Edinburgh: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

Edinburgh is one of the most iconic and magnificent cities in the UK. From its beautiful architecture to its captivating history, there are so many things to see and do in the capital of Scotland. This comprehensive guide will take you through the best sights and experiences Edinburgh has to offer, so you can get the most out of your visit.

A Brief History of Edinburgh

Edinburgh has been inhabited since at least the Iron Age when a hill fort was built on the Castle Rock. It was the capital of Scotland since at least the 15th century, and it was an important center for trade and culture. In 1707, the Acts of Union were signed between Scotland and England, making Edinburgh the capital of the whole United Kingdom. Since then it has been a major political center, and it is now one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe.

Facts About Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a city of around 500,000 people, making it the second largest city in Scotland. It is located on the east coast of Scotland, and it is known for its stunning architecture, which includes the iconic Edinburgh Castle. Edinburgh is also home to some of the world’s most renowned festivals and events, such as the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, and Hogmanay.

Things to Do in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a city full of culture and history, with plenty of attractions to explore. Here are some of the best things to do in Edinburgh:

Visit Edinburgh Castle

No trip to Edinburgh would be complete without a visit to the iconic Edinburgh Castle. Located atop an extinct volcano, the castle has been a symbol of Scotland’s history and power for centuries. Inside you will find an array of historical attractions, including St Margaret’s Chapel, the Great Hall, and the National War Museum. During the summer months, there are also a variety of cultural events, including concerts, reenactments, and falconry displays.

Explore the Royal Mile

The Royal Mile is a cobbled street that runs from Edinburgh Castle all the way to Holyrood Palace, passing by some of the city’s most iconic landmarks along the way. Take a stroll along this historic street and take in the sights, sounds and smells of this vibrant area. You’ll also find plenty of shops, restaurants, pubs and galleries to explore.

Take a Tour of Arthur’s Seat

Arthur’s Seat is an extinct volcano located in Holyrood Park. It offers stunning views of Edinburgh and its surrounding areas, making it a popular destination for both tourists and locals alike. There are various tours available that will take you up to the summit, where you can enjoy a picnic or take a stroll around the park.

Visit Dynamic Earth

Dynamic Earth is an interactive science museum located in Holyrood Park. It is full of interactive exhibits that take visitors on a journey through time from the Big Bang to the present day. Visitors can also take part in live science shows and explore a variety of interactive galleries exploring topics such as climate change, evolution and natural disasters.

Explore Edinburgh’s Murals

Edinburgh is home to some stunning murals that can be found around the city. The most famous mural is The Scotsman Mural which is located on the side of The Scotsman Hotel on North Bridge. This mural depicts a variety of different characters from Scottish history including Robert Burns, Mary Queen of Scots, William Wallace, and Bonnie Prince Charlie. It is well worth taking some time to explore these vibrant murals and learn more about the city’s history.

Visit Calton Hill

Calton Hill is one of Edinburgh’s most iconic landmarks and provides stunning views across the city. It is home to a variety of monuments including The National Monument and Nelson’s Monument. You can also explore the various paths and trails that wind their way around Calton Hill or take part in one of the regular events that take place here throughout the year.

Popular Tours in Edinburgh

Edinburgh has plenty of tours available that will help you get even more out of your visit to this fascinating city. Here are two popular tours you should consider:

Edinburgh Walking Tour

Explore Edinburgh’s historic streets on this 2-hour walking tour with an experienced guide. They will take you past some of the city’s most important sights such as St Giles’ Cathedral, Royal Mile and Princes Street Gardens. You will also hear stories about Edinburgh’s fascinating history as you explore its architecture and narrow cobbled streets. Book an Edinburgh Walking Tour here.

Edinburgh Ghost Tour

Explore Edinburgh’s spooky past on this 1-hour ghost tour with an experienced guide. You will be taken to some of Edinburgh’s most haunted locations such as Mary King’s Close and Greyfriars Kirkyard as you hear stories about ghostly sightings, mysterious hauntings and gruesome tales from centuries past. Book an Edinburgh Ghost Tour here.

Conclusion

With its breathtaking architecture, fascinating history and vibrant culture, Edinburgh is one of Europe’s must-see cities. From exploring its cobbled streets to taking part in its world-famous festivals, there are so many things to see and do in this remarkable city. We hope this guide has given you some insight into how to make the most out of your visit to Scotland’s capital city.