Top Holiday Attractions in Edinburgh - what to do, where to go and what to see

If you are heading to Edinburgh for a cottage holiday or self catering short break we have compiled some of the must see places and the best things to do. Whether you are looking for some family fun, visit relaxing and peaceful gardens or immerse yourself in the history and culture of Edinburgh then take a look at some great ideas below.

And, if you are still to book your self catering accommodation we have listed some great Edinburgh cottages and apartments close to the attractions and available direct from independent owners and leading holiday operators.

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National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh

Attractions in Edinburgh

This magnificent museum tells the story of Scotland; its land, people and culture; through the rich national collections. The stunning themed galleries cover landscape and wildlife, early people, the kingdom of the Scots, industry and empire, Scotland transformed and the 20th Century.


Disabled/Wheelchair Access All weather Sunny days Restaurant or cafe Space for eating own food


The Royal Yachet Britannia Edinburgh, Edinburgh

Attractions in Edinburgh

The Britannia experience starts in the visitor centre where you can discover her fascinating story. Then step aboard for a self-led audio tour of five decks, giving a unique insight into what life was like on board


Disabled/Wheelchair Access All weather Sunny days


Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, Edinburgh

Attractions in Edinburgh

Founded in the 17th Century as a ‘physic garden', growing medicinal plants, the Royal Botanic Garden is now acknowledges to be one of the finest in the worlds where unusual and beautiful plants can be found. It's a place to rest and relax away from the city's hustle and bustle.


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Bedlam Paintball, Edinburgh

Attractions in Edinburgh

Get the ultimate adrenaline rush at Bedlam Paintball. Be prepared to utilise tactics, teamwork and quick thinking as you experience all the multiple game scenarios available.


All weather Sunny days Space for eating own food


Our Dynamic Earth, Edinburgh

Attractions in Edinburgh

See how the Earth works. Take a walk though Scotland's geological history and travel back in time to follow the creation of planet Earth. Be shaken by a volcano, feel the chill of the polar ice and get caught in a tropical rainstorm. Look to the future – you decide what could happen.


Disabled/Wheelchair Access All weather Sunny days Restaurant or cafe Space for eating own food


Scottish National Portrait Gallery, Edinburgh

Attractions in Edinburgh

The gallery provides a visual history of Scotland, told through portraits of those who shaped it; royals and rebels, poets and philosophers, heroes and villains. Mary, Queen of Scots; Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott and Sean Connery are all there.


Disabled/Wheelchair Access Pet friendly All weather Sunny days Restaurant or cafe Space for eating own food


Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh

Attractions in Edinburgh

Experience the splendour and majesty of the legendary Edinburgh Castle! Perched on an extinct volcano, the castle has played home to many great events throughout history, and now you too can explore its amazing grounds and beat the queues with our fast track tickets. Enjoy a true piece of Scottish history with a phenomenal day at the amazing Edinburgh Castle! Location: Edinburgh (Scotland)


All weather Sunny days


Edinburgh Dungeons, Edinburgh

Attractions in Edinburgh

Transport yourself back to the darkest moments in the Scotland's history within the deep depths of the Edinburgh Dungeon. Everything that you see is based on real historical events from the gruesome tale of Burke & Hare, to Edinburgh's Great Fire, torture and the plague.  With a chilling boat ride into the lair of cannibal Sawney Bean the Edinburgh Dungeon provides a thrilling and fun experience that will leave your family screaming for more! Are you brave enough? Location: Edinburgh (Scotland)


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The Cadies and Wichery Tours, Edinburgh

Attractions in Edinburgh

Witchery Tours take a lights-hearted look at tales of witchcraft, plague and torture. Explore the eerie alleyways and creepy courtyards of the Old Town with your ghostly guide, who will blend history with humour and fact with fable.


Disabled/Wheelchair Access Pet friendly All weather Sunny days


Edinburgh Zoo, Edinburgh

Attractions in Edinburgh

This is Scotland's most popular wildlife attraction, with more than 1,000 animals, including meerkats, pygmy hippos, tigers, lions and blue poison arrow frogs. Set in beautiful parkland the zoo has the world's biggest penguin pool.


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Edinburgh Butterfly & Insect World, Edinburgh

Attractions in Edinburgh

Walk through an indoor tropical rainforest inhabited by thousands of the world's most beautiful butterflies. Also visit the unique Scottish honey-bee zone.


Disabled/Wheelchair Access All weather Sunny days Restaurant or cafe Space for eating own food


Looking for Accommodation close to Edinburgh

If you are looking to spend a short break or holiday in Edinburgh there is a lot of great quality self catering accommodation, ranging from apartments and cottages to lodges and chalets, to choose from. Of course, you will also find some lovely guest houses, bed and breakfast and hotels in Edinburgh. Find out more by using the links below:

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If you would like to tell us about your experiences at one of these attractions or would like to add one ot our list please contact us via our Find Cottage Holiday Facebook page.

 

 

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Find Cottage Holidays

Find Cottage Holidays mission is to promote the very best of the UK and Ireland's wonderful self catering accommodation, whether it be cottages, apartments, lodges, chalets, houses, villas or bungalows. But, it's not just about the cottages, we also try and bring you some helpful guides and information on the places to go, things to see and activities to do while you enjoy your break in England, Scotland, Wales or Ireland. In fact, we are adding to our list daily but if you think we have missed somewhere special tell us via our Facebook page. With wonderful countryside and superb coastlines to explore the UK and Ireland has so much to offer.

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