Are you visiting the Scottish Capital soon and wondering where to find the best Edinburgh Instagram spots? We are here to help!

Edinburgh is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. It’s a great place to visit for history buffs, foodies and people who would love to explore the rest of Scotland.

Whether you are here for a day, a weekend or more, you will find many photo spots in Edinburgh where you can take beautiful pictures.

In this article, you will find everything you need to know about the best places to take photos in Edinburgh. This includes addresses, examples of photographs and photography tips!

So, are you ready to discover the best Instagram spots in Edinburgh? Let’s get started!

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost for you!

Photo tour of Edinburgh

Edinburgh Deans village

Before we tell you everything about the best photo spots in Edinburgh, we wanted to give you some options in terms of tours.

Edinburgh is a fairly small city and the best way to explore it is on foot. For this reason, walking tours are particularly popular.

If you have an interest in photography, you should consider joining the Edinburgh Instagram Tour.

This one is led by a local influencer that will take you to the best photo spots in Edinburgh and give you loads of tips to take beautiful photos.

It’s particularly good if you’d like to up your Instagram game and discover the city at the same time. It’s also pretty affordable which is always a great thing.

That being said, in this one, you will be taking the photographs which means it’s good to learn but you won’t actually be provided professional photos.

Click here to see the prices.

1. The Vennel

The Vennel in Edinburgh Scotland
The Vennel Stairs in Edinburgh

Address:  1 Vennel, Edinburgh EH1 2HU

The Vennel Steps is one of the most scenic spots in Edinburgh. From there, you will get to enjoy amazing views of Edinburgh Castle.

These steps are also typical of old European towns. They were service steps that would go down to Grassmarket.

The name comes from the French word “venelle” which means small street in old French. This is pretty accurate because in effect, the Vennel steps are a small alleyway made of stairs.

HOW TO GET THERE: You can easily get there from Grassmarket. Walk all the way down to Kick Ass Grassmarket Hostel. Once you’re in front of it, you will see the stairs going up on the left hand side.

Walk all the way up on the left side.

Staying on the left side is important here. Firstly, that’s what you should be doing anywhere in the UK. Secondly, this side boasts the best views so if you turn around you will see quickly if the view you are getting is the one you want or not.

PHOTO TIP: There are two sweet spots to take beautiful photos here. The first one is located halfway through the stairs (on the flat “platform). The second is all the way up. You can touch the wall here (or the bannister).

Both of these spots are the best to have an awesome view of the castles and the stairs.

2. Victoria Street

Instagram photo of Victoria Street in Edinburgh
Victoria Street, the most photographed street in Edinburgh

Address: Victoria St, Edinburgh EH1 2HE

Victoria Street is the most famous street in the city.

Although this street has always been popular amongst locals who enjoyed the quirky shops and colourful facades, it became world famous in the past 10 to 20 years due to the success of Harry Potter.

READ MORE: 9 Harry Potter Sites in Edinburgh & Other Magical Activities

Victoria Street is, indeed, the real-life version of Diagon Alley!

Knowing this, it will come as no surprise that Victoria Street is one of the most instagrammable places in Edinburgh (and the whole of Scotland!).

View of Victoria Street in Edinburgh Scotland from Victoria Terrace
Bars in Victoria Street in Edinburgh Scotland

HOW TO GET THERE: You can easily get there from the Royal Mile, it’s only a couple of minutes walk.

It’s also the street that links Grassmarket to George IV Bridge so you can reach it from there as well.

PRO TIP: Victoria Street has more to offer than it looks. You can find just above the shops a terrace (called Victoria Terrace). From there, you will get very nice views of the street.

It’s very unique and unusual so it’s a great place to check out. Make sure to go there. To reach it, you can take the small alleyway from Upper Bow or just turn on the pavement at the corner with George IV Bridge (where Pizza Express is).

You will find stairs on the terrace that will lead you down.

PHOTO TIP: If you are a Harry Potter fan, this is the perfect place to take out your hat, scarf or magic wand!

You should also try to go there early because it can get a bit busy and it will be difficult to hide strangers from your photos.

3. Ross Fountain

Ross fountain in Princes Street Gardens Edinburgh Scotland
Ross Fountain is one of the most instagrammable places Edinburgh has to offer

Address: Princes St, Edinburgh EH1 2EU

Princes Street Gardens are one of the most beautiful places to photograph in Edinburgh so it will come as no surprise that we included a couple of locations here.

The absolute best Instagram spot in Edinburgh’s Princes Street Gardens is Ross Fountain.

You can find it on the western side of the gardens, by the children’s playground and the Church of St Cuthbert.

It was bought in 1869 by Sir Daniel Ross who got it shipped from London to Edinburgh. Since then, it has become one of the most iconic landmarks in the city.

It is absolutely stunning and features several levels with sculptures of mermaids, walrus and lion heads.

It’s painted in a beautiful turquoise blue that really pops and makes the photos even better.

But that’s not all! From there, you also get to see the stunning Edinburgh Castle in the background which means that you can get a perfect picture with both the fountain and the castle!

Ross fountain in Princes Street Gardens Edinburgh

HOW TO GET THERE: It’s very easy to get there on foot from the New Town (2 min), Waverley Station (5 to 10 minutes) or the Royal Mile (15 minutes).

PHOTOGRAPHY TIP: If you have any clothes or hats with some golden colours, this will be a good time to use them! The fountain turquoise with some hints of gold so using a similar colour in your outfit will be a good match.

SEASONAL TIP: This garden is absolutely stunning all year round and depending on when you are visiting, you can use the ‘natural props’ around to make your photo even better.

For example, in summer and spring, you will find some flowers around that you can use to frame the photo.

In autumn, you will find several trees with red leaves next to the fountain. They look amazing!

In winter, make sure to get that shiny Christmas hat with a golden bubble hat!

4. Dean Village

Dean Village in Edinburgh Scotland
Dean Village is one of the cutest Edinburgh photo spots

Address: Dean Path, Edinburgh EH4 3AY

Dean Village is, without the shadow of a doubt, one of the most unique Edinburgh photography spots as well as a bit of a hidden gem.

Where most visitors stay in the Old Town or near Princes Street, there are actually many other beautiful places in Edinburgh.

Dean Village in Edinburgh Scotland

Dean Village used to be a village of its own right that was added to the city of Edinburgh when the New Town was built and expanded.

It is absolutely stunning and genuinely looks like a small and quaint village in the middle of the city.

Dean Village is on the edge of the water of Leith and home to beautiful half-timbered houses. 

It’s very picturesque and the perfect place to enjoy a bit of peace and quiet!

HOW TO GET THERE: It’s an easy 15 minutes walk from Princes Street but if you want to take a more scenic path, make sure to walk along the Water of Leith in the Dene.

PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS: There are several places where you can get great shots of Dean Village but the best ones are Bell’s Brae Bridge and Water of Leith Walkway.

Dean Village in Edinburgh Scotland

LOCAL TIP: As you are there, you should also check out the Well Court. It’s a bit of a hidden gem but it’s well worth stopping by. This is a wonderful example of Scottish architecture.

5. Museum of Edinburgh Court Yard

Edinburgh Museum court

Address: 142-146 Canongate, Edinburgh EH8 8DD

The Museum of Edinburgh is one of the most underrated museums in the city but it is a great place to visit and that’s something you should put on your bucket list!

It’s located on Canongate which means that you will walk in front of it if you walk down to the Scottish Parliament or Palace of Holyrood.

Also, it’s important to note that the entrance is free so there is really no reason not to visit!

Edinburgh Museum court
Dog in Edinburgh Museum court

Regardless of how cool and interesting the museum of Edinburgh is, the reason why it made this list is that it’s one of the best photo spots in Edinburgh!

From the street, you can enter the court and will discover a beautiful yellow facade as well as traditional and vintage signs. 

It’s super cute and you can take beautiful photos here!

Also, it’s usually not very busy so you should be able to be on your own here.

HOW TO GET THERE: You can easily get there on foot. It takes less than 15 minutes from Waverley station.

6. Circus Lane

Circus Lane in Edinburgh Scotland
Circus Lane in Stockbridge is one of Edinburgh’s top instagrammable places

Address: Circus Ln, Stockbridge, Edinburgh EH3 6SU

Circus Lane is one of the prettiest streets in the city, making it an excellent place to take photos in Edinburgh!

It’s located in Stockbridge and can be easily reached on foot from the new town.

It is a very pretty and unusual street for the new town. It’s cobblestoned and very flowery! But that’s not all!

Circus Lane is ideally located next to Saint Stephen’s Church which is both a church and one of Edinburgh’s most famous venues (yes, it is used as a venue during the Fringe festival!).

From Circus Lane, you get to enjoy how picturesque the street is but you can also see the top of the church, behind the houses. It makes it even prettier!

Dog in Circus Lane Edinburgh
Circus Lane Edinburgh

HOW TO GET THERE: From Princes Street, it’s a short 10-min walk to get to Circus Lane.

PHOTO TIPS: The best place to take photos here is right in the middle of the street (half-way) and with your camera looking towards the church.

If you take a photo here, you will be able to see the cobblestones, the flowers, beautiful houses as well as the church.

Saint stephen church in Edinburgh Scotland
Saint vincent pub in Edinburgh Scotland

PRO TIP: At the corner of Circus Lane and St Vincent Street is a cute bar called St. Vincent Bar. The locals call it The Vinnie and it’s such a pretty and Instagrammable pub! Check it out!

7. Calton Hill

Calton Hill in Edinburgh

Address: Calton Hill, Edinburgh EH7 5AA

Calton Hill is one of the most famous sites in Edinburgh and no matter what, it should be on your bucket list!

It boasts fantastic views of the city as well as a collection of monuments.

There are three main monuments that you will want to check out and also make perfect spots for photos.

The first one is the National Monument. It was inspired by the Pantheon in Athens, one of the most famous landmarks in Europe.

The second one is Nelson Monument. It was completed in 1816 and is here to commemorate Lord Nelson at the Battle of Trafalgar. If you’ve been to London, you will recognise him from his statue on Trafalgar square.

Finally, last but not least, is the city observatory. It also features a greek style and is one of the most instagrammable spots in Edinburgh. From there, you can enjoy the beautiful views over both the Old and New Town.

National Monument Calton Hill in Edinburgh

HOW TO GET THERE: Calton Hill is ideally located in the city centre. It’s an easy 10 to 15 minutes to get there from Waverley Station. Unlike Arthur’s seat, this is not a hard hike. It’s actually a very pleasant walk.

PHOTOGRAPHY TIP: You will find a path above the observatory with a stone wall, this is the best spot to get a photo as you will get both the observatory and the view in the frame.

You should also make sure to go when it’s not raining too much as it could ruin the view. 

Finally, avoid going there between 11AM and 3PM as the sun will be behind you and it’s not great for photos. The best times to go are early in the morning or late afternoon.

8. Arthur’s Seat

View from Arthur Seat in Edinburgh Scotland
View from Arthur Seat in Edinburgh Scotland

Address: Holyrood Park, Edinburgh EH16 5HX

Arthur’s Seat is an ancient volcano located in Holyrood Park, just behind the Old Town of Edinburgh.

It’s the perfect place to go if you want to escape the city for a bit and discover beautiful views of Edinburgh and the North Sea!

HOW TO GET THERE: You can easily get there from the Scottish Parliament. It takes about 45 minutes to hike to the top which means you should have a couple of hours ahead of you.

PRO TIP: It can be very windy on Arthur’s Seat so make sure to have a good wind jacket. If it’s raining, you may want to wait for the sky to clear up a bit as you won’t get to see the views as well as you should.

PHOTO TIP: You can get beautiful photos from the top of Arthur’s seat but it’s also worth going on the path to Crow Hill to take pictures. From there, you will get to see Arthurs’ seat and better views of the cliff.

9. Royal Botanic Garden

Royal Botanic Garden in Edinburgh

Address: Arboretum Pl, Edinburgh EH3 5NZ

Edinburgh Royal Botanic Garden is a little piece of heaven in the middle of the city.

It is located between Stockbridge and Warriston which means it’s a bit out of your way compared to the other locations however it’s still very easy to access.

The garden is absolutely stunning and a great opportunity to discover many species.

It is lush and well looked after, making it a great spot for photos in Edinburgh.

HOW TO VISIT: If you go to Circus Lane to take photos, you can make a detour to check out the gardens. It’s only a 15 minutes walk from there. The entrance is free so there is no reason to miss out on this!

10. Tolbooth Tavern

Tolbooth Tavern in Edinburgh Scotland
Tolbooth Tavern in Edinburgh Scotland

Address: 167 Canongate, Edinburgh EH8 8BN

Tolbooth Tavern is one of the most instagrammable pubs in Edinburgh. It’s located on Cannongate which goes from the Royal Mile all the way down to Holyrood Palace.

This street is one of the most picturesque in the city and you will find quite a few other photo spots here so it’s a great place to check out.

Tolbooth Tavern is a 16th-century building known for being haunted! If you go on a ghost tour in Edinburgh, you can ask your guide about it. It’s pretty interesting (and spooky!).

The architecture of the building is very unique and you will find a large hanging clock at the top.

All in all, it’s a great spot to photograph in Edinburgh Old Town.

HOW TO GET THERE: It’s a very easy 10-minute walk from Waverley and 5 minutes from the Royal Mile.

PHOTOGRAPHY TIP: The building is pretty grey so if you want to score the perfect shot, make sure to wear a bright colour such as a yellow jacket or red hat.

11. Ramsay Garden

Ramsay Garden in Edinburgh

Address: Ramsay Garden, Edinburgh EH1 2NA

Tucked away in a small street near Camera Obscura and Edinburgh Castle, Ramsay Garden is home to a beautiful row of houses where you can take beautiful photos.

Firstly, the houses are very pretty and picturesque.

Secondly, they feature beautiful red stairs and colourful doors. 

That having been said, it’s important to note that this is a residential street and while you are welcome to take photos strolling along the street, you shouldn’t go on the stairs or at the doors.

They are homes so make sure to treat them as you’d like people to treat your house.

HOW TO GET THERE: Head to Camera Obscura and walk down Ramsay Lane towards the Mound (it’s literally 30 seconds walk from Camera Obscura). You will find Ramsay Garden on your left.

PHOTO TIP: If you have a red dress, hat or coat, it will be the perfect moment to take it out. The red stairs are the highlight of this street so if you have some dark red clothes, they will perfectly match!

Ramsay Garden in Edinburgh from Princes Street

HIDDEN GEM ALERT: The houses in Ramsay Garden can also be seen from Princes Street Gardens. When you walk down the stairs by the National Art Gallery, you can see at the top (on your left), a cute row of houses. This is the other side of the houses with the red stairs.

12. Bakehouse Close

Bakehouse Close in Edinburgh

Address: Bakehouse Cl, Edinburgh EH8 8PA

Calling all Outlander fans for this one!

Located just off Canongate, Bakehouse Close is one of the rare Outlander filming locations in Edinburgh.

If you’ve watched the series, you’ll know that when Claire goes back to find Jamie in season 3, she goes to his print shop in Edinburgh.

At the time, Jamie had a studio that he operated under the name of Alexander Malcolm.

As Claire walks in Edinburgh to find the shop, she steps into a small close and walks up the stairs that lead to the print shop. 

This part was actually filmed in Edinburgh and you can visit it as well!

It is a pretty cool place because it’s quite hidden and conveniently located by the Edinburgh Museum, another photo spot.

If you are an Outlander fan, you will definitely love stepping into Claire’s footsteps but if you aren’t it’s still worth checking out as it’s a great example of old Edinburgh alleyway.

Bakehouse Close near Canongate Edinburgh
Bakehouse Close Sign on Canongate Edinburgh

HOW TO GET THERE: Walk down Canongate towards Holywood Palace. The close is located on the right hand side, just before the museum.

PHOTOGRAPHY TIP: This is the perfect spot to recreate the scene from Outlander.

If you can, wear one of these beautiful grey coats so you truly look like Claire when she is about to be reunited with Jamie.

WANT TO DISCOVER MORE OUTLANDER LOCATIONS? Take a day trip to the best Outlander filming locations near Edinburgh. Prices here.

13. Holyrood Palace

Holyrood Palace in Edinburgh

Address: Canongate, Edinburgh EH8 8DX

Holyrood Palace is located at the very end of Canongate, near Arthur’s Seat. 

It’s the official residence of the Queen when she is in Scotland and one of the most beautiful places in the UK.

It’s also a perfect example of a fairytale palace and therefore, an excellent place for photos.

You will find beautiful royal apartments, the ruin of Holyrood Abbey as well as stunning gardens.

HOW TO GET THERE: Simply walk down the royal mile and Canongate. It takes about 20 minutes on foot from Waverley Station.

ENTRANCE FEE: To visit Holyrood Palace, you will need to book a ticket. This can be done here.

14. Camera Obscura

View from Camera Obscura in Edinburgh Scotland
Camera Obscura in Edinburgh

ADDRESS: The Royal Mile, 549 Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2ND

Located by Edinburgh Castle, Camera Obscura is one of the most famous (and fun!) attractions in Edinburgh.

As the name suggests, it’s home to an actual Camera Obscura featuring 360-degree views of Edinburgh but that’s not all.

The thing that makes it such a good Instagram spot in Edinburgh is the fact that you will also find 5 floors of illusions. These have all shapes and forms and you will find so many fun photo opportunities.

You will also have the opportunity to go outside on the rooftop and take beautiful photos with the city in the background.

HOW TO GET THERE: Camera Obscura is located only a minute away from the Royal, just across the square from Edinburgh Castle.

ENTRANCE FEE: It is a paid attraction. You can buy your ticket in advance here.

15. Royal Bank of Scotland

RBS in Edinburgh

Address: 36 St Andrew Square, Edinburgh EH2 2AD

Now this one is a bit of an odd one at first. I mean, it sounds a bit weird to go take photos in a bank. How good can it get really?

Well, you are in for a treat!

This is one of the best secret spots in Edinburgh as well as being super photo friendly!

Located on St Andrew Square, in the new town, the Royal Bank of Scotland is housed in a stunning building and the best news is: you can go in even if you are not a customer.

This is an iconic building and for this reason, they set up a small exhibition inside.

If you pop by, go to the reception and just explain that you are not a customer but want to see it inside.

They will let you in! You will also notice that some members of staff are wearing kilts with the Royal Bank of Scotland tartan.

The best part for photos is located at the back. You’ll find a large room with a huge dome painted in blue with stars. It’s absolutely stunning!

16. Edinburgh Castle from Grassmarket

Edinburgh Castle in Edinburgh

Address: Castlehill, Edinburgh EH1 2NG

It would be impossible to talk about the most photographed places in Edinburgh without mentioning Edinburgh Castle, the most famous landmark in the city.

The castle’s historical allure, dating back to the Iron Age, makes it one of the most important in the UK.

Resting atop an ancient volcano, aptly named Castlehill (yes, like in Game of Thrones), the castle offers a commanding view of the city.

PHOTO TIP: while most visitors flock to the castle’s entrance for their photo ops, you’ll find the best spot is actually at the base of Grassmarket.

Taking photos in front of the castle itself is not always the best because of the crowds. You’ll struggle to find a nice angle without having loads of people in the photo.

In that having been said, if you are up to get up early, it is of course a fantastic photo spot in Scotland.

Situated right in front of Cold Town House, this vantage point provides a unique perspective of the castle with a far less crowded backdrop.

From this location, you can capture stunning shots of the castle perched high on its rocky hill.

And since the castle is elevated, you don’t have to worry about random tourists photobombing your perfect picture!

So, grab your camera and head down to Grassmarket to get that Instagram-worthy shot of Edinburgh Castle you’ve been dreaming of.

17. Coltbridge Viaduct

Coltbridge Viaduct in Edinburgh

If you are looking for an instagram Edinburgh location that is a bit more off the beaten path, the Coltbridge viaduct will be perfect for you.

While it has nothing to do with Harry Potter, I definitely thought there were some Hogwarts Express vibes here and since most people don’t know about it, the location is super quiet, making it very easy to take photos.

It is an old railway viaduct that was built in the late 19th century. It’s not in use anymore but it is very pretty and the surroundings are so lush.

HOW TO GET THERE: The Coltbridge viaduct is located near Murrayfield Stadium, on the Water of Leith walkway.

To get there, you should take the Water of Leith walkway path from Dean Village. After about 20 minutes walk, you will get to the viaduct.

18. Belford Mews

Looking for the most beautiful streets to photograph in Edinburgh?

Let’s head over to Belford Mews in the charming Dean Village!

This quiet, quaint street is lined with cute houses, each flaunting doors of different colours and an array of chimneys. It’s an absolute treasure trove for your Instagram feed.

Belford Mews is a little pocket of calm in bustling Edinburgh, tucked away close to the West End.

The peaceful vibe and adorable scenery make it a top spot for super sweet photos.

And since it’s so quiet, you will get a chance to take as many shots as you want.

If you use a tripod, you can also do it here since it’s not crowded.

Just remember though, this is a residential area.

Real people live in these picture-perfect houses. So, while you’re snapping away and capturing that Insta-worthy shot, be sure to respect the local residents.

Now, go fill your feed with the charm and colour of Belford Mews!

19. Rooftop from the National Museum of Scotland

View from the Rooftop from the National Museum of Scotland

Looking for a unique Instagram spot in Edinburgh? Here’s a tip: head to the rooftop of the National Museum of Scotland! Not only is this a fabulous place for photos, but it’s also a hidden gem that many miss.

Edinburgh’s Old Town doesn’t have many rooftops due to its low-level architecture.

That’s why this spot is so special. It’s a bit hidden with access not super obvious, but trust us, it’s worth the hunt. And the best part? It’s free to go up there!

To get there, go through the Scottish galleries and use the Terrace lift or staircase on Level 5, labelled as ‘Industry and Empire’. If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to ask a staff member.

Once you’re up there, you’re in for a treat. With fantastic views of the Old Town, the Royal Mile, and the iconic Edinburgh Castle, this rooftop provides a stunning backdrop for your photos.

Especially on a sunny day, this is a top spot for breathtaking snaps. Go ahead, make your Instagram followers swoon!

20. National Museum of Scotland

National Museum of Scotland

While the rooftop may be the highlight when it comes to photo ops, the museum itself is also worth a visit.

Firstly, it’s important to mention that it’s free to visit so you can go inside and have a look around regardless.

But in terms of photos, it has a lot to offer.

The museum features amazing galleries with very high ceilings. It’s absolutely stunning.

You will also find a part dedicated to natural history with a lot of animals which makes for fun photo options.

PHOTO TIP: We particularly recommend going to the first floor in the Grand Gallery so you can take a photo of you with the entire gallery behind. It’s very pretty and even if the museum is busy, it won’t be as obvious.

Gallery 3 and 4 are also worth checking out because they feature amazing tiles, perfect for colourful photos!

21. The Writers’ Museum

The Writers Museum in Edinburgh

Address: Lawnmarket, Lady Stair’s Cl, Edinburgh EH1 2PA

Looking for a truly ‘grammable spot in Edinburgh that oozes charm and history? Then you have to head over to The Writers’ Museum.

Located in the Old Town’s Lady Stair’s House at the Lawnmarket, this place is a haven for book lovers and a perfect backdrop for your Instagram shots.

The museum is all about celebrating Scotland’s literary giants – think Robert Burns, Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson.

To reach it, you’ll need to navigate your way through Lady Stair’s Close, a narrow alleyway which, like most closes in Edinburgh, is naturally Instagram-worthy.

But let’s be honest, it’s the museum building itself that’s the real showstopper.

Housed in a quaint, Harry Potter-esque building with a distinctive tower, it’s like stepping into another world.

The museum is nestled within a charming courtyard called Makar’s Court, a spot that usually stays pleasantly quiet, making it an ideal place for those perfect, uninterrupted photo ops.

PHOTO TIP: to get that perfect shot, go in the middle of the court stands a quaint street lamp.

Try incorporating it into your photos for a unique composition that captures both the museum and the lamp, adding a touch of vintage charm to your Instagram feed.

GOOD TO KNOW: It’s also worth mentioning that the Writer’s museum is free to visit so if you have a bit of time, make your way in!

22. The Gardener’s Cottage

The Gardeners Cottage

While Ross Fountain is by far the most famous landmark in Princes Street Gardens, it’s actually not the only Instagram location in the park.

The Gardener’s cottage is also a super cute option! Especially during spring when all the flowers are in bloom.

To get there, the easiest way is to enter the park by the gate in front of Waverley station.

From there, walk down (on the left) and you will find the cottage.

Please note that you cannot enter the little garden or the cottage itself but it doesn’t matter, you can still get beautiful photos at the front, by the fence.

23. The School of Divinity at New College

Alright, Harry Potter fans, ready to add some magic to your Instagram feed? Make your way to the School of Divinity.

It’s located in New College, a part of Edinburgh University, and it is straight-up Hogwarts vibes!

Built in the 19th century, this architectural marvel is still in use today. Can you imagine? These lucky students get to study in a building that’s straight out of a fantasy novel.

The neo-gothic architecture is truly spellbinding, and it makes for some epic Instagram shots.

But, there’s a catch. Since it’s a functioning school, you can’t just waltz in during school hours. Totally fair, right? So, be sure to plan your visit accordingly.

The best time to swing by for your magical photoshoot would be during weekends (it’s open in the afternoon).

So, pack your wand and get ready to enchant your Instagram followers with the School of Divinity. It’s a must-visit spot in Edinburgh for any Harry Potter fan, or anyone who appreciates stunning architecture!

24. White Horse Close

Tucked away at the bottom of Canongate, close to Holyrood Palace, this picturesque spot is one of the city’s best-kept secrets – so much so that even locals often don’t know it!

What’s more, its low-key location means you won’t have to worry about crowds photobombing your shots or spending hours on editing. A win-win, right?

But what makes White Horse Close truly special? Well, it’s all in the history.

You see, this place once served as the palace’s stables, a fact that explains its convenient proximity to the royal residence. And though the horses are long gone, the charm remains.

The houses here showcase the quintessential Scottish architecture, with their stone walls and unique features, making it an idyllic spot to capture a snapshot of traditional Edinburgh.

Trust us, one visit to White Horse Close, and your Instagram feed will have that authentic Scottish touch that’ll make your followers double-tap in no time!

25. Advocate’s Close

Advocates Close in Edinburgh

Tucked away in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, Advocate’s close is a cute and narrow alleyway is a perfect little gem for your next photoshoot.

With its charming steps and winding pathway, Advocate’s Close is a feast for the eyes. Not just that, it’s also an ideal spot to capture some stunning snaps.

Stand on the steps to take your shot, but remember to lean on the wall to keep the view clear.

Trust us, you wouldn’t want to block the view in your photo.

And what a view it is! The alleyway boasts unobstructed views of Scott’s Monument, one of Edinburgh’s most famous landmarks.

Stand at the top of the steps for the best shot, and watch as the monument adds a magical touch to your photo.

26. Laila’s

Laila in Edinburgh Scotland

Address: 63 Cockburn St, Edinburgh EH1 1BS

If you are looking for an Instagrammable restaurant in Edinburgh, look no further! Laila’s is a middle eastern / Mediterranean restaurant that is known for its brunches.

Not only is it a very nice place to get brunch but it’s also as Instagrammable as it gets.

The front of the restaurant is painted in a beautiful pastel pink colour and there are always beautiful flowers outside.

You can’t miss it!

Inside, it gets even better because the food (besides being delicious) is also super pretty and great for photos!

HOW TO GET THERE: You simply need to walk down Cockburn street (from the Royal Mile).

PHOTOGRAPHY TIP: This is quite a girly place so if you have any pink or glittery clothes and accessories, it’s the perfect place to show them off!

Now that you know exactly where to find the best photo spots in Edinburgh, it’s time to get your camera and go explore this beautiful city!

Have fun!

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