Edinburgh Castle

Explore Edinburgh Castle on a time-saving skip-the-line walking tour or delve into the history of this iconic fortress on a private tour. See the room where the macabre 15th-century Black Dinner took place; admire the Stone of Destiny; take a photo with the massive Mons Meg cannon; visit the room where Mary, Queen of Scots gave birth to King James IV; and find mysterious graffiti left behind by prisoners of war.

Many Edinburgh city tours also include a visit to the castle, whether you want to explore by private mini-bus, vintage taxicab, or on a hop-on hop-off bus tour.

• Edinburgh Castle is a must-see for history buffs and first-time visitors to the city.

• Plan to spend anywhere from two hours to a full day exploring the castle.

• Visitors are subject to bag searches, and storage is not available for large personal items such as backpacks, luggage, and strollers.

• Photographs are not allowed inside the Scottish National War Memorial or the Scottish Crown Jewel exhibit.

• Parts of the castle may not be accessible to wheelchair users.

Edinburgh Castle is located atop Castle Rock in the Old Town. Parking is difficult in this part of Edinburgh, so the easiest way to get there is on foot from the Royal Mile, by public transport, or on a guided tour. The city's primary train and bus terminal (Edinburgh Waverley) is within walking distance of the castle.

The castle is open year-round and is busiest in summer. Arrive early to avoid crowds at this popular visitor attraction and plan to visit the Crown Jewels first, as lines form quickly and can take over an hour to get through. Afternoon visitors can enjoy the daily firing of the "one-o'clock gun," while August travelers can sometimes see the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo performing just outside the castle walls.

The castle's sweeping Old Town city views are no coincidence—its hilltop position was carefully chosen to protect the city. For great views and equally great photographs, head to the windows near the row of cannons along Half Moon Battery, the grated overlooks across from the military prison, or St. Margaret's Chapel, the oldest surviving part of the castle. Keep in mind that photography is not allowed at the Scottish National War Museum.

Tours of Edinburgh Castle last between 30 minutes and three hours. The exact duration of your tour will depend upon which tour you book. Even if you choose the shortest available tour, allow yourself at least two hours to explore the castle.

Yes, a tour of Edinburgh Castle is worth it. Your tour guide can fill you in on the fascinating history of one of the oldest buildings in Edinburgh and share interesting facts and anecdotes you wouldn't get by exploring the castle alone.

The best time to visit Edinburgh Castle is during the spring and fall, avoiding the months of July and August when the castle and Edinburgh are very crowded. If that's not possible, aim to visit the castle as close to its opening time as possible.

No, parking is not free at Edinburgh Castle. There is no public parking at the castle except for a few places reserved for Blue Badge holders on the Castle Esplanade. The closest public parking is the Castle Terrace NCP parking lot, a 5-minute walk away.

Yes, you can tour inside Edinburgh Castle, including the Great Hall and St. Margaret's Chapel. You can tour the grounds and interiors on your own by purchasing an Edinburgh Castle ticket—the castle's website lists a selection of recommended itineraries—or you can book a guided tour or rent an audio guide.

Yes, you can take pictures inside Edinburgh Castle. However, there are a few areas where photography is not permitted, such as the Crown Room, which holds the Crown Jewels and Stone of Destiny. Areas where photography is forbidden are signposted.