Trip Planner: Europe / UK / Scotland / Edinburgh / Historic Sites / Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh

4.3

#1 of 3,974 in Things to do in Scotland

Castle Tourist Spot

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A major monument of Scottish heritage and one of the world's most striking fortresses, Edinburgh Castle dominates the city's skyline. Sitting atop a large volcanic rock, the castle dates back to the 12th century. It served as the seat of Scottish royalty until the 17th century, when it became a military barracks. Today, the castle holds the Scottish crown jewels, three military museums, and a handful of exhibits. Guided tours included in the price of admission offer the most efficient and informative way to visit the castle. You'll hear highlights from its history and understand the significance of its various buildings and artifacts. After your tour, sit for tea in one of the complex's tearooms and enjoy a traditional Scottish meal in the Redcoat Cafe. Try to secure your tickets before visiting the castle to avoid waiting in line at the entrance. For travelers who use our world travel planner, Edinburgh holidays become easier to arrange, with trips to the Edinburgh Castle and other attractions mapped out and timetabled.

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Reviews

TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

32,281 reviews

Google

4.4

Zapatu

The edinburgh castle is by far themes amazing part about Scotland in my humble opinion. The architecture of the places traces back centuries, so you really feel like you are in medieval times. The vie... more »
Lyle K

Buy your tickets before hand, or if you haven't, go to the visitor information centre by the train station, way less lines. You can use the ticket one day before the date printed or up to two days aft... more »
Ken R

Look, as a historic site is amazing and the views and artefacts are really worth seeing, but the crowds were overwhelming. more »

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Google

Josh Foster

I have always loved castles and this has been on the list to visit for a long time, and it didn't disappoint! You can see the castle from most places in Edinburgh as it is sat on top of a very large hill, and looms over the city like some silent guardian. We were part of a large group exploring Edinburgh and couldn't justify the cost for us all to go in, so went to find more haggis instead! However the views from the parapet are outstanding.

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Henry Hart

Excellent views of the area. Lots of history to see here. The only drawback is that more maps and signage telling you where you are in relation to the other areas would be helpful. 25 minute line/wait for tickets. Still had a great time here. Give yourself at least 2 hours for a quick walk-through or half a day to see it all.

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Abhishek Kumar

It's a beautiful and historic place. The views from the top are lovely. The history of the castle is also amazing. I had taken the audio guide for the tour which proved to be really informative. Highly recommended to anyone who is visiting Edinburgh!

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Laura Davis

Beautiful and historic place. Excellent view of the area. Lots of history. It's interesting to walk around the museum and exhibitions. The memorial in the chapel were stunning. Keep at least 3 hours for the visit.

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Pasquale Gabrieli

I loved it! It's a beautiful and historic place. Give yourself at least 3 hours to visit it with a small break in the café for a fast snack and a good coffee. I suggest to buy the tickets online (as I did) or you'll have to queue up for a long time for buying them.

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Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh

Zapatu

Lyle K

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Josh Foster

Henry Hart

Abhishek Kumar

Laura Davis

Pasquale Gabrieli

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