12 Reasons to Visit Edinburgh and 12 Reasons to Avoid It
Edinburgh is the kind of city that lingers in your memory long after you’ve left. One moment, you’re wandering through misty medieval streets, half-expecting to cross paths with a poet or a ghost.
Next, you’re tucked into a cozy pub, listening to a local share a story that blurs the line between history and myth. It’s a city that knows how to steal your heart, whether through its rich past, thriving arts scene, or breathtaking landscapes.
But for every bit of charm, there’s also a challenge: crowds, unpredictable weather, and an enthusiastic population of seagulls with a taste for stolen snacks.
So, should you visit?
1. Edinburgh Castle’s Majestic Views
If you want to feel like you’ve stepped into a medieval epic, Edinburgh Castle is the place to be. Found on top of an extinct volcano (yes, really), this fortress is packed with history, intrigue, and some of the best panoramic views in the city.
You’ll get to see the Crown Jewels of Scotland, the Stone of Destiny (used in royal coronations), and the infamous dungeons that once held prisoners from wars long past.
And let’s talk about that One O’Clock Gun, fired every day except Sundays, Christmas, and Good Friday. Even when you know it’s coming, it will make you jump. Don’t say I didn’t warn you.
2. Cultural Richness of the Fringe Festival
Imagine a city where every pub, alleyway, and even public restroom has been turned into a stage.
That’s The Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the world’s largest arts festival, where performers from across the globe bring everything from life-changing theater to stand-up so bad it’s good.
There’s something magical about stumbling into a random venue and witnessing a show that leaves you laughing, crying, or questioning reality.
If you love creativity, energy, and a month-long excuse to stay out way past your bedtime, the Fringe is a must.
3. Breathtaking Arthur’s Seat
If you want to earn your pint at the pub later, Arthur’s Seat is calling your name. This ancient volcanic hill (yes, Edinburgh really leans into its volcano theme) gives you a stunning 360-degree view of the city, but not without a bit of effort.
The hike isn’t exactly Everest, but it does require some sturdy shoes and a bit of determination. The reward? A view that will make you forget about your burning legs. Bring a snack, sit at the top, and soak in the beauty of Edinburgh from above.
4. Enchanting Holyrood Palace
At the other end of the Royal Mile, you’ll find Holyrood Palace, the official Scottish residence of the British monarch.
But the real intrigue comes from Mary, Queen of Scots. Her dramatic life played out within these very walls, complete with betrayals, scandal, and, well… tragic fate.
The rooms here are grand, the gardens are stunning, and if you close your eyes, you can almost hear the whispered court gossip from centuries past. It’s basically a historical soap opera, but with more gold detailing.
5. Calton Hill’s Scenic Beauty
Everyone raves about Edinburgh Castle, but Calton Hill is the real hidden gem for stunning views. A quick, easy climb rewards you with an epic sunset, complete with classical monuments that make the whole place feel like a scene from a period drama.
If you’re not a fan of intense hikes (looking at you, Arthur’s Seat), Calton Hill is the perfect alternative. Bonus points if you bring a picnic, or a sneaky dram of whisky to enjoy the view in style.
6. Visit: The Legendary Haggis Eating Championship
If you think food challenges are just for reality TV, think again.
Edinburgh hosts the Haggis Eating Championship, where competitors race to devour Scotland’s most infamous dish: a spiced mix of sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs, stuffed into a casing. (It tastes better than it sounds. Promise.)
Even if you don’t participate, watching people attempt to shovel down haggis at record speed is wildly entertaining. Pair it with a whisky chaser, and you’ll have a story to tell for years.
7. Edinburgh’s Literary Legacy
Harry Potter fans, Sherlock Holmes enthusiasts, and literature nerds, welcome home.
Edinburgh’s literary legacy is everywhere, from J.K. Rowling’s writing haunts to the old-world charm of bookstores like Armchair Books.
The Writer’s Museum pays tribute to Scottish literary giants, and if you’re lucky, you might stumble upon a literary pub tour where actors bring stories to life over a pint.
If your idea of a perfect afternoon involves getting lost in a bookshop and discovering a new favorite novel, Edinburgh delivers.
8. Charming Streets of Stockbridge
Away from the Royal Mile’s tourist hustle, Stockbridge is the definition of charming. It’s filled with independent shops, cozy cafés, and a Sunday market that sells everything from artisan cheeses to gourmet pastries.
If you love strolling, window shopping, and feeling like you’ve stumbled into a hidden part of the city, Stockbridge is where you’ll want to spend an afternoon.
Bonus: It’s home to some of Edinburgh’s best coffee spots essential for powering through all that sightseeing.
9. The Mystery of Mary King’s Close
Beneath the Royal Mile lies Mary King’s Close, a network of underground streets that were once the popular part of the city, before being sealed off centuries ago.
Now, it’s a hauntingly fascinating tour, filled with tales of plague victims, ghostly figures, and eerie legends.
It’s part history, part ghost story, and all-around one of the most unique experiences in Edinburgh. If you love a good spine-tingling story, this is your kind of place.
10. The Allure of the National Museum
Edinburgh weather can be… unpredictable. Luckily, the National Museum of Scotland is the perfect escape when the skies decide to open up.
This museum has everything, from ancient Egyptian artifacts to Dolly the cloned sheep (yes, the actual one). It’s massive, free, and endlessly fascinating. Even if you’re not a “museum person,” there’s something inside to grab your attention.
11. The Magic of the Christmas Markets
If you visit in December, Edinburgh’s Christmas markets will transport you into a festive wonderland.
You will be able to experience twinkling lights, mulled wine, ice skating, and stalls selling everything from handcrafted gifts to freshly made waffles.
It’s cozy, magical, and totally worth braving the cold for.
12. The Vibrancy of the Grassmarket
Edinburgh’s Grassmarket is a lively hub filled with historic pubs, quirky shops, and live music. It’s also where public executions used to take place, because apparently, nothing says “grab a pint” like a bit of dark history.
If you’re looking for a fun night out with great drinks, great people, and plenty of stories, this is the place to be.
13. Unpredictable Scottish Weather
Let’s just rip the Band-Aid off now. Edinburgh’s weather is about as reliable as a politician’s promise. One minute, glorious sunshine, the next? A downpour so intense you wonder if you should start building an ark.
It’s cold when it shouldn’t be, wet when you don’t want it to be, and windy just to keep things interesting. Forget checking the forecast, it will betray you. Pack for all seasons, no matter when you visit.
14. High Cost of Accommodation
Edinburgh is not cheap, and if you visit during peak season (read: summer, Christmas, or festival time), expect to pay an obscene amount for a shoebox-sized room. Even budget-friendly hostels aren’t exactly budget-friendly when demand is high.
If you’re hoping to find a reasonably priced hotel in the city center, book months in advance, or be prepared to stay in a questionable Airbnb 45 minutes outside the city.
15. Tourist Overload During Festivals
Edinburgh’s festivals are legendary, but with them come a tidal wave of people. The city’s population literally doubles during August, making walking, eating, and even breathing feel like an extreme sport.
Looking for a peaceful stroll down the Royal Mile? Forget it. Want to grab a table at a nice restaurant? Hope you enjoy a two-hour wait.
If you hate crowds, noise, and getting elbowed in the ribs while trying to watch a street performer juggle flaming swords, festival season might not be for you.
16. The Crowded Royal Mile
Yes, the Royal Mile is iconic. Yes, it’s historic. But let’s be honest, it’s also a tourist trap of the highest order. Expect bagpipers playing on repeat, overpriced souvenirs, and tour guides desperately trying to lure you into their ghost tours.
And if you’re not careful, you’ll accidentally spend £20 on a ‘traditional Scottish’ scarf that was definitely made somewhere else.
17. Limited Nightlife Options
If your idea of a great night out involves rooftop bars, trendy nightclubs, and cocktails in a neon-lit wonderland, Edinburgh will disappoint you.
The city’s nightlife is more pub culture than party scene, and while there are some decent clubs, they’re nothing to write home about.
That being said, if you love a cozy pint in a 300-year-old pub with live folk music, you’ll be in heaven. But if you’re looking for an Ibiza-style party? Move along.
18. Traffic Congestion Challenges
Driving in Edinburgh? Don’t do it unless you secretly hate yourself. The streets are narrow, confusing, and filled with pedestrians who have zero fear of death.
Even if you take public transport, you’ll quickly learn that buses are slower than walking during rush hour, and trams, while efficient, don’t go everywhere you need them to. Just accept that you’ll be walking a lot.
19. Limited Dining Options for Vegetarians
While Edinburgh is improving its vegetarian and vegan options, traditional Scottish cuisine is aggressively meat-based. If you don’t eat beef, lamb, or fish, your choices might be limited to soup, chips, and the occasional oatcake.
That being said, the city’s new wave of vegan restaurants is growing, so with a little research, you’ll find some great plant-based spots. Just don’t expect haggis, neeps, and tatties to be on that list.
20. City’s Hilly Terrain
Edinburgh is beautiful, but it also has no concept of flat ground.
Walking here is a leg day workout you didn’t sign up for, especially if you’re staying near the Old Town, where everything feels like it’s uphill, even when you swear you’re walking downhill.
And let’s not even talk about the staircases. Your thighs will be screaming before you even get halfway up the Scott Monument. Wear good shoes.
21. Lack of Green Spaces
Edinburgh’s skyline is dramatic, its history is rich, but its green spaces? Well… let’s just say nature has to fight for space here.
While some cities feel like concrete jungles with big leafy oases, Edinburgh is more like a stone fortress that occasionally lets a tree or two exist.
If you’re looking for vast, sprawling parks, you might be disappointed. That said, Holyrood Park (home to Arthur’s Seat) does provide an escape, if you don’t mind a bit of a climb.
The Royal Botanic Garden is another beautiful option, but it’s not exactly a place for casual lounging. If you’re the type who craves picnic-perfect meadows or long, shaded strolls, you might find yourself wishing for just a bit more green in all the grey.
22. The Annual Bagpipe Practice Convention
Love bagpipes? Fantastic. Hate bagpipes? You might want to rethink your timing.
Every year, Edinburgh plays host to the Annual Bagpipe Practice Convention, an event that ensures the entire city hums with the sound of wailing pipes from dawn until dusk.
Musicians from all over the world gather to practice, perform, and compete, turning the streets into what some call a beautiful cultural moment… and others call an inescapable sonic assault.
Even if you appreciate the instrument’s cultural significance, hearing hundreds of bagpipers playing at once can be a bit much.
If bagpipes aren’t your thing, either time your visit around this festival or invest in good noise-canceling headphones.
23. The Kiltwalk Crowds
Edinburgh loves a good spectacle, but if you’re not a fan of crowded streets and thousands of kilt-clad walkers taking over the city, you might want to check the calendar before booking your trip.
The Kiltwalk is a charity event where participants, dressed in traditional Scottish kilts, take on long walking routes through the city, raising funds for good causes.
If you enjoy festive atmospheres and lively events, you might actually love the experience! But if you’re hoping for a quieter visit without detours or crowds, it might be worth planning around it, or at least embracing the chaos with a kilt of your own!
24. The Annual Seagull Serenade Festival
Seagulls in Edinburgh aren’t just a mild annoyance. They are flying opportunists with no sense of personal space. And once a year, they get their moment to shine.
The Annual Seagull Serenade Festival might sound whimsical, but in reality, it’s an organized chaos of birds swooping, squawking, and stealing food out of the hands of unsuspecting tourists.
If you’re a bird lover, maybe this is your thing. But if you’d rather eat your fish and chips in peace, it’s best to be extra vigilant during this event—or simply plan your meals indoors. You’ve been warned.