Edinburgh's Old Town is one of Europe's most atmospheric historic quarters—a maze of medieval streets, narrow closes, and towering tenements clustered around the iconic castle. Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it preserves centuries of Scottish history within its ancient walls.
The Old Town developed from the 12th century, spreading down the volcanic ridge from the castle. As space was limited, buildings grew upwards—some tenements reached 14 storeys, among the first skyscrapers in the world. The narrow closes that branch off the Royal Mile were the arteries of daily life.
Today, the Old Town is Edinburgh's biggest draw. Walk the Royal Mile, explore hidden closes, descend into underground chambers, and discover layers of history at every turn. From the castle to the Grassmarket, from ghost tours to whisky tastings, the Old Town offers endless exploration.
Must-See Highlights
The Royal Mile
The historic spine of the Old Town, running from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace. A mile of history, shops, pubs, and hidden closes.
Learn more →Edinburgh Castle
The iconic fortress dominating the skyline from Castle Rock. Scotland's most visited paid attraction with 900 years of history.
Learn more →Hidden Closes
Narrow alleyways branching off the Royal Mile, many with fascinating stories. Some lead to courtyards, others to unexpected views.
Underground Edinburgh
Beneath the streets lie hidden chambers and buried closes. Mary King's Close and the Edinburgh Vaults reveal the city below.
Learn more →Grassmarket
Historic square beneath the castle with excellent pubs, dark execution history, and one of Edinburgh's best views.
Learn more →Victoria Street
The most photographed street in Edinburgh—curved and colourful, said to have inspired Harry Potter's Diagon Alley.
Learn more →Old Town Attractions
Edinburgh Castle
Historic Site
£19.50
St Giles' Cathedral
Church
Free
The Real Mary King's Close
Underground Tour
£18
Camera Obscura
Attraction
£18+
Scotch Whisky Experience
Tour
£18+
Museum on the Mound
Museum
Free
Greyfriars Kirkyard
Cemetery
Free
National Museum of Scotland
Museum
Free
Famous Closes to Explore
Advocate's Close
One of the best-preserved, with stunning views down to Princes Street.
Mary King's Close
Now underground, accessible via guided tour. Edinburgh's most famous hidden street.
Riddle's Court
Beautiful courtyard off the Lawnmarket, dating to the 16th century.
Anchor Close
Where the Encyclopaedia Britannica was first printed in 1768.
Dunbar's Close Garden
A hidden 17th-century garden, peaceful oasis off the Canongate.
Visitor Tips
- ✓Wear comfortable shoes - the cobbles are uneven
- ✓Explore the closes - they're free and fascinating
- ✓Book castle tickets online to skip the queue
- ✓The Old Town is hilly - take your time
- ✓Join a free walking tour for the best stories
- ✓Ghost tours are fun but book ahead in summer
- ✓Many attractions are close together - walk between them
- ✓The Grassmarket has the best pub atmosphere
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Edinburgh Old Town?
The Old Town is the medieval heart of Edinburgh, stretching from Edinburgh Castle along the Royal Mile to Holyrood Palace. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its historic buildings, narrow closes, and atmospheric streets.
Why is Edinburgh Old Town a UNESCO World Heritage Site?
Edinburgh's Old and New Towns were inscribed together in 1995 for their outstanding universal value. The Old Town preserves medieval street patterns and remarkable examples of Scottish architecture spanning several centuries.
How old is Edinburgh Old Town?
The Old Town developed from the 12th century onwards, clustered around the castle. Many buildings date from the 16th-18th centuries. The medieval street pattern remains largely intact.
What is the Royal Mile?
The Royal Mile is the main street running through the Old Town, from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. It's actually slightly longer than a mile and consists of several named sections.
What are closes in Edinburgh?
Closes are the narrow alleyways branching off the Royal Mile. In the crowded Old Town, buildings stretched upwards and inwards, creating these atmospheric passages. Many have fascinating histories and some lead to hidden courtyards.
Is Edinburgh Old Town safe at night?
Generally yes. The Royal Mile and main areas are well-lit and busy with visitors. Some closes are darker and quieter—stick to main routes late at night. The Grassmarket and Cowgate have active nightlife.
How long do you need in Edinburgh Old Town?
You could spend days exploring the Old Town. For the highlights (Royal Mile walk, castle visit, one or two attractions), allow a full day. To properly explore the closes and museums, plan for 2-3 days.
What are the best tours of Edinburgh Old Town?
Walking tours cover the history and hidden stories. Ghost tours explore the darker side. Underground tours (Mary King's Close, Edinburgh Vaults) reveal the city below. Free walking tours are widely available.