As much as I hate the word “Instagrammable” (is it even a word?!) I know that finding the most Instagrammable spots in Edinburgh will be on many people’s lists when visiting this gorgeous city. And who better to share these with you than a local?
I have lived in Edinburgh for better person to tell you the top Instagram spots in Edinburgh than a girl born and raised here?
Edinburgh is my hometown and the keeper of my heart. Despite living here for the better part of 28 years, I still regularly uncover new parts of this ever evolving city. And in the world of lockdown, I’ve discovered more than ever. The more I travel abroad and explore home, the more I have come to realise that Edinburgh has everything you’ll ever need in one place.
Edinburgh is one of the most photogenic cities in the world. It may be 1/3 the size of New York, with a population 1/17th of London, but it is a city that truly has it all.
If you are planning a visit to the capital of Scotland and have a passion for photography (or just want to capture memories) here are the best Instagrammable spots in Edinburgh that you need to visit.
The Top Instagrammable Spots In Edinburgh
Princes Street Gardens, City Centre
A classic Instagrammable spot in Edinburgh’s city centre. Princes Street Gardens is a haven for picnics and lounging with friends in the summer, and it comes to life as the Edinburgh Christmas market in winter. Snap a picture on the grass, below the castle or beside the iconic Wallace Monument (or all three!). Either way, you’ll find some iconic Edinburgh photo moments in Princes Street Gardens.
The Pentland Hills, Edinburgh West
If you follow me on Instagram you will know how much time I spent exploring the Pentland Hills in Edinburgh during the 2020 Lockdowns. They are an endless source of Instagrammable spots in Edinburgh’s suburbs. Not to mention some of the most scenic places in Edinburgh. Head up to the Pentland hills to enjoy Edinburgh’s beauty & nature.
The Meadows, City Centre
Did you know your could take photos of Cherry Blossoms in Edinburgh?! Head to the gorgeous Meadows to enjoy more of Edinburgh’s nature and beauty in every season. Whether capturing the cherry blossoms in spring, firey orange leaves in Autumn or mysterious wintery vibes. The photographic potential of the Meadows in Edinburgh are endless.
The Water of Leith, Edinburgh North
The Water of Leith is a gorgeous river and walkway that runs almost the whole length of the city. And so as you can imagine there are a million Instagrammable spots in Edinburgh along the Water of Leith.
Quartermile, City Centre
Did you know Edinburgh has a business district? It’s pretty small, but Quartermile and the surrounding areas is full of tall, modern buildings. I just love how they contrast with the gorgeous photogenic historic architecture. If you like modern vibes – Edinburgh’s most instagrammable spot for you is Quartermile
Dean Village, Edinburgh North
Probably the most popular Instagrammable spot in Edinburgh is Dean Village. This is part of the Water of Leith, but worthy of its own callout too. The buildings are so adorable, the water is running by and the cobbled streets are magical. Whenever I walk through Dean Village I think I’ve fallen into a Fairytale.
Edinburgh Castle, The VERY Centre!
What’s more photogenic than a castle? And did you even visit Edinburgh if you didn’t visit or photograph Edinburgh Castle? The best place to photograph Edinburgh Castle is the Grassmarket (pictured below). It gives you a full view. However, you can also walk up the castle Esplanade for some up close shots too.
The Forth Rail Bridge, Edinburgh NWest
Out on the edge of Edinburgh is South Queensferry. Here you can find photogenic streets, cute cafes & bars and the stunning Forth Rail Bridge. There are actually 3 bridges in total that cross the Forth to the city of Fife. But the most Instagrammable spot is definitely at the foot of the rail bridge.
Calton Hill, City Centre
Calton Hill is right in the city centre and gives some spectacular views of the city skyline. It’s a top Instagram spot in Edinburgh for the variety of views it offers, and for the intriguing columns and architecture on the hill itself. Load your camera battery up to full and enjoy!
Enjoyed this list of top Instagrammable spots in Edinburgh? Check out my other Edinburgh blogs for more tips and advice for planning your Edinburgh trip.
- Edinburgh Small Businesses For Unique Christmas Gift Ideas
- Floating Naked In An Egg (Float Spa Edinburgh Review)
- Self Guided Harry Potter Tour of Edinburgh (With Maps)
- How To Have The Perfect Edinburgh Christmas
- New Perspective: Best Cities with Panoramic Views
Follow me on Instagram for daily IG story posts & Reels around Edinburgh.
