Perched atop a series of extinct volcanoes and rocky crags on an inlet from the North Sea (the Firth of Forth), and surrounded by rolling hills, lakes, and forests, Edinburgh is a city with a breathtaking natural setting that is perfect for walking. The Old Town and New Town are replete with elegant streets, cobbled alleys, lovely squares, and narrow closes and boast major sights. An Edinburgh walking tour is one of the best ways to see these sights, important landmarks and soak in the charming atmosphere. This post includes a map for a self-guided free walking tour of Edinburgh. Enjoy your walk! 🙂
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Table of Contents
Why Choose This Free Self-Guided Edinburgh Walking Tour?
This free self-guided Edinburgh walking tour itinerary is perfect if you are short on time and trying to save some money. With our free map, you can follow the route quite easily without having to hire an expensive guide for the day.
The tour will take you past the city’s major attractions, landmark public buildings, places of worship, cultural venues, restaurants, and cafes. You’ll also learn a few lesser-known facts about Edinburgh along the way.
The tour will take you through the center of Edinburgh, principally focusing on the attraction studded area of the UNESCO World Heritage Old Town.
Edinburgh Walking Tour Itinerary
The free self-guided Edinburgh walking tour covers a total distance of approximately 6.2 kilometers (3.85 miles). The tour starts at the Balmoral Hotel and terminates on Calton Hill. You can also do it the other way around if that suits you better.
Edinburgh is a hilly city and the walking route takes you up and down hilly streets and stairs so be sure to wear comfortable footwear.
Feel free to take a break if you feel jaded along the way. I have included some cafes and restaurants on the map where you can take a breather and grab a bite.
On this Edinburgh walking tour, you will see:
- Balmoral Hotel
- Princes Street
- Scott Monument
- Princes Street Gardens
- Scottish National Gallery
- New College, University of Edinburgh
- Ramsay Garden
- Edinburgh Castle
- The Royal Mile
- Gladstone’s Land
- The Writers’ Museum
- Brodie’s Close
- Victoria Street & West Bow
- Grassmarket
- Greyfriars Kirkyard
- Greyfriars Bobby Statue
- National Museum of Scotland
- The Elephant House
- Old College, University of Edinburgh
- St. Giles’ Cathedral
- Heart of Midlothian Mosaic
- Cockburn Street
- John Knox House
- Canongate Tolbooth
- Museum of Edinburgh
- Canongate Kirk
- Scottish Parliament Building
- Palace of Holyroodhouse
- Calton Hill
1. Balmoral Hotel
Kick off your free Edinburgh walking tour at the iconic Balmoral Hotel. This prestigious high-end hotel opened its doors in 1902 as a railway hotel and is now a veritable Edinburgh landmark.
It was known as the North British Hotel for much of the century, though by the 1980s the use of the imperial “North Britain” as an alternative name for Scotland didn’t sit too well with many locals.
I was really taken with the Balmoral’s Victorian architecture as well as its beefy clocktower which at 58 meters high, is a prominent feature in Edinburgh’s skyline.
It’s interesting to note that the timepiece on the clocktower is always set two minutes fast in order to encourage passengers to catch their trains at neighboring Waverley Station, the city’s chief train station.
The only day that the clock runs on time is on 31 December (Hogmanay) for the city’s New Year celebrations. Downstairs in the hotel is the elegant Palm Court tea house which is probably the most affordable way to get a taste of the hotel.
Directions
Your next stop is Princes Street (2) which is just beside the Balmoral Hotel. You’ll be walking a distance of 20 m.
2. Princes Street
Princes Street is one of Edinburgh’s principal thoroughfares and shopping streets. It stretches approximately one mile (1.6 km) from Lothian Road on the west to Leith Street on the east.
It was built in the late 18th century during the reign of King George III and was originally called St. Giles Street after the city’s patron saint.
The street was later renamed for King George’s sons after its original name was rejected. Many of the original buildings have been destroyed and today much of Princes Street is dominated by unattractive modern storefronts.
The retail offerings on Princes Street are diverse, ranging from high-street favorites and department stores to luxury boutiques, ensuring that there’s something for every shopper. The street is also dotted with various eateries and cafes where visitors can stop to dine or grab a coffee.
The street is also home to several important monuments and statues.
With no buildings on its south side, Princes Street’s saving grace is the uninterrupted views of Old Town’s historic skyline, providing shoppers and strollers alike with one of the most picturesque urban vistas in Europe.
Directions
Your next stop is the Scott Monument (3) which lies a little further down on Princes Street. You’ll be walking a distance of 150 m.
3. Scott Monument
The towering Scott Monument is definitely the most outlandish of Princes Street’s mixed bag of sights. Completed in 1840, this Gothic tower reaches a height of 61 meters and is dedicated to prolific author and patriot Sir Walter Scott.
The structure resembles a church spire plucked from a mainland European cathedral and is one of Edinburgh’s most recognizable landmarks. Not everyone cottoned to the tower after its opening, but it is difficult to imagine Edinburgh’s skyline without it.
The architecture is closely modeled on Scott’s cherished Melrose Abbey, while the rich sculptural decoration displays 64 characters from his novels. At the base of the monument is a statue of Scott with his deerhound Maida, sculpted from a thirty-ton block of Carrara marble.
If you have the vim and vigor, you can climb up the 287 steps of the tightly winding spiral staircase to a narrow platform near the top from where you can enjoy some stunning – if vertiginous – vistas of the city below and hills and firths beyond.
Fun Fact
Sir Walter Scott was born in Edinburgh in 1771 and is regarded as the father of the modern novel. Although he studied law at the University of Edinburgh, he gained fame initially for resurrecting old Scottish folklore and ballads. His works hark back to a time of adventure and chivalry and did much to promote this image of Scotland abroad. Though originally published anonymously, his famous Waverley novels catapulted him to fame, and by the 1820s he was playing a central role in Scottish affairs.
Directions
Your next stop is the Princes Street Gardens (4) which are further down on Princes Street. You’ll be walking a distance of 300 m.
4. Princes Street Gardens
Next up are the Princes Street Gardens, one of the best things to see in Edinburgh. The verdant gardens are easily one of the most picturesque parks I’ve seen and with Edinburgh Castle looming above in the background, they form the setting for a postcard-perfect image.
Spanning roughly 37 acres, the gardens are divided into two distinct sections: the East and West Gardens. The East Garden, closer to Waverley Station, is famous for its floral clock, a working timepiece made from thousands of plants and flowers, first created in 1903 and redesigned annually.
The West Garden, larger and more expansive, features the Ross Bandstand, a popular venue for concerts and events, particularly during the Edinburgh Festival. It’s also home to the Ross Fountain, an ornate 19th-century structure recently restored to its original splendor.
The gardens also boast a diverse range of plant species and meticulously maintained floral displays, which shift from daffodils and crocuses in spring to vibrant bedding plants in summer. The swathes of green lawns, colorful flower beds, and mature trees serve as a green lung for Edinburgh’s city center.
The gardens are a great spot for a picnic and whenever the sun shines you can join the locals and lounge on its grassy slopes.
It’s hard to imagine that the Princes Street Gardens were once the stagnant, fetid Nor’ Loch, into which the effluents of the Old Town flowed for centuries. The gardens were the private domain of Princes Street residents and their well-placed acquaintances, only becoming a public park in 1876.
Directions
Your next stop is the Scottish National Gallery (5) which lies a little south on The Mound. You’ll be walking a distance of 50 m.
5. Scottish National Gallery
The Scottish National Gallery is one of the best museums in Edinburgh. Scotland’s national haul of historic international art is housed in the two Neoclassical temples that sit beside each other.
Though by no means as extensive as national collections found elsewhere in Europe, the gallery benefits greatly from its series of elegant octagonal rooms jazzed up by imaginative displays.
The Scottish National Gallery is a great place to see a uniquely rich concentration of works by Scottish masters from Landseer and Raeburn to Wilkie and McTaggart. Indeed, Raeburn’s Reverend Robert Walker Skating on Duddingston Loch and Landseer’s The Monarch of the Glen are among the highlights of the gallery’s collections.
Yet, the gallery’s appeal extends beyond just Scottish works; it is equally worthwhile for its extensive collection of British and European paintings from the 15th to the 19th centuries.
Noteworthy among these are masterpieces by Titian, Tintoretto, Rembrandt, and Vermeer, alongside works from the French Impressionists such as Monet, Cézanne, Gauguin, and Degas, whose vibrant canvases offer a contrast to the more somber tones of earlier periods.
Take a peek inside if you fancy, access to the Scottish National Gallery is completely free!
Directions
Your next stop is the New College, University of Edinburgh (6) which is reached by heading south on The Mound. You’ll be walking a distance of 250 m.
6. New College, University of Edinburgh
The New College of the University of Edinburgh is one of the architectural gems you’ll encounter on this walking tour. This twin-towered historic building, originally constructed in 1846, serves as one of the most celebrated centers of learning in theology in Scotland.
Designed by the renowned architect William Henry Playfair, New College is celebrated for its stunning Gothic Revival architecture. I love its pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and intricate stonework, all of which contribute to Edinburgh’s iconic skyline.
The building’s façade, facing Princes Street Gardens, features a grand courtyard that leads to a magnificent hall and library, renowned for their architectural beauty. The library, in particular, is a masterpiece of design, housing a vast collection of theological works.
Directions
Your next stop is Ramsay Garden (07). Head west on Mound Pl and stay on Mound Pl as it turns slightly left and becomes Ramsay Ln. Then turn right onto Ramsay Garden. You’ll be walking a distance of 100 m.
7. Ramsay Garden
The Ramsay Garden is not actually a garden but an innovative and elegant set of buildings that date to the end of the 19th century. It is named in honor of the poet Allan Ramsay, whose 18th-century home was incorporated into the project.
This sprightly place was the brainchild of Sir Patrick Geddes, a polymath, and city planner, who almost single-handedly revived the fortunes of Old Town, working to rid it of squalid living conditions while saving it from total destruction and redevelopment.
The architecture here is absolutely adorable with a lovely cocktail of Scottish Baronial and English cottages, characterized by its use of red ashlar and harled brickwork, steep gables, odd angles, crow steps, turrets, and ironwork that enhance its fairy-tale appearance. It is naturally one of the best Instagrammable locations in Edinburgh.
Directions
Your next stop is the Edinburgh Castle (8). Head south on Ramsay Ln and turn right onto Castlehill. You’ll be walking a distance of 300 m.
8. Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle is the city’s defining landmark and one of the must-see sights in Edinburgh. This iconic structure is not only a symbol of Scottish national pride but also a reflection of the complex layering of the country’s history.
Architecturally, Edinburgh Castle is a striking assemblage of buildings dating from the 12th to the 20th century. The contrasting styles of the fortifications reflect the castle’s changing role as a fortress, royal palace, military garrison, and state prison.
Perched atop the basalt core of an extinct volcano and sheltered by sheer cliffs on three sides it has played an important role in Scottish affairs for hundreds of years. The castle was a favorite royal residence until the Union of the Crowns and later became an ordinance factory.
The oldest part of the castle, St. Margaret’s Chapel, dates back to the 12th century and is the oldest surviving building in Edinburgh. It represents early Norman architecture with simple, yet solid, stone construction.
Key highlights of Edinburgh Castle include the Crown Jewels of Scotland, housed in the Crown Room. These priceless artifacts include the Crown, the Sceptre, and the Sword of State, used during the coronation of Scottish monarchs.
Another significant treasure is the Stone of Destiny (aka the Stone of Scone), historically used in the coronation of Scottish rulers and returned to Scotland in 1996 after being kept in Westminster Abbey for 700 years.
The castle also features the National War Museum of Scotland, which displays military artifacts and memorabilia that chronicle Scotland’s military history. The One O’Clock Gun, another popular attraction, is fired every day except Sunday, a tradition dating back to 1861, originally serving as a time signal for ships in the Firth of Forth.
The panoramic views from the castle ramparts provide sweeping vistas of Edinburgh and beyond, making it a must-visit destination in the city.
Fun Fact
In the seventh century, the Angles (the tribe which lends its name to England) attacked and invaded the small fort called Dun Eidyn that was built by the Gododdins (the Celtic speaking of north-east Britain) probably on Castle Rock. The Angles took the name “Eidyn” and joined it to “Burh”, an old English word meaning fort, thus creating the name of Edinburgh. Today, Edinburgh is known by several nicknames such as ‘Auld Reekie’, ‘Athens of the North, and ‘Edina’.
Directions
Your next stop is the Royal Mile (9) which basically starts east on Castlehill.
9. The Royal Mile
No sightseeing tour of Edinburgh would be complete without taking a stroll down the Royal Mile. The Royal Mile has to rank as one of the great streets of the world and is flanked by a dense and labyrinthine network of shadowy closes, wynds, and courts.
Scotland’s most famous street forms the spine of the city’s Old Town and runs downhill along a ridge from the cliff-skirted castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
Architecturally, the Royal Mile is a showcase of Scotland’s medieval and renaissance heritage, with buildings made from distinctive local sandstone that take on a golden hue under sunlight. The street’s layout, unchanged since medieval times, features a mix of residential buildings, churches, law courts, and historic sites.
It is still possible, among the 66 alleys and closes off the main street, to sense Edinburgh’s medieval past. You’ll encounter throngs of tourists ambling between the sights and souvenir shops.
Fun Fact
The Royal Mile is actually 1.1 miles (1.77 km) in length , measuring from the Edinburgh Castle’s drawbridge to the gates of Holyroodhouse. It has different names at various points along its length. The short, narrow section from the castle to the roundabout outside The Hub is called Castlehill. At this point, it becomes the Lawnmarket. while east of the main junction with the Mound and George IV Bridge it is the High Street. The final section, after the junction with St Mary’s Street, is the Canongate.
Directions
Your next stop is Gladstone’s Land (10). Head east on the Royal Mile (Castlehill & Lawnmarket) and turn left onto Lady Stair’s Cl. You’ll be walking a distance of 150 m.
10. Gladstone’s Land
Gladstone’s Land is a tall, narrow, creaking tenement that looks like a typical canalside house in Amsterdam. The six-floor historic building was named after Thomas Gledstanes, the merchant who built it in 1617.
It is the Royal Mile’s best-surviving remnant of a typical 17th-century tenement. It is distinguished by its remarkable wooden front, projecting gables, and a sumptuously painted ceiling, offering a glimpse into the rich decorative tastes of the time.
The building’s façade is adorned with a classic Scottish feature: a forestair (an open outside staircase) leading to different entries, and it is covered with inscriptions and ornate plasterwork that speak to its former grandeur.
Now preserved by the National Trust for Scotland, Gladstone’s Land has been restored to reflect its 17th-century condition and is open to the public as a museum.
Inside, visitors can explore historical apartments fully furnished in the style of the period, complete with authentic replicas and original pieces, providing a vivid picture of historical domestic life.
Directions
Your next stop is the Writers’ Museum (11) which can be reached by going north on Lady Stair’s Close. You’ll be walking a distance of 50 m.
11. The Writers’ Museum
If you’re a lover of literature, the Writers’ Museum is one of the best things to see in Edinburgh. It is dedicated to Scotland’s three most-celebrated literary giants, Sir Walter Scott, Robert Louis Stevenson, and Robert Burns.
It is housed in a fine Old Town mansion constructed in 1622 that was acquired by Elizabeth, Dowager Countess of Stair, in the 1720s and has since been called Lady Stair’s House.
The museum’s collection includes portraits, manuscripts, and showcases filled with odd bric-a-brac and relics associated with the writers – Scott’s walking stick and a plaster cast of Burns’ skull among them.
Directions
Your next stop is Brodie’s Close (12). Head south on Lady Stair’s Close, cross the Royal Mile and turn right onto Brodie’s Cl. You’ll be walking a distance of 200 m.
12. Brodie’s Close
In Edinburgh, a “close” is a narrow alleyway or courtyard, typically leading off from the Royal Mile, providing access to residential buildings and rear courtyards.
Taking a stroll through the various closes is one of the best things to do in Edinburgh. Brodie’s Close, nestled off the historic Royal Mile, is steeped in legend and lore.
Named after one of Edinburgh’s most notorious figures, Deacon William Brodie, this close weaves a tale of duality and deceit. By day, Brodie was a respected cabinet-maker and city councilor in the 18th century, but by night, he led a double life as a burglar and roué.
The money from his crimes was used to maintain his second life, including five children, two mistresses, and a gambling habit. Brodie’s double life and apparent split personality served as the inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic novella “Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.”
Brodie’s criminal activities eventually caught up with him when he was implicated in a robbery in 1788 and was hanged in the same year at the Tolbooth Gallows on Edinburgh’s High Street.
Intriguingly, Brodie himself had previously been involved in designing and improving gallows, including the one from which he was hanged. His ruse of trying to cheat death by secretly wearing an iron collar under his shirt failed.
Deacon Brodie is commemorated by Deacon Brodie’s Tavern, a pub offering traditional Scottish fare on the Royal Mile.
Brodie’s Close itself is marked by a traditional stone archway, leading into a world that feels part historical and part mysterious, mirroring the duality of Brodie himself.
Directions
Your next stop is Victoria Street & West Bow (13). Head north on Brodie’s Close, turn right onto the Royal Mile, turn right onto National Cycle Rte 75 and finally turn right onto Victoria St. You’ll be walking a distance of 150 m.
13. Victoria Street & West Bow
When exploring Edinburgh on foot, the colorful Victoria Street is one of the best things to see. This historic street once served as the main entrance to get into the city.
Originally known as the West Bow, the street zigzagged up the steep slope from the Grassmarket to Castlehill making it rather difficult for carriages to get up into the city.
The street was transformed into its current shape in the early 19th century and in 1837 was renamed when Queen Victoria was crowned.
Victoria Street’s gentle arc and pastel-hued buildings make it one of the most photographed locations in Edinburgh and it has featured in numerous postcards and TV adverts.
The street’s northern side is home to some colorful shop fronts featuring an eclectic clutch of unpretentious design, fashion, and vintage shops as well as bars, and restaurants.
Victoria Street’s southern side is home to the street’s oldest buildings that lend a beautiful old-world charm with their ancient stone façades. It’s not hard to see why Victoria Street served as the inspiration for Diagon Alley from the Harry Potter realm.
Directions
Your next stop is Grassmarket (14). Head west on Victoria St & West Bow and turn right onto Grassmarket. You’ll be walking a distance of 150 m.
14. Grassmarket
Grassmarket is an open, partly cobbled area girdled by tall tenements. It used to be the city’s cattle market from 1477 to 1911 but is best remembered as the location of Edinburgh’s public gallows until the 1780s, where many Protestant zealots—known as the Covenanters—were hanged.
Today, the Grassmarket strip is home to a bevy of bars and restaurants that have become a focus for many of the stag and hen parties that descend on Edinburgh.
From here, you can also enjoy an unexpected view up to the precipitous crags of the Castle.
Directions
Your next stop is Greyfriars Kirkyard (15). Head northeast on Grassmarket, continue onto Cowgatehead, and at the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto Candlemaker Row. You’ll be walking a distance of 160 m.
15. Greyfriars Kirkyard
Greyfriars Kirkyard is one of the eeriest places to visit in Edinburgh. This famous graveyard was built in the 16th century on land that had belonged to a Franciscan convent, though little of the original late-Gothic style building remains.
It has a fine collection of 17th-century gravestones and mausoleums. The graveyard was a popular haunt of J.K. Rowling and “Potterheads” should keep your eyes peeled for the graves of Voldemort, aka Tom Riddle (Riddell), and William McGonagall.
Greyfriars Kirkyard is the final resting place of many prominent Scots such as Robert Adam and James Hutton. However, its most famous resident is Greyfriars Bobby (read below).
At the center of the churchyard is the Greyfriars Church, the first “reformed” church in Edinburgh.
Greyfriars is also home to a portion of the Flodden Wall that was built in 1560 to protect the city against an English invasion that never came.
Greyfriars Kirkyard is also notorious for being the most haunted place in Edinburgh due to its gruesome past, graverobbing, ghost stories, and paranormal activities.
The Mackenzie Poltergeist in Greyfriars Kirkyard is one of Scotland’s most famous hauntings, associated with the malevolent spirit of Sir George Mackenzie, buried there in 1691. Visitors report mysterious injuries and chilling experiences near his tomb.
This has had people spooked to such an extent that many don’t even dare enter the graveyard. Although it does exude an eerie aura, it is perfectly safe to visit.
Directions
Your next stop is the Greyfriars Bobby Statue (16) which lies just outside of Greyfriars Kirkyard on the other side. You can walk through the kirkyard and will be walking a distance of 150 m.
16. Greyfriars Bobby Statue
The statue of Greyfriars Bobby has the distinction of being the most mawkish attraction in Edinburgh. Despite the rich history of Greyfriars Kirkyard, its international renown stems largely from its association with a scruffy Skye terrier, Bobby, who was owned by a police constable named John Gray.
When Gray perished in 1858, Bobby was found a few days later sitting on his grave, a vigil he reputedly maintained until his death fourteen years later.
In the process, Bobby became an Edinburgh celebrity and endured himself to the locals, who fed and cared for him and presented him with a special collar to ensure that he wasn’t impounded as a stray.
A lifesize statue of Bobby was erected soon after his death; it’s located just outside the kirkyard opposite the pub bearing the dog’s name.
The statue, erected in 1873, depicts Bobby in a vigilant pose atop a granite pedestal, a fitting tribute to his steadfast spirit. You can see that his nose is shiny and worn—a result of countless tourists and locals touching it over the years for good luck.
Naturally, a sentimental story like this was destined to be immortalized and Bobby’s dedication spawned several children’s books and films.
Directions
Your next stop is the National Museum of Scotland (17) which lies directly opposite of Greyfriars Bobby.
17. National Museum of Scotland
Visiting the National Museum of Scotland is one of the must-have experiences in Edinburgh as it is unequivocally the premier museum in the city.
The museum beautifully combines the old with the new. Its Victorian-era building, designed by Francis Fowke, is seamlessly integrated with a modern, minimalist extension by Benson & Forsyth, completed in 1998.
This architectural fusion is highlighted by a spectacular atrium and a striking use of glass and steel, contrasting and complementing the historic structure’s original detailed stonework.
This world-class museum holds all the secrets you could ever wish to learn about Scotland. It offers an expansive range of exhibits that span natural history, technology, science, world cultures, and Scottish antiquities.
Notable exhibits feature Dolly the Sheep, the first mammal to be cloned from an adult cell, and the intricate Lewis Chessmen from the 12th century.
Directions
Your next stop is the Elephant House (18). Head a little further north on George IV Bridge. You’ll be walking a distance of 100 m.
18. The Elephant House
Edinburgh is a well-known pilgrimage destination for Harry Potter fans. The Elephant House Café is undoubtedly the most famous of the Harry Potter attractions in Edinburgh.
J.K. Rowling spent a considerable amount of time at this quaint cafe jotting down the first Harry Potter story.
Being ardent devotees of J.K. Rowling and the Potter books, we were both really excited to see this cafe. The café itself is nothing special but the Harry Potter memorabilia and the graffiti-covered bathrooms where fans have left notes and messages inspired by the Harry Potter series are worth checking out.
Directions
Your next stop is the Old College, University of Edinburgh (19). Backtrack south on George IV Bridge, turn left onto Chambers St, and turn right onto South Bridge. You’ll be walking a distance of 450 m.
19. Old College, University of Edinburgh
The Old College is the oldest remaining part of the University of Edinburgh, having been founded as the “Tounis College” in 1583 by James VI. It’s now Scotland’s largest university, with nearly 20,000 full-time students.
The architecture of the Old College is a marvelous piece of work and was tastefully designed by leading Georgian architect Robert Adam.
The most striking feature of the main building is the dome, added in 1887. It bears a gilded bronze statue of a youth bearing the torch of knowledge and is affectionately nicknamed the ‘Golden Boy’.
The entry arches look quite grand in scale even though they lack color and detail. To get a better sense of the building, be sure to wander into the internal quadrangle.
Directions
Your next stop is St. Giles’ Cathedral (20). Head north on South Bridge and turn left onto the Royal Mile (High St). You’ll be walking a distance of 500 m.
20. St. Giles’ Cathedral
The St. Giles’ Cathedral is undoubtedly one of the top 10 sights in Edinburgh. More properly referred to as the High Kirk of Edinburgh, it is a bit ironic that St Giles is often referred to as a cathedral since it has only been the seat of a bishop for two short and melancholy junctures in the 17th century.
St. Giles’ Cathedral holds a special place in Scottish history since it was here in the 1500s that John Knox directed the Scottish Reformation and uncompromising Protestant reforms. These reforms drove some of his zealous followers to destroy Catholic alters and venerated relics.
The church is a magnificent tour de force of Gothic architecture and the resplendent crown spire dominates its brooding exterior.
The interior is dominated by the stunning ‘Thistle Chapel’, with its rib-vaulted ceiling and carved heraldic stained-glass windows.
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→Check out our list of best examples of Gothic architecture in Europe!Directions
Your next stop is the Heart of Midlothian Mosaic (21). Head west on the Royal Mile (High St). You’ll be walking a distance of 25 m.
21. Heart of Midlothian Mosaic
On the pavement near the west door of St Giles’ Cathedral on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile lies the “Heart of Midlothian Mosaic” – a pattern set in the cobblestones that marks the site of the demolished tollbooth (where taxes were collected) and the entrance to a vile prison.
You might see some Edinburgh locals spitting on it as they walk past since it’s an age-old tradition to do so. However, no one can definitively say how this tradition started.
One theory postulates that it’s a habit that has carried on from when people would spit on the prison door to express their disdain for the prison to ward off the malevolence contained therein.
Alternatively, spitting on the heart is said to bring good luck and the only way to ensure you’ll return to Edinburgh again, so give it a go!
Directions
Your next stop is Cockburn Street (22). Cross the Royal Mile onto Byer’s Cl, take the stairs onto The News Steps, and right onto Market St. At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto Cockburn St. You’ll be walking a distance of 300 m.
22. Cockburn Street
Cockburn Street is one of the main points of interest in Edinburgh and one of my favorite places in the city. Designed by the Scottish architect Peddie Kinnear in 1856, this distinctive and historic thoroughfare, curves gracefully from the Royal Mile down to Waverley Station.
The iconic serpentine street was part of a larger civic plan to improve access within the medieval city and connect the Old Town to the newly developed areas around the railway station. It intersects the old closes and steps that descend precipitously down the hill from the Royal Mile.
Architecturally, Cockburn Street is a prime example of Victorian design, characterized by its ornate façades and a mix of Gothic and Scots Baronial styles.
The street’s picturesque, winding layout and stepped terraces are lined with a variety of unique shopfronts, cafes, and boutiques, housed in multi-story buildings constructed using the warm, honey-colored sandstone typical of Edinburgh.
Cockburn Street has long been a hub of bohemian culture in Edinburgh, attracting artists, writers, and musicians who contribute to its vibrant, creative atmosphere. Over the years, it has retained its historical charm while evolving into a lively commercial and social area.
Directions
Your next stop is the John Knox House (23). Head east on Cockburn St and turn left onto the Royal Mile (High St). You’ll be walking a distance of 300 m.
23. John Knox House
Next up on our self-guided Edinburgh walking tour is the 15th-century John Knox House. With its distinctive external staircase, clustered high chimneys, and timber projections, the house gives a good impression of what the Royal Mile was like in its medieval heyday.
Any link to John Knox — the firebrand leader minister who led the Reformation in Scotland and established Calvinist Presbyterianism as the dominant religious force in the country is apocryphal even though the building bears his name.
Knox is believed to have lived in the house shortly before he died in 1572 and it is this belief that saved it from demolition nearly three centuries later.
The building was refurbished and opened as a museum in the mid-19th century. The museum still operates today and offers a fascinating insight into what life was like in Edinburgh some 400 years ago and also features displays about the story of Knox’s life.
Directions
Your next stop is the Canongate Tolbooth (24). Head east on the Royal Mile (High St) and continue onto the Royal Mile (Canongate). You’ll be walking a distance of 300 m.
24. Canongate Tolbooth
The 16th-century Canongate Tolbooth is one of the most distinctive landmarks on the portion of the Royal Mile known as the Canongate. It is famous for its turreted steeple and box clock (added in the 1880s), which hangs over the street.
This striking building once served as the courthouse, prison, and center of municipal affairs for the burgh of Canongate.
It now contains a pretty mediocre museum called the People’s Story, which celebrates the everyday life and work of Edinburgh’s population from the late 18th century to the present.
Directions
Your next stop is the Museum of Edinburgh (25). Head east on Canongate. You’ll be walking a distance of 40 m.
25. Museum of Edinburgh
The historic Huntly House dates to the early 16th century and was damaged during the English raid on Edinburgh in 1544. Having been used as a family townhouse, it was later divided into apartments but by the 19th century, it had fallen into disrepair.
Fortunately, the local authorities bought the property and opened the Museum of Edinburgh in 1932. The small museum serves as the principal collection devoted to the city’s local history and the collection includes quirky exhibits such as Neolithic ax heads, Roman coins, and military artifacts.
Directions
Your next stop is Canongate Kirk (26) which is just opposite of the Museum of Edinburgh.
26. Canongate Kirk
Canongate Kirk is one of my favorite places to visit in Edinburgh. Founded in 1688 and completed in 1691, the church was built to serve the parish of Canongate, which was then separate from the city of Edinburgh.
Canongate Kirk is a notable example of Dutch-style design, influenced by the Protestant churches of the Low Countries. The symmetrical stone frontage bears a large central circular window that is crowned with the royal arms of William of Orange.
I really love the building’s gracefully arched yet austere façade, round windows, and distinctive bow-shaped gable. The building’s interior is more elaborately styled, featuring a beautiful barrel-vaulted ceiling, an ornate pulpit, and classic wooden galleries that reflect the ecclesiastical design trends of the late 17th century.
The surrounding churchyard is a handsome stretch of green in the heart of the Old Town and accords fine views of Calton Hill.
The graves of some notable people are situated here, such as pioneering economic philosopher Adam Smith, and 18th-century poet Robert Fergusson.
Directions
Your next stop is the Scottish Parliament Building (27). Head east on the Royal Mile (Canongate) and turn right onto Horse Wynd. You’ll be walking a distance of 300 m.
27. Scottish Parliament Building
The new Scottish Parliament Building is undoubtedly the most controversial public building to be erected in Scotland post World War II.
After much brouhaha over its cost—the better part of £500 million (initial estimates were £40 million) and delays in its construction, the Parliament building opened in the autumn of 2004.
Architecturally, the building is highly unique in its design being the brainchild of Catalan architect Enric Miralles. It consists of six interlinked structures within the complex and the central buildings are petal-shaped in design.
Numerous motifs and odd shapes have been incorporated into the building’s design, including the anvil-like shape which clads the exterior of the building, and the exceptional windows of the parliament member’s offices that are shaped like the profile of a mountain.
You can go on a guided tour of the interior for a better appreciation of the quality and detail of the design. Tours also allow visitors a peek into the dramatic committee rooms.
Regardless of the criticism it cops, the new Scottish Parliament Building is definitely one of the most impressive modern public buildings in the UK.
Directions
Your next stop is the Palace of Holyroodhouse (28) which lies further east at the end of the Royal Mile. You’ll be walking a distance of 100 m.
28. Palace of Holyroodhouse
The Palace of Holyroodhouse is one of the must-see attractions on this self-guided Edinburgh walking tour. It is famous as the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland.
The palace itself began to take form in the 15th century under King James IV of Scotland and has been the scene of many significant events in Scottish royal history. It was established as Edinburgh’s main royal quarters during the reigns of James V and of his daughter Mary, Queen of Scots.
The most significant transformations occurred under the reign of Charles II in the 1670s, led by the architect Sir William Bruce. The palace features a symmetrical facade with finely balanced classical proportions, characterized by clean lines and minimal ornamentation
The interior of Holyrood Palace consists of royal reception rooms that feature some stunning encrusted plasterwork. Some of the rich tapestries, massive fireplaces, and antiques from the 1700s can still be found here.
Directions
Your next stop is Calton Hill (29). Head west on Abbey Strand, and then turn right onto Abbey Strand, turn right onto Abbeyhill, and turn left onto Calton Rd. Then, make a slight right onto the pathway by using the stairs, continue until you reach A1, and head west. Finally, cross the A1 and take the stairs leading up to Calton Hill. You’ll be walking a distance of 1.1 km.
29. Calton Hill
A visit to Calton Hill is a must when exploring Edinburgh on foot. Calton Hill is the volcanic crag that rises above the eastern end of Princes Street.
Edinburgh’s longstanding moniker as the “Athens of the North” is nowhere better typified than on Calton Hill. It’s home to a collection of rather peculiar but nonetheless grandiose buildings and monuments.
The most bizarre of these landmarks is a half-finished Parthenon. It was conceived as a National Monument meant to honor the Scottish soldiers killed during the Napoleonic wars. Construction began in 1822 but money ran out and the structure was never finished.
Years of ridicule over its condition (sometimes then referred to as “Edinburgh’s Disgrace”) have given way to affection, as attitudes have softened.
Some other monuments on Calton Hill include the Nelson Monument – which contains relics of the hero of Trafalgar, the old City Observatory, the circular Dugald Stewart’s Monument, and the Burns Monument – which replicates the Choragic Monument of Lysicrates in Athens.
But Calton Hill and its bizarre collection of structures aren’t just for looking at: it is also one of the best viewpoints in Edinburgh. From here, you can enjoy the panoramic views of the Firth of Forth and appreciate the city spread beneath it.
Guided Edinburgh Walking Tours
If you are very short on time or simply don’t want to deal with the hassle of a self-guided Edinburgh walking tour, you can also opt to take a guided tour instead.
Edinburgh Guided Walking Tour: This three-hour walking tour of Edinburgh overseen by the most knowledgeable locals takes you through the heart of the historic Old Town. Listen to interesting stories and legends as you go past historic landmarks.
Edinburgh Harry Potter Magical Guided Walking Tour: Enjoy a Harry Potter-themed walking tour across Edinburgh and have your Harry Potter knowledge tested with an audio-visual quiz
What Else to See in Edinburgh
Obviously, there are plenty more things to see and do in Edinburgh than what we have covered in our walking tour.
Places like the idyllic Dean Village, the beautiful botanical gardens, the Georgian townhouses of the New Town, Arthur’s Peak, and many more great museums all deserve to be seen.
Other fun and popular activities in Edinburgh include –
- Edinburgh Whisky Tasting with History and Storytelling: Enjoy an evening of whisky appreciation on a Scotch whisky-tasting experience and get acquainted with the famed tradition of Scottish storytelling
- Edinburgh ‘Firth of Forth’ Three Bridges Sightseeing Cruise: Take in the scenic views of the Edinburgh skyline on a boat cruise of the “three bridges”, including the UNESCO World Heritage Forth Bridge
- Edinburgh Underground Vaults Tour: Tour the eerie vaults beneath Old Town and learn about murders, witches, and the people who inhabited this ostensibly haunted location
Edinburgh is also the ideal starting point for excursions to Hadrian’s Wall & Roman Britain and the Fishing Villages of Fife & St. Andrews – “the home of golf.”
You could also take a day trip from Edinburgh to witness the stunning landscapes of Loch Ness, Glencoe & the Scottish Highlands. Alternatively, you could take a day trip and see the equally beautiful scenery of Loch Lomond, Kelpies & Stirling Castle.
Where to Stay in Edinburgh
The Old Town & New Town are the best places to stay in Edinburgh as they provide a good base to see all the major sights. There are plenty of good options in or in the vicinity of the Old Town for all budgets.
Hostel: High Street Hostel, a cozy hostel in the heart of the Old Town, just around the corner from the Royal Mile and a 10-minute walk from Waverley train station
Budget: Cityroomz Edinburgh, a great budget option just a few meters from Princes Street and a 15-minute walk from Waverley Train Station
Mid-range: Apex City of Edinburgh Hotel, facing the Grassmarket this hotel enjoys an enviable location, close to many shops and eating places
Splurge: The Balmoral, boasting the best-known address in Edinburgh, this elegant hotel caters to anyone accustomed to the very best in life and has luxurious, tastefully furnished suites and rooms
More Self-Guided Walking Tours in Europe
In case you enjoyed our self-guided Edinburgh walking tour, do check out our other self-guided walking tours of major European cities.
Now, what do you think? Did you enjoy our self-guided walking tour of Edinburgh? Are there any other stops that we should be adding? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!
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Hello there, fellow globetrotters! I’m Mihir, a passionate travel blogger with an insatiable wanderlust. My journey across the world is fueled by curiosity and a hunger for unique experiences. As a travel writer, photographer, and adventurer, I’ve explored more than 35 countries, aiming to provide readers with a distinctive glimpse of our diverse world. Join me as I blend captivating storytelling with stunning visuals, guiding you through hidden gems and cultural treasures. Besides traveling, my other loves are my beloved cats, architecture, art, craft beer, classic movies, history, and Australian Rules Football (Go Dons!).
I hope you are well. We are a group of nine Chinese （including old and young people） travelling to Edinburgh on July 13th. We were attracted by the website, photo, and details above. Can we join your walking tour in the afternoon of that day?
We are fine by paying a small amount if required.
Thank you
How do I download your maps to my android phone?
Hi Bea, thanks for stopping by. You can’t download the maps since they’re Google Maps. You can take a screenshot though. Happy travels 🙂
We will be arriving by cruise ship. What point of interest is the closest to the cruise port to begin this walking tour?
This sounds great! I was just wondering roughly how long it would take someone to do?
Hi Kate, the tour should take you 3-4 hours.
2:25 AM jet lag found this, I’m going tO devote all the morning to lunch for your tour. It sounds fab.
Thank you Linda! Hope you have a great time in Edinburgh 🙂
Wow! I’m 16 and ready to go on this walking tour on my own in a couple weeks when I visit the beautiful country I grew up in- haven’t seen it in two years! This looks like an amazing informative article I will definitely keep in mind when I’m in Edinburgh☺️
Hi Tosia, thank you for your kind words! Hope you thoroughly enjoy your time in Edinburgh 🙂
This is an awesome article. Extremely helpful. Thank you!
Thank you Lia!
You’ve given a great deal of information and we are ready in 3 weeks to go on this walking tour. As I was researching you had the best itinerary and information! Thank you!
Hi April, thank you for your kind words! Glad you found the information useful. Have a great time in Edinburgh 🙂
Fantastic guide!! Thank you so much!
Glad you liked it! Cheers!
Dear Mihir. Thank you for a lovely virtual tour today. It was a nasty rainy day, so I had a great virtual tour of Edinburgh using your site and Google Earth.
Dear Holly, thank you for your feedback. Glad you enjoyed the virtual tour. Cheers!