Edinburgh Must See: A Comprehensive City Guide for Tourists

Edinburgh is Scotland’s capital city and one of the most vibrant and exciting places to visit in the UK. From its ancient castles and cobbled streets to its modern attractions and lively nightlife, Edinburgh is a city with something for everyone. Whether you’re a culture vulture, a history buff, or just looking for a great day out, the Scottish capital has something to offer.

History of Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a city steeped in history and legend. Founded in the 6th century, it has served as the capital of Scotland since 1437. This long history has seen the city become home to some of Scotland’s most iconic buildings and attractions, including Edinburgh Castle, The Royal Mile, and St. Giles Cathedral.

The city has also played a major role in Scottish history. It was the birthplace of the Scottish Enlightenment, an 18th-century intellectual movement which saw thinkers such as David Hume and Adam Smith challenge conventional beliefs and push for greater scientific understanding. Edinburgh also served as the backdrop to the signing of the 1707 Act of Union, which united Scotland with England to form the United Kingdom.

Today, Edinburgh is a vibrant and modern city with a population of over 500,000 people. It’s home to two major universities, a thriving cultural scene, and a wealth of tourist attractions. From its ancient cobbled streets to its stunning cathedrals, Edinburgh is a city that’s both steeped in history and full of life.

Must-See Attractions in Edinburgh

When it comes to things to do in Edinburgh, the list is seemingly endless. Here’s just a few of the must-see attractions in the Scottish capital:

Edinburgh Castle

Perched atop an extinct volcano, Edinburgh Castle is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. The castle dates back to the 12th century and has served as a royal residence, military fortress, and prison over the years. Today, it’s one of Scotland’s most popular tourist attractions, drawing millions of visitors each year. A visit to the castle offers visitors a glimpse into Scotland’s past, with its ancient walls and grand halls still standing in impressive condition. Inside the castle grounds, visitors can explore the state apartments, crown jewels, and St Margaret’s Chapel – an 11th-century chapel that’s still used for royal weddings today.

The Royal Mile

The Royal Mile is one of Edinburgh’s most famous streets. It links Edinburgh Castle at the top of the city with Holyrood Palace at the bottom and is lined with some of the city’s most iconic buildings. Take a stroll down the Royal Mile and you’ll see St Giles’ Cathedral, The Scotsman Hotel, and The Real Mary King’s Close – an underground network of tunnels which were once home to Edinburgh’s citizens. At the end of the street lies Holyrood Palace – the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland – where visitors can explore its grand state apartments and gardens.

Arthur’s Seat

Arthur’s Seat is an extinct volcano located just outside the city centre. It offers breathtaking views over Edinburgh, with panoramas stretching from Edinburgh Castle to the Firth of Forth. It’s popular with hikers and cyclists alike, who come to enjoy its winding trails and rugged terrain. On a clear day, you can even see as far as Ben Lomond and Ben Nevis – Scotland’s two highest peaks.

The National Museum of Scotland

The National Museum of Scotland is one of Edinburgh’s premier attractions. The museum houses an impressive collection of artefacts from around the world, covering everything from Ancient Egypt to modern science. Highlights include an interactive exhibition on the history of Scotland, an interactive natural history gallery, and a fascinating collection of art from around the world.

Popular Tours in Edinburgh

In addition to these must-see attractions, Edinburgh is home to some fantastic tours which offer visitors a unique insight into the city’s history and culture. Here are two of the most popular tours in Edinburgh:

Old Town Walking Tour

Explore Edinburgh’s historic Old Town on this two-hour walking tour. Your experienced guide will take you through some of the city’s oldest streets as they share stories about Edinburgh’s fascinating past. Along the way, you’ll visit landmarks such as Edinburgh Castle, St Giles’ Cathedral, and The Real Mary King’s Close – a subterranean network of tunnels that were once home to some of Edinburgh’s earliest inhabitants. With plenty of stops for photos and stories along the way, this tour is the perfect way to experience Old Town Edinburgh. Book an Old Town Walking Tour here.

Royal Yacht Britannia Tour

Experience life at sea on board The Royal Yacht Britannia – Queen Elizabeth II’s former royal yacht that served as her official residence during her many overseas visits. This two-hour tour takes you around the decks and state rooms of this historic vessel as you learn about its long history and royal passengers from your knowledgeable guide. After your tour is complete you can explore Britannia’s many attractions at your own pace, including an onboard cinema, interactive exhibition centre, tea room, and souvenir shop. Book a Royal Yacht Britannia Tour here.

Conclusion

From its ancient cobbled streets to its modern attractions, there’s something for every type of visitor in Scotland’s capital city. Whether you’re looking for a memorable day out or an enlightening journey through history, Edinburgh has something for everyone. With its mix of historic sites and modern attractions, there’s no better place to explore than Edinburgh – so what are you waiting for?