Experts' Choice Award Calton Hill
What the experts agree on
Calton Hill delivers spectacular panoramic views of Edinburgh's rooftops and landmarks, scattered with grand historical monuments. It's the city's iconic viewpoint—even Robert Louis Stevenson favored it—offering one of the best perspectives over the
“Robert Louis Stevenson's favorite view of his beloved city was from the top of this hill.”
– Fodor's
Lonely Planet Top Choice
"Calton Hill, which rises dramatically above the eastern end of Princes St, is Edinburgh's acropolis, its summit scattered with grandiose monuments." Full review
Time Out "A minor hill in the centre of town that offers spectacular panoramic views of Edinburgh and a cluster of historical monuments." Full review
Michelin Guide 0 Stars
"A former active volcanic site... the hill is a lovely place for a walk."
Afar Magazine "Calton Hill is my favorite spot in Edinburgh. It has an excellent view of all the highlights of the city." Full review
i
Just be sure to take a jacket--it gets pretty nippy after sunset.
Independent "At the top of Calton Hill, there are some of the best views over the city's rooftops, including a sneak preview of The Glasshouse's huge rooftop terrace – perhaps one of the best-kept secrets in Edinburgh"
New York Times "It's a steep climb to the top of Calton Hill, but the panoramic views — of Leith, the Firth, and Arthur's Seat (an ancient volcano) — are worth it. Developed as a public park in 1724, the..."
36 Hours in Edinburgh
Select Date
"Begin your day with an early morning climb up Calton Hill, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The hill is home to a collection of historic monuments, including the unfinished National..."
Lonely Planet "Home to wonderful city views and a half-finished acropolis, Calton Hill is not a typical Edinburgh park. It rises above the east end of Princes Street, passing several Scottish government..."
What to see in Edinburgh's best parks and open spaces
September 22, 2021
Lonely Planet "Calton Hill just on the east end of Prince Street takes but a few minutes to scale and has an eclectic collection of historic monuments – including the infamously half-finished National..."
Budget Edinburgh: the best things to do for free in Scotland's capital
September 27, 2021
Lonely Planet "Bring comfortable shoes (and a raincoat, just in case) if you plan to tramp up Calton Hill, follow the Water of Leith Walkway, or hike to the top of Arthur's Seat. Calton Hill offers good..."
