What we love about traveling is discovering the uniqueness of the places we visit. In Edinburgh, Scotland, we got a full dose of unusual, quirky and off-beat attractions and experiences – and you can, too!
Our list of unique things to do in Edinburgh highlights activities that you won’t find anywhere else in the world.
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Unique Things To Do in Edinburgh, Scotland
Our trips to Edinburgh tend to inspire curiosity. We eagerly indulge in bizarre local food, delve deep into the city’s quirks and revel in their peculiar traditions.
We also feature many of these fun attractions in our 3-Day Itinerary for Edinburgh.
#1 Walk in the Footsteps of Royalty
Long home to kings, Edinburgh plays host to impressive royal residences – from the current monarch’s palace to a hilltop fortress to a crumbling castle – and even a royal yacht.
These are all open to visitors, allowing you to wander the halls like royalty. It’s one of the fun and unique experiences in Edinburgh.
Not to be missed is the striking Edinburgh Castle. Sitting atop a rocky hill, its history can be traced to the 11th century. Inside, you can tour the Royal Apartments, see the Crown Jewels and visit the prison. It’s best to buy tickets in advance or join a tour.
The Royal Mile leads from the Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, features top Old Town sights and has long been the route of elaborate Royal Processions.
Holyrood Palace currently serves as the British king’s official Scotland residence. Tours include access to the Throne Room, the Great Gallery and the Chambers of Mary, Queen of Scots. Tickets are required.
The British Royal Family’s famous ocean liner Britannia is docked at the Edinburgh port of Leith. Step aboard to tour the spacious rooms, see the on-board Rolls-Royce and learn the ship’s fascinating 40 year history. You can even cap off your visit with a proper cup of tea.
Craigmillar Castle is just 3 miles from Edinburgh – and has fascinating ties to Mary, Queen of Scots. It was here that she formulated the plan to murder her husband. Although in partial ruins, it’s fun to roam the remains. Guests can go up the towers or get lost in the maze of rooms.
Top Tip: The Royal Attractions Pass includes entry to the Castle, Palace and Yacht – plus unlimited rides on the Hop On Hop Off Bus!
#2 Discover Unique Edinburgh Museums
If you are looking for cool things to do in Edinburgh (or rainy day options), then we suggest checking out one of the city’s unusual museums.
Without a doubt, Camera Obscura and World of Illusions offers the most mind-bending experience. With more than 100 interactive games, puzzles and optical illusions, you are sure to be entertained.
That said, the unique highlight is the family-friendly Camera Obscura Show – which projects the city via a pinhole camera. Also, don’t miss the Rooftop Terrace.
Another unusual thing to do in Edinburgh is to visit Dynamic Earth. A state-of-the-art science museum, it is dedicated to the history of the universe and the Big Bang Theory – covering a 350 million year timeline.
Budget Travel Tip: Entry to these museums is a bit pricey. To keep your budget in check, visit a cost-free cultural institution instead. Check out our list of Free Edinburgh Things To Do!
#3 Set Your Eyes on Dolly the Sheep
When it comes to quirky things in Edinburgh, Dolly the Sheep definitely makes the list. Ranking as the first cloned mammal in the world, the now-stuffed mutton – named after Dolly Parton – is on display for fans and skeptics, alike.
Cloned in the Roslin Institute in Scotland, Dolly lived from 1996 until 2003. Today, her taxidermized body is on display at the National Museum of Scotland.
Top Trip Tip: Dolly is just one of many intriguing exhibits at the free National Museum. You can also see suits worn by Sir Elton John, Pictish stones, a flag from the Battle of Culloden and an Egyptian mummy.
#4 Hunt for Harry Potter Connections
Did you know that Edinburgh is where Harry Potter was written? JK Rowling penned much of the series while living in the city, grabbing inspiration from the cobblestoned streets and historic sites.
Fans of the books can sip coffee at The Elephant House Cafe. Although Rowling refutes that it’s the ‘birthplace’ of Harry Potter, she did spend many afternoons writing here.
Potterheads will also not want to miss Greyfriars Kirkyard, as it’s one of the places in Edinburgh that inspired the characters of the wizarding world.
Tombstones in the atmospheric graveyard bear names that will be familiar to Potter fans. Seek out the headstone for the real-life Thomas Riddle among other recognizable names, like McGonagall and Moodie.
The curving Victoria Street that connects the Royal Mile to Grassmarket is lined with boutique shops. Although it’s not where Rowling conjured the idea of Diagon Alley, it certainly evokes Harry Potter vibes.
Pro Tip: Enthusiasts can seek out these Edinburgh hidden gems on their own – or join a local guide for a visit to Edinburgh’s best Harry Potter sights. This popular tour gets rave reviews!
#5 Get Off the Beaten Path in an Old Train Tunnel
When we first heard about Colinton Tunnel, we were absolutely intrigued. We love the creativeness of reused spaces – toss in a unique artistic angle and we are pretty much guaranteed to turn up!
The old 450-foot train tunnel has been converted to a walking path. Even better, the interior is decorated by artist murals. The pieces tell the story of a famous Scottish poem by Robert Louis Stevenson, From a Railway Carriage.
Getting There: Colinton Tunnel can be reached by bus or via a long trek on the Water of Leith Walkway.
#6 Fall in Love with Scottish Music, Storytelling & Whisky
Deeply rooted in tradition and culture, Scottish storytelling conveys folklore, legends and history. According to an old Scottish proverb, ‘The story is told eye to eye, mind to mind and heart to heart.’
For a formal introduction to the art of stories, you can attend a performance or improv at the Scottish Storytelling Centre. The cultural institution is located on the Royal Mile and they welcome guests who want to learn more.
Alternatively, join a private seating at a long-standing, family-run pub. Participants at this Whisky and Folklore Event are regaled with classic tales. Plus, it includes samples of Scotch Whiskies from various regions.
Likewise, music provides a strong connection to the Scottish people and their past. We enjoy Trad Sessions – where musicians gather together around a table at a pub to play traditional folk tunes.
The Black Cat in New Town hosts regular Scottish music sessions for free! Plus, the staff help patrons create personalized tasting boards, explaining a bit about each whisky.
#7 See Edinburgh from a Unique Vantage Point
Lingering over a sensational view is one of our favorite things to do when traveling – and there are a few vistas in Edinburgh that are worth climbing up to!
Arthur’s Seat, a summit that stands at 823 feet, is distinctive for being the city’s highest peak. The views from the top are nothing short of incredible!
That said, the best vantage point over the city is from Calton Hill. In our opinion, it’s the perfect spot for watching the sunset.
Photo Op Tip: For a photo-worthy view of Edinburgh Castle, climb the stairs on the south side Grassmarket to the Vennel Viewpoint.
#8 Step Out of Edinburgh and Into a Small Village
Edinburgh might be a bustling city, but just a short walk from the center, visitors can find themselves in the center of a bucolic village.
Dean Village resembles the pages of a fairytale. The curving Water of Leith River flows through town and historic stone buildings stand on along the riverbanks.
While Dean Village is popular with tourists, Duddingston is still a bit of a hidden gem in Edinburgh.
Nestled at the base of Arthur’s Hill, the quaint neighborhood has a handful of sights – like Dr. Neil’s Garden, the Duddingston Loch and Bird Sanctuary and the Sheep Heid Inn (one of the oldest pubs in Edinburgh).
#9 Go Underground in Edinburgh
While the city has no shortage of attractions on ground level, one of the unique places to see in Edinburgh lies beneath the surface.
Underneath the Old Town is a network of ancient, hidden streets. The only way to access the secret side of Edinburgh is on a guided tour.
On the Secret Edinburgh Vaults Underground Walking Tour participants follow a guide into the subterranean space. While creeping through the tunnels, you will learn why they were built and their gruesome history.
A far more surreal experience is the concealed and mysterious Real Mary King’s Close. This below-ground tour features costumed characters that act out real-life stories of the people who lived here in the 17th century.
Trip Tip: Alternatively, stay above ground and learn more about the ghosts that haunt Edinburgh. The Darkside Tour goes into gory detail about mysterious murders and legendary tales. Or give your feet a rest and hop on the Ghost Bus Tour!
#10 Search for Scotland’s Hairy Cows
Searching for cows in a busy city is unusual, indeed – but if you know where to look in Edinburgh, they are easy to find!
Just 6 miles to the south in Pentland Hills, the Swanston Farm hosts a herd of Highland Cows. Not a petting farm, the lovable beasts freely roam the land.
The hills are crisscrossed by hiking trails, so visitors can embark on a trek to find them. We hiked for a bit before catching sight of a hairy coo, but it was worth every step!
Getting There: Swanston Farm and Pentland Hills Park can be reached by public bus – and there is a parking lot at the farm if you have a car.
#11 Uncover Mysterious Edinburgh at Rosslyn Chapel
Visiting the 15th century Rosslyn Chapel is one of the enchanting and unique Edinburgh experiences.
What makes the church special are the exquisitely detailed carvings that embellish the walls. Many of these symbols are shrouded in mystery, which makes it all the more remarkable.
Located in the village of Roslin, it is just a short bus ride from Edinburgh. You can also join a guided small-group tour that features multiple stops.
Fun Fact: Are you a fan of The Da Vinci Code? Rosslyn Chapel is the church featured in the end of the film.
#12 Immerse Yourself in Edinburgh’s Georgian Era
In the 18th century, when the city’s Old Town became too crowded, the elite flocked to a new northern neighborhood, cleverly called…New Town.
With an elegant design and formal street plan, the district was adorned with grandiose Georgian architecture. Even today, New Town retains its characteristic architecture and charming appeal.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the iconic time period at the historic Georgian House on Charlotte Square. Featuring furnishings from the era and staff that are happy to share the history of the home, it’s quite the experience!
Sightseeing Tip: Use our Self-Guided New Town Walking Tour to navigate the neighborhood!
#13 Eat Haggis, Neeps and Tatties
Travelers who truly want to experience the eccentric side of Edinburgh should dive right into the perplexing local cuisine.
With menu items like Cullen Skink, Scotch Pie and Stovies, the food is unique, for sure. But it’s also absolutely delicious.
For the full Scottish experience, we highly recommend ordering the national dish: Haggis. The concoction is a mixture of sheep organs – and it’s best served with Neeps (those are turnips) and tatties (otherwise known as potatoes).
Restaurant Tip: Read our guide to the Best Food in Edinburgh for tips on what and where to eat.
#14 Get Whisked Away in a Whisky Barrel
We’re wrapping up our unique things to do in Edinburgh with an offbeat way to learn about the national drink at the Scotch Whisky Experience.
On this whirlwind introduction to the world of whisky, participants are quite literally whisked away in a wooden barrel. The ride weaves through a replica distillery and then on to the tasting room.
The short, amusement park style tour (dubbed Malt Disney for a reason) is ideal for anyone looking for a fun way to imbibe – and it’s family-friendly.
Scotch Whisky Tip: For a more refined setting, go to Johnnie Walker on Princes Street. They offer a stylish tasting experience with engaging and creative Scotch Whisky tours. Plus, they have a rooftop bar if the weather happens to be cooperating!
Plan Your Edinburgh Trip
Determining which unique Edinburgh attractions to visit is just one facet of planning your trip. As you make reservations, keeping things organized is key. Use our Printable Travel Planner to stay on top of all the details!
Start planning your trip to the UK! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want additional tips? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more advice – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
More Scotland Destination Guides
- What To Do on Isle of Skye
- Scotland Travel Tips
- Best of Inverness
- 1 Day in Glasgow
- Things To See in the Highlands (Without a Car)
- The Underrated East Coast of Scotland
- Hike the West Highland Way
- Take a Day Trip to Dunbar from Edinburgh
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