Welcome to the capital city of the misty, mysterious and majestic country of Scotland. Experience traditional food, historic sites, and eclectic neighborhoods with these 13 hidden gems in Edinburgh. I will help you prepare for this once in a lifetime journey!
Out of all the international cities I’ve visited, I must say Edinburgh is one of my favorites. The mix of rugged volcanic cliffs, commanding castles and palpable culture in a walkable radius equals perfection in my book. Public transit tends to stress me out, so any city I can reasonably explore on foot is much preferred. Edinburgh checks not only this box, but so many more.
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We got to explore Edinburgh at the tail end of our two week backpacking trip throughout England, Scotland, and Wales. Let’s uncover 13 of the best hidden gems you need to make sure to add to your bucket list. Starting with where to stay, I’ll walk you through sights you must see and the best places to grab a bite to help you plan the perfect trip.
Edinburgh Travel Guide Bonus
To save time, download my whole trip map with all the places I recommend already marked for your convenience!
Where to Stay in Edinburgh
When traveling, I usually like to find a place outside the city center to get a feel for how the locals live, and explore a part of town away from the hustle and bustle of the main tourist attractions. In Edinburgh, I found this studio in Stockbridge on Airbnb that was a perfect home base. The location was 10/10, as well as the overall space. Our only complaint was the bed- and we are by no means high maintenance. We knew we booked mid-range accommodations, and set our expectations accordingly. However, the bed was honestly hard and truly uncomfortable.
Comfort aside, Stockbridge was such a neat area. Even if you choose not to stay there, you should definitely make your way to this area at some point, especially for dinner. In fact, 4 of my 6 food recommendations are in this neighborhood (more on that later).
What to See in Edinburgh: 13 Hidden Gems Revealed
Edinburgh Hidden Gem #1: Inverleith Park
Walking to Inverleigh Park from our Airbnb was one of our most unexpectedly favorite experiences. We walked through beautiful upscale neighborhoods to get there, many of which looked at least a century old, and going through repairs to restore their original grandeur.
Once in the park, we found young locals playing in co-ed rugby rec leagues, families walking dogs, and couples enjoying a bottle of wine by the lake. We joined the lake crowd, and rested our legs a while.
Did you know? Wild, unmarked swans in the UK belong to the Queen? And the punishment for killed a swan is not only criminal, but will incur a hefty fine. Who knew?
#2: St. Bernard’s Well
Designed in the 1700’s, St. Bernard’s well sits atop a natural spring claimed to have healing powers. A statue of the Greek Goddess of health, Hygeia, is perched inside. There is a walking path alongside the Water of Leith that conveniently runs from the doorstep of our Airbnb to the well, and to the next gem on this list as well. The Water of Leith walkway is a great way to discover the city on foot!
Edinburgh Hidden Gem #3. Dean Village
Dean Village feels like an 18th century retreat nestled in the middle of a modern day city. Colorful buildings, a waterway, cobblestone and bridges make this sight worth seeing. Home to more than 11 grain mills, Dean Village was a successful milling town for over 800 years. Make sure and pin Dean Bridge as well for a fun photo opp.
#4. Ross Fountain
Venture into Old Town for the first time, and discover the best place for unmatched views of the Edinburgh Castle. Installed in 1872, the fountain can be found in West Princess Street Gardens.
Where exactly is this park located? You can download my trip map here that has both this location and the other 12 hidden gems pinned so you know exactly where to go.
#5. Calton Hill
Many will make the hike up Arthur’s Seat for views of Edinburgh from above. If you are looking for a less strenuous option, Calton Hill is it. Although an uphill trek, it’s short lived and doable for most activity levels.
Calton Hill was formed by volcanic activity over 340 million years ago (similar to the cliff Edinburgh Castle is perched on). The city purchased the hill in 1724 to create one of Britain’s first public parks for citizens to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. There are numerous monuments on the hill, as well as spectacular views of the entire city.
At first, I was disappointed it was so misty and foggy during our visit (which significantly impeded our views). I realized it was very on brand for Scotland and appreciated the weather for what it was. It actually made for some unique photos too.
Edinburgh Hidden Gem #6. Palace of Hollyrood House
Learn from my mistake, and plan your trip to Edinburgh around the days the palace is open. Check online for the most accurate and up to date information. In our experience, mid April was still considered to be the “winter season” at tourist sites in Scotland (including Culloden battlefield in the Highlands) which meant limited opening days and times. The palace was not open on our only full day in the city, and not getting to tour this amazing palace will always be one of my life’s greatest regrets. I guess I’ll just have to go back.
Palace of Hollyrood house is not hidden, but it is definitely a gem with a long and fascinating history. The Abbey on site was founded in 1128, and the house has served as a royal residence for over 500 years.
Did you know? “Holy Rood” means “Holy Cross”, and was named after a vision David I of Scotland had to build a church in that location.
Most interesting to me (a fan of the TV show Reign), are the palaces connections to Mary Queen of Scots. Hollyrood House was her residence from 1561-1567. You can still tour her apartment in the northwest tower today.
The palace was the site of both her marriages to Lord Darnley and the Earl of Bothwell, as well as the site of the brutal murder of her personal secretary, David Rizzio. Today the palace is property of The Crown and serves as the official residence of the Monarch. Queen Elizabeth spends one week at the palace each summer.
#7. Dunbar’s Close
Edinburgh’s Royal Mile is the star of Old Town, paving the way from Hollyrood House up to Edinburgh Castle. The Royal Mile is filled with souvenir shops and tourist traps, and is usually very crowded. However, did you know there are 80 hidden close’s off the main road for you to explore?
The term “close” is short for “enclosure”, and is used to name the alleyways that jet off the Royal Mile. Dunbar’s Close is one of these worth exploring. Created in the 1970’s, Dunbar’s close is an alleyway that opens up into a series of beautifully manicured gardens. This green space is a great place to catch your breath and enjoy a bit of secluded nature. As you can see, we were the only ones here!
Where exactly is this close located? You can download my trip map here that has both this location and the other 12 hidden gems pinned so you know exactly where to go.
#8. Bakehouse Close
Like previously mentioned, there are 80 “hidden” enclosures off of the Royal Mile in Old Town. Pop in and out at your leisure, as this is the last I will officially recommend a stop at.
Outlander fans may recognize this place as Jamie’s (or Alexander Malcolm’s) Print Shop from season 3 of Outlander. Bakehouse Close was used to film Jamie and Claire’s reunion after spending 20 years apart.
Outside of this close’s significance to the show Outlander, rumor has it that this is the best preserved alley off of the mile. It beautifully represents times past, and allows you to imagine what this entire area looked like centuries ago.
Edinburgh Hidden Gem #9. Scotch Whiskey Experience
This was such a fun tour even for 2 people who do not like, or typically drink dark liquor. Especially Scotch. So regardless of your palate, know this is a fun tourist attraction that is well executed. You will learn all about the history of scotch, different regions and their unique twists on flavor, and sample some of your own. I think this is a culturally important stop with a lot to learn, and hopefully enjoy.
#10. St. Giles Cathedral
Likely founded around 1124, St. Giles cathedral is a sight to see. In 1559, the church became Protestant with John Knox as the pastor (may sound familiar if you are into history, or the show Reign). Because of its roll in reformation over the years, today St. Giles Cathedral is known as “the Mother Church of World Presbyterianism”.
#11. Greyfriars Kirkyard
Located on the southern edge of Old Town is Greyfriars Kirkyard. Beginning in the late 16th century, burials began taking place here instead of at St. Giles cathedral due to overcrowding, and to give some distance from the city center. Numerous noteworthy Edinburgher’s were buried here, in addition to Thomas Riddle, Ann & Robert Potter, William McGonagall, Elizabeth Moodie, Charles Black, Cruikshanks… Sound familiar?
J.K. Rowling used names from tombstones in this cemetery as inspiration for her characters in Harry Potter. It leaves me to wonder if this kirkyard was any type of tourist attraction prior to the rise of Harry Potter’s fame. Today, you will fight crowds and various walking tours to get a glimpse of these graves with names that are now famous worldwide. A bit odd if you ask me.
Near the entry to the kirkyard is a statue of Greyfriar’s Bobby. According to legend, Bobby was a terrier who spent the rest of his life (14 years!) guarding the grave of his owner in Greyfriar’s Kirkyard who had passed. Today, there is a statue to commemorate Bobby’s loyalty. Make sure and stop so you can pay tribute and “boop” his nose too.
Edinburgh Hidden Gem #12. Afternoon Tea at the Signet Library
I shared in a previous post how I plan international travel, and prioritize things to do and see. One of the strategies that has worked well for my husband and I is choosing three non-negotiables that we would like to do. This helps ensure that we both stay involved with the planning process, and find activities we are both interested in.
One of my non-negotiables on our two week UK backpacking journey was afternoon tea at the Colonnades salon inside the Signet Library. And let me tell you, the experience did not disappoint. The backdrop is stunning- who wouldn’t want to dine like royalty in a historic library?!
Built in 1822, this grand library is right on the Royal Mile. Enjoy your choice of unlimited tea or coffee, and two courses of three tiered deliciousness all to yourself. Scones, macaroons, finger sandwiches and more. You will not only be impressed with the creativity of these savory and sweet treats, but the flavors will have your taste buds celebrating. The menu changes seasonally, so I would not hesitate to plan another visit if I ever find myself in Edinburgh again.
Fun Fact: Outlander fans, does this interior look familiar? The inside of this grand library was actually used to film scenes for Outlander shot at the Governor’s Jamaican mansion in season 3! Who knew?
#13. Underground Edinburgh
As televised on the History Channel’s “Cities of the Underworld”, Edinburgh has a fascinating maze of underground dwellings you can now join a tour to see. Centuries ago, Edinburgh existed inside a wall to keep the city and its people safe. As the city ran out of space above ground, they began to build vaults and alleyways below ground.
In 1644, it is hypothesized that infected fleas from the underground alleyway named Mary King’s Close was ground zero for the Bubonic Plague. They attempted to seal off the underground street to contain the illness from reaching the rich and upperclass who lived above.
Today, you can see what remains of some of these underground dwellings. Many claim to be “haunted” tours, but most of Scotland claims some type of spooky or bloody past. Although I didn’t know about the existence of underground Edinburgh until we arrived back home stateside, it’s a hidden gem I wish we would have explored!
Where to Eat in Edinburgh
As far as food goes, I think we successfully ate our way through Stockbridge. Walking from our Airbnb, we enjoyed a wonderful Italian dinner at Pepe Nero.
Looking for a taste of home? I was craving some American bacon two weeks into our international excursion, and happily found some at the Bluebird Cafe. They advertise serving Tennessee inspired southern hospitality with locally sourced Scottish produce. We had so much fun finding little bits of our home in Memphis, TN abroad- like the Sun Studios sign inside this cafe.
Dinner #2 was also in walking distance to the Airbnb, serving pub food and a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Hectors served a great burger, fries, and pints of Guinness. Do you notice the bit of red swirling in the glass on the left? That’s referred to as a Guinness and black. Order it, and the bartender will add a shot of black current syrup to your stout! It was a fun twist shared with us by a local.
*Want more tips of what to eat and drink? I’ve rounded up a British food and beverage bucket list to help you not only navigate menus, but make sure you don’t miss out on any traditional fare.
If you find yourselves in need of brunch, look no further than The Pantry. Farm to table style with a modern take on many traditional Scottish dishes, you are sure to find something you love. Below is a poached egg, grilled tomato, black pudding, and bacon on a hash brown, served with sausage and toast. It was divine.
Last but not least, I will share one place on the Royal Mile since you are bound to find yourself here and hungry at some point in your journey. Whiski Bar is a traditional Scottish pub, and served an excellent introduction to haggis. Our first time trying this Scottish specialty item was in their award winning “haggis tower” pictured below. With haggis, neeps (turnips), mashed potato and whisky sauce, it is a culinary experience you must try for yourself. Even if you are still unsure about the haggis hype… just don’t think about what’s in it 😉
Oh, and did I mention how much we enjoyed afternoon tea? I know it already earned its way into my top 13 hidden gems in Edinburgh, but it deserves a mention in the food section as well. One of my non-negotialbles, and I have no regrets. That lunch was truly a highlight of the entire trip.
I hope I have covered everything you will need for a complete tour of Edinburgh. If you want more information on how to plan a trip, especially an international voyage for a week or two, I share all my planning tips and tricks here.
