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The Royal Mile, Edinburgh

4.5

#5 of 6,517 in Things to do in Scotland

Must see · Landmark · Tourist Spot

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The Royal Mile is the main thoroughfare in Edinburgh's Old Town. Actually a bit longer than 1 mi (1.6 km), this succession of multiple streets spills downhill from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Stroll past stately Victorian buildings that now house restaurants, pubs, and shops, and stop to enjoy a street performance or two. The streets are steep in some places, so you can take a bus tour uphill to the castle and walk back down if you prefer. The Edinburgh Festival, a collection of smaller outdoor arts festivals, takes place throughout August with this area as its nexus. This might be the most exciting, if crowded, time to be on the thoroughfare. Plan to visit The Royal Mile during your Edinburgh vacation using our convenient Edinburgh trip planner.

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Tours to The Royal Mile

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FROM $27 BOOK WITH VIATOR Small Group Royal Mile Walking Tour with Optional Entry to Edinburgh Castle Small Group Royal Mile Walking Tour with Optional Entry to Edinburgh Castle

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The Royal Mile reviews

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TripAdvisor traveler rating

25,679 reviews

Google

4.7

By Donmartin1961

What a fantastic place to visit! Love all the shops & attractions! Don’t miss going down all the little ‘Alleyways’ or entry’s some great places to visit if you look!!

What a fantastic place to visit! Love all the shops & attractions! Don’t miss going down all the little ‘Alleyways’ or entry’s some great places to visit if you look!! more »
By G1216JPashleyc

Steep street stretching from the castle down to the Scottish Parliament. Rather too many 'Tartan Tat' gift shops but thats to be expected in the tourist area.

Steep street stretching from the castle down to the Scottish Parliament. Rather too many 'Tartan Tat' gift shops but thats to be expected in the tourist area. more »

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Google

By lilykartofel

Absolutely magical and stunning street. The buildings really make you go back in time and all the different pubs and shops give a very nice atmosphere to the area. It's also a splendid walk to get to the castle. One of the top things to do in Edinburgh

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By Jaime Chikhalikar

Incredible part of the old city. Edinburgh castle itself would take almost the whole day to visit. The Scottish whiskey experience is not to be missed. The tartan weaving mill is excellent and loved the bagpipes being played on the road. I would love to visit again.

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