With endless sources of detailed architecture, captivating textures, and magical corners, Edinburgh is a photographers dream. So here are some of the best photo spots around the city, so that you can be sure to capture the best memories of your visit.

Edinburgh Photo Spots

Recommendation: Go up to the second story of the Starbucks on High Street and you'll find a great view looking out over Cockburn Street. 

Recommendation: Stop here in the morning increase your chances of getting fewer people in your photo take advantage of better lighting from the morning sun on the castle as opposed to the mid-day or evening sun.

Victoria Street is full of unique photo stops along every step up it's cobblestone slope, from Bow Well up to the Viewing point.

Edinburgh is full of gorgeous photo opportunities. From grand views of the castle to charming side streets, just about every inch of this city makes for wonderful photographs, but I've compiled some of the best vantage points and landmarks to ensure you get iconic shots of your travel as well as authentic representations of the city.

From the Esplanade in front of the Castle Entrance, you can capture great photos of the castle gatehouse, entryway, the many details of the castle, and the views of the surrounding city. 

Recommendation: Again, getting to the castle early can optimize your chances of getting fewer people in your photographs. Additionally, I've found that the castle at night makes for some very interesting shots. 

Recommendation: In addition to taking photos of the street's iconic angles, take note of the many colorful and unique storefronts and window displays along the street.

A great place to stop for a snack and a photo, The Milkman located at the top of Cockburn Street has a notable exterior as well as a lovely window seat that makes for great photo ops (although it's often busy so it will help to get there early or be patient).

Alternatively, by crossing North Bridge, you can get excellent views toward Princes Street and the many buildings of Old Town from a different angle. Additionally, elaborate hotels such as The Scotsman and The Balmoral are fascinating material for photos.

By passing through any number of the alleyways along the Royal Mile, which offer their own unique photo opportunities, you can find your way past New College and down The Mound overlooking Princes Street. Once great stop is at The Writer's Museum.

Princes Street has endless sources of inspiration, from the textures layers of building looking across Waverly Bridge the the natural beauty of Princes Street Gardens.

Hike up Calton Hill to get amazing views of the city from above. You'll also find an array of unique monuments that are interesting subject matter in their own right as well as being iconic features of Edinburgh's landscape.

Dean Village and Stockbridge are other areas of Edinburgh that might look familiar. Iconic locales like Circus Lane and the view of Dean Village from Bell's Brae Bridge. If you're up for a morning stroll, head here first thing to try get some photos without anybody else around. You can even stop by the coffee bike when you get there to perk yourself up as you walk around.  Whichever end you start at, you can follow the Water of Leith Walkway to the other and get so many more great photos along the way.

Starting at the notable landmark of the Palace of Holyroodhouse, you'll find a beautiful scenic walk by Arthur's Seat out to Saint Margaret's Loch. All of these locations make for great photos of some of Edinburgh's highlights, so take you time admiring the architecture, hiking Arthur's Seat, and taking in all the views while you take your photos. From here, you can also find nearby locations such as The Meadows and The University of Edinburgh campus.

After visiting Calton Hill, you can walk around the neighboring streets and find unique storefronts that are emblematic of Edinburgh, such as the iconic Typewronger Books.

Starting with the most notable feature of Edinburgh's landscape, there are numerous angles from which to view and capture Edinburgh Castle.

Greyfriars Kirkyard Cemetery Edinburgh

Bow Well

Victoria Street Viewing Point

The Writers' Museum

Royal Mile

Edinburgh Castle

New College, The University of Edinburgh

The Mound

Princes Street Gardens

Ross Fountain

Edinburgh Castle Viewing Point

The Vennel Viewpoint Edinburgh Castle

Castlehill

Edinburgh Photo Spots

Buy to unlock full guide