Royal Mile

Without careful planning, a trip along the Royal Mile can either become overwhelming or miss its hidden corners. Stretching a little over a mile from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, this spine of the Old Town bustles with life nearly every day of the year. Travelers should prepare for uneven ground, thick crowds in summer, and changing Scottish weather. Allow enough time not just for sightseeing but for sampling the real flavor of this storied street.

• Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon during spring or autumn; avoid August unless visiting for festival season but expect crowds.
• How to get there: Walk uphill from Waverley Station or use city buses to get close; taxis have limited access.
• Accessibility: The Mile is mostly pedestrian but cobblestones can be tiring or challenging for wheelchairs, strollers, or those with mobility issues.
• Average visit duration: Allow at least half a day; a full day rewards lingering and exploration.

The Royal Mile unrolls its best experiences in sections, each distinctive—start from the imposing battlements of Edinburgh Castle, drift through the bustle of Lawnmarket’s shops, discover closes rich with history, and finish at the regal gates of Holyrood Palace. Heavy hitters catch every eye, but the best moments sometimes slip down side alleys or creep up at quiet corners. Historic churches, centuries-old pubs, and interactive museums each offer a taste of Edinburgh’s layered past.

• Edinburgh Castle: Explore ramparts, Crown Jewels, and panoramic views stretching across the city.
• St Giles' Cathedral: Admire the stunning stained glass, stone carvings, and the Thistle Chapel.
• Real Mary King’s Close: Descend into preserved underground streets for a guided history of plague, poverty, and everyday life.
• Scottish Storytelling Centre: Dive into myths with tales, performances, and art—great for families or creative thinkers.
• Holyrood Palace: Tour the royal apartments, lush gardens, and ruins of Holyrood Abbey.
• Photo-worthy spots: Castle Esplanade views, the colorful shops at Victoria Street (just off the Mile), and Parliament Square after dark.
• Local secrets: Winding closes such as Dunbar’s Close Garden, a secret 17th-century oasis, offer rare silence and greenery.
• Did you know? The Mile’s true length is roughly 1.1 miles, marked by a series of closes—each one a unique slice of city history and daily life.