By Milena Jakubonyte
Edinburgh proves to be a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists. The historic city’s famous Christmas markets, or the Edinburgh’s Winter Festival, as the Council has named it, attracted over three million visitors last year. Edinburgh boasts a rich culture and history that is still present in its streets today. The city is the perfect destination to get cultured as well as explore all activities it has to offer. This list of locations has been compiled to be walkable, so no need for public transport! Tip: search these up on TikTok to see previous visitor’s experiences.
Scotsman Picturehouse, located inside the Scotsman Hotel, a 1905 building. This cinema with 1920s inspired interior offers Christmas classics like Elf and Love Actually. The perfect place to end your activity-filled day, by kicking your feet up and enjoying a movie with a not-so-ordinary ambience. Located next to the Edinburgh Waverley Train Station, visit Scotsman Picturehouse as a last-minute activity if you have time before catching your train home.
P.S. it is available for private hire.
Fan of Harry Potter?
Bored of Harry Potter merchandise shops?
This one is for you.
Department of Magic is located in the city centre and offers wizardry-themed escape rooms as well as a cocktail bar – The Magic Potions Tavern. Escape rooms are an immersive activity – it involves solving puzzles hidden in a room in order to ‘escape’. Not to mention the highly engaging storylines and costumes you can wear. While it is great fun, with escape rooms lasting about 60 minutes, it doesn’t stop there. Stir up a concoction of magic for yourself and DIY your cocktail at The Magic Potions Tavern or enjoy a sweet, crisp Butterbeer. Become a real wizard for a day at the Department of Magic.
P.S. alcohol-free options available.
3. Camera Obscura & The World of Illusions
This location, next to the Edinburgh Castle, is a four-story building offering rooftop views of the Castle as well as the Old Town. World of Illusions is an engaging activity, with countless mind-boggling illusions, suitable for all ages. As you move up the floors, you find a Camera Obscura Show with 360 degree views of Edinburgh. The charismatic showrunners give you some insights into the history of the city that you might not know about. On the rooftop, there are multiple binoculars and plaques detailing the buildings history.
P.S. once purchased, tickets are valid all day, so you may come and go as you wish.
4. Edinburgh Castle – Castle of Light
During the festive season, the legendary Edinburgh Castle, and the trail leading up to it, is turned into an immersive lights show. With the ticket, not only you get to experience the Castle’s majestic indoors, but also a bright and colourful storytelling on the Castle’s walls. The perfect Instagrammable spot to visit after-dark and get the most out of your day. Not to mention the breathtaking views of the night-illuminated city from the top of the hill, where the Edinburgh Castle sits. P.S. don’t forget your hat and scarf as it gets windy!
5. Victoria Street & Grassmarket
Did you know Victoria Street inspired the Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter book series?
This location is filled with independent businesses – there are various spots for brunch, coffee and a sweet treat. Try Hula for food, the Milkman for coffee and Mary’s Milk Bar or Kilted Donut for ice cream and donuts. Other small businesses offer authentic Scottish wool and cashmere clothing and accessories (they make great gifts for friends and family!) and Game of Thrones inspired souvenir shops. P.S. visit during daytime for the perfect pic for Instagram – just head up the stairs on the Vennel Viewpoint. You may recognise this spot from the Netflix series One Day.
Honourable Mentions:
Edinburgh’s Christmas Markets
The National Museum of Scotland
The Dome
Edinburgh Chihuahua Cafe
Never Really Here
Dean Village
Melville Monument
Edinburgh’s Harry Potter Tour
This is Fashion Social 
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