Royal Mile

Royal Mile runs right through the heart of Edinburgh's Old Town. Overlooking the Mile are spectacular, high-rise tenements, between which a network of small stairways and cobbled closes has developed. The beautiful Edinburgh Castle, positioned high on a base of volcanic rock and the splendid Palace of Holyroodhouse, nestled in the shadow of Arthur's Seat, are both located along the Royal Mile. The Royal Mile is a famous tourist destination due to its proximity to many of the city's top restaurants and lounges and historical landmarks. 

How to explore the Royal Mile?

• Edinburgh Castle stands tall and proud atop an ancient volcano at the end of the Royal Mile. Get ready to be mesmerized by the Scottish Crown Jewels and captivated by the castle's fascinating history and legends. 
• Visit the City of Illusions and Camera Obscura to get a new take on the city. 
• The Scotch Whisky Experience is a chance to learn about Scotland's national drink from the people who know it best. Learn all about this popular drink by visiting the model distillery, which also houses the most extensive whisky collection in the world (with 3,500 bottles). 
• The Royal Mile Market is like discovering an Aladdin's cave full of handmade treasures. Many of the most skilled residents of the area have contributed their wares and culinary expertise to an ingenious pop-up shop named Tron Kirk. Pick out whatever tickles your fancy, from one-of-a-kind jewelry and hip prints to Scottish swords and stacks of records. It is housed in the imposing Tron Kirk, built in the 17th century, gives this little market an air of distinction. 
• The Real Mary King's Close is a network of tunnels, streets, and other underground areas beneath the Old Town and the Royal Mile. Explore more about the cullture and history of Edinburgh from the 16th to the 19th centuries at this exciting site. 
• Scottish Storytelling Center brings Scotland's past to life in the only surviving medieval building on the Royal Mile, John Knox's home. It's setting at the historic city gate makes it ideal for listening to fascinating accounts of bygone eras. 
• Every August, Edinburgh welcomes the world's most intriguing and diverse talent for the Edinburgh International Festival (considered as the largest festival of arts in the world) and the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. This is conducted on Royal Mile Street. 
• The Royal Mile is a popular venue for outdoor performances throughout the summer. The Castle Esplanade hosts the world-famous Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo every night in August. 
• You can check out the Riding of the Marches or the Samhuinn Fire Festival in October. On Hogmanay, you can dance the night away at the Old Town Ceilidh. No matter when you go, you can expect to see something new and exciting, as there is constant action throughout the year. 
• The best-baked goods can be found in Bakehouse Close, a short side trip from the old Tolbooth. 
• The Canongate, Cockburn Street, and Victoria Street, along with other streets in the Old Town, are blocked to automobile traffic on the first Sunday of every month so that visitors can explore the area on foot or a bicycle.
• Another attraction along the Royal Mile is St. Giles' Cathedral. Its 14th century construction is a stunning example of Gothic architecture due to its lofty ceilings, elaborate woodwork, and beautiful stained glass windows. 
• The Scottish Parliament is a remarkable edifice with a cutting-edge design that you must see to believe. - The many attractive features projected onto the exterior tell stories about Scottish heritage and life. 
• Visit the Scottish National Gallery to view a stunning fine art collection by some of the world's greatest artists. The building has stunning Neoclassical style architecture.