Find top attractions and things to do in Edinburgh

The city center of Edinburgh offers an enticing selection of attractions, including a medieval castle and stunning Gothic architecture just outside the doors of the Radisson Blu. 

Within 500 meters of the hotel, you'll find the Edinburgh Vaults and the National Museum of Scotland. Walk a little further to see the Scott Monument, which resides proudly on Edinburgh's main shopping thoroughfare, Princes Street. Try a unique local activity at the 5-star visitor attraction, The Scotch Whisky Experience. 

If you are traveling with family, we recommend the National Museum of Scotland as well the fabulous Edinburgh Zoo or Edinburgh's Botanic Gardens. Read more about the best city attractions below.

Explore attractions

Edinburgh Airport

6.83 mi / 10.98 km from the hotel

One of the main airports in the area. Check our "how to arrive" section for more information.

Edinburgh Festival Fringe

0.10 mi / 0.16 km from the hotel

Enjoy a month-long showcase of theater, street performers, comedy, dance, music, and art spread over 250 venues in Edinburgh.

Royal Mile

0.03 mi / 0.04 km from the hotel

Walk along this medieval Old Town from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace and explore the many exciting shops, pubs, and restaurants along the way.

Scotch Whisky Experience

0.36 mi / 0.58 km from the hotel

Learn about the heritage and time-honored traditions of Scotch whisky making as you tour the attraction's replica distillery. All tours include a whisky tasting.

Edinburgh Castle

0.51 mi / 0.83 km from the hotel

Edinburgh Castle is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city and one of the oldest fortified places in Europe. Take a guided tour, eat at The Tea Rooms or Redcoat Cafe, and marvel at its magnificent beauty. Throughout the year, plenty of events take place at the castle, it's a must-visit!

National Museum of Scotland

0.26 mi / 0.41 km from the hotel

Experience a wide variety of fascinating exhibitions spanning the history of Scotland. Find exciting displays on nature, science, technology, art and design, and world cultures. A visit to the museum offers a world of discovery, perfect for visitors of all ages.

Princes Street

0.44 mi / 0.71 km from the hotel

Princes Street is Edinburgh's main thoroughfare and the capital's main shopping street. Find a wide selection of shops, restaurants, and pubs. Be sure to stop by the picturesque Princes Street Gardens, Register House, and Waverly Station for a taste of Edinburgh's history.

Edinburgh Zoo

3.21 mi / 5.17 km from the hotel

Led by the vision of a world where nature is protected, valued, and loved, Edinburgh Zoo is managed by The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS), a wildlife conservation charity. The zoo is home to over 2,500 animals, making it the ideal spot for a fun day out.

Camera Obscura & World of Illusions

0.35 mi / 0.56 km from the hotel

Step into Scotland’s oldest purpose-built attraction, dating back to 1835. This wonder-filled destination is packed with hands-on exhibits—from mirror mazes and plasma tubes to mesmerizing kaleidoscope tunnels. Don’t miss the rooftop terrace, where you can take in panoramic views of Edinburgh and explore the historic 170-year-old Camera Obscura.

Top picks by travel style

For history and heritage lovers

  • Explore Edinburgh Castle, home to centuries of Scottish history atop the city.
  • Visit Holyrood Palace, anchoring the royal end of the Royal Mile.

For curious minds

  • Journey from ancient artifacts to modern design at the National Museum of Scotland.
  • Spend an afternoon among the illusions at Camera Obscura.

For experience seekers

  • Discover the country's best-known export at the Scotch Whisky Experience.
  • Browse the shops along Princes Street, in the heart of the New Town.

Concierge services and local assistance in Edinburgh

Need help arranging transport, planning activities, or finding what to do nearby? Our team can support with practical local guidance to make your stay easier and more enjoyable.

Ask our team

Frequently Asked Questions

Nearby attractions
There is plenty to do near Radisson Blu Hotel, Edinburgh City Centre. Take a look at our Nearby Attractions page to find out more about everything our hotel has to offer!
Princes Street is Edinburgh's main shopping thoroughfare, with a wide selection of shops, restaurants and pubs, and the Royal Mile outside Radisson Blu Hotel, Edinburgh City Centre is lined with shops.
Yes. Edinburgh Castle, the National Museum of Scotland, Holyrood Palace and Camera Obscura are all close to Radisson Blu Hotel, Edinburgh City Centre, and the Royal Mile itself runs past the hotel.
Most of Edinburgh's main attractions are reached on foot from Radisson Blu Hotel, Edinburgh City Centre, which sits on the Royal Mile in the Old Town.
Radisson Blu Hotel, Edinburgh City Centre sits in Edinburgh city center on the Royal Mile, within the Old Town and close to the city's main business and shopping districts.
Dean Village and the hidden closes of Edinburgh's Old Town are among the quieter spots highlighted by Radisson Blu Hotel, Edinburgh City Centre.
Walking is usually the quickest way across Edinburgh's Old Town, which is compact and largely pedestrian-friendly. Trams and buses run along Princes Street when you want to cover more ground, and driving through the center at busy times is rarely the fastest option.