Calton Hill
The Calton Hill (103 m) at the eastern end of Princes Street is Edinburgh's most beautiful viewpoint — and the spot for THE classic Edinburgh view you know from every postcard. The climb takes only 10 minutes via stairs from Waterloo Place.
What you'll find at the summit
- National Monument: The unfinished columns of a Greek temple (1826, modeled after the Parthenon) — the money ran out, and so it stands today as a fragment. The locals lovingly call it "Edinburgh's Disgrace" or "Scotland's Folly." In fact, it is beautiful, especially at sunset.
- Nelson Monument: A tower in honor of Admiral Nelson, overlooking the city. Climbable for a small fee (£8).
- Dugald Stewart Monument: The round temple that frames the most photographed view of Edinburgh: Castle, Old Town, and Arthur's Seat in the background. THE photo motif.
- City Observatory: The historic observatory (1818) is now an art center and café — exhibitions and coffee with a view.
Sunset
Calton Hill is THE sunset spot in Edinburgh. In summer (June/July), the sun sets behind the Castle, and the entire Old Town is bathed in golden light. Bring a jacket (the wind is stronger at the top than at the bottom) and a camera. The moment when the sun sinks behind the towers of the Old Town and the National Monument glows golden is unforgettable.
💡 Tipp
Arrive 30 minutes before sunset and find a spot at the Dugald Stewart Monument — this is the place for THE Edinburgh photo. In summer (June/July), sunset is around 9:30–10:00 PM, in winter around 3:30–4:00 PM. Lesser known: the sunrise over the sea in the east is also spectacular.
