Best things to do in Edinburgh in August 2025: festivals, food, day trips and hidden history

August in Edinburgh is like nowhere else on earth. The city becomes a stage, a gallery, a page-turner and a feast for the senses all at once. As the sun sets late and the streets buzz with creativity, it’s the perfect time to soak up the capital at its liveliest.

Here’s our round-up of the best things to do in Edinburgh in August – from world-class festivals to quiet escapes just beyond the city.

Step into the world’s festival capital

There’s a reason Edinburgh is known as the world’s festival city. Every August, it hosts a dizzying number of events celebrating art, music, food, theatre, books and more. Don’t try to see it all, but do dive in.

Edinburgh Festival Fringe

The world’s largest arts festival transforms the city into a giant playground of imagination. From stand-up comedy and circus acts to gritty theatre and unexpected performances in pubs, there’s something for everyone. Be sure to book tickets in advance and leave time to get between venues – the city is alive and bustling.

Edinburgh International Festival

Expect goosebumps. This one’s the city’s crown jewel, showcasing the world’s top artists in dance, opera, music and theatre. It’s high culture with a Scottish heart, and every year brings a new theme.

Edinburgh Military Tattoo

Held on the Castle Esplanade, this breathtaking display features massed pipes and drums, dancers, fireworks and military bands from around the world. Bring a warm layer – it goes ahead, come rain or shine.

Edinburgh Art Festival

Step inside galleries or stumble across artworks in the street. This festival celebrates visual art in all its forms, and many exhibitions are free.

Edinburgh International Book Festival

Held in the newly opened Edinburgh Futures Institute, this literary haven invites writers, thinkers and curious minds to come together for readings, debates and more. It’s a must for story lovers of all ages.

Summer Sessions

Big-name bands and warm summer nights? Yes, please. This music festival at the Royal Highland Showgrounds is perfect for dancing under the stars with friends.

Explore more of the city

Not everything in August needs a ticket. Take time to discover Edinburgh’s hidden corners.

Local markets

From Castle Terrace’s farmer’s market to the artisan stalls at Stockbridge Market, explore local produce, handmade crafts and sweet treats.

The West End Fair

Set in the grounds of a church, this relaxed craft fair is perfect for picking up unique souvenirs and meeting talented makers.

Pop-up exhibitions

This year’s highlights include “Royal Portraits” at Holyrood Palace and “Monkeys: Our Primate Family” at the National Museum of Scotland. Or dive into history at “The World of King James VI and I” at the National Galleries.

Discover A Different Side Of Edinburgh

There’s more to Edinburgh than meets the eye — and some of its most fascinating stories lie hidden below the surface. At The Real Mary King’s Close, we invite you to step beneath the Royal Mile and uncover the layers of history time forgot.

This August, join us for one (or all) of our immersive tours:

True Crime Tours (Fridays and Saturdays)

Step into Edinburgh’s murky past and explore chilling tales of real crimes committed in the very streets below. From infamous trials to forgotten victims, these tours lift the lid on the capital’s darker side. Gritty, gripping, and not for the faint of heart.

Standard Tours (Daily, every 15 minutes)

Take a walk-through time on our signature tour. Follow your costumed storyteller through preserved alleyways and abandoned rooms once home to merchants, maids and plague doctors. A must-do for first-time visitors and seasoned locals alike.

Closes & Coffee Tour (Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 9.15)

Kickstart your day with a unique underground experience that combines storytelling and specialty coffee. Explore two hidden closes in the heart of the Old Town, then enjoy a warming brew and a relaxed chat with your guide. A perfect mix of heritage and hospitality.

Escape the crowds

Fancy a breather? Just outside the city you’ll find tranquil landscapes and storybook villages. Here are our top picks for a summer day out:

• Pentland Hills – In August, the hills bloom purple with heather. A perfect place for a peaceful hike with breathtaking views.
• Melrose & the Eildon Hills – Visit a stunning abbey, walk Roman-named hills and soak up the Borders charm.
• Inchcolm Island – Accessible by boat from South Queensferry, this magical island is home to seals, sea birds and a 12th-century abbey.
• Malleny Garden in Balerno – A Victorian walled garden filled with roses, lavender and rare trees, just a cycle away.
• Culross – Step into the past in this perfectly preserved royal burgh. It’s a dream for history lovers and Outlander fans alike.
• Isle of May – Take a boat from Anstruther and spot puffins and other seabirds in this nature haven.
• Jupiter Artland – A sculpture park like no other. Wander through a surreal landscape blending art and nature.
• Dunkeld & The Hermitage – A fairy-tale town with a riverside walk through ancient forest. Shakespeare himself was inspired here.
• Glasgow – Just under an hour away, Scotland’s largest city is bursting with street art, architecture and vibrant energy.

Tips for visiting Edinburgh in August

• Book your accommodation early – really early. Five or six months in advance is ideal.
• Dress in layers and bring waterproofs. You might see four seasons in a day.
• Comfy, waterproof shoes are a must – the cobbles are unforgiving.
• Allow time between shows. The streets get busy, and queues can be long.
• Pack a picnic blanket – perfect for snacking in the park or a quick rest between events.
• Keep hydrated and take breaks. Festival fever is real.

And of course, if you’re in Edinburgh this August, we’d love to welcome you to The Real Mary King’s Close. Step beneath the Royal Mile and uncover the stories of the people who lived, worked and died here centuries ago. Hidden history, right in the heart of it all.