By Sanchita, from India, studying MSc Human Resource Management

Hello, fellow explorers! I’m Sanchita, an Indian student living in the beautiful, historic, and sometimes freezing city of Edinburgh.

One of the best things about studying here (apart from the University of Edinburgh’s library, which is where you will find me the night before an assignment) is the sheer amount of hidden gems scattered around the city.

If you’re planning to study here or just visiting, let me take you through three fun walking routes that’ll make you fall in love with Edinburgh, just like I did.

Grab a comfy pair of shoes, a puffer jacket (because, well, Scotland), and let’s get started!

Route 1: The TV & movie buff’s dream walk (including Harry Potter magic!)

Duration: 1-2 hours | Areas Covered: Grassmarket, Old Town, Victoria Street, Greyfriars

Edinburgh is a dreamland for bookworms and movie lovers. From Harry Potter inspiration to locations straight out of TV shows, specifically One Day (we all love Dex and Emma) this route covers it all.

The view from the vennel steps

1. Vennel Steps – Start your walk here! The climb is worth it for an incredible, postcard-perfect view of Edinburgh Castle. It’s also the iconic scene and the poster for the TV show One Day. Plus, if you decide to stray off path, it’s practically a stone’s throw from Edinburgh College of Art and just a 15 minute walk to central campus.

2. Grassmarket – Wander through this historic area, once known for public hangings (cheery, right?). Now, it’s full of cute cafes and pubs. Grab some yummy ice cream at Mary’s Milk Bar—it’s legendary.

Left: Knoops coffees, Right: Victoria Street

3. Victoria Street – Also known as Diagon Alley’s real-life inspiration! You’ll find quirky bookshops, magic stores, and even a shop called Museum Context, where you can pick up your very own wand. There’s also a wonderful cafe called Knoops with yummy hot chocolate.

Greyfriars Kirkyard, inspiration for many of the names in Harry Potter

4. Greyfriars Kirkyard – This eerie but fascinating graveyard is where J.K. Rowling got names for characters like Tom Riddle and McGonagall. Plus, you’ll meet Greyfriars Bobby, Edinburgh’s most beloved dog. It’s a beautiful place to visit in the day and an eerie place to visit at night if you’re interested in ghosts.

Butterbeer at the Elephant House

5. The Elephant House (Currently closed for renovations and moved to Victoria street, but worth a peek!) – This is where J.K. Rowling wrote parts of Harry Potter. Peer inside and imagine her scribbling away while sipping tea. You can even order the wizarding drink Butterbeer, made famous in the Harry Potter books and movies.

6. Old College- University of Edinburgh – remember the scene in One Day, where they have a massive dance party after graduation? It was actually shot on our very own campus. Although I’m sad to say we don’t actually have lawn parties anymore, or so I’ve heard. Nevertheless, it’s still a wonderful place to visit. Old College was built in the 18^th century and is a truly iconic building

Route 2: Princes Street and Royal Mile – hidden gems

Duration: 3-4 hours | Areas Covered: Princes Street Gardens, Royal Mile, Calton Hill

This route combines shopping, history, and breathtaking views—aka, the ultimate Edinburgh experience.

Princes Street Gardens

1. Princes Street Gardens – Start here for a scenic stroll through one of the prettiest green spaces in the city. If it’s autumn, expect golden leaves and the occasional squirrel staring into your soul.

2. Ross Fountain and St. Cuthbert’s Churchyard – Hidden behind the gardens, this quiet little spot is a great place to escape the city’s bustle for a bit.

3. The Writers’ Museum – Tucked away in Lady Stair’s Close, this museum is dedicated to Scotland’s literary legends like Robert Burns and Sir Walter Scott. Bonus: It’s free!

4. Scott Monument – one of the most historic spots in the city that can also be climbed!!

The view from Calton Hill

5. Calton Hill – End your walk with a climb up Calton Hill for one of the best sunset views in Edinburgh. Personally, I love this hike and do it every weekend to feel like a movie character. You’ll see the Dugald Stewart Monument, which makes every photo look straight out of a movie.

Route 3: Stockbridge and Dean Village – the fairy tale walk

Duration: 3-4 hours | Areas Covered: Stockbridge, Circus Lane, Dean Village, Water of Leith

If you love charming streets, quiet river walks, and discovering a calmer side of Edinburgh, this walk is for you.

Stockbridge farmers market

1. Stockbridge Market (Sundays only!) – Start your day with some delicious street food and local crafts. If you’re not here on a Sunday, don’t worry—Stockbridge has plenty of cool cafés open all week.

2. Circus Lane – Possibly the most picturesque street in Edinburgh. It’s so pretty it has to be seen to be believed. Take photos, pretend you live here, and resist the urge to knock on a door and ask if they need a new flat mate.

Dean Village

3. Dean Village – A short walk from Stockbridge, this place is like stepping into a fairytale. Old mills, cobbled streets, and the peaceful Water of Leith make it perfect for a relaxing walk.

4. Water of Leith walkway – Follow this scenic riverside path and enjoy one of Edinburgh’s most underrated walks. If you keep going, you’ll reach the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, home to an amazing collection of paintings, sculptures and installations (and another great café to boot).

So there you have it! Three routes, endless discoveries, and a guarantee that you’ll fall in love with Edinburgh. Whether you’re a future student, or just someone who likes getting lost in pretty streets, this city has something magical waiting for you.

Now, who’s up for a walk?

Hidden gems of Edinburgh: A student’s guide to exploring the city / Student Stories by blogadmin is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution CC BY 3.0