19 Beautiful Photo Spots in Edinburgh, Scotland for Instagram
If you’re on the hunt for the best photo spots in Edinburgh, I’ve got you covered. My husband and I spent several chilly-but-lovely days wandering the city’s streets, camera (and hot tea) in hand. From postcard-worthy castle views to hidden closes that feel straight out of a storybook, the best photo spots in Edinburgh are everywhere you turn. This guide has the top Instagram spots in Edinburgh, plus plenty of other places you’ll want to remember, even if you’re not posting every pic.
We visited Edinburgh in April and lucked out with cool temps and fewer crowds, which made exploring the best photo spots in Edinburgh way more enjoyable. I’ve rounded up my favorite Instagram spots in Edinburgh below, from famous landmarks to lesser-known corners. Whether you’re up at sunrise for golden light or strolling in the afternoon mist, you’ll leave Edinburgh with a full camera roll. Let’s dive in.
This post may contain affiliate links.
Map: Best Photo Spots in Edinburgh, Scotland
Here is your cheat sheet for a list of the best photo spots in Edinburgh. I’ve included an interactive map, as well, and you can find all of the details on the top Instagram spots in Edinburgh in the post! The purple numbers in the map correspond to the top photo spots in Edinburgh, the red icons indicated hotel recommendations, and the navy icons call out transportation stops. A quick recommendation? Download an eSim in advance to help with navigation; we used Airalo, which worked well and was quite affordable!
1. Royal Mile
2. Tweeddale Court
3. New Skinner’s Close
4. Bakehouse Close
5. Tolbooth Tavern
6. Calton Hill
7. Victoria Street
8. Vennel Viewpoint
9. Edinburgh Castle at Ross Fountain
10. Greyfriars Kirkyard
11. Scott Monument
12. Cockburn Street
13. The Writer’s Museum
14. School of Divinity
15. Ramsay Garden
16. Circus Lane
17. Stockbridge Market Arch
18. Potted Garden
19. Dean Village
1. Royal Mile
The Royal Mile is one of the best photo spots in Edinburgh and probably the most famous street in the city. Stretching from Edinburgh Castle down to Holyrood Palace, it’s lined with historic buildings, shops, and street performers (depending on when you visit). Early morning is the way to go—watching the sunrise light up the stonework without crowds in your way is something special. I know it’s hard to get up early on vacation, but trust me, it’s worth it for this one.
Recommended Tour: Royal Mile Guided Walking Tour in Edinburgh
In addition to the classic wide shots, the Royal Mile has some fun close-up finds. One of my favorite Instagram spots in Edinburgh was popping into one of the red phone booths along the Mile. Yes, they smell vaguely of wet dog, but they’re iconic for a reason. Snap a quick pic and then run straight back into the fresh Scottish air.
Even though it’s a major tourist thoroughfare, the Royal Mile still feels atmospheric. Wandering it in the early hours gives you a chance to really take in the centuries of history beneath your feet. Later in the day, it fills with energy and buskers, which also makes for some lively candid shots if you enjoy street photography.
When to Visit: Go at sunrise for beautiful light and far fewer people. The street gets crowded quickly by mid-morning. Visit midday for the street performers and bagpipers!
Google Maps Location: Here
2. Tweeddale Court
Duck into Tweeddale Court for one of the more peaceful photo spots in Edinburgh. It’s tucked away from the hustle and has charming old architecture with a dash of mystery. Tweeddale House at the back of the Court dates all the way back to 1576. Another unique aspect of the Court is the King’s Wall (part of the Court), which previously marked the historical boundary of the city.
When to Visit: Anytime. It doesn’t get too busy here.
Google Maps Location: Here
3. New Skinner’s Close
This is one of those places we stumbled across accidentally on the way back to our hotel, proving that sometimes the best finds aren’t on your planned itinerary. It’s tiny, mossy, and feels like a time traveler from medieval Scotland. On our cloudy afternoon, the vibe was pure Scotland, minus the bagpipes. It is definitely one of the hidden best photo spots in Edinburgh and one of the more offbeat Instagram spots in Edinburgh.
When to Visit: Anytime. It’s hidden, so it doesn’t really get crowded.
Google Maps Location: Here
4. Bakehouse Close
If you’re an Outlander fan, you’ll recognize this as one of the filming locations, but even if you’re not, it’s worth a stop. This narrow, cobbled close is frozen in time and feels like Edinburgh 300 years ago. It’s another one of those best photo spots in Edinburgh where you’ll feel like you discovered something secret, even though lots of people have already photographed it.
When to Visit: Anytime. There are periodic Outlander tours that come by, but it doesn’t get too busy here.
Google Maps Location: Here
5. Tolbooth Tavern
Tolbooth Tavern is more than just a pub—it’s a piece of Edinburgh’s history dating back to the 16th century. The old stone façade and clock tower are ridiculously photogenic. It’s a great place to stop for a pint or just to snag a quick pic. It’s such a cozy Instagram spot in Edinburgh that feels medieval.
When to Visit: Anytime
Google Maps Location: Here
6. Calton Hill
Calton Hill is one of the best photo spots in Edinburgh, and it’s easy to see why. You’ve got ancient-looking monuments (hello, National Monument) that make you feel like you’ve accidentally landed in Athens, plus sweeping views over the whole city. The climb up is pretty manageable—more of a steady walk than a hike—but you’ll still earn your view. My husband and I came in the afternoon and it was beautiful, but if I could do it again, I’d aim for sunset when the city lights start to glow.
At the top, you’ll find a mix of tourists, locals eating sandwiches, and a surprising amount of runners. From up there, you get a postcard-worthy view of the Dugald Stewart Monument, which is hands down one of the most iconic Instagram spots in Edinburgh. Bonus points if you bring snacks and make a little afternoon picnic of it.
When to Visit: Sunny days or sunset for the best light.
Google Maps Location: Here
7. Victoria Street
Victoria Street is what happens when someone designs a street with photographers in mind. The colorful shopfronts, winding curve, and cobblestone charm make it one of the most famous Instagram spots in Edinburgh. It also has a Harry Potter tie-in, supposedly inspiring Diagon Alley. Honestly, a photo of this street is what first convinced me to book this trip—and when we saw it in person, it lived up to the hype.
Like this post?! How about…
We came at sunrise when it was totally empty, and again at 2 PM when it felt like Times Square with extra bagpipes. Early morning is the move unless you love chaos. Either way, it’s one of the most photogenic photo spots in Edinburgh. If you were going to choose one spot to visit early, this is it!
When to Visit: Sunrise for empty streets (highly recommend!)
Google Maps Location: Here
8. Vennel Viewpoint
If you want that classic Edinburgh Castle view without hiking up Arthur’s Seat, this is your spot. You’ll climb a set of stairs (because Edinburgh loves its stairs), and partway up you’ll catch a great angle of the castle framed by the city. You don’t have to go all the way to the top—unless you’re feeling ambitious. It’s one of the lesser-hyped top photo spots in Edinburgh.
When to Visit: Midmorning works well; doesn’t need to be sunrise.
Google Maps Location: Here
9. Edinburgh Castle at Ross Fountain
Ross Fountain in Princes Street Gardens is an ornate, colorful fountain that honestly deserves more love. Add Edinburgh Castle looming in the background and you’ve got one of the ultimate photo spots in Edinburgh. I love this angle because it feels grand but approachable—and it creates a great backdrop for photos! Of all the castle views, this was hands down my favorite Instagram spot in Edinburgh.
Recommended Tour: Edinburgh Castle Guided Walking Tour
The castle itself dates back to the 12th century and dominates the skyline. We admired it from multiple angles, but the Ross Fountain shot is the clear winner. It’s one of those top photo spots in Edinburgh that looks good in moody weather and sunshine alike.
Come early to beat the tour groups. My husband and I went first thing and practically had the place to ourselves. Edinburgh, I owe you one for that.
When to Visit: Early morning (we came before breakfast).
Google Maps Location: Here
10. Greyfriars Kirkyard
If you love Harry Potter lore, Greyfriars Kirkyard is a must. This cemetery inspired character names like Tom Riddle and McGonagall, making it one of the geekiest Instagram spots in Edinburgh. Beyond that, it’s also a peaceful, historic place with atmospheric tombstones and spooky trees. Definitely one of the best photo spots in Edinburgh if you’re into a little gothic charm with your vacation photos.
Recommended Tour: Harry Potter Locations Tour
Join a Harry Potter walking tour to learn all the creepy and weird backstories of the graveyard. Honestly, it makes the place even cooler. If you’re not into tours, it’s still worth wandering through solo.
When to Visit: Anytime.
Google Maps Location: Here. Tom Riddle’s grave is here.
11. Scott Monument
This towering gothic spire in Princes Street Gardens is dedicated to Sir Walter Scott and looks like it belongs in a fantasy film. It’s one of the more dramatic best photo spots in Edinburgh, especially if you capture it from below with some cloudy skies. We grabbed a shot around 9 AM when the light was nice and the crowds were light.
Recommended Tour: City Sightseeing Edinburgh Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
When to Visit: Morning, but doesn’t have to be super early.
Google Maps Location: Here
12. Cockburn Street
Cockburn Street (yes, that is the real name) is a curving street full of character. My favorite shot was near Jackson’s Close, across from La Locanda, where the angular buildings frame the street perfectly. It’s an underrated photo spot in Edinburgh, tucked right in the middle of the action. Snag a pic with both the alley and street for an epic shot.
When to Visit: Early morning for car-free, people-free photos.
Google Maps Location: Here
13. The Writer’s Museum
This tucked-away museum honors Scottish literary legends like Robert Burns and Sir Walter Scott. Even if you don’t go inside, the outside is charming enough for a photo stop. It’s one of the quieter photo spots in Edinburgh, tucked down a cobbled courtyard.
When to Visit: Early, if you want to beat the tour groups.
Google Maps Location: Here
14. School of Divinity
The School of Divinity building, part of the University of Edinburgh, looks like a gothic movie set and I was obsessed. I loved the view looking out from the courtyard—it’s moody and dramatic in all the right ways. It’s definitely one of the more academic-feeling photo spots in Edinburgh, but hey, smart can be pretty too. It’s also a lesser-known Instagram spot in Edinburgh, so odds are you’ll have it mostly to yourself.
When to Visit: Morning for soft light.
Google Maps Location: Here
15. Ramsay Garden
Ramsay Garden is a colorful cluster of historic buildings perched near the castle. I couldn’t stop taking photos here because it’s just so cheerful and bright. It is easily one of the most colorful Instagram spots in Edinburgh, and you don’t have to work too hard for the shot.
When to Visit: Anytime
Google Maps Location: Here
16. Circus Lane
Circus Lane is a cobbled residential street that looks like a postcard, but without feeling fake. The stone houses, greenery, and peaceful vibe made it one of my favorite photo spots in Edinburgh. Even if you’ve seen it on Instagram before, it’s so much fun to check out in person. We wandered here in the morning, and it was a peaceful little adventure.
Circus Lane is definitely one of the sweetest Instagram spots in Edinburgh. You’ll feel like you accidentally walked into someone’s charming neighborhood. Which, to be fair, you kind of did.
When to Visit: Early if possible, but patient photographers can make it work later.
Google Maps Location: Here
17. Stockbridge Market Arch
The Stockbridge Market Arch is all that remains of the original Stockbridge Market, which opened in the 1800s as one of Edinburgh’s first covered markets. Back then, it was the go-to place for locals to buy fresh meat, fish, and produce; today, the arch stands as a charming entrance to one of the city’s trendiest neighborhoods and is a great nod to the area’s past. It’s a quiet but meaningful spot to snag a pic.
Nowadays, the area beyond the arch hosts the Stockbridge Sunday Market, complete with food stalls, handmade crafts, and the occasional busker. Even on non-market days, the arch and surrounding streets are full of cozy cafés and little shops perfect for wandering. This is one of those spots in Edinburgh that’s all about soaking up the neighborhood vibe.
When to Visit: Anytime.
Google Maps Location: Here
18. Potted Garden
Okay, this was a totally random find that I loved. It’s just a series of potted plants going up a flight of stairs near Circus Lane, but it made for a surprisingly charming photo. I can’t guarantee it’s there year-round, but it felt like a little slice of home in the middle of the city. It’s another one of those quirky Instagram spots in Edinburgh you won’t find on most lists.
When to Visit: Anytime.
Google Maps Location: Here
19. Dean Village
Dean Village is like stepping into a storybook—colorful buildings, a winding river, and absolute charm overload. I loved how peaceful it felt, even when other tourists were around. It is hands down one of the best photo spots in Edinburgh, and a must for anyone chasing those fairytale vibes. I could’ve spent hours here just watching life go by.
Despite its popularity, it’s still possible to get great shots without other people in them. Just find the right angles and be a little patient. I liked this little spot on the river with the colorful houses as a backdrop. This is one of those Instagram spots in Edinburgh that lives up to the hype.
When to Visit: Anytime. Crowds come and go, but great angles make up for it.
Google Maps Location: Here
Where to Stay in Edinburgh
Here are my recommendations on where to stay in Edinburgh, Scotland:
- The Balmoral for the best luxury hotel in Edinburgh
- Market Street Hotel for a boutique hotel in the heart of Edinburgh with a rooftop lounge
- Holiday Inn Express – Royal Mile for an affordable choice within Old Town
- The Royal Scots Club Edinburgh for a classic hotel with a cozy club atmosphere
Edinburgh is packed with history, character, and more photo ops than you’ll have time for in one trip. My husband and I loved exploring both the famous places and the quiet corners where we stumbled into the perfect shot. Whether you’re chasing Harry Potter locations, historic closes, or epic castle views, you’ll find some of the coolest Instagram spots in Edinburgh. Just bring a camera, some comfy shoes, and a raincoat—it is Scotland, after all.
Read More:
If you enjoyed this post on the top photo spots in Edinburgh, check out some of the posts below!
Edinburgh: 2 Days in Edinburgh Itinerary: Explore Scotland’s Vibrant Capital
Scottish Highlands: Hogwarts Express: See the Magical Glenfinnan Viaduct Harry Potter Train
Finnish Lapland: 17 Best Things to Do in Finnish Lapland in Winter
