky bar, a ghost tour through the city’s dark alleys, or a live folk music session, the city is filled with nocturnal magic.
Drivers Tip: If you’re feeling brave, take a haunted Edinburgh underground tour for a spine-chilling end to your adventure.
Even by car, Edinburgh is full of spontaneous detours – drive from the bustling city centre to quiet seaside spots like Portobello Beach, or take a short trip to the scenic Pentland Hills for an unexpected countryside escape.
Whether you’re following a planned itinerary or letting the streets guide you, there’s always something new to discover in Edinburgh. With history at every turn, charming hidden corners, and breathtaking scenery, it’s truly the perfect city to get lost in.
In Edinburgh, getting lost isn’t a mistake – it’s the best way to experience the city’s rich history, culture, and beauty.
