The best city hikes and walks around Old Town
4.6
(826)
12,037
hikers
88
hikes
Urban hiking trails around Old Town offer a blend of historic architecture, urban green spaces, and notable viewpoints. The area is characterized by its historic districts, including the medieval Old Town and Georgian New Town, alongside accessible urban hills and paths along waterways. These routes provide opportunities to explore the city's diverse terrain on foot.
Best urban hiking trails around Old Town
- The most popular urban hiking route is Edinburgh Old Town tour, a 2.1 miles (3.3 km) trail…
Last updated: November 6, 2026
4.5
(18)
114
hikers
3.31km
00:53
40m
40m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
4.4
(12)
47
hikers
4.44km
01:11
50m
50m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
5.0
(2)
17
hikers
2.79km
00:46
50m
40m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
4.8
(5)
148
hikers
9.33km
02:32
130m
130m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
5.0
(1)
168
hikers
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Popular around Old Town
The North Sea Coast Cycle Route part 7 — Scotland
Brompton G Line: Beyond the Everyday around Bristol, London & Edinburgh
A fantastic journey along Britain’s entire East Coast – NCN 1
Around the edge in 80 days — cycling the coastline of Britain
Fishing villages and rural idyll – cycling the Coast and Castles North
Other adventures around Old Town
Tips from the Community
Beautiful view to the southeast.
1
0
Great panoramic view from Arthur's Seat over the Old Town, the New Town and the harbor in the east.
1
0
Nice hotel right at the train station.
1
0
This castle stands on one of the oldest inhabited sites in Edinburgh – archaeologists have determined that people inhabited this area as early as the 2nd century AD. However, the castle you see here was only built a millennium later. It began in 1124 as the royal residence of David I, King of Scotland. It fulfilled that role until 1633, when it was converted into a military barracks, where soldiers slept in the place where the royal family used to live. Edinburgh Castle was involved in various conflicts, including the Scottish Wars of Independence. In total, the castle has undergone 26 sieges, making it the most besieged location in Scotland and one of the most attacked locations in the world. (Free Tours by Foot)
4
0
The church was built in 1846-1847 in an early English Gothic style, to a design by architect John Henderson. The stones for the building came from the palace on the Royal Mile of Mary of Guise, the 16th-century regent of Scotland. The layout was inspired by reforms in Anglican worship that arose from the Oxford Movement. (Wikipedia)
6
0
Victoria Street in Edinburgh is known for its unique, curved, cobbled design, the vibrant rainbow-coloured shop fronts, and the characteristic two-storey layout with an upper terrace. The street, built between 1829 and 1834, is believed by many to have been the inspiration for Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter books. (Facebook)
6
0
Greyfriars Bobby was a Skye Terrier from 19th century Edinburgh. He became famous because, according to legend, he guarded the grave of his owner in Greyfriars Kirkyard for fourteen years. Bobby himself died on January 14, 1872. The story is still very well known in Scotland. Books and films have been made about it, and a statue of Greyfriars Bobby is a popular attraction in Edinburgh. (Wikipedia)
5
0
Art market in a former church
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many urban hiking trails are available around Old Town?
There are nearly 80 urban hiking trails around Old Town, offering a wide variety of options for exploring the city on foot. These routes range from easy strolls to more challenging walks, ensuring something for every fitness level.
What are the difficulty levels of urban hikes in Old Town?
The urban hikes around Old Town cater to various skill levels. You'll find a good mix, with 53 easy routes perfect for a leisurely exploration, 23 moderate trails for those seeking a bit more challenge, and 3 difficult routes for experienced urban hikers.
Are there any family-friendly urban walks in Old Town?
Yes, many of the easy routes are suitable for families. For example, the Edinburgh Old Town tour is a great option, offering a relatively short distance and minimal elevation gain, perfect for exploring the historic streets with children.
What kind of landmarks and viewpoints can I expect on urban hikes in Old Town?
Urban hikes in Old Town offer a rich blend of historical landmarks and scenic viewpoints. You can explore sites like Holyrood Palace or discover stunning panoramas from Arthur's Seat. Other notable viewpoints include Corstorphine Hill Tower and the View of Edinburgh from Blackford Hill.
Are there any circular urban hiking routes in Old Town?
Absolutely. Many urban hikes in Old Town are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular choice is the Calton Hill loop from Edinburgh Waverley, which offers fantastic city views.
What do other hikers enjoy most about urban hiking in Old Town?
The komoot community highly rates urban hiking in Old Town, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the unique blend of historical architecture, vibrant city life, and accessible green spaces that make these walks so engaging.
Can I find urban trails that offer a mix of historic and modern areas?
Yes, Old Town's location often allows for routes that bridge historical districts with more contemporary parts of the city. The Edinburgh New Town tour is a great example, showcasing the contrast between the old and new architecture.
Are there any longer urban hikes for a full day out?
For a more extensive urban hiking experience, consider routes like the Scott Monument – Water of Leith Walkway loop from Edinburgh Waverley. This moderate route covers a significant distance, allowing for a longer exploration of the city's diverse landscapes.
What is the best time of year for urban hiking in Old Town?
Urban hiking in Old Town is enjoyable year-round, but spring and autumn often offer the most pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and beautiful seasonal colors. Summer can be busy, while winter provides a unique, often quieter, atmosphere, though some paths might be slippery.
Are there any urban hikes that offer views of the wider region?
Many routes provide excellent vantage points for views beyond the immediate city center. The View of Edinburgh Old Town – Scott Monument loop from Edinburgh Waverley offers panoramic vistas, allowing you to appreciate the city's layout and surrounding natural features.
Are there any specific natural features to look out for on urban hikes?
While primarily urban, many routes incorporate green spaces and natural elements. You'll find trails that lead through parks, along riverbanks, or up to prominent hills like Arthur's Seat, offering a refreshing contrast to the city's architecture.
Can I combine urban hiking with visits to historical sites?
Absolutely. The urban trails in Old Town are perfectly suited for combining physical activity with cultural exploration. Many routes pass directly by or offer easy detours to significant historical sites such as Holyrood Palace and other ancient landmarks.
Most popular routes around Old Town
Most popular attractions around Old Town
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
