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.
Create an itinerary including Edinburgh Castle
Unable to display map at this time. Please try again later.
© OpenMapTiles © OpenStreetMap contributors
Tours to Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle reviews
-
This is one of the things one has to do when in Edinburgh. The castle was actually used as a fortress for almost 1000 years, and was also used as a prison as recent as WW2. They offer free guides quite frequently, and our guide Lynn was amazing. Very knowledgeable, and who can pass an opportunity to listen to that Scottish accent. Loved it!
-
Loved walking around this castle it has such a grand presence and is so well maintained. However, if your thinking of visiting and have mobility issues i suggest taking a cab or driving up to the castle. The walk up the hill is no joke.
Plan your trip to Edinburgh
Get a personalized trip
A complete day by day itinerary
based on your preferencesCustomize it
Refine your trip. We'll find the
best routes and schedulesBook it
Choose from the best hotels
and activities. Up to 50% offManage it
Everything in one place.
Everyone on the same page.
Popular things to do in Edinburgh
Historic Sites in Edinburgh
Side trips from Edinburgh
Hidden gems in Edinburgh
Museums in Edinburgh
Nearby attractions in Edinburgh
Trips to Edinburgh Castle by other users
60 days in United Kingdom & Ireland
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Kilkenny
·
Dublin
·
Llandudno
58 days in United Kingdom
BY A USER FROM INDONESIA
Salisbury
·
Bath
·
Truro
15 days in United Kingdom
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
London
·
Wareham
·
Bath
15 days in Europe
BY A USER FROM AUSTRALIA
Edinburgh
·
Belfast
·
Dublin
12 days in Scotland
BY A USER FROM INDIA
Inverness
·
Fort William
·
Glasgow
60 days in Asia & Europe
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Tokyo
·
Shanghai
·
Beijing