Photographer’s Guide to Best Photography Locations in Edinburgh

Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh, is a city that captures your heart at first glance – I guarantee it.

Edinburgh is every photographer’s playground – from medieval closes to hilltop vistas, it offers countless spots for engagement and wedding photos or casual couples sessions. The city’s Old Town brims with history and cozy alleyways, while the elegant New Town (and beyond) features Georgian architecture and leafy lanes. Each area has its own vibe, so why not plan to explore both?

In this guide we break the best locations into Old Town gems and New Town plus nearby spots, with practical tips for each. Whether you’re stalking Victoria Street (real-life Diagon Alley) or soaking up the views within the Divinity College courtyard (real-life Hogwarts!), Edinburgh has a picture-perfect backdrop around every corner.

So let’s explore Edinburgh’s Top Photography locations for couples!

The Vennel Viewpoint (Steps) with Edinburgh Castle view

You can’t beat the classic shot of Edinburgh Castle dominating the skyline. The most breathtaking view of Edinburgh Castle can be found exactly at The Vennel Viewpoint, a charming staircase that connects the Grassmarket to Lauriston Place. Personally, I prefer the view offered by the Vennel Steps to the views from Edinburgh Castle, to be totally honest – so forget the crowded walls surrounding the castle and let’s climb these steps!

Perched atop an extinct volcano, the Castle is not only Scotland’s most visited landmark but also a magnet for romantics. Many couples wander here for the iconic Edinburgh Castle photos right after tying the knot – or sneak in a secret proposal on the esplanade.

For the absolute best frame, climb the Vennel Steps from the Grassmarket, turn around at the very top and you’ll find the most EPIC view, trust me.

Top tip: Since it’s the number one Insta-famous spot, sunrise is your best chance of crowd-free, romantic photos with the best light. The second best option is late evening (the closer to the sunset the better), when the castle glows in warm light and the city can almost be yours again.

Interesting fact: a vennel in Scots language means a passageway between the walls of two adjacent buildings which in effect create a little alley. And it’s perfect place to sit down with ice cream bought from Mary’s Milk Bar at the very bottom of the steps (unless you’re wearing white, obviously ;)

How to get there: The Vennel is located in the heart of Edinburgh and offers an incredible view of the castle. It’s a short walk from the Grassmarket and can be accessed via a staircase leading to Lauriston Place. For exact directions, view The Vennel Viewpoint on Google Maps.

New College (Divinity College)

On The Mound between Old and New Town stands New College – part of the University of Edinburgh.

There isn’t a building that resembles Hogwarts more than the New College, truly! So as a Potterhead I’d love to walk you through the gates into its iconic courtyard. The tall stone arches and twin towers make a cinematic backdrop. Your photographer can photograph you gazing up those collegiate windows or holding hands on the historic steps.

Top tip: It’s a university building – and when the classes aren’t taking place it might be closed off to the public. Weekday photoshoot is our best bet for photos in this historic spot!

How to get there: Click here to find Divinity College on Google Maps.

St Giles’ Cathedral

Located on the Royal Mile, St Giles’ Cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic design – its spires and intricate wooden gates make for truly epic couple portraits.

Imagine you and your other half, framed by its Gothic charm – pure fairytale vibes. To snag those “we’ve got the city all to ourselves” shots, you’ll need to get out of bed super early (hello, sunrise magic) or a night owl (pre-dusk drama).

Top tip: To capture the cathedral with empty streets and soft light, you’ll need to plan your shoot outside public hours: either just before sunrise or after dusk. During winter and the shorter daylight months, the pre-dawn slot is your best bet, as evenings draw in too early for a proper session. If aligning with those times feels daunting, slip round to the back door opposite the City Chambers – it boasts the same beautifully carved arches and atmospheric stonework but without the daytime foot traffic.

How to get there: It’s impossible to miss, but here’s a wee Google Maps link to make it easier.

Writer’s Museum

Tucked away in the charming Makars’ Court, The Writer’s Museum is one of Edinburgh’s best-kept secrets for a magical photoshoot.

If you love cobbled streets, hidden alleys, and the kind of moody, old-city charm that makes Edinburgh so special, this spot is for you. Dedicated to Scotland’s literary legends – Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson – the museum’s quirky 17th-century architecture, winding stone staircases, and vintage lanterns create an atmosphere straight out of a novel.

It’s the perfect place for couples who want mysterious photos, with a backdrop that feels like it’s from another era. Whether you’re an old soul, a book lover, or just someone who appreciates a stunning historic setting, The Writer’s Museum is a dream location – walk through Lady Stair’s Close and you’re there!

How to get there: For exact directions, view The Writer’s Museum on Google Maps.

People’s Story Museum and Tolbooth Tavern

A short walk east on the Mile, opposite the old Town Jail, is the People’s Story Museum (in the historic Canongate Tolbooth). The building was historically used to collect tolls from travellers entering the burgh.

The building’s royal-blue clock and red sandstone walls are eye-catching, and a beautiful backdrop for your photos (wedding session especially!). Couples love photographing themselves under its landmark clock or at the street-level window displays. While it’s a bit offbeat, the Museum’s location means you’re right on the Royal Mile – a quick dash from here can reach the Palace or the Scottish Parliament. It’s a nice quiet spot to end an Old Town stroll.

The Tolbooth Tavern occupies the ground-floor of the medieval Canongate Tolbooth (built in 1591), its weathered stone façade and timbered signboard offering wedding photographers in Edinburgh a perfectly framed historic backdrop. With its deep-set windows, carved corbels and warm lantern glow at dusk, the tavern front invites candid compositions – just imagine you and your loved one with a pint in your hand and historic pub front behind you – especially gorgeous when lit by soft (or cloudy) evening light. So full of character!

Calton Hill

Calton Hill and its landmarks are one of the most recognisable symbols of Edinburgh.

It offers amazing view at the Edinburgh city centre and lots of opportunities to take great photographs. You’ll also be able to see Holyrood Park from Calton Hill.

The photographs of Carlton Hill and the views at the city are often used in the postcards and paintings depicting the city.

You’ll be able to see the Nelson Monument build at the highest point of Calton Hill, the National Monument of Scotland commemorating Scottish soldiers who died during Napoleonic Wars, visit the City Observatory and admire the view of Edinburgh city centre with the majestic Dugald Stewart Monument designed by a Scottish architect as a memorial to Dugald Stewart, a Scottish philosopher.

Calton Hill is also one of the best places to watch the Edinburgh Festival fireworks on the last day of Fringe!

Scott Monument

Towering above Princes Street Gardens, the Scott Monument is a Gothic spire dedicated to Sir Walter Scott – Victorian Gothic monument to Scottish author, and it’s an unforgettable frame for couple portraits. From the gardens below, position yourselves beneath one of the pointed arches for a dramatic, upward-leaning shot that emphasizes the monument’s intricate stonework.

Top tip: Aim for very early morning or late evening – it’s one of the busiest spots in town, because of its close proximity to Waverley Train station.

How to get there: Scott Monument on Google Maps

Scottish National Portrait Gallery

The Portrait Gallery’s striking Victorian Gothic exterior is a dream for couples in formal wear – no permit needed for exterior or interior shots! Not even an entrance fee.

The façade, carved stone entrance, and front steps give you instant drama and elegance. If you’re itching for indoor treasures, let’s wander into the Great Hall (no permit required), but flash photography is not permitted. Since we’re spoiled for natural light inside, we don’t need any flash photos though!

How to get there: For exact directions, view The Scottish National Portrait Gallery on Google Maps.

Ross Fountain

Nestled in the heart of Princes Street Gardens, the cast-iron Ross Fountain feels like a jewel box straight out of the Victorian era. Its pastel-painted tiers and delicate cherub sculptures create a whimsical, romantic setting—perfect for engagement or bridal portraits. Get close with a mid-range lens to isolate you two framed by the fountain’s ornate spouts, letting water droplets catch the light like little diamonds.

Sunrise sessions are golden here, with the fountain’s pastel hues glowing in soft, warm light and almost no foot traffic to worry about.

How to get there: For exact directions, see Ross Fountain on Google Maps here.

Victoria Street and Victoria Terrace

Step into Diagon Alley… then snap!

Victoria Street is that curving row of rainbow-colored shops in the Old Town that supposedly inspired Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley. It’s extremely popular (yes, it’s busy), but the lifted perspective from the north end or the Victoria Terrace at its top gives a panoramic sweep back over the Old Town rooftops. Here you’ll get quirky shops and cafes, cobblestones, and stone gables all in one frame.

Nestled between the Grassmarket and Castlehill, Victoria Street is one of Edinburgh’s most vibrant and historic streets, famously inspiring Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter books.

Victoria Terrace, a quiet viewing platform right above Victoria Terrace, gives you an epic city view as well – excellent for couple and wedding photos. It’s a pedestrian-only promenade built on top of the roofs of Victoria Street shops.

Top tip: Aim for early morning unless you want to be surrounded by literally tens or hundreds of people in your photos! Victoria Terrace is always the less busy option – but not as colourful.

How to get there: I’m sure you won’t have trouble finding the famous street, but to make it easier here are directions to Victoria Street on Google Maps.

White Horse Close

Tucked just off the Royal Mile, White Horse Close feels like a secret courtyard frozen in time – perfectly intimate for couples portraits.

Flanked by 17th-century stone houses and framed by a central archway, its cobblestones and shuttered windows create a cozy, storybook backdrop. To make the most of this tucked-away gem, aim for late afternoon when warm sunlight filters between the buildings, casting soft shadows on the ground. Plus, it’s located conveniently close to Holyrood Palace and Holyrood Park.

How to get there: You’ll find White Horse Close at the very end of Royal Mile – Google Maps link here.

Circus Lane

Parallel to St Stephen Street, you’ll find Circus Lane, one of the most photogenic streets in Edinburgh. This charming little lane is a photographer’s dream, with its cobbled streets, vibrant doors, and historic buildings creating a timeless, picturesque backdrop. The street is lined with lush plants and flower-filled window boxes, framed by colourful fall foliage in autumn and decorated by stunning wisteria flowers in the spring, it is incredibly stunning all year round. Let’s not forget the iconic tower clock in the background!

As a local photographer in Edinburgh, I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve brought clients to Circus Lane for engagement, portrait, anniversary, and even wedding photoshoots. Its quaint charm and vibrant character make it a perfect location for capturing those special moments in a beautiful, intimate setting. Whether you’re snapping portraits or looking for the ideal place to celebrate a special occasion, Circus Lane is one of the city’s most delightful spots to photograph – and so much quieter than any of the popular Old Town locations.

Top tip: For the best light, head to Circus Lane around an hour before sunset – but on a cloudy day you’ll find great light there from noon all the way until evening. It gets really busy at weekends, so weekdays are better for photos here!

How to get there: For directions, view Circus Lane on Google Maps.

Historic Stockbridge Market Archway

The Stockbridge Market Archway, the original entrance to the old market, is a beautiful and historic feature that makes for an incredible backdrop in photoshoots.

Situated on St Stephen’s Place, this charming archway offers a glimpse into the area’s rich history, adding character and elegance to any photograph. It’s a perfect spot for capturing the blend of old-world charm and modern-day Edinburgh.

To find it, follow directions to Stockbridge Market Arch on Google Maps.

Dean Village

Dean Village is a must-see on your Edinburgh bucket list. A walkable distance from the city centre, the place looks like a fairy-tale little village. It used to be a home to water mills and remains of them still can be seen here.

Beautiful houses with little windows surround the peaceful oasis away from the city centre noises. If you walk from Stockbridge and follow the Water of Leith you’ll be able to see St Bernard’s Well.

Make sure you stop at the Dean Bridge to be able to appreciate a bird’s-eye view at Dean Village and take a photo in one of my favourite residential areas, how amazing is this house?

Holyrood Park

Holyrood Park and its highest point – Arthur’s Seat – are undoubtedly among the most iconic photography locations in Edinburgh – and for good reason.

Holyrood Park is a dynamic canvas of rugged volcanic ridges, reflective loch waters, and vibrant gorse-strewn meadows that shift in mood with every changing light – Arthur’s Seat and the Salisbury Crags provide dramatic silhouettes and natural leading lines at sunrise or sunset, while Dunsapie and St Margaret’s lochs offer mirror-like reflections, gorgeously cinematic for photography.

Arthur’s Seat

The highest point in Holyrood Park, Arthur’s Seat, is an ancient volcano rising 250 metres above sea level. It offers the best sunset views of Edinburgh, perfect for capturing the city’s skyline in all its glory – as long as you don’t mind a rather short but steep hike in a wedding dress!

Whether it’s a clear morning or a glowing sunset, Arthur’s Seat never fails to deliver stunning, magical moments. So if you’re up for a bit of an adventure, the very peak can be a perfect spot for a sunset marriage proposal.

Recently, Arthur’s Seat and Holyrood Park gained renewed fame when they appeared in Netflix’s adaptation of One Day. This poignant series brought David Nicholls’ beloved novel to life, and the breathtaking views from Arthur’s Seat served as the backdrop for pivotal moments in the story. Fans of the series will instantly recognise the location, where the sweeping vistas perfectly complemented the emotional depth of the narrative. Visiting Arthur’s Seat is a chance to walk in the footsteps of the characters and relive those memorable scenes.

In this latest version of One Day, the stunning landscapes of Edinburgh, including Arthur’s Seat, remain a central backdrop to the evolving relationship between Emma (played by Ambika Mod) and Dexter (played by Leo Woodall). As in the original film, Arthur’s Seat provides a dramatic and poignant setting for some of the most emotionally charged moments in the story. The iconic climb to the top of Arthur’s Seat, which provides breathtaking panoramic views of Edinburgh, reflects the emotional highs and lows of Emma and Dexter’s connection.

For exact directions, view Arthur’s Seat on Google Maps.

St Anthony’s Chapel

However, there’s more to Holyrood Park than just Arthur’s Seat.

St Anthony’s Chapel, a hidden gem tucked away within the park, is an excellent spot for more intimate or historic-themed photoshoots. The chapel’s picturesque ruins, perched above the tranquil St Margaret’s Loch, create a romantic and atmospheric setting.

With the ruins framed by rugged cliffs and the distant hills, St Anthony’s Chapel is the perfect location for unique, nature-filled photos that capture both the natural beauty and history of Edinburgh.

For exact directions, view St Anthony’s Chapel Ruins on Google Maps.

Dunsapie Loch

Another stunning spot in Holyrood Park is Dunsapie Loch, a serene and often overlooked location that offers peaceful views of the surrounding hills and city.

This small, tranquil loch sits just beneath Arthur’s Seat and is perfect for capturing reflections of the natural landscape, especially at dawn or dusk when the water is still. The surrounding greenery, combined with the dramatic backdrop of Arthur’s Seat, makes Dunsapie Loch an excellent choice for nature-inspired photoshoots. It’s a quieter, more secluded spot, ideal for those looking to escape the crowds and capture the essence of Edinburgh’s quiet beauty.

For exact directions, view St Anthony’s Chapel Ruins on Google Maps.

Choosing the best photography spots for your own photoshoot

Edinburgh’s mix of ancient charm and natural beauty means your photo album will have both sides to it – romance surrounded by Gothic and Victorian architecture – and sweeping panoramas. Regardless of where you shoot, this city guarantees memorable couple photos you’ll cherish – and you’ll find something different and unique at these spots in different seasons of the year.

Ready to ditch the giant guest list and tie the knot Scottish-style? My Edinburgh Elopement & Small Wedding Guide is your mischievous sidekick – overflowing with secrets about ceremony nooks, “aye”-approved legal hacks, photographer match-makers, and cosy reception hideaways (tartan optional). Grab it now and let’s plan your pint-sized, love-filled adventure in Edinburgh’s storybook streets.

And don’t forget to send me a message and tell me all about your plans – so I can help you plan a perfect Edinburgh photoshoot – or a wee wedding.