Edinburgh City Centre Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
Visit Edinburgh City Centre
Popular places to visit
Edinburgh Castle
A focal point of Scottish history that dominates Edinburgh’s skyline and which has served as a fortress, a palace and home to the crown jewels.
Royal Mile
With its historic buildings, museums, shops and restaurants, this stretch of Edinburgh's Old Town is a much-loved haunt.
Princes Street
You can search for that perfect souvenir when you visit Princes Street, a favourite shopping spot in Edinburgh. Experience the entertainment choices and fascinating museums in this walkable area.
Grassmarket
You can browse for souvenirs when you visit Grassmarket, a popular shopping spot in Edinburgh. Visit the lively bars or top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area.
George Street
During your trip to Edinburgh, you can browse for the perfect souvenirs at George Street. Visit the lively bars or top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.
St. Andrew Square
You can find out about the history of Edinburgh with a stop at St. Andrew Square. Experience the area's entertainment choices and lively festivals.
Activities
City Sightseeing Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour + Kids Go Free Offer
Edinburgh Castle: Guided Walking Tour with Entry Ticket
The World Famous Underground Ghost Tour
Royal Mile and Old Town Walking Tour
Loch Ness & the Highlands of Scotland
Our pick of the best Edinburgh City Centre Hotel Deals
Apex Waterloo Place Hotel
"Our first visit to Edinburgh and very happy with our stay at the hotel . Requested ground floor room and offered a lovely room , spacious , clean & staff very attentive"
Reviewed on 19 June 2026
Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh
"Too expensive for the amenities. Staff is very friendly and accommodating, but in general the hotel lacks on food quality in the breakfast and some items missing in the room like robes and slippers. I was expecting a lot more for the cost. The location, however, is amazing."
Reviewed on 15 June 2026
Apex Grassmarket Hotel
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Reviewed on 19 June 2026
CODE - The Court, Edinburgh
"It was such good value for money It was well staffed and all of them were very pleasant and helpful. Survived a 8 bedded dorm in a top pod at 64"
Reviewed on 19 June 2026
Hilton Edinburgh Carlton
"Lovely room. Convenient to the Royal Mile."
Reviewed on 18 June 2026
Mount Royal Hotel Edinburgh by The Unlimited Collection
"Perfect location, very nice sraff"
Reviewed on 19 June 2026
Our guide on where to stay in Edinburgh City Centre
Old Town Edinburgh
Gourmet restaurants interesting history and top sights from Royal Mile to Princes Street – discover Old Town Edinburgh, a destination also famous for its shopping.
New Town
Travellers love New Town for its popular shops, and you can see more of Edinburgh by jumping on the metro at Princes Street Tram Stop or St Andrew Square Tram Stop. You might spend time checking out top sights like Princes Street and George Street.
Leith
Known for its abundant dining options and seaside views, there's plenty to explore in Leith. Top attractions like Edinburgh Port and Ocean Terminal Shopping Centre are major draws, and you can catch the metro at The Shore Tram Stop or Port of Leith Tram Stop to see more of the city.
Tollcross
Tollcross is known for its ample dining options, and you can make a stop by Royal Lyceum Theatre and Usher Hall while in the area.
Haymarket
Visitors often come to Haymarket for its abundant dining options, but many stay to explore sights like Princes Street and Vietnam House Art Gallery. Getting around the area on the metro is easy if you take a ride at Haymarket Tram Station.
