Introduction to Edinburgh

Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is a stunning city located in the south-east of the country. It is a city rich in history, culture, and beauty. With its medieval architecture, vibrant nightlife, and cobbled streets, it’s no wonder that Edinburgh is one of Europe’s most visited cities. With a population of 513,210 and a metropolitan area of 1.2 million, Edinburgh is the second largest city in Scotland, behind Glasgow.

Edinburgh has a rich heritage that dates back to the 11th century and is one of the most important historical cities in Britain. It was once the home of infamous rulers such as Robert the Bruce, Mary Queen of Scots, and Bonnie Prince Charlie. Over the years, Edinburgh has become synonymous with its many famous landmarks such as Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood Palace, and the Royal Mile. The city is also known for its lively festivals such as the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Hogmanay celebration, and Military Tattoo.

The city of Edinburgh has something for everyone and is a great place to explore. Whether you’re interested in history, art, culture, or just looking for a great night out, there’s something for everyone in this amazing city. Here are some of the best places to visit in Edinburgh.

Edinburgh Castle

The most iconic landmark of Edinburgh is its castle. Sitting atop an extinct volcano and dominating the skyline of the city, Edinburgh Castle is one of Scotland’s most recognisable landmarks. Dating back to the 11th century, the castle was once a royal residence and was home to many of the country’s most famous rulers. Today it is home to the Scottish National War Memorial and the Scottish Crown Jewels.

The castle is open year-round and offers visitors a number of different tours. There are guided tours that offer an insight into the history of the castle. You can also explore the castle on your own and explore its many rooms and chambers. The castle also hosts several festivals throughout the year including the Edinburgh Military Tattoo and Hogmanay celebrations.

Royal Botanic Gardens

The Royal Botanic Gardens are one of Edinburgh’s most beautiful attractions. Located just outside of the city centre, this 70-acre garden is home to a variety of plants from all over the world. Visitors can explore the garden’s many trails, gardens, and glasshouses. The gardens also host a number of events throughout the year such as concerts, outdoor theatre performances, and educational programs.

The Royal Botanic Gardens are open year-round and offer a number of different tours and activities. Visitors can take a guided tour of the gardens or explore them on their own. There are also a number of educational programs and workshops available for children. The garden also hosts a number of different festivals throughout the year such as the Edinburgh International Science Festival and Bloom!

Scott Monument

The Scott Monument is one of Edinburgh’s most iconic landmarks. Standing 60 metres tall in the heart of the city, this Gothic monument was built in 1846 in honour of Scottish author Sir Walter Scott. The monument features intricate stone carvings and sculptures depicting scenes from his novels. Visitors can take an elevator to the top for breathtaking views of the city.

The Scott Monument is open year-round for visitors to explore at their own pace. There are also guided tours available which provide insight into the history of the monument and its intricate carvings. The monument also hosts a number of events such as concerts, lectures, and exhibitions throughout the year.

National Museum Of Scotland

The National Museum Of Scotland is one of Edinburgh’s most popular attractions. Located in the heart of the city centre, this museum is home to a variety of exhibits ranging from natural history to art to science and technology. The museum also hosts a number of events throughout the year including lectures, workshops, and special exhibitions.

The museum is open year-round for visitors to explore at their own pace. There are also guided tours available which provide insight into the history and importance of each exhibit. There are also a number of interactive exhibits for children to explore and learn about science and technology in a fun and engaging way.

Arthur’s Seat

Arthur’s Seat is an extinct volcano located in Holyrood Park in Edinburgh. The peak stands at 251 metres tall and provides panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. Visitors can take a hike or ride up to the peak to enjoy its stunning views or explore its many trails and wildlife habitats.

Arthur’s Seat is open year-round for visitors to explore at their own pace. There are also guided tours available which provide insight into the history and importance of Arthur’s Seat as well as its surrounding wildlife habitats. Visitors can also take part in outdoor activities such as mountain biking or orienteering around the peak.

Calton Hill

Calton Hill is another iconic landmark in Edinburgh. Located just east of Princes Street Gardens, this hill offers stunning views of the city and its surroundings from its peak which stands at 64 metres tall. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about its history or explore it on their own. The hill also features several monuments including The National Monument, Nelson Monument, Dugald Stewart Monument, and Robert Burns Monument as well as several art galleries and museums.

Calton Hill is open year-round for visitors to explore at their own pace. There are also guided tours available which provide insight into the history and importance of each monument as well as its surrounding galleries and museums. The hill also hosts several events throughout the year such as art fairs, concerts, and outdoor theatre performances.

Popular Tours

Edinburgh Castle Tour

Experience Edinburgh Castle like never before with this fascinating tour! This tour takes you through every corner of this majestic fortress while providing insight into its history. You will get to explore inside the castle walls while learning about its former rulers and prisoners who have called it home over centuries past. Visit the Great Hall where Scottish royalty gathered during feasts, view St Margaret’s Chapel which is said to be built in 1130 AD, and take in stunning views from atop Argyle Tower. This tour includes access to all areas within Edinburgh Castle including all exhibitions and attractions such as Mons Meg cannon, The Honours Of Scotland crown jewels collection, and much more! Book your tour here.

Royal Yacht Britannia Tour

Explore life on board The Royal Yacht Britannia on this unique tour! This tour takes you inside this majestic vessel which served as a floating palace for British royalty for over forty years before being retired in 1997. This vessel was used by Queen Elizabeth II for honeymoons, royal visits abroad, family holidays, state visits, diplomatic missions, official entertaining, ceremonial occasions, royal cruises, and even royal honeymoons! On this tour you will get to explore all parts of this historic vessel including cabins used by British royalty, state rooms used for official entertaining purposes, engine rooms which powered this majestic ship across oceans around the world, kitchens used by royal chefs over decades past, and much more! Book your tour here.

Edinburgh Ghost Tour

Explore Edinburgh’s spooky side with this unique ghost tour! This haunted tour takes you through some of Edinburgh’s most mysterious sites while providing insight into its dark past as you uncover hundreds of years worth of secrets! As you wander through cobbled streets by night you will hear tales of famous ghosts who haunt these ancient sites such as Greyfriars Bobby who guarded his master’s grave for 14 years after his death or Mad Hatter who still haunts Mary King’s Close centuries after his death. You will also get to visit some of Edinburgh’s most haunted sites such as Edinburgh Castle which is said to be haunted by an old woman or Canongate Kirk which is said to be home to multiple spirits from hundreds of years past! Book your tour here.

Conclusion

Edinburgh is an amazing city with so much to explore! From its iconic landmarks such as Edinburgh Castle and Calton Hill to its many festivals throughout the year, there is something for everyone in this amazing city! Whether you’re looking for a great night out or an educational experience exploring its many museums and galleries, there’s something for everyone in Edinburgh!