Everything You Need to Know about Old Town in Edinburgh
Edinburgh’s Old Town is the kind of place where history comes alive. With its medieval streets, centuries-old buildings, and UNESCO World Heritage status, it’s packed with character and charm.
Whether you’re strolling down the iconic Royal Mile or exploring the neighbourhood’s tiny alleys (called “closes”), Old Town feels like a slice of history that has been frozen in time. It’s an absolute must-see for anyone visiting the city.
To make your visit even better, I’ve put together this handy guide filled with tips to help you explore Edinburgh’s oldest and most storied neighbourhood. Let’s get started!
Where is Old Town?
Old Town is located right in the heart of Edinburgh. It stretches along a historic ridge from the iconic Edinburgh Castle at the top, down to the Palace of Holyroodhouse at the foot of the Royal Mile.
What is the main street in Old Town?
The main street in Old Town is the Royal Mile. It runs through the heart of the neighbourhood while also connecting two major landmarks: Edinburgh Castle at one end and the Palace of Holyroodhouse at the other.
It’s packed with lovely shops, cosy pubs, and street performers, making it an excellent starting point to see the best of what this neighbourhood has to offer.
How to Get to Old Town
By Bus: The nearest bus stops to Old Town include The Mound and Victoria Street. Buses that pass through the area include 27, 29, 31, and 100. These buses are operated by Lothian Buses, which is a key public transport provider in Edinburgh.
By Train: The closest train station is Edinburgh Waverley, which is located north of Old Town. Train lines serving this station include ScotRail, Avanti West Coast, Caledonian Sleeper, CrossCountry, and London North Eastern Railway.
By Taxi: As of 2025, taxis in Edinburgh typically have a base fare of around £3.60, with an additional charge of £1.70 per kilometre. Drop-off points for Old Town include the Royal Mile or Grassmarket, both of which are central to the neighbourhood.
By Car: If you’re driving, there are several car parks near Old Town you can use. Some examples are Holyrood Road Car Park, Q-Park Quartermile, Princes Exchange Car Park, and Edinburgh Central Travelodge Car Park.
Best Time to Go to Old Town
The best time to go to Old Town is August, when the Edinburgh Festival Fringe brings the city alive with creativity and excitement. The Royal Mile, right in the heart of the neighbourhood, turns into a buzzing stage for entertainers and buskers alike.
Old Town’s landmarks join in on the festivities too. Take the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo at Edinburgh Castle, for example—it’s an awe-inspiring event where military bands from across the world come together to deliver astounding performances.
What to Do and See in Old Town
Watch the One O’Clock Gun at Edinburgh Castle
– Photo credit: edinburghcastle
Website: https://www.edinburghcastle.scot/
Address: Castlehill
Contact details: +44 131 225 9846
Operating hours: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM (MON-SUN)
Price:
Adult (16-64) – £21.50
Concession (65+) – £17.00
Child (7-15) – £13.00
For your visit to Old Town, start at the iconic Edinburgh Castle. It sits on top of an ancient volcanic rock and has been standing there for centuries, watching over the city like a guardian.
Inside, there’s plenty to check out. You’ve got the Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny, and St Margaret’s Chapel, which has been around for what feels like forever since it’s the oldest surviving building in the entire city.
And of course, you’ve got to catch the famous One O’Clock Gun, fired pretty much every day. Back then, it helped sailors set their clocks, but now it’s more of a local tradition (and a cheeky wake-up call for anyone sleeping in).
Tour the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the king’s official residence in Scotland
– Photo credit: royalcollectiontrust
Website: https://www.rct.uk/visit/palace-of-holyroodhouse
Address: Canongate
Contact details: +44 303 123 7306
Operating hours: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM (THURS-MON)
Price:
Adult (25+) – £25.00
Young adult (18-24) – £16.50
Child (5-17) – £12.50
Disabled person – £12.50
The Palace of Holyroodhouse is a proper gem at the bottom of the Royal Mile, right next to Holyrood Park and Arthur’s Seat. It’s got loads of history—Mary, Queen of Scots, used to live here, and you can still check out her chambers!
One of my favourite spots is the Great Gallery, where they’ve got portraits of Scottish kings lining the walls. Outside, there’s Holyrood Abbey, and the ruins are just perfect for a quiet wander.
What makes Holyroodhouse even more special is that it’s still used by the royal family when they’re up here. Whenever I’ve got friends visiting, I always take them to see the throne room because it’s always a wow moment!
Find the Millennium Clock at the National Museum of Scotland
– Photo credit: nationalmuseumsscotland
Website: https://www.nms.ac.uk/national-museum-of-scotland
Address: Chambers St
Contact details: +44 300 123 6789
Operating hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (MON-SUN)
The National Museum of Scotland on Chambers Street is an absolute treasure in the heart of Old Town and is a place where you could spend hours learning new stuff. It’s got everything, from ancient Scottish artefacts to cutting-edge science exhibits.
This museum has been around for ages, and its impressive Victorian building really stands out. Inside, there’s so much to see. One of their biggest highlights is Dolly the Sheep, the first cloned mammal (she’s practically a local legend at this point).
Then you’ve got the mysterious Arthur’s Seat Coffins, which are always fascinating to read about. There’s also the Millennium Clock, a kinetic sculpture that tells a story of human history, blending beauty with darker themes of oppression and resilience.
Join a ghost tour in Mary King’s Close
– Photo credit: marykingsclose
Website: https://www.realmarykingsclose.com/
Address: 2 Warriston’s Cl
Contact details: +44 131 225 0672
Operating hours: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM (MON-SUN)
Price:
Adult (16+) – £24.00
Child (5-15) – £17.00
As I’ve mentioned earlier, one of the highlights of visiting Old Town is the chance to explore its old closes. That includes the famous Mary King’s Close, which has been named after a merchant who lived there back in the day.
What makes this close so unique is that it’s no longer inhabited. Apart from the maintenance crew and tour guides, all you’ll find are rows of old buildings that look like they’ve been frozen in time, which is honestly both fascinating and a bit eerie.
Because of its atmosphere, it’s no surprise that this close has become the subject of so many ghost stories and urban legends over the years. My personal favourite is about Annie, a victim of the Black Plague who is said to still haunt the place.
Learn the history of the city at the Museum of Edinburgh
– Photo credit: thisisedinburgh
Website: https://www.edinburghmuseums.org.uk/venue/museum-edinburgh
Address: 142-146 Canongate
Contact details: +44 131 529 4143
Operating hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (MON-SUN)
If you’re interested in learning more about the history of our city, make sure to stop by the Museum of Edinburgh. It’s this lovely bright yellow 16th-century building tucked away on Canongate, right along the Royal Mile.
It showcases many of our city’s most prized artefacts. They’ve got an original copy of the National Covenant from 1638, some amazing collections of Scottish pottery and silver, and even an exhibit about Field Marshal Douglas Haig’s WWI headquarters.
The museum even has a display about Greyfriars Bobby, the loyal little dog who spent years guarding his owner’s grave. It’s such a touching story, and it actually reminds me a bit of Japan’s Hachiko, as both are legends in their own way.
Stroll across the grounds of Greyfriars Kirk
– Photo credit: greyfriarskirk_official
Website: https://greyfriarskirk.com/
Address: Greyfriars Place
Contact details: +44 131 225 1900
Operating hours:
11:00 AM – 4:00 PM (MON-SAT)
10:30 AM – 2:00 PM (SUN)
Greyfriars Kirk is one of those spots in Old Town where you can enjoy some quiet time. Built in the 1600s, it was the first church constructed after the Reformation, giving it an important place in Scotland’s religious past.
The kirk itself is beautiful, with stunning stained glass windows and an impressive pipe organ. But for me, the real draw is the kirkyard. It’s full of fascinating graves, including James Hutton, who is considered the father of modern geology.
If you’re into Harry Potter, you’ll definitely love the kirkyard too. J.K. Rowling got ideas for characters like Tom Riddle and Minerva McGonagall from names on the graves here. Pretty cool if you ask me.
Where to Eat and Drink in Old Town
The Edinburgh Larder
– Photo credit: edinburghlarder
Website: https://www.edinburghlarder.co.uk/
Address: 15 Blackfriars St
Contact details: +44 131 556 6922
Operating hours:
7:30 AM – 3:00 PM (MON-FRI)
8:00 AM – 3:00 PM (SAT and SUN)
Before kicking off your Old Town adventure, The Edinburgh Larder is a nice spot to fuel up. They use fresh, local ingredients, so whether you’re in the mood for breakfast, brunch, or just a quick coffee, they’ve got you covered.
The food is quite brilliant. Their full Scottish breakfast is a proper treat with haggis, black pudding, and homemade beans. If you want something lighter, their Eggs Benedict or smoked trout hash are always a solid choice.
Aside from their meals, another thing I like about this place is its chilled-out vibes. I remember going here for brunch with a friend, and we ended up sitting for ages, chatting and slowly working through their delicious breakfast hash.
Cannonball Restaurant & Bar
– Photo credit: cannonballrestaurant
Website: https://www.contini.com/cannonball
Address: 356 Castlehill
Contact details: +44 330 164 0781
Operating hours: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM (MON-SAT)
After watching the One O’Clock Gun at Edinburgh Castle, Cannonball Restaurant & Bar is the best spot for lunch. It’s just a few steps away from the castle and is hard to miss thanks to its 17th-century building that’s full of charm and history.
Their food is almost always spot on, with fresh, local ingredients and dishes that change with the seasons. They’ve also got a cracking bar with over 120 drinks to pick from, including some amazing whiskies.
If I had to pick one dish to recommend, it’d be the haggis cannonballs. They’ve got a crispy outside, peppery haggis inside, and a creamy whisky sauce on top—it’s proper Scottish comfort food and absolutely delicious. Definitely worth trying at least once!
The Devil’s Advocate
– Photo credit: thedaoldtown
Website: https://devilsadvocateedinburgh.co.uk/
Address: 9 Advocate’s Cl
Contact details: +44 131 225 4465
Operating hours:
12:00 PM – 12:00 AM (SUN-THURS)
12:00 PM – 1:00 AM (FRI and SAT)
After a long day exploring Old Town, The Devil’s Advocate is a nice spot to wind down with a good meal. Tucked away in one of the neighbourhood’s closes, it offers a decent spot for relaxation that’s far from the bustle of the Royal Mile.
Their menu has plenty of great options, including burgers and hearty meat dishes. They also have a fantastic drink selection that includes over 300 choices, including whiskies from Scotland and beyond.
Every time I go to this restaurant, I always order their roast Scottish salmon. It’s flaky, tender, and packed with flavour, thanks to the tangy mooli pickle. Add in the earthy kale and rich brandy bisque, and it’s a seafood dish that hits all the right notes.
Where to Shop in Old Town
Grassmarket Market
– Photo credit: grassmarketmarket
Website: http://www.stockbridgemarket.com/grassmarket.html
Address: 39 Grassmarket
Contact details: +44 131 261 6181
Operating hours: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (SAT)
One of the best things about Old Town is the endless shops and stalls that give its streets so much character. Grassmarket is a perfect example of this, especially on Saturdays when the farmers’ market comes alive.
Here, you’ll find a lovely mix of local vendors, street food, and unique finds. Pair that with the cobbled streets, historic buildings, and the shadow of the Edinburgh Castle looming overhead, and you’ve got a setting that feels straight out of medieval times.
Whenever I make it to Grassmarket Market, I always treat myself to a Salmon California Roll from Harajuku Japanese Kitchen. They prepare it fresh on-site, and it’s a nice snack to nibble on while wandering around the market.
Tron Kirk Market
– Photo credit: scottishdesignexchange
Website: https://www.scottishdesignexchange.com/pages/tron-kirk-market-royal-mile
Address: 122 High St
Operating hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (MON-SUN)
Tron Kirk Market is such a cool spot to check out on the Royal Mile. The kirk has been around since the 17th century, and its old stone walls and vaulted ceilings make it a uniquely charming place to wander and browse.
The market is packed with an impressive mix of handmade crafts, jewellery, ceramics, and art from talented Scottish makers. That’s why if you’re after something unique, whether it’s a gift or a keepsake, you’ll find plenty to choose from here.
Last time I went, their embroidery kits really stood out to me. My friend is a huge animal lover, so I picked one up as a gift, and she absolutely loved it. Honestly, I’m tempted to go back soon just to treat myself to one!
The Scotland Shop
– Photo credit: thescotlandshop
Website: https://www.thescotlandshop.com/
Address: 107-108 South Bridge
Contact details: +44 131 526 3931
Operating hours:
9:30 AM – 7:30 PM (MON-FRI)
9:30 AM – 8:00 PM (SAT and SUN)
If you’re looking for affordable souvenirs before leaving Old Town, make sure to stop by The Scotland Shop. It’s located right in the heart of the neighbourhood, so it’s an easy stop while exploring the area.
This shop specialises in custom-made clothing and homeware, all crafted from over 500 tartans woven in Scotland. Whether you’re after a kilt, a tailored jacket, or even tartan cushions for your home, there’s a good chance you’ll find them here.
Harry Potter fans will love this place too since they carry a diverse range of merchandise featuring characters from the famed book series. That includes things like mugs, posters, handbags, and even figurines.
Where to Stay in Old Town
The Scotsman Hotel
– Photo credit: thescotsmanhotel
Website: https://scotsmanhotel.co.uk/
Address: 20 North Bridge
Contact details: +44 131 556 5565
Check in: 3:00 PM
Check out: 11:00 AM
Price (£ for £199 and below, ££ for £200-£300, and £££ for £300 and up): ££
For those who are looking for a classy stay in Old Town, check out The Scotsman Hotel. Its building dates back to 1905 and was originally home to The Scotsman newspaper, which gives it a cool character.
The rooms here are seriously impressive, as they have features like curved window bays that offer stunning views of the city. You get all the little luxuries too, like Egyptian cotton sheets and marble-tiled bathrooms.
I stayed here once to accompany a friend, and it was such a treat. Waking up to views of Calton Hill and Princes Street Gardens was something else, and the location made it so easy to wander straight onto the Royal Mile.
The Witchery by the Castle
– Photo credit: thewitcheryedin
Website: https://www.thewitchery.com/
Address: 352 Castlehill
Check in: 2:30 PM
Check out: 11:30 AM
Price: £££
The Witchery by the Castle is one of those places that screams luxury, and honestly, its prices match. The hotel’s tucked into a collection of historic buildings from 1595, and the decor is straight-up gothic opulence, which makes it feel pretty magical.
Now, I haven’t stayed here myself (my wallet would never forgive me), but I’ve heard the suites are quite extraordinary. We’re talking four-poster beds, roll-top baths, and plush furnishings.
The rooms are super spacious too, with big windows that look out over the best sights in the neighbourhood. And its location is also quite nice since it’s right at the gates of Edinburgh Castle and only a few steps from the Royal Mile.
Travelodge Edinburgh Central
– Photo credit: lizzhang.sh
Website: https://www.travelodge.co.uk/hotels/205/Edinburgh-Central-hotel
Address: 33 St Mary’s St
Contact details: +44 871 984 6137
Check in: 3:00 PM
Check out: 12:00 PM
Price: £
Travelodge Edinburgh Central is a solid choice if you’re looking for a comfy, budget-friendly place to stay right in the heart of Old Town. It’s located on St Mary’s Street, just a short walk from the Royal Mile.
The rooms are simple but have everything you need, including king-size beds, blackout curtains, and even tea-making facilities. There’s also an on-site restaurant, which can be handy if you don’t feel like venturing out for breakfast or dinner.
What I love about this place is how convenient it is. I have stayed here a couple of times already, and I’m just glad that it’s close to most of the neighbourhood’s top attractions so I can easily come back to a clean, cosy room and just crash.