10 Must-see Viewpoints for Edinburgh’s Festivals

You can’t talk about Edinburgh’s views without mentioning its crowning jewel, the Castle. Perched atop Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle offers a regal vantage point of the city. Inside, the views from the battlements are unbeatable, showcasing the Royal Mile, Princes Street Gardens and beyond.

While the castle itself can be admired from afar at various spots around the city, the Festivals provide a great opportunity for a visit. Each August sees the Castle Esplanade become home to a celebration of international culture as the world-famous Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo takes place. Don’t miss this chance to see the iconic lone piper play against the stunning backdrop of one of Scotland’s most famous historical buildings.

Just a stone’s throw away from the Castle, lies the famous Princes Street Gardens. Spanning the space between the historic Old Town and the elegant New Town, these gardens are a haven for locals and visitors alike. The gardens were once a loch (Nor’ Loch) that served as a defensive moat for the city. After being drained in the 18th century, it was transformed in the 1820s into gardens.

A great spot for a sunny pit stop or walk, they also play host to some of the festival's most exciting annual highlights. Edinburgh's Hogmanay revellers can enjoy live music and fireworks from here, but those visiting in August won’t miss out on the excitement either, with a spectacular fireworks concert closing the Edinburgh International Festival each year in the same spot.

On the east side of Princes Street Gardens, you'll find the elegant Scott Monument, a towering Gothic tribute to Sir Walter Scott. Climbing the 287 steps of the 200 feet monument offers stunning views of Princes Street, the New Town and the surrounding hills. But if you don’t fancy the climb, it’s also a delight to see its intricate spires framed by flowers and foliage from the vantage point of the gardens.

If you’re after epic views without the cardio, Calton Hill is your friend. Situated just a short walk from Princes Street, this UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts iconic landmarks like the National Monument and Nelson Monument. As you soak in the view, you’ll see the city skyline framed by the shimmering waters of the Firth of Forth.

In the city’s New Town, St Andrew Square Garden provides an oasis of green space, water features and mood lighting just a moment away from the bustling bars, restaurants and shops in the city centre. Construction of the square began in 1772, and it is one of the first parts of the New Town to be developed - a testament to Georgian architecture. At its centre stands the Melville Monument, a towering column dedicated to Henry Dundas, 1st Viscount Melville, an influential figure in British politics during the late 18th century.  

Every June, St Andrew Square also welcomes the Edinburgh International Film Festival, with outdoor screenings just one highlight of an always jam-packed programme. Past visitors to the Jazz & Blues and International Festivals have also enjoyed a range of innovative and diverse events in the Square.

Boasting exhibits on everything from Scotland’s ancient history to space, fashion and dinosaurs, the National Museum of Scotland has earned its place amongst Edinburgh’s greatest attractions. But one of the museum’s best-kept secrets is its Rooftop Terrace. After wandering through the galleries, head up to this peaceful outdoor space for jaw-dropping panoramic views of Edinburgh. From here, you can see Edinburgh Castle, the spire of St Giles’ Cathedral and the outline of Arthur’s Seat.

As well as its everyday work, it also plays host to some fantastic Festival fun: this April will see the Edinburgh Science Festival take over museum spaces with a range of interactive workshops, shows and drop-in activities. In previous years the Children’s Festival has also called the museum home - keep an eye out for their programme launching next month.

The Royal Mile is the city’s historic heart, stretching from Edinburgh Castle at one end to the Palace of Holyroodhouse at the other. Lined with cobbled streets and centuries-old architecture, it’s a bustling thoroughfare that brims with character. 

For those looking to soak up the unique atmosphere of Edinburgh in full festival swing, the historic Royal Mile should be a first stop. Already packed with attractions and sights of great historical significance, the August Festivals take it over with a key attraction being the international street performers during the Fringe. Visit the International Festival’s striking gothic HQ at The Hub and take in puppet shows, circus acts and street theatre all on your way there.

One of Edinburgh’s seven summits, the trail up Blackford Hill is a pleasant and moderately challenging climb, making it perfect for families, couples or solo adventurers.

Once you reach the summit, you're treated to panoramic views of the city and beyond. From Salisbury Crags and Arthur's Seat to the historic Edinburgh Castle perched atop its volcanic rock, every iconic landmark seems within reach. On a clear day, you can see as far as the Firth of Forth, with its shimmering waters and the distinctive Forth Bridges spanning the horizon.

While you’re on Blackford Hill, don’t miss the Royal Observatory of Edinburgh. It’s a fantastic place to learn about the stars and planets.

Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town, with stunning views of Edinburgh Castle, the Grassmarket is one of the most picturesque and lively areas of the city - and home to the Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival's Mardi Gras programme, as well as being the location of numerous Fringe venues. A paradise of independent merchants, designers and artisans, the area is home to an array of high-quality gift, clothing and homeware shops. And when hunger strikes, you’ll find an assortment of bars, restaurants and cafes to suit all tastes and budgets.

Arthur's Seat is the main peak of the group of hills in Edinburgh, described by Robert Louis Stevenson as “a hill for magnitude, a mountain in virtue of its bold design”. 

This ancient volcano towers over the city, offering panoramic views that stretch all the way to the Firth of Forth and beyond. The climb might get your heart racing, but the reward is worth it - especially if you catch a sunrise. Pack some snacks, because you’ll want to sit and take in the view as the city below buzzes to life.

It has a connection ‌with all our festivals, particularly as a viewpoint for watching the end-of-year fireworks during Edinburgh's Hogmanay.