Where is the Best View of Edinburgh?

There are umpteen-million amazing things to do in Edinburgh. You can geek-out at unbelievable history, salivate over mouth-watering cuisine, and seek out culture at incredible arts festivals.

But if there's one thing that's utterly essential to any visit to Edinburgh, it's the epic city views. And luckily for you, you're never too far from a good view in this hilly city.

Nevertheless, you'll need to decide which one will be the best for you. So here's our guide to help you find the best views of Edinburgh, complete with a handy map so you know where you're going.

1. Calton Hill

This spectacular view of Edinburgh can be found in the heart of the city centre, close to the east end of Princes Street.

A shot of the Dugald Stewart monument at Calton Hill, with a view towards Edinburgh Castle. #visitscotland #lovescotland #edinburgh #thisisedinburgh #caltonhill #traveldiary #travelgram #travellerau #travelphoto #travelphotography #travelpics #travelstoke #instatravel #wanderlust #passionpassport #natgeotravel #lonelyplanet #canonaustralia #landscapephotography

A photo posted by Will (@wilhelmtan) on Aug 3, 2016 at 2:22pm PDT

2. Advocate's Close

This dreamy view can be spotted just off the Royal Mile - blink though and you'll miss it.

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3. Edinburgh Castle

A must see attraction on any visit to Edinburgh - the views from the top are worth it alone!

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A photo posted by ????? (@woontravel) on Aug 2, 2016 at 6:54pm PDT

4. Blackford Hill

Situated a little outside the city centre, the short walk to the top offers great views looking back toward Edinburgh Castle.

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A post shared by London Skyline Photographer (@londonviewpoints) on Dec 28, 2017 at 1:13am PST

5. The Scott Monument

Watch your step! A climb to the top of the spiral staircase undeniably offers a stunning birds eye view of the town centre and beyond.

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6. Arthur's Seat

A hike to the top of Arthur's Seat is always worth it. You get a panoramic view and can see all the edges of the city.

Sunset over Edinburgh with the Crags in the foreground. The view over Edinburgh is simply beautiful. If you're visiting for the fringe then you must head up Athurs Seat for sunset!

A photo posted by Rory Marland (@rorymarland) on Aug 3, 2016 at 12:25pm PDT

7. Costorphine Hill

It's nice to get out of the city...

Enjoying the view! #edinburgh #instatravel #costorphinehill #homeiswheretheheartis #favouritecity

A photo posted by All About Jess(@jess.weiser) on Jul 22, 2016 at 7:42am PDT

8. Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

Up on the rooftops - Camera Obscura offers great views of Edinburgh Castle and Old Town.

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9. Royal Mile

Simply standing at the top of the Royal Mile with its history laid out below you.

Last few hours at #birthplace #edinburgh #royalmileedinburgh #traveling #travel #building_shotz #scotland

A photo posted by @lychee_saw on Jun 23, 2016 at 5:24am PDT

10. Princes Street Gardens

The pretty Princes Street Gardens are a great place to view Edinburgh's Old Town running eastward from the Castle.

Edinburgh always looks awesome in the sun. Culture history and diversity. #edinburgh #princesstreetgardens #summertime #roasting #visitscotland #scotland #sunny #photography #chilling

A photo posted by Omar Choudhry (@mastahomar) on Jul 19, 2016 at 2:58pm PDT

11. Ross Fountain

This iconic Edinburgh Castle shot is taken from the Ross Fountain situated in the East end of Princes Street Gardens.

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12. Inverleith Park

Located just 20 minutes from the town centre - Inverleith Park is a great place to walk round (or run) and take in the beautiful city views.

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If you're up for learning more about Edinburgh and seeing the city from a local's perspective, remember to check out our new Edinburgh City Tour.