Photography tours in Edinburgh: the best spots for postcard photos
Edinburgh is a paradise for photographers
Organizingholidays in Edinburghand not coming home with spectacular photos is impossible. The city offers unique contrasts: the gothic castle, volcanic hills, medieval alleys, Georgian architecture. This guide takes you to the best viewpoints, with times and lesser-known angles, for professional shots even with a smartphone.
The classics (must-sees)
Calton Hill at sunset
The most famous view. The unfinished monuments (National Monument) frame the castle and Arthur's Seat.
Best time:30 minutes before sunset (the sun lights up the castle).
Angle:climb the side stairs (east side) to avoid the crowd.
Tip:bring a tripod (it can be windy).
Dean Village early in the morning
Pastel-colored houses along the Water of Leith. It looks like a fairy tale.
Best time:8:00-9:00 in summer (low sun illuminating the facades), 10:00-11:00 in winter.
Angle:from the pedestrian bridge (Bell's Brae) towards the west.
Tip:use a polarizer to reduce reflections on the water.
Victoria Street (from the upper side)
The curved street with colorful shops. It is the most photographed in the city.
Best time:late afternoon (3:00 PM - 4:00 PM in winter, 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM in summer).
Corner:from the upper part (near George IV Bridge) downwards.
Tip:wait for the bus to pass (it blocks the view).
Vettriano's (Royal Mile, near St. Giles)
Not the painter, but the alley. The original gas lamps (still lit) create atmosphere.
Best time:after sunset (the lamps turn on automatically in the dark).
Corner:from the lower part upwards, with the castle in the background.
Tip:use high ISO (800-1600) because it is dimly lit.
The secrets (less known but equally beautiful)
Circus Lane (Stockbridge)
A street of Victorian cottages with stone arches and flowers in the windows.
Best time:morning (10:00 AM), when the sun lights up the doors.
Corner:from the upper part towards St. Stephen's Church.
Tip:respect for the residents (do not enter private gardens).
Water of Leith (stretch from Dean Village to Stockbridge)
The walking path along the river. Bridges, greenery, houses.
Best time:late afternoon (side lighting).
Corner:from Bell's Brae bridge towards the mill.
Tip:bring a zoom lens (70-200mm) for details.
Vennel Viewpoint (near the castle, west side)
A staircase with a view of the castle framed by buildings.
Best time:morning (10:00) or sunset (the castle is backlit, better at dawn).
Angle:climb the staircase and turn left.
Tip:use a long focal length (50-85mm) to compress the perspective.
Greyfriars Kirkyard (southwest corner)
The grave of Thomas Riddell (Tom Riddle) with the castle in the background.
Best time:afternoon (14:00-15:00).
Angle:from the grave towards the northwest.
Tip:respect the cemetery (do not walk on the graves).
Arthur's Seat: the less crowded angles
The summit is always crowded. Try:
South slope (Dunsapie Loch):the lake reflects the hill. Spectacular sunset.
East slope (Hunter's Bog):a valley with tall grass. Looks like the Highlands.
North slope (St. Margaret's Loch):small lake with swans. Castle in the background.
Night photography
Princes Street with the illuminated castle
Best time:after sunset (blue hour, 20-30 minutes after sunset).
Angle:from the Ross fountain towards the castle.
Tip:tripod required, exposure 10-30 seconds, ISO 100.
Royal Mile with gas lamps
Best time:22:00 in summer, 18:00 in winter.
Corner:in a close (Advocate's Close) towards the main street.
Tip:try to include a human figure for scale.
Recommended equipment
Smartphone:any recent model (iPhone 13+, Pixel 6+, Samsung S22+). Use night mode.
Mirrorless/DSLR camera:wide-angle lens (16-35mm) for landscapes, 50mm for portraits, 70-200mm for details.
Tripod:lightweight (for Calton Hill and night shots).
Filters:polarizer (to reduce reflections), ND (for motion on water).
When to photograph (calendar)
Dawn (in summer at 4:30):Calton Hill or Arthur's Seat. Few crowds, spectacular light.
Morning (9:00-11:00):Dean Village, Circus Lane, Victoria Street.
Afternoon (14:00-16:00):Greyfriars, Royal Mile.
Sunset:Calton Hill (arrive 1 hour early for a spot).
Night (blue hour):Princes Street, closes.
Guided photo tours
Edinburgh Photo Tour(£70 for 3 hours, with a professional instructor). Includes technical tips.
Sunset Photography Workshop(£50, 2 hours at Calton Hill).
Free photography walking tour(free, voluntary tip) – not always available, ask at the tourist office.
FAQ
Can I use a drone in Edinburgh?
No, the castle and central areas are no-fly zones (nearby airport). Only in the outskirts with permission.
What is the best spot for photos in the rain?
Dean Village (the wet cobblestones reflect the houses) or Victoria Street (colorful umbrellas).
Do I need permits for commercial photos?
Yes, if you use the photos for sale (stock, advertising). Contact the City Council.
Which app do I use to find sunset times?
PhotoPills (paid, professional) or The Photographer's Ephemeris (free).
Can I take photos inside the castle?
Yes, without flash. Not in temporary exhibitions (sign posted).
What do I do if there are too many people at a spot?
Go on a weekday (Tuesday-Wednesday) or arrive at dawn.
Endless photographic opportunities
Theholidays in Edinburghoffer endless photographic opportunities, from iconic landscapes to hidden details. You don't need expensive equipment: with a good smartphone and the right hours (dawn, sunset, blue hour) you can get memorable shots. The golden rule: get up early, stay out late, and don't be afraid to venture into side alleys. The best photos are the ones that no guidebook has ever shown.
For a comprehensive overview of periods, itineraries, budgets, and transportation in the Scottish capital, check out our complete guide to holidays in Edinburgh.
Review date:March 21, 2026