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Things to see and do

Things to see and do in Edinburgh and the Lothians

Enjoy a vast variety of things to see and do in Edinburgh and the Lothians and fill your perfect break with trips to castles and distilleries, country parks and excellent restaurants.

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Whether you want a quiet day in the museums and galleries or an adventurous day on a zip wire, this region has it all.

Events

Edinburgh hosts a number of exciting events all year. Take part in some of the revelry from ceilidhs and rugby games to the spectacular Military Tattoo and world-famous Hogmanay celebrations.

a crowd of rugby fans at Murrayfield Stadium

Bringing Brave to life

Come to Edinburgh & The Lothians and experience the world of Disney•Pixar’s Brave for yourself. You’ll discover a wide range of the activities and attractions, landscapes and wildlife that so inspired the movie-makers.

Characters from Disney•Pixar's Brave sitting at a table.

Sightseeing tours

Edinburgh boasts a great variety of tours from city sightseeing buses to ghost walks, limousine rides and unique trike excursions. You can also venture further by minibus or coach to experience more of Scotland’s regions.

beautiful interiors at Rosslyn Chapel

Itineraries and ideas

Enjoy an exciting break in Edinburgh and the Lothians by using one of these handy itineraries which will help you plan a trip round many of the area’s exciting attractions.

Tantallon Castle and Bass Rock, East Lothian

Attractions

Edinburgh has a host of fabulous attractions, from iconic Edinburgh Castle to the National Museum of Scotland, great theatres offering excellent shows to the activity sport centres and outdoor attractions.

the grand exterior of the Scottish Gallery of Modern Art Two, Edinburgh

Things to do in Edinburgh with kids

From fun attractions to beautiful historic buildings outside the city, Edinburgh and the Lothians is a great region for the whole family to enjoy. Country parks offer adventurous activities and you can spot local wildlife as you explore.

an animal handling session with a Bearded Dragon at Five Sisters Zoo, West Lothian

Activities

Get active in Edinburgh and the Lothians with a selection of outdoor activities including walking trails, cycling routes and golf courses. Or why not watch the professionals and enjoy a day at one of Edinburgh’s many rugby matches?

two cyclists beside the Union Canal Path, Edinburgh

Food and drink

With plenty of markets, local stores, exclusive bars, vibrant cookery schools and excellent restaurants and pubs, Edinburgh and the Lothians offers a great range of eating and drinking experiences.

cakes on display at Valvona & Crolla

Free attractions and things to do

You can enjoy a wide variety of attractions in Edinburgh that are absolutely free. From museums and art galleries to gardens and events, these top attractions provide hours of entertainment without breaking the bank.

The view over the old town from the scott monument with the green dome of the bank of scotland headquarters which now hosts the Musuem on the Mound exhibition on the mound visible.

Shops and shopping

Edinburgh and the Lothians offers a shopping experience like no other. Whether you want hip arts and crafts, cutting-edge fashion or unique Scottish jewellery, the shops in Edinburgh have it all.

Close up of the Jenners department store sign

Parks, gardens, nature and open spaces

Explore the city of Edinburgh and uncover gems such as the Royal Botanic Garden and the Meadows, or head into the Lothians and discover a region which boasts beautiful countryside, beaches and country parks.

Yellowcraigs Beach

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Edinburgh and the Lothians sits on the eastern side of Scotland's central belt, in the heart of the country.

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