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. Add Edinburgh Castle and other attractions to your Edinburgh trip itinerary using our Edinburgh trip planning website.
Tours to Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle reviews
-
Came at Christmas to see the Castle of Light. No words to describe it. Book a time slot, then enjoy.
Came at Christmas to see the Castle of Light. No words to describe it. Book a time slot, then enjoy. more »
-
What a place, by far the best thing to do in Edinburgh. From start to finish you get by far the best views and photos and find out more about Edinburgh. We got there for 12 and watched the 1pm gun...
What a place, by far the best thing to do in Edinburgh. From start to finish you get by far the best views and photos and find out more about Edinburgh. We got there for 12 and watched the 1pm gun... more »
-
Loved this castle!! You are free to roam in the order you want and to see inside buildings as you desire. Not 100% accessible, but you could spend hours there! We liked going earlier cause it was less crowded. You can stay as long as you want, so later in the day the crowds just grow. Lots of military museum spaces. Enthusiasts will love it! No pics allowed when viewing the Crown Jewels, nor in one other memorial building for deceased servicemen. Everything else is fine for pics. Great picture ops everywhere! Incredible view! We went in April and the wind made it quite cold so dress warm!
-
Great place. Some hints for your visit. 1. Prepay ticket and arrive 10 minutes prior to time on ticket. 2. Buy tickets before 1pm or 1300 so you can view the 1pm cannon firing. Make sure to find a spot to view the firingat least by 1245. Most. Good spots will be taken by then 3.There are several museums/areas on the castle grounds. A few of them are the Prison, National war museum and Royal Scots Dragoon. I found them to be nice and worth the time to spend exploring. 4. Bathrooms are available and first one as you enter on the left hand side. 5. The Scottish jewels was the longest wait of all places. 6. The have audio tours you can purchase to the right of the entrance if that is something you are interested in. 7. I would give myself at least 2 hours for museums and touring the castle. 8. Highly recommended
Plan your trip to Edinburgh
Get a personalized tripA full day by day itinerary based on your preferences Customize itRefine your trip. We'll find the
best routes and schedules Book itChoose from the best hotels and activities. Up to 50% off Manage itEverything in one place. Everyone on the same page.Know more
Popular things to do in Edinburgh
Hidden gems in Edinburgh
Side trips from Edinburgh
Museums in Edinburgh
Shopping in Edinburgh
Nearby attractions in Edinburgh
Trips in Edinburgh Castle by other users
28 days in Europe
BY A USER FROM AUSTRALIA
Tallinn
Nuremberg
Munich
13 days in United Kingdom
BY A USER FROM SOUTH KOREA
London
Edinburgh
Glasgow
26 days in Germany, United Kingdom & Strasbourg
BY A USER FROM AUSTRALIA
Berlin
Leipzig
Nuremberg
11 days in United Kingdom
BY A USER FROM INDIA
London
Bath
Edinburgh
18 days in Scotland & Spain
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Glasgow
Edinburgh
Seville
23 days in Europe
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
London
Paris
Amsterdam