Arthur's Seat and Holyrood Park
An extinct volcano in the middle of the city, an hour’s climb to a view of everything.
The main path from Holyrood takes about forty-five minutes to the summit and the whole of Edinburgh, the Forth and Fife open up from the top. The Salisbury Crags route is shorter and just as good for the view. Wear proper shoes and skip it in high wind; it is completely exposed.
When it works
Outdoors: pick a dry day. Best morning, afternoon, evening.
Good for a first visit, dogs, sunset, locals' favourite and kids.
On these lists
- Things to do in Edinburgh when the sun is out
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- Plan an afternoon in Edinburgh around it
Opening hours and prices change; the official site has the current ones. See everything in Edinburgh ranked for right now.