Top 5 Things To Do In Edinburgh - From a Local.
Edinburgh is one of those cities that looks like it was designed by a fantasy novelist on a deadline - castles, cobbled streets, mysterious closes, and just enough wind to ruin your hair at the worst possible moment. But beyond the obvious tourist checklist, there’s a layer of experiences that locals actually rate.
So if you’re wondering what to do in Edinburgh without falling into the usual traps, here’s a local-approved list - with a bit of personality baked in.
1. Underground Magic
Where? Gilded Saloon, Bristo Square.
What? A fantastic comedy-magic show.
How much? £10-12
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/underground-magic-edinburghs-live-magic-night-tickets-1977379435120
Underground Magic is a live magic showcase featuring a rotating lineup of magicians, mind readers, comedians, and variety acts. That means no two shows are exactly the same - and you get a mix of styles all in one night.
This is currently on every second Wednesday, and they will be on every night during the world-famous Edinburgh Fringe Festival.
Now yes, I might be a little bit biased considering I’m one of the organisers. But believe me, this is a hit!
2. Stand Up Comedy
Where? Monkey Barrel, The Stand, or Gilded Saloon
What? A comedy night, packed full of laughs!
How much? £3-£20
Edinburgh is basically the comedy capital of the world for a month every year, but the good news is - you don’t need to visit in August to laugh.
Here are three local favourites:
Red Raw at The Stand Comedy Club
A legendary open-mic night where new comedians test material. It’s chaotic, unpredictable, and occasionally brilliant.Top Banana at Monkey Barrel Comedy Club
A polished mixed-bill show with consistently strong acts. If you want guaranteed laughs, start here.Friday Night Show at Gilded Saloon
A lively, high-energy lineup show that feels like a mini-Fringe every week.
If you leave Edinburgh without seeing at least one comedy show, you’ve genuinely missed a trick.
3. Underground Walking Tour
Where? Under the streets of Edinburgh
What? A spooky underground tour
How much? £19-25
Edinburgh has a whole other city beneath its streets - because apparently one wasn’t enough.
An underground walking tour takes you through hidden vaults, dark passageways, and stories that range from fascinating to “I’m not sleeping tonight.” It’s part history lesson, part ghost story, and all very atmospheric.
Even if you’re not into the paranormal, it’s one of the best ways to understand the city’s past - and why it has such a strong reputation for being haunted.
4. The JoHnNie Walker Experience
Where? Johnnie Walker, Princes Street
What? An immersive whisky tasting, and the history of Johnnie Walker
How much? £30
Whisky tasting might sound like something reserved for seasoned connoisseurs in tweed jackets - but the Johnnie Walker Experience is surprisingly modern, interactive, and (importantly) fun.
It’s less “lecture” and more immersive journey, complete with personalised flavour profiles and a rooftop bar that offers some of the best views in the city.
Even if whisky isn’t normally your thing, this is a great way to ease into it without feeling like you need a PhD in peat.
5. Arthur’s Seat
What? A lovely hike, leading you to breathtaking views.
Where? Arthur’s Seat
How much? £0
You can’t write a list of things to do in Edinburgh without mentioning Arthur’s Seat - but hear me out.
Yes, it’s a bit of a climb.
Yes, the weather might try to ruin it.
But the view from the top? Completely worth it.
Right in the middle of the city, this ancient volcano gives you panoramic views of Edinburgh, the sea, and beyond. Go at sunrise or sunset if you want to feel like you’re in a movie (or just want better lighting for photos).
And there you have it, those are the top 5 things to do in Edinburgh, from a local’s perspective.
My advice would be, to keep your eye on ticketing platforms such as Eventbrite to see what’s happening in town when you visit!