12 Places to Visit in Edinburgh’s Old Town - Part 2: Hidden Gems & Local Highlights
🏰 This post is part of a two-part guide to Edinburgh’s Old Town.
👉 If you haven’t read it yet, check out 15 Places to Visit in Edinburgh’s Old Town – Part 1 for even more sights and tips!
Last updated: 09 October 2025
Edinburgh’s Old Town is full of history, iconic sights and stunning viewpoints to explore! If you’re visiting for the first time, check out our First-Timer’s Guide to Edinburgh for an overview of the city and its highlights. In this second part of our series, we take you beyond the Royal Mile to discover more hidden gems and local favourites.
This blog post accompanies our YouTube video below, where we explore the streets and viewpoints of Edinburgh’s Old Town – perfect inspiration for planning your next visit.
Plan your Edinburgh trip with ease! Our customised Edinburgh itineraries help you explore the city’s highlights – from hidden gems to iconic viewpoints – without the stress of planning.
1. Edinburgh Farmers' Market
The Edinburgh Farmers’ Market is a lively weekly market where locals and visitors alike can browse fresh produce, artisan foods and handmade crafts, all beneath the impressive backdrop of Edinburgh Castle. It’s not just a place to shop – it’s a hub of local culture and atmosphere, with the buzz of stallholders, the scent of freshly baked bread and colourful displays of seasonal fruits and vegetables.
Local stalls and visitors enjoying a sunny weekend at Edinburgh’s popular Farmers’ Market.
Why Visit
Whether you’re a foodie, a family or just looking for a taste of local life, the market offers something for everyone. It’s a perfect place to try local foods, freshly baked pastries or unique handmade gifts. Even if you don’t plan to buy anything, wandering through the stalls provides a real feel for the city’s vibrant community.
Practical Information
When: Saturdays, 09.00 - 14.00
Where: Castle Terrace, below Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh EH1 2EN
Tip: Check the market’s Facebook page for a weekly list of stallholders, and try arriving mid-morning for the best selection.
Nearby Attractions
The market is a short walk from the Grassmarket, Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile, making it easy to combine a visit with other highlights of the Old Town.
Insider Tip
Bring cash just in case some vendors don’t accept cards, and keep an eye out for small producers selling unique seasonal treats you won’t find elsewhere in the city.
2. Armchair Books
A treasure trove for book lovers, Armchair Books is a second-hand bookshop that’s every Instagrammer’s dream! From floor to ceiling, the shop is stacked with hundreds of titles across every genre, creating cosy nooks perfect for browsing and discovering hidden gems. It’s the kind of place where you can easily lose track of time, wandering the narrow aisles and uncovering everything from classic literature to quirky finds.
Inside Armchair Books, one of Edinburgh’s most charming secondhand bookshops.
Why Visit
Whether you’re a serious collector or just love the charm of second-hand books, Armchair Books offers an experience that’s both literary and visually stunning. It’s not just about the books – the shop itself is a delight to explore, with its vintage feel and maze-like layout. Plus, if you have books you no longer need, the staff may be able to purchase them.
Practical Information
Address: 72-74 West Port, Edinburgh EH1 2LE
Hours: Daily from 10.00 - 18.30
Tip: Bring cash just in case, as smaller purchases may not always go through card readers.
Nearby Attractions
Armchair Books is close to the Grassmarket and Greyfriars Kirkyard, making it easy to combine a visit with other historic or scenic Old Town stops.
Insider Tip
For a quieter browsing experience, try visiting early in the week or mid-morning. It’s also a great spot to snap atmospheric photos – the stacks and cosy corners are very photogenic.
3. Maison de Moggy
Scotland’s first cat cafe, Maison de Moggy, is a cosy spot near the Grassmarket where you can enjoy coffee, tea and cake while spending time with its adorable resident cats. The cafe has 10 resident felines, many of them super fluffy, making it a paw-some destination for cat lovers or anyone looking for a unique experience in Edinburgh’s Old Town. We visited several years ago and can personally testify that it’s a delight!
Outside Maison de Moggy, where friendly felines and cosy vibes await.
Why Visit
Maison de Moggy is more than just a cafe – it’s a haven for humans and cats alike. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing break or just want to interact with friendly felines, the atmosphere is calm, playful and welcoming. The combination of cosy seating, whimsical decor and the charming cats makes it an experience that’s hard to forget.
A group of cats enjoying their time at Edinburgh’s beloved cat cafe, Maison de Moggy.
Practical Information
Address: 17-19 West Port, Edinburgh EH1 2JA
Hours: Daily from 10.00 - 11.00, 11.15 - 12.15, 12.30 - 13.30, 14.00 - 15.00, 15.15 - 16.15, 16.30 - 17.30 and 18.00 - 19.00
Price: From £14 per person, plus any food or drinks
Nearby Attractions
Maison de Moggy is a short stroll from the Grassmarket and Victoria Street, so you can easily combine a visit with nearby shops, viewpoints or other cafes in the Old Town.
Insider Tip
Earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon is usually a quieter time to enjoy the cats. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture some of the cafe’s cosy corners and fluffy residents!
💡 Related: 5 Off-the-Beaten-Track Places to Visit in Edinburgh
4. The Vennel Viewpoint
For an iconic view of Edinburgh Castle, head to The Vennel Viewpoint. This hidden gem offers a perfect spot for photos, overlooking the rooftops stretching toward the Castle. The viewpoint provides a stunning perspective of the city’s medieval streets and historic architecture.
The iconic Vennel Viewpoint, offering one of the best views over Edinburgh Castle.
Why Visit
Whether you’re a photographer, a history lover or just want a moment to take in Edinburgh’s beauty, The Vennel Viewpoint is a must-visit. Its elevated position allows for stunning views, making it one of the most photographed spots in the Old Town. Sunset is particularly magical, when the city’s rooftops glow in golden light.
Practical Information
Address: 1 Vennel, Edinburgh EH1 2HU
Accessibility: A short walk up some steps; wear comfortable shoes.
Tip: Visit early in the morning or at sunset for fewer crowds and the best lighting for photos.
Nearby Attractions
Just a stone’s throw from the Grassmarket, the viewpoint is near the Flodden Wall, Maison de Moggy and Edinburgh Castle, so it fits nicely into a walking tour of the Old Town.
Insider Tip
Experiment with different angles by standing higher or lower on the steps to frame the Castle and rooftops just right. Including one of the iconic street lamps in your shot can add depth and a classic Old Town feel to your photos.
💡 Related: 5 Places for the Best Views of Edinburgh
5. Flodden Wall
The Flodden Wall is a surviving section of Edinburgh’s 16th-century defensive walls, originally built to protect the city from invasions. While other walls, such as King’s Wall, Telfer Wall and Netherbow Port, have mostly disappeared, parts of the Flodden Wall remain in four locations: Granny’s Green Steps in the Grassmarket, behind The Vennel Viewpoint, in Greyfriars Kirkyard and along Drummond Street and the Pleasance. Walking along these sections gives a fascinating glimpse into the city’s medieval past and the scale of its original fortifications.
A section of the Flodden Wall, Edinburgh’s historic defensive wall near the Grassmarket.
Why Visit
Exploring the Flodden Wall is a unique way to connect with Edinburgh’s history beyond the usual tourist sights. Each surviving section tells a story – from the quiet corners of Greyfriars Kirkyard to the bustling streets near the Grassmarket. History enthusiasts will enjoy imagining the city as it was in the 16th century, while photographers and walkers can appreciate the stonework and the way the wall frames views of the Old Town.
A section of the Flodden Wall running through Greyfriars Kirkyard in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Practical Tips
Locations:
Granny’s Green Steps, Edinburgh EH1 2NH
Behind The Vennel Viewpoint, 1 Vennel, Edinburgh EH1 2HU
Greyfriars Kirkyard, 26A Candlemaker Row, Edinburgh EH1 2QE
Drummond Street/The Pleasance, 26 Pleasance, Edinburgh EH8 9RW
Accessibility: Some sections have steps or uneven surfaces – wear comfortable shoes.
Tip: Walking multiple sections in one trip gives a sense of the city’s medieval layout and how the walls connected different areas.
Nearby Attractions
The wall is close to several Old Town highlights: Greyfriars Kirkyard, The Vennel Viewpoint, the Grassmarket and Victoria Street, making it easy to include in a walking itinerary.
Insider Tip
Look for interesting angles where the wall intersects with streets, gateways or historic buildings. Early morning or late afternoon light can highlight the textures of the stonework and create dramatic shadows for photography.
6. Grassmarket
Nestled directly below Edinburgh Castle, the Grassmarket is one of the city’s most historic and atmospheric areas. Once a bustling marketplace and the site of public executions, it has a fascinating, although sometimes dark past. A stone in front of The White Hart Inn commemorates a dramatic moment in 1916, when a Zeppelin dropped a bomb on the Grassmarket during World War I. Today, the area has transformed into a lively hub full of pubs, restaurants, hotels and local shops, while still retaining its historic charm.
The atmospheric Grassmarket in Edinburgh’s Old Town, lined with historic architecture.
Why Visit
Grassmarket offers a mix of history, culture and everyday Edinburgh life. You can stroll the cobbled streets, admire the facades of the surrounding buildings and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. It’s perfect for history enthusiasts, photographers or anyone who wants to experience a quintessential Old Town neighbourhood.
Practical Information
Address: Grassmarket, Edinburgh EH1 2HY
Accessibility: Mostly cobbled streets; wear comfortable shoes.
Tip: Visit during quieter hours in the morning for photos without crowds, or in the evening to experience the lively pub scene.
Nearby Attractions
The Grassmarket sits nearby Edinburgh Castle and is also close to Victoria Street, The Vennel Viewpoint and Greyfriars Kirkyard, making it easy to combine with other Old Town highlights.
Insider Tip
Keep an eye out for historic markers and plaques around the street – they tell stories from its past, from executions to wartime events. The White Hart Inn itself is one of the oldest pubs in Edinburgh and worth a quick peek inside.
7. Victoria Street
Built in the early 1800s as part of improvements to Edinburgh’s Old Town, Victoria Street provided an easier route from the Grassmarket up to the Royal Mile. Previously, visitors had to navitage the steep and narrow West Bow. Today, Victoria Street is one of the most photographed streets in Edinburgh, with its colourful facades, unique shops and vibrant atmosphere. Fans of the Harry Potter series might recognise it as the inspiration for Diagon Alley, adding an extra layer of magic for visitors.
Looking up at the colourful facades along Victoria Street, one of Edinburgh’s most photographed streets.
Why Visit
Victoria Street is a feast for the eyes, perfect for photographers, Harry Potter fans or anyone who enjoys historic streets brimming with character. The colourful buildings, boutique shops and winding layout create an experience that’s part shopping, part sightseeing and all quintessentially Edinburgh.
Practical Information
Address: Victoria Street, Edinburgh EH1 2HG
Accessibility: Cobblestoned street; wear comfortable shoes.
Tip: Visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and capture the best light for photos.
Nearby Attractions
Victoria Street is close to the Grassmarket, The Vennel Viewpoint and the Royal Mile, making it easy to include in an Old Town walking itinerary.
Insider Tip
For a different perspective, look for the set of stairs tucked between Swish and Walker Slater. Turn back when you get to the top onto Victoria Terrace and you can peer over the railing to see Victoria Street from above – a great angle for photos that capture the full curve in one shot. Don’t forget to also notice the quirky shop signs and architectural details along the way.
💡 Related: 5 Free Places to Visit in Edinburgh
8. The Elephant House
Continuing on the Harry Potter theme, The Elephant House is a cafe in Edinburgh famous for its connection to JK Rowling. The original cafe, at 21 George IV Bridge, claims to be the birthplace of Harry Potter, but Rowling has clarified that she didn’t actually start writing the books there, although she did frequent the cafe while writing the books. Visitors can still enjoy the atmosphere and imagine the creativity that flowed in this space.
Unfortunately, the original cafe is currently closed for restoration following a fire in 2021. In the meantime, the cafe has opened a new location at 30 Victoria Street, just a short walk away, which continues the same literary atmosphere and offers coffee, tea and snacks to visitors.
Outside The Elephant House in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Why Visit
Visiting The Elephant House lets you experience a piece of literary history in a charming, cosy setting. Even if you’re not a Harry Potter fan, the cafe’s atmosphere and quirky decor make it a pleasant stop. The new location allows visitors to continue enjoying the cafe experience while the original site is being restored.
Practical Information
Original Address: 21 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1EN (currently closed)
New Address: 30 Victoria Street, Edinburgh EH1 2JW
Hours (New Location): Daily from 10.00 - 18.00
Nearby Attractions
The Elephant House is close to Victoria Street and the Grassmarket, and also within walking distance of the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle, making it easy to combine with other Old Town highlights.
9. Greyfriars Bobby Statue
The Greyfriars Bobby Statue commemorates a Skye terrier named Bobby, who, in the 19th century, famously spent 14 years guarding his owner’s grave in Greyfriars Kirkyard until his own passing. His loyalty made him a local legend, and the statue serves as a heartwarming reminder of the bond between humans and their pets.
The heartwarming Greyfriars Bobby statue, just outside Greyfriars Kirkyard in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Why Visit
The statue is a must-see for animal lovers and anyone interested in Edinburgh’s local stories. It offers a charming photo opportunity and a chance to reflect on the city’s rich history and the touching tale of Bobby’s devotion. It’s also a convenient stop for a short stroll around Greyfriars Kirkyard.
Practical Info
Address: Between Candlemaker Row and George IV Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 2QQ
Tip: The statue is small and popular, so try not to stand in the middle of the pavement while looking at it. Step to the side to admire or photograph Bobby, so other pedestrians can pass easily.
Nearby Attractions
The statue sits right outside Greyfriars Kirkyard, and is also close to the Grassmarket and the National Museum of Scotland, ideal for exploring the area in one visit.
Insider Tip
While you might notice other visitors touching Bobby’s nose for luck or photos, it’s best to avoid doing so, as frequent handling has caused discoloration over the years.
10. Greyfriars Kirkyard
Nearby to the Greyfriars Bobby Statue is Greyfriars Kirkyard, a historic graveyard surrounding Greyfriars Kirk (“kirk” is the Scottish word for “church”). The graveyard is famous for its atmospheric cobbled paths, historic gravestones and fascinating stories of Edinburgh’s past. Fans of Harry Potter may be intrigued to learn that JK Rowling is said to have drawn inspiration for some of her characters from headstones here, including Thomas Riddell and William McGonagall.
Part of Greyfriars Kirkyard, full of history and stories from centuries past.
Why Visit
Greyfriars Kirkyard is a must-see for history enthusiasts and Harry Potter fans alike. Unlike in some places where graveyards are seen as spooky or off-limits, Edinburgh’s cemeteries are welcoming and peaceful, and locals often take leisurely walks here. The cemetery’s combination of historic gravestones, statues and lush greenery offers a reflective yet visually striking setting. It’s also an opportunity to explore some lesser-known stories from Edinburgh’s history.
Practical Information
Address: 26A Candlemaker Row, Edinburgh EH1 2QE
Hours: Greyfriars Kirkyard: open 24/7; Greyfriars Kirk: check their website for updated hours
Price: Free
Nearby Attractions
Greyfriars Kirkyard sits close to the Greyfriars Bobby Statue and is within walking distance of the Grassmarket, Victoria Street and National Museum of Scotland, making it easy to combine with other Old Town highlights.
Insider Tip
Take your time to explore the smaller, quieter corners of the graveyard. Look for unusual or ornate gravestones and plaques, and notice the intricate details that inspired some of Rowling’s character names.
11. National Museum of Scotland
The National Museum of Scotland is a must-visit cultural destination in Edinburgh. Admission is free, though donations are encouraged, and the museum houses extensive collections covering Scottish history, science and technology, natural history and more. The museum as it stands today was formed in 2006 when the Museum of Scotland and the Royal Scottish Museum merged, combining historic artefacts with modern exhibits.
The impressive atrium inside the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh.
Why Visit
There is something for everyone at the National Museum of Scotland. Visitors can explore the soaring Grand Gallery, wander the interactive Science and Technology galleries or discover fascinating specimens in Natural Worlds. The museum is family-friendly, educational and visually stunning, offering a perfect indoor alternative for rainy days while still providing a sense of Edinburgh’s rich history and innovation.
Practical Information
Address: Chambers Street, Edinburgh EH1 1JF
Hours: Daily from 10.00 - 17.00; closed on 25 December
Price: Free, but donations encouraged
Nearby Attractions
The National Museum is located close to Greyfriars Kirkyard, the Grassmarket and Victoria Street, making it convenient to combine with other Old Town highlights on a walking route.
Insider Tip
Don’t miss the rooftop terrace for panoramic views over Edinburgh’s Old Town and beyond. For a quieter experience, visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid peak crowds.
12. Cowgate, including George IV and South Bridges
The Cowgate marks the lower end of the Grassmarket and runs straight through the lower part of Edinburgh’s Old Town. As you walk along, you’ll pass under two arches – George IV Bridge and South Bridge. When standing on the bridges themselves, they don’t look like bridges at all because buildings were constructed along their sides, leaving only small sections of the structures visible. Notable examples include the National Library of Scotland and Edinburgh Central Library, whose lower floors are on the Cowgate while their entrances sit above on George IV Bridge.
Walking beneath the bridges of Cowgate, capturing the Old Town’s character.
Why Visit
Cowgate offers a glimpse into the layered architecture and history of Edinburgh’s Old Town. Its hidden alleys, arches and unusual building layouts make it an interesting area to explore, especially for those curious about the city’s unique urban design. History enthusiasts will also appreciate the stories connected to the Edinburgh Vaults, located beneath South Bridge.
Practical Information
Address: Cowgate, Edinburgh EH1 1JN
Tip: If you’re interested in exploring the vaults, the Historic Underground tour by Mercat Tours is highly recommended. Comfortable shoes are advised due to the uneven cobbled streets.
Nearby Attractions
Cowgate sits close to the Grassmarket and is within walking distance of Greyfriars Kirkyard, Victoria Street and the Royal Mile, perfect for including in an Old Town walk.
Insider Tip
Take a moment to look up while walking along the Cowgate. The unusual view of buildings perched atop the arches gives a unique perspective of Edinburgh’s Old Town architecture.
There’s so much more to discover in Edinburgh’s Old Town, but we hope this guide has given you plenty of ideas for your visit. Which of these spots is your favourite? Let us know in the comments below!
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