Edinburgh City Centre Travel Guide
Edinburgh
Visit Edinburgh City Centre
Popular places to visit
Edinburgh Castle
Fortress, palace and repository of the crown jewels, this landmark overlooking the city has played a crucial role in Scottish history.
Royal Mile
Explore this area in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town to find ancient buildings, historic relics, shops, museums and range of dining options.
Princes Street
During your trip to Edinburgh, you can search for that perfect souvenir at Princes Street. Experience the fascinating museums and lively festivals in this walkable area.
Grassmarket
During your visit to Edinburgh, you can search for that perfect souvenir at Grassmarket. Visit the top-notch restaurants or lively bars in this family-friendly area.
Edinburgh Playhouse Theatre
Enjoy a performance at Edinburgh Playhouse Theatre, a theatre with a story to tell in Edinburgh. Experience the area's fascinating museums and acclaimed theatre scene.
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.
Things to do
City Sightseeing Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour + Kids Go Free Offer
Edinburgh Castle: Guided Walking Tour with Entry Ticket
Palace of Holyroodhouse Admission Ticket
Edinburgh: Edinburgh Castle Guided History Tour with Tickets
Hadrian's Wall, Roman Britain & Borders from Edinburgh
Top hotels in Edinburgh City Centre
Apex Grassmarket Hotel
"Had a room with a view of the castle, had dinner on the balcony, wonderful spacious room loved haveing a mini fridge. Bed was comfortable and location was wonderful. Would definitely stay again on next trip."
Reviewed on 24 May 2026
ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge - Royal Mile
"Very close to High Street and bus to Rosslyn Chapel. Staff was enormously helpful."
Reviewed on 24 May 2026
Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh
"Amazing location! This is the place you want to be if your plans are to walk around the town. Be aware they are in the middle of renovations, but you won’t be disturbed."
Reviewed on 24 May 2026
CODE - The Court, Edinburgh
"Absolutely loved this place and will probably be going back!"
Reviewed on 24 May 2026
Apex Waterloo Place Hotel
"I enjoyed my stay here. The room and bathroom were very clean and the amenities were excellent including tissues and face washers. There was no noise heard from other guests so sound proofing is excellent Breakfast was a good range of foodstuffs. The staff were wonderful and extremely helpful. The ..."
Reviewed on 22 May 2026
Mount Royal Hotel Edinburgh by The Unlimited Collection
"not recommend"
Reviewed on 23 May 2026
Check Edinburgh City Centre hotel availability
Other neighbourhoods around Edinburgh City Centre
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 George Street and St. Andrew Square.
Old Town Edinburgh
Gourmet restaurants interesting history and top sights from Royal Mile to Edinburgh Castle – discover Old Town Edinburgh, a destination also famous for its shopping.
Holyrood
While visiting Holyrood, you might make a stop by sights like Royal Mile and Scottish Parliament.
Pleasance
When in Pleasance, you can plan a visit to Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.
Bonnington
Though Bonnington may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle.
Stockbridge
Historical sites, museums and art galleries highlight some of the noteworthy features of Stockbridge. Make a stop by St. Stephens Centre or St Bernard's Well while you're exploring the neighbourhood.
