Open the Door to Edinburgh

Edinburgh opens its doors to artists and performers from around the world every August. That’s why this vibrant Scottish city is one of my top summer travel destinations and one of my favorite places to go “door hunting” in Europe.

History comes alive as you wander through Edinburgh Castle or explore the charming wynds and closes of Old Town. Witness the awe-inspiring Military Tattoo with its music, dance, and fireworks, or nab tickets to a show (or 10) from among thousands at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the largest arts festival in the world.

Bright blue door with colorful characters in the frame.

For a break from the buzz, seek tranquility in the Princes Street Gardens or climb Calton Hill for breathtaking views. Museums like the Surgeon’s Hall and the Royal Botanic Garden offer unique experiences, while Stockbridge beckons with its delightful shops and delis.

Explore the historic port of Leith, or seek refuge in Holyrood Park with its pleasant meadows and hills. And for a perfect summer day, head to Portobello Beach for a dose of sunshine and seaside fun.

✨ Experience the best of Summer in Edinburgh on the Sidewalk Safari travel blog.

Where to Find The Best Doors of Edinburgh

Now for the most important question: where will you find the best doors in Edinburgh? I have visited Edinburgh many, many times and I’ve done door-focused photowalks in a variety of neighborhoods. Here are my favorites.

The Royal Mile & Nearby

The Royal Mile itself is a treasure trove of spectacular and historic Edinburgh doors. Also have a nose around Cockburn Street while you are in the area.

Bagpiper playing in front of a large metal double door covered in 8-sided stars. There are signs on either side of the door that reads "High Court of Judiciary"

Striking arched red doors of a gothic stone church in Edinburgh, featuring heavy black iron hinges and medieval-style hardware.

New Town Edinburgh

I am particularly fond of the doors on Dundas Street and the residential streets that stem from here.

Black door with ornate stained glass transom window and side lites. There is a fish knocker on the door panel and "The Trout Anglers' Club" written on the head. The door is set in pale stone some of which is blackened by traffic and the weather.

Grey door with a balloon style fanlight on a mottled stone wall. There is a weathered sphinx sculpture and a grey bench on either side of the door.

Haymarket & The West End

Haymarket Station is a convenient starting point for a door-focused photo walk in Edinburgh’s West End.

A weathered emerald green double door in Edinburgh's West End, featuring historic stone masonry and a glowing amber stained-glass window.

A stately black Georgian door at number 36 in Edinburgh, framed by a decorative iron arch and overflowing planters of pink and orange flowers.

Southside

You’ll find some beautiful doors on the Southside near the university.

The rustic black facade of the Brass Monkey pub in Edinburgh, featuring posters for the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and "Free Festival" venues.

The historic blue wooden entrance of Blackwell’s bookshop in Edinburgh, a famous cultural landmark for literary lovers visiting Scotland.

Stockbridge

Stockbridge is another one of my favorite places to photograph doors in Edinburgh. Spend some time wandering around the high street shops and Circus Lane.