Royal Mile travel guide

Often hailed as the heartbeat of Edinburgh, the Royal Mile is steeped in rich history. This iconic thoroughfare has witnessed the city's evolution from medieval times to the present day.

The history of the Royal Mile began in the 12th century, with the establishment of the Royal Burgh by David I. The Mile, which is actually 1.12 miles, runs between two significant historic landmarks - the Edinburgh Castle and the Holyrood Palace. In medieval times, it was the main street of the Old Town of Edinburgh, bustling with traders, residents, and nobility.

Over the centuries, the Royal Mile has retained its medieval charm with its historic buildings, narrow closes, and storied past. Famous historical events, like the murder of 'The Red' Comyn by Robert the Bruce in 1306, have unfolded here. Today, it's a must-visit destination, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and entertainment.

As you stroll along the Royal Mile, you're walking in the footsteps of kings, queens, and famous historical figures who have graced this ancient royal road.

Located in City of Edinburgh, the iconic Royal Mile is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Edinburgh or as a stop on your countrywide road trip in Scotland.

Edinburgh is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Edinburgh offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit the iconic landmarks and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Edinburgh Castle, National Museum of Scotland, Palace of Holyroodhouse, Royal Mile, and Camera Obscura & World of Illusions.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Edinburgh has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Edinburgh - a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Scotland!

Royal Mile is located in Edinburgh, Scotland, and is easily accessible by several modes of transportation. If you are arriving by plane, Edinburgh Airport is approximately 7.14 miles (11.49 km) away from Edinburgh. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle to the city, where Royal Mile is located.

If you’re already in Edinburgh, you can take a bus, taxi or even walk to the street. The exact address of the attraction is Edinburgh EH1 1QS, UK, Scotland.

You can also rent a car and drive to Royal Mile. With a rental car you will enjoy freedom to explore Royal Mile and other top attractions in Edinburgh at your own pace.

With your travel plans in place and these guidelines in mind, you're all set for an unforgettable experience at Royal Mile!

No visit to Edinburgh is complete without a trip to Royal Mile, one of the most iconic attractions in Scotland drawing large crowds of visitors every year. To make the most out of your visit at this unique street, consider booking a tour in advance to avoid the lines and guarantee a seamless experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Royal Mile starting from 16.6 EUR below.

The best time to explore Royal Mile in Edinburgh, Scotland, is during the months of May to September. These months offer the most favorable weather for sightseeing, with average temperature ranging from 15-20°C, and longer daylight hours to explore the city's historical landmarks. The Royal Mile is at its liveliest during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in August, the world's largest arts festival. However, this period also sees a significant increase in tourist numbers, leading to crowded streets and higher accommodation prices. For a less crowded experience, consider visiting in late spring (May-June) or early autumn (September). These periods still offer pleasant weather and enable you to enjoy the Royal Mile's unique atmosphere in relative tranquility. For an extra special experience, consider visiting during the Edinburgh's Hogmanay celebrations in late December, when the Royal Mile becomes a hub of festive activities. However, keep in mind that Scottish winters can be quite chilly, so pack accordingly.

Discover the enchanting beauty of Edinburgh and top attractions like Royal Mile with a perfectly planned holiday package. Our travel packages include everything you need to explore Royal Mile and beyond. Whether you're looking for an adventure-filled getaway or a relaxing retreat, our holiday packages to Edinburgh, Scotland, offer a variety of activities and experiences to suit all types of travelers.

Continue reading to find the best travel plans and tips for discovering this one-of-a-kind street in Scotland.

Discovering Scotland's captivating landscapes and the iconic Royal Mile becomes a breeze with a rental car.

Scotland's rental car companies cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Edinburgh and beyond.

Wake up well-rested to a new day of exploring in Edinburgh by staying at a top-rated hotel in the heart of the city. With the city's most famous attractions like the stunning Royal Mile just a stone's throw away, you'll be in the perfect location to effortlessly immerse yourself in Edinburgh.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Royal Mile below.

Edinburgh offers a diverse range of top attractions. From museums and architectural wonders to sculptures and natural wonders, the city has something for everyone. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Edinburgh, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Edinburgh Castle, National Museum of Scotland, and Palace of Holyroodhouse.

Edinburgh Castle is a bucket-list castle and top attraction in Edinburgh, attracting numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 5 out of 5 stars in 88,569 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Edinburgh Castle is Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NG, UK.

Another appreciated attraction in Edinburgh is National Museum of Scotland. This is just like Edinburgh Castle, one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 5 out of 5 stars among 43,662 visitors, it’s also one of the highest rated. The exact address of this national museum is Chambers St, Edinburgh EH1 1JF, UK.

Palace of Holyroodhouse is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Edinburgh. This official residence and top attraction in Edinburgh has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 17,156 visitors. Visitors usually spend a moment at Palace of Holyroodhouse creating core memories of the city. This attraction is located at the address of Canongate, Edinburgh EH8 8DX, UK.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Edinburgh below.