Edinburgh attractions

11 top sights, in our order of priority for a first visit.

1. 1Edinburgh CastleMuseums & culture · Allow 3 hA fortress that has dominated the skyline for nine centuries, holding the Scottish Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny and the One O'Clock Gun.
2. 2Royal Mile & Old Town WalkGuided tours · Allow 2 h 30 minThe main street of the Old Town, running from the castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, with closes, churches and the hidden lanes that lead off it.
3. 3Arthur's SeatOutdoors · Allow 3 hAn extinct volcano in Holyrood Park, 251 metres high, with a short hike that gives a 360-degree view of the city and the Firth of Forth.
4. 4Loch Ness & Highlands Day TripDay trips · Allow Full dayA full day into the Highlands, passing Glencoe and ending at Loch Ness, with stops for scenery and a short cruise.
5. 5Whisky Tasting ExperienceFood & drink · Allow 3 hA guided tasting that explains the five whisky regions of Scotland, with samples to compare.
6. 6Underground Vaults & Ghost TourEvening · Allow 1 h 30 minA night tour under the South Bridge vaults, with stories of the city's dark history.
7. 7St Andrews & FifeDay trips · Allow Full dayA day trip to the home of golf, with a ruined cathedral, castle and a university town on the coast.
8. 8Palace of HolyroodhouseMuseums & culture · Allow 2 hThe King's official residence in Scotland, at the end of the Royal Mile, with historic apartments and abbey ruins.
9. 9Calton Hill SunsetOutdoors · Allow 1 hA hill with monuments and one of the best views of Edinburgh's skyline.
10. 10Loch Ness & Highlands Day TripDay trips · Allow Full dayA long day trip to Loch Ness, Glencoe and the Highlands, with a cruise on the loch.
11. 11Royal Yacht BritanniaTickets & passes · Allow 2 hThe former royal yacht, now a museum in Leith, with the royal apartments and engine room.