As the capital city of Scotland and one of the top tourist destinations in Britain, Edinburgh has a lot to offer. From castles and underground passageways to dive bars and ice-cream shops, there is truly something for everyone. But how do you narrow down where to go? Luckily, we’ve listed below ten cool places in Edinburgh for you to visit during your stay!
1. The Banshee Labyrinth
Anyone who enjoys a pint and a good film will want to check out The Banshee Labyrinth pub in Old Town. A truly unique experience, this pub on Niddry Street not only offers cheap drinks! Also located in the back is a small, intimate cinema which is free enter. Kick back, relax and enjoy your beverage with a film for a chill night out!
2. Arthur’s Seat
Although not unknown, Arthur’s Seat is one of the coolest and most unique places Edinburgh has to offer. Having an extinct volcano in the middle of the capital city creates the centrepiece for the Edinburgh skyline. Featuring peaceful walks, beautiful scenery and a panoramic view of the city, Arthur’s Seat is worth a visit!
3. Greyfriars Kirkyard
For those who are fans of the Harry Potter franchise, it should be no surprise that Harry Potter easter eggs are hidden across the city. From Diagon Alley to Gringotts Bank, Edinburgh inspired many of the famous magical backdrops of the series. However, character names were also inspired by Edinburgh’s streets. Greyfriars Kirkyard features the graves that inspired the names of two major characters: Professor McGonagall and Tom Riddle. Why not try to find the original inspiration in the kirkyard?
4. Doodles Ceramics
On rainy days in Edinburgh, you should head to Doodles Ceramics! Located near to The Meadows, Doodles offers both pottery painting sessions and clay moulding sessions, giving you a keepsake to remember your Edinburgh trip by!
5. The Royal Observatory
Whenever there is a clear night in Edinburgh, The Royal Observatory is the place to go! All the way on the top of Blackford Hill is the research centre The Royal Observatory. Although primarily for research, The Royal Observatory also runs educational evenings for the public. Anyone hoping to learn more about the stars within a leading astronomy centre should hike up the hill for a visit!
6. Tills’ Bookshop
Edinburgh is well-known for its independent bookshops and a local favourite is Tills’. Just off The Meadows, Tills’ Bookshop provides a variation of fiction and non-fiction, classic and contemporary books, all of which for reasonable prices! It’s different to most chain book stores, and a nice place to support local businesses. That’s why Till’s Bookshop is one of the cool places you need to visit in Edinburgh.
7. The Lookout
After exploring Edinburgh, have dinner at The Lookout on Calton Hill. Located within the observatory, the restaurant offers scenic views across Edinburgh, bringing a picturesque setting for your meal. It’s one of the best places for a view and food, which is also why it’s made our list of the most Instagrammable spots in Edinburgh.
8. Lane7
With its stylish, retro-inspired décor and unique atmosphere, it’s more than just a bowling alley. It has pool, arcade games and crazy golf, so if you’re looking for cool places in Edinburgh, you should definitely check out Lane7! With drinks and a massive range of games to play, it is a favourite place for a unique, fun night out!
9. Edinburgh Zoo
For those fancying an informative day out, Edinburgh Zoo is the place for you! Learn about the animals and see species from all over the world- from giant pandas to tigers and giraffes. There are even opportunities to feed the animals behind the scenes, however these experiences will need to be booked in advance.
10. Frankenstein Edinburgh
Although extremely popular in the lead up to Halloween, Frankenstein maintains Halloween spookiness all year round. Inspired by the Mary Shelley novel, Frankenstein is located on George IV Bridge. With weekly pub quizzes and terrifyingly unique cocktails, Frankenstein is worth a stop-by on any night out!
Edinburgh has so many cool places to visit, where the city is unique and unlike any other. If you’re looking for inspiration further afield, why not check out the most unusual places to visit in the city.
Last Updated on January 24, 2024
Published on May 24, 2023
