The best city hikes and walks around Old Town
4.7
(735)
9,975
hikers
74
hikes
Urban hiking trails around Old Town offer a blend of historic architecture, urban green spaces, and notable viewpoints. The area is characterized by its historic districts, including the medieval Old Town and Georgian New Town, alongside accessible urban hills and paths along waterways. These routes provide opportunities to explore the city's diverse terrain on foot.
Best urban hiking trails around Old Town
- The most popular urban hiking route is Edinburgh Old Town tour, a 2.1 miles (3.3 km) trail…
Last updated: April 24, 2026
4.5
(13)
82
hikers
3.31km
00:53
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(6)
32
hikers
4.44km
01:11
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
14
hikers
2.79km
00:46
50m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(49)
241
hikers
15.2km
04:01
130m
130m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
96
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures around Old Town
Tips from the Community
Beautiful walk in the middle of Edinburgh to relax.
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No longer a real insider tip, it's still considerably quieter than the New Town and especially the Old Town. Plan some time; there's no rush here; so many pretty little corners/buildings/bridges are waiting to be explored! There's even a waterfall. An extremely picturesque neighborhood, partly cobblestoned.
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It's actually a well! It was once believed that the water here had healing powers and could cure arthritis and poor eyesight. Another fun fact: the well is mentioned in Mary Shelley's Frankenstein. Either way, it's a beautiful spot by the river and a little different, a place that not everyone knows about yet.
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Admission is free, but donations are requested at the exit. Now in August, not much is in bloom, but we enjoyed the tranquility, the overall scenery, the many shady benches, and the connection between nature and art – a definite recommendation.
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In the Stockbridge district, you'll find this photogenic cobblestone alley. The former stables of the New Town's stately homes have been converted into charming cottages. Ivy and roses climb, and flower boxes are everywhere—the whole thing creates a delightful, very romantic scene.
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And how do the gardeners manage to do that without trampling the flowers? Look at my photo, we were very impressed by this hard physical work!
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This is one of the most crowded sections of the Leith Water Trail. The entire trail is worth walking and seeing, and other parts are quieter.
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To enhance your visit to Edinburgh Castle, consider starting your exploration at the topmost areas, such as Crown Square, and working your way down. This approach allows you to experience the castle's highlights, like the Great Hall and St. Margaret's Chapel, before descending to other attractions. Additionally, be aware that the castle's steep, cobbled pathways can be challenging; wearing comfortable footwear is advisable. [1] https://castles.tours/edinburgh-castle-visit-tips/ [2] https://www.terristeffes.com/2024/12/what-to-expect-when-touring-edinburgh.html
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many urban hiking trails are available around Old Town?
There are nearly 80 urban hiking trails around Old Town, offering a wide variety of options for exploring the city on foot. These routes range from easy strolls to more challenging walks, ensuring something for every fitness level.
What are the difficulty levels of urban hikes in Old Town?
The urban hikes around Old Town cater to various skill levels. You'll find a good mix, with 53 easy routes perfect for a leisurely exploration, 23 moderate trails for those seeking a bit more challenge, and 3 difficult routes for experienced urban hikers.
Are there any family-friendly urban walks in Old Town?
Yes, many of the easy routes are suitable for families. For example, the Edinburgh Old Town tour is a great option, offering a relatively short distance and minimal elevation gain, perfect for exploring the historic streets with children.
What kind of landmarks and viewpoints can I expect on urban hikes in Old Town?
Urban hikes in Old Town offer a rich blend of historical landmarks and scenic viewpoints. You can explore sites like Holyrood Palace or discover stunning panoramas from Arthur's Seat. Other notable viewpoints include Corstorphine Hill Tower and the View of Edinburgh from Blackford Hill.
Are there any circular urban hiking routes in Old Town?
Absolutely. Many urban hikes in Old Town are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular choice is the Calton Hill loop from Edinburgh Waverley, which offers fantastic city views.
What do other hikers enjoy most about urban hiking in Old Town?
The komoot community highly rates urban hiking in Old Town, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the unique blend of historical architecture, vibrant city life, and accessible green spaces that make these walks so engaging.
Can I find urban trails that offer a mix of historic and modern areas?
Yes, Old Town's location often allows for routes that bridge historical districts with more contemporary parts of the city. The Edinburgh New Town tour is a great example, showcasing the contrast between the old and new architecture.
Are there any longer urban hikes for a full day out?
For a more extensive urban hiking experience, consider routes like the Scott Monument – Water of Leith Walkway loop from Edinburgh Waverley. This moderate route covers a significant distance, allowing for a longer exploration of the city's diverse landscapes.
What is the best time of year for urban hiking in Old Town?
Urban hiking in Old Town is enjoyable year-round, but spring and autumn often offer the most pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and beautiful seasonal colors. Summer can be busy, while winter provides a unique, often quieter, atmosphere, though some paths might be slippery.
Are there any urban hikes that offer views of the wider region?
Many routes provide excellent vantage points for views beyond the immediate city center. The View of Edinburgh Old Town – Scott Monument loop from Edinburgh Waverley offers panoramic vistas, allowing you to appreciate the city's layout and surrounding natural features.
Are there any specific natural features to look out for on urban hikes?
While primarily urban, many routes incorporate green spaces and natural elements. You'll find trails that lead through parks, along riverbanks, or up to prominent hills like Arthur's Seat, offering a refreshing contrast to the city's architecture.
Can I combine urban hiking with visits to historical sites?
Absolutely. The urban trails in Old Town are perfectly suited for combining physical activity with cultural exploration. Many routes pass directly by or offer easy detours to significant historical sites such as Holyrood Palace and other ancient landmarks.
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