Arthurs Seat
If you don’t do anything else in the city, at least hike Arthur’s seat! This was by far my top favorite experience there and definitely now one of my favorite core memories that I will never forget. The views are breathtaking! Even if you do not climb to the Arthurs Seat marker (which was very crowded when I was there) hiking the hills around it are just as fun and beautiful. I actually hiked it twice during my trip, once with my husband and then by myself. It felt pretty safe when I was there by myself. There are plenty of people hiking that walk past every few minutes so while I could relax relatively privately on the edge of the hills, I did not feel secluded or unsafe however, his was also right before the Fringe Festival started, so the city was much busier than usual which leads me to the next activity (for summer).
The Fringe Festival
Unfortunately, we left the day after the festival started, but we did get to go to a couple of shows! We saw Shit Faced Shakespear, which was fun, and then we went to a free comedy show that we were skeptical about since it was free, but it was hilarious! However, I am never sitting in the front row at a comedy show ever again. Being the only Americans in the small venue, we definitely got picked on a lot by the comedians, but it was all in good fun and we enjoyed ourselves.
Tea at the National Gallery
The Scott Monument
Princess Street Gardens
Old Town
Not only is it beautiful but there are a lot of great places to shop! We picked up some nice cashmere pieces, and I enjoyed stopping in all the sterling jewelry shops, one of which I had actually purchased from on Etsy a couple of years ago, check out Celtic Design Scotland!
Harry Potter Store
If you’re a Harry Potter fan, definitely stop at this cute little shop. I found some great gifts for my son who loves Harry Potter.