From Castles to Cobblestones, Discovering Scotland’s Capital with a Penguin
I’ve always dreamt of adventure beyond the iceberg. So when I flap into Edinburgh, Scotland’s storybook capital, with my little backpack and a camera strapped around my feathered neck, I know I’m in for more than fish and fog. Edinburgh is a city that struts with old-world charm and surprises at every cobblestone corner. With my hoomans, we felt right at home among its gothic spires, misty lanes, and cultural flair. Actually, they returned to the city after 17 years, but for me it was a new experience. Let’s waddle through the top things to see and explore in Edinburgh, to make your trip worth it.
1. Edinburgh Castle: The Crown Jewel of the City
Our journey starts with the majestic Edinburgh Castle, atop Castle Rock. As we waddle up the Royal Mile, tourists snap selfies, bagpipers play haunting tunes, and we try not to trip over a cobblestone. Inside the castle, we gaze at the Stone of Destiny, the ancient coronation seat of Scottish kings. The Honours of Scotland (that’s fancy talk for the crown jewels) sparkle even more than the frost on my beak. From the castle’s edge, we enjoy panoramic city views.
🐧 Penguin Pro Tip: Arrive early to beat the crowds. Don’t miss the 1 o’clock Gun salute—it nearly scared my flippers off.
If you’re craving our full adventure behind these castle walls, be sure to read our detailed tale, Conquering the Edinburgh Castle: A Penguin’s Quest
2. Royal Mile – A Historic Waddle from Castle to Palace
Stretching downhill from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Royal Mile is a mile-long treasure trail. We explore mysterious closes (narrow alleyways), watch street performers juggle flaming torches, and snack on shortbread crumbs dropped by generous tourists.
We duck into St Giles’ Cathedral, with its crown-like steeple and centuries-old charm. Also, we pause for a moment of reflection in the Thistle Chapel. Shops here sell kilts, whisky, tartan scarves, and plush Highland cows.
3. Arthur’s Seat: A Hike with a View
What’s a penguin doing climbing an extinct volcano? Living his best life! I flap my way up Arthur’s Seat, the rugged peak in Holyrood Park. The climb is steep, even for flightless birds, but the reward? A breathtaking, 360-degree view of Edinburgh and beyond. The wind whistles through my feathers. The city lies below like a medieval mosaic, spires, domes, and slate rooftops stretching to the sea.
🐧 Penguin Pro Tip: Wear sturdy shoes (or webbed feet) and bring water. Sunrise and sunset views from here are pure magic.
Read about our full tale of conquering Arthur’s Seat and trying to find the gate to the fairy realm at Waddling Up Arthur’s Seat, Where Nature Meets Legend.
4. National Museum of Scotland: A Cultural Playground
Back in the city, I visit the National Museum of Scotland, where admission is free (perfect for a budget-traveling penguin). The grand atrium stuns us, like a Victorian spaceship landed in the middle of town.
We marvel at dinosaur fossils, medieval armor, vintage locomotives, and a taxidermy penguin who looks suspiciously like my cousin Harold. The museum’s rooftop terrace offers another incredible view of the city skyline. Read about our exploration and how I met the Dolly at Explore the Wonders of the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh.
5. Princes Street Gardens: Green Space and Gothic Glamour
After a busy day, we waddle down to Princes Street Gardens, between the Old and New Towns. The towering Scott Monument, dedicated to Sir Walter Scott, looms like a Gothic rocket ready for takeoff.
Locals bask on benches, tourists sip coffee, and we enjoy the Ross Fountain. It’s peaceful here, with birdsong and bagpipes mingling in the air. This spot is especially enchanting in spring and summer, with flowerbeds blooming in every color under the Scottish sun.
6. Palace of Holyroodhouse: Royalty and Ruins
At the foot of the Royal Mile stands the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official Scottish residence of the King. The palace is grand, but it’s the ruins of Holyrood Abbey that give us goosebumps (more than usual).
We waddle through the Queen’s Gallery and see portraits, tapestries, and royal chambers preserved in time. It feels like waddling through a living history book.
A Penguin’s Royal Adventure: Exploring Holyrood Palace in Edinburgh, Scotland, will give you even more detail and all the information you need before your visit.
7. Victoria Street: A Rainbow of Charm
Ah, Victoria Street! With its candy-colored facades and whimsical shops, this curving lane looks like it popped straight from a storybook or a wizarding world. We shop for handmade crafts, magical books, and quirky souvenirs. This street is said to have inspired Diagon Alley from Harry Potter, and we totally see it.
8. Calton Hill: A Sunset Worth the Climb
As the day goes on, we recommend also making your way up Calton Hill, another of Edinburgh’s iconic lookout points. The hill is home to several monuments, including the National Monument, the Dugald Stewart Monument, and the Nelson Monument. From here, you can watch the city glow golden in the setting sun. It’s the perfect spot to reflect on a day full of wonder.
Explore Calton Hill in Edinburgh gives you all the information needed before you climb the hill.
9. The Writers’ Museum
As a penguin with a penchant for storytelling, I can’t resist visiting the Writers’ Museum, tucked away on the Royal Mile. This cozy little museum celebrates three of Scotland’s literary giants: Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson. Feeling inspired, you can waddle through rooms filled with old manuscripts, personal artifacts, and portraits. A highlight? Seeing the famous walking stick of Stevenson, a man who knew how to craft a great adventure, much like my own Edinburgh escapades. If you’re a fan of literature, this is a perfect stop to indulge in the city’s rich storytelling heritage.
10. St Giles’ Cathedral
As you continue your adventure down the Royal Mile, you can’t miss the grand St Giles’ Cathedral, with its stunning crown-like spire reaching toward the sky. Inside, the cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, with intricate stained glass windows casting colorful light across the stone floors. Take a quiet moment to admire the serene beauty of the Thistle Chapel, where the Order of the Thistle, Scotland’s highest order of chivalry, is honored. It’s a peaceful refuge from the busy streets outside, and even a penguin like me can feel the history in the air.
11. Greyfriars Bobby Statue & Cemetery
Do not miss a visit to the heartwarming yet poignant Greyfriars Bobby Statue. This little pup, immortalized in bronze near Greyfriars Cemetery, captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Legend has it that Bobby, a Skye Terrier, loyally guarded his owner’s grave for 14 years, until his own death. Pause for a moment to honor the devotion of this faithful dog, his statue sitting proudly at the entrance to the cemetery. The nearby Greyfriars Cemetery is peaceful, filled with ancient tombstones and a quiet reverence. As we wander between the weathered graves, we reflect on the love, loss, and stories embedded in the stones. We appreciated how the cemetery is used even today, as we found a herb garden—a great idea to use the space.
12. Edinburgh Zoo
No penguin’s adventure in Edinburgh would be complete without a visit to Edinburgh Zoo, home to a variety offascinating creatures, including a few of my feathered cousins! We waddle through the lush enclosures, watching the playful pandas, giraffes stretching their long necks, and, of course, penguins. The zoo is not just a wildlife haven; it’s also dedicated to conservation efforts, making it a heartwarming stop for any animal lover. Waddling Through Edinburgh Zoo: A Penguin’s Guide to Scotland’s Wildest Adventure will give you all the information you need before you plan your visit.
Things We Didn’t Manage to See But Were On Our Bucket List
Although there were many more things on the list, these are the ones we regret not managing to visit.
For the full list and recommendations on where to eat, see the map below. Green penguins are paid attractions.
Edinburgh’s Underground: Ghost Tours and Hidden History
No Edinburgh experience is complete without exploring its spooky side. Although we didn’t manage to sign up for a ghost tour, waddling cautiously into the city’s underground vaults is something we will do on our next visit. Dark alleys. Echoes of lost souls. Shadows on stone. It’s chilling and not just because we are naturally cold-blooded. These tours dive into the city’s haunted past, from plague outbreaks to body snatchers. Brave birds (and humans) only! Book your tickets in advance, as it gets sold out fast.
Stockbridge & Dean Village: Edinburgh’s Quieter Charms
We also didn’t manage to wander into Stockbridge, a stylish neighborhood with indie boutiques, weekend markets, and charming cafes. I sip hot chocolate while watching the Water of Leith ripple by. Then, just a short walk away, you can discover Dean Village, a hidden gem with fairy-tale bridges, ivy-covered cottages, and old mill buildings. It’s so serene, you could sit here all day (and maybe catch a fish or two).
The Scotch Whisky Experience
No visit to Edinburgh is complete without a stop at The Scotch Whisky Experience, located just steps from the castle. Learn about Scotland’s national drink—from the peaty Highlands to the smooth Lowlands. The shimmering collection of over 3,000 bottles nearly outshines my tuxedo. I may not drink much myself, but the aroma alone is enough to make my feathers flutter. Again, it is recommended to book tickets in advance as there are specific time slots that can get sold out.
Holyrood Distillery
In our opinion, a much better alternative to the Scotch Whisky Experience. A charming craft distillery tucked away near the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Its cozy, modern vibe makes it a great place to learn about the art of whisky-making. Book tickets online and in advance, as specific time slots can be sold out fast.
The Real Mary King’s Close
One of Edinburgh’s most atmospheric underground attractions. Hidden beneath the Royal Mile, it’s a preserved slice of 17th-century life—dark, eerie, and surprisingly well-suited to a penguin with a taste for mystery. Guided by a costumed historian, you waddle through shadowy rooms and narrow passageways once bustling with plague doctors and merchants. It’s a haunting glimpse into the city’s hidden past. And because it’s so popular, buy tickets in advance. This one we missed because we didn’t buy the tickets upfront.
Royal Yacht Britannia
The former floating palace of the British royal family. The grandeur of the yacht is matched only by the stunning views of the Firth of Forth. Our biggest regret is that we didn’t explore the yacht as we ate fans of the popular Netflix series, The Crown.
These are the top things to see and do in Edinburgh, each offering its own unique slice of history, culture, and charm. Whether you’re wandering the cobblestone streets, exploring ancient castles, or meeting new animal friends at the zoo, there’s something magical around every corner. We hope this guide has inspired you to pack your bags (and maybe a little extra tartan) and experience the wonders of Scotland’s capital for yourself. Safe travels, and may your adventure be as exciting and unforgettable as a penguin’s quest in Edinburgh!
