Edinburgh Old Town | Everything You Need to Know

Step into the historic heart of Scotland’s capital with a visit to Edinburgh Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995. This medieval district, stretching from the imposing Edinburgh Castle to the elegant Palace of Holyroodhouse along the Royal Mile, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and charm. Its narrow wynds (alleys), historic closes (courtyards), and stunning architecture transport visitors back in time, while vibrant shops, pubs, and festivals keep the area lively.

Whether you’re exploring the Scottish Crown Jewels, admiring St. Giles’ Cathedral, or soaking up the atmosphere in the Grassmarket, Edinburgh Old Town offers an unforgettable experience for history buffs, families, and curious travelers alike.

Location

Edinburgh Old Town is centrally located in Edinburgh, Scotland, spanning from Edinburgh Castle in the west to the Palace of Holyroodhouse in the east, connected by the Royal Mile. The postcode for the Royal Mile is EH1 1RF, though the district covers a broader area defined by these landmarks. Nearby, you’ll find Princes Street Gardens, the Scottish National Gallery, and Arthur’s Seat. For precise navigation, use GPS or map apps like Google Maps.

Opening Hours

As a public district, Edinburgh Old Town is accessible 24/7. However, specific attractions within the area have their own schedules:

• Edinburgh Castle: Open daily except 25–26 December. From 1 April to 30 September, hours are 9:30 AM–6:00 PM (last entry 5:00 PM). From 1 October to 24 December and 27 December to 31 December, it’s 9:30 AM–5:00 PM (last entry 4:00 PM). On 1 January, it opens at 11:00 AM (last entry 4:00 PM). From 2 January to 31 March, hours are 9:30 AM–5:00 PM (last entry 4:00 PM).
• St. Giles’ Cathedral: Typically open Monday–Friday 9:00 AM–7:00 PM, Saturday 9:00 AM–5:00 PM, Sunday 1:00 PM–5:00 PM, but check the official website for updates.
• Scottish Parliament: Open for visitors Monday–Saturday, with varying hours; check the official website.
  Always verify hours for specific sites, as they may change for events or holidays.

How to Get There

Edinburgh Old Town is well-connected and easy to reach:

• Train: Waverley Station, located in the heart of the Old Town, offers direct connections from London (4.5–5.5 hours) and other UK cities. Check National Rail for schedules.
• Bus: Numerous routes, including Lothian Buses 3, 23, 27, and 41, stop along the Royal Mile or nearby. Visit Lothian Buses for details.
• Tram: Edinburgh Trams run from Edinburgh Airport to St Andrew Square, a 5-minute walk from the Old Town.
• Car: Parking is limited and costly. Nearby car parks include NCP St John’s Hill or Waverley Market Car Park, with rates around £3–£5/hour. Public transport is recommended due to congestion and Edinburgh’s Low Emission Zone.
• Walking: The Old Town is pedestrian-friendly, with most attractions within a 1–2 km radius. From Waverley Station, it’s a 5-minute walk to the Royal Mile.
• Cycling: Bike hire schemes like Just Eat Cycles have stations near the Old Town. Use TfL Cycle Hire for locations.
  Use apps like Citymapper for real-time navigation.

Best Time to Visit

Edinburgh Old Town is a year-round destination, with each season offering unique experiences:

• Spring (March–May): Mild weather and fewer tourists make it ideal for exploring historic sites and enjoying quieter streets.
• Summer (June–August): Vibrant with festivals like the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and Military Tattoo, but expect crowds and higher prices. Book accommodations early.
• Autumn (September–November): Cooler temperatures and fewer visitors provide a relaxed visit, with colorful foliage enhancing the scenery.
• Winter (December–February): Chilly but magical, with Christmas markets, Hogmanay celebrations, and festive lights in the Grassmarket and Royal Mile.
  Weekdays and early mornings are less crowded, especially outside peak festival season. Check the weather, as rain is common, and cobblestone streets can be slippery. For event schedules, visit Forever Edinburgh.

Tickets and Costs

Entry to Edinburgh Old Town’s public areas is free, but specific attractions have admission fees:

Attraction	Adult Price	Notes
Edinburgh Castle	£17 (~$21.50 USD)	Concessions for children (£10.20), seniors (£13.60); book online at Edinburgh Castle
Real Mary King’s Close	£16.50	Discounts for children, students; book at Mary King’s Close
Scottish Parliament	Free	Guided tours free, book at Scottish Parliament
St. Giles’ Cathedral	Free	Donations appreciated; photography permits £2
Walking Tours	Free–£20	Tip-based or paid tours via Mercat Tours

Combo tickets or passes like the Edinburgh City Pass may offer savings for multiple attractions. Book in advance for popular sites to avoid queues.

What to Expect

Edinburgh Old Town offers a rich tapestry of experiences:

• Edinburgh Castle: A hilltop fortress housing the Scottish Crown Jewels, Stone of Destiny, and Mons Meg cannon, with panoramic city views.
• Royal Mile: A historic street with shops, pubs, and landmarks like John Knox House and the Heart of Midlothian mosaic.
• St. Giles’ Cathedral: A 12th-century church with stunning stained-glass windows and intricate architecture.
• Real Mary King’s Close: An underground tour exploring 17th-century life in hidden streets.
• Grassmarket: A vibrant square with independent shops, pubs, and street performers.
• Victoria Street: A colorful, curved street, rumored to inspire Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley, lined with boutiques and cafes like The Elephant House.
  A typical visit lasts 2–4 hours for a casual stroll, or a full day with attractions. Facilities include restrooms in major sites, free WiFi in cafes, and dining options from traditional pubs to upscale restaurants like The Witchery by the Castle.

Safety and Accessibility

Edinburgh Old Town is generally safe, but stay vigilant for pickpockets in crowded areas like the Royal Mile during festivals. Security patrols and CCTV are present in busy spots. The area’s cobblestone streets and steps can be challenging for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues, though major attractions like Edinburgh Castle and the Scottish Parliament offer accessible entrances, ramps, and lifts. Contact venues in advance for specific needs via their websites. The Old Town is family-friendly, with stroller access in most areas and kid-friendly activities like museum trails or ghost tours. Supervise children on uneven surfaces.

History and Background

Edinburgh Old Town, the city’s original settlement, was shaped by its “crag and tail” landscape—an extinct volcano (Castle Rock) and a glacial ridge (Royal Mile). Dating back to medieval times, it was once densely populated and notorious for overcrowding until the 18th-century New Town alleviated pressure. Key historical moments include its role in the Scottish Reformation and Enlightenment. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995, it preserves landmarks like St. Giles’ Cathedral and hidden closes. Fun Facts: The Heart of Midlothian mosaic marks the site of the old Tolbooth prison, and Victoria Street is said to have inspired J.K. Rowling’s Diagon Alley. Learn more at Edinburgh World Heritage.

Nearby Attractions

The Old Town’s central location makes it easy to combine with nearby sites:

• New Town (5-minute walk): Features Georgian architecture and Princes Street Gardens.
• National Museum of Scotland (5-minute walk): Free entry, with exhibits on Scottish history and culture.
• Scottish National Gallery (5-minute walk): Houses fine art, including Scottish masterpieces.
• Arthur’s Seat (20-minute walk): A hill in Holyrood Park offering panoramic city views.
  For a full day, start at Edinburgh Castle, stroll the Royal Mile, and hike Arthur’s Seat, all within a 2–3 km radius.

Practical Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes: Cobblestone streets and hills require sturdy footwear.
• Book in advance: Secure tickets for Edinburgh Castle or Real Mary King’s Close online to avoid queues.
• Join a guided tour: Options like Mercat Tours reveal hidden history and ghost stories.
• Prepare for weather: Bring a raincoat or umbrella, as Edinburgh’s weather is unpredictable.
• Explore wynds and closes: Discover hidden gems like Old Fishmarket Close or Advocate’s Close for a unique experience.
• Photography: Allowed in public areas; some attractions may charge for permits (e.g., St. Giles’ Cathedral, £2).

FAQs

What are the opening hours of Edinburgh Castle?

Edinburgh Castle is open daily except 25–26 December. From 1 April to 30 September, it’s 9:30 AM–6:00 PM (last entry 5:00 PM). From 1 October to 24 December and 27 December to 31 December, it’s 9:30 AM–5:00 PM (last entry 4:00 PM). On 1 January, it opens at 11:00 AM (last entry 4:00 PM). From 2 January to 31 March, it’s 9:30 AM–5:00 PM (last entry 4:00 PM). Check Edinburgh Castle for updates.

How much does it cost to visit the Scottish Parliament?

Entry is free, with free guided tours available; book at Scottish Parliament.

Is Edinburgh Old Town wheelchair accessible?

Cobblestone streets and steps can be challenging, but major attractions like Edinburgh Castle and the Scottish Parliament offer ramps and lifts. Check venue websites for details.

Are there any free attractions in Edinburgh Old Town?

Yes, St. Giles’ Cathedral (donations appreciated), the Scottish Parliament, and walking the Royal Mile are free.

What’s the best way to get from the airport to the Old Town?

Take the Edinburgh Trams from Edinburgh Airport to St Andrew Square (30 minutes, £6.50), a 5-minute walk to the Old Town. Taxis are also available (£20).

Can I walk from the Old Town to Arthur’s Seat?

Yes, it’s a 20-minute walk from the Scottish Parliament to Arthur’s Seat in Holyrood Park.

Are there any ghost tours in Edinburgh Old Town?

Yes, popular options include Mercat Tours and City of the Dead, exploring haunted closes and vaults.

Where can I find traditional Scottish food in the Old Town?

Try The Witchery by the Castle, The Royal Mile Tavern, or The Sheep Heid Inn for dishes like haggis, neeps, and tatties.

Is it safe to walk around the Old Town at night?

Generally safe, but stay cautious in quieter areas. Stick to well-lit, busy streets like the Royal Mile.

What’s the significance of the Heart of Midlothian on the Royal Mile?

The Heart of Midlothian, a mosaic outside St. Giles’ Cathedral, marks the former Tolbooth prison. Spitting on it is considered good luck.