Edinburgh Scotland Things To Do – A Tourist’s Guide

Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is a city steeped in history and culture. This beautiful city is home to a number of famous landmarks, museums, art galleries and has plenty to offer tourists of all ages. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or intending to stay for a longer period, Edinburgh has something for everyone. From historical sites to modern attractions, unique experiences to traditional activities, Edinburgh has an abundance of things to do and places to explore.

History of Edinburgh

Edinburgh has been a thriving city since the 11th century, when it was first the capital of Scotland. The city is built upon seven hills and is often referred to as the “Athens of the North’ due to its classical architecture and rich cultural heritage. It has been the home of many famous Scots, including Robert Burns and Sir Walter Scott, and has been a vital part of the country’s history for hundreds of years.

Today, Edinburgh is home to over 500,000 people and is one of the most visited cities in Europe. It’s known for its stunning architecture and vibrant street life, as well as its rich cultural heritage. The city boasts a wide range of attractions, including historical sites, museums, art galleries, theatres, restaurants and bars. Edinburgh is also known for its world-renowned festivals, such as the Edinburgh Fringe and Hogmanay.

Things to Do in Edinburgh

Whether you’re visiting for a short break or an extended stay, there are plenty of things to see and do in Edinburgh. From historic attractions to modern activities, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.

Explore the Historic Sights

Edinburgh’s impressive skyline is dominated by the iconic Castle Rock. Sitting atop a dormant volcano, Edinburgh Castle is one of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks and is home to some of the oldest parts of the city. Its rich history dates back over 2,000 years and is a must-see for any visitor to the city. Other historical attractions include the Royal Mile, a series of cobbled streets linking the castle to Holyrood Palace; St Giles’ Cathedral; Greyfriars Kirkyard; and Arthur’s Seat.

Visit the Museums and Art Galleries

Edinburgh is home to a number of world-class museums and art galleries. The National Museum of Scotland showcases exhibits from all over the world, while the National Gallery houses an impressive collection of European and Scottish art. The National Library of Scotland is also worth a visit, as it houses one of Europe’s largest collections of books, manuscripts and artefacts.

Explore the Shops

Edinburgh is home to a wide range of shops, from independent boutiques to high street favourites. The city’s two main shopping streets are Princes Street and George Street, both of which are packed with stores selling everything from clothes and footwear to jewellery and souvenirs. For vintage clothing and unique gifts, head to Victoria Street or Grassmarket.

Sample the Cuisine

The city boasts a wide range of restaurants offering cuisine from all over the world. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional Scottish fare such as haggis or a delicious Indian curry, you’ll be spoilt for choice in Edinburgh. The city also has an abundance of pubs offering real ales, craft beers and whisky tastings.

Experience the Nightlife

Edinburgh’s nightlife is renowned across the UK, with a wide range of bars, clubs and pubs dotted around the city. From traditional pubs to trendy cocktail bars, there’s something for everyone in Edinburgh’s buzzing nightlife scene. The Grassmarket area is particularly popular with locals and tourists alike, while George Street is home to some of the city’s trendiest bars.

Popular Tours

Edinburgh has plenty of tours available for those who want to make the most out of their visit to the city. Below are two popular tours that offer an insight into Edinburgh’s history and culture.

Edinburgh Ghost Tour

Explore Edinburgh’s spooky side with this tour that takes you through some of the city’s most haunted locations. As you walk through cobbled streets, you’ll hear tales of Edinburgh’s gruesome past from your guide. Learn about haunted castles and graveyards, ghostly apparitions and old superstitions as you wander through the capital. At the end of the tour you’ll have a chance to visit one of the city’s most haunted pubs – if you dare! You can book an Edinburgh Ghost Tour here.

Scottish Whisky Tour

Scotland is famous for its whisky and this tour takes you on a journey through some of Edinburgh’s finest whisky distilleries. Visit the oldest whisky shop in Edinburgh before sampling some local whiskies at one of Edinburgh’s top whisky bars. Gain insight into whisky production as you visit some of Scotland’s oldest distilleries before indulging in some delicious whisky-infused dishes at a local restaurant. You can book a Scottish Whisky Tour here.

Conclusion

Edinburgh is one of Europe’s most vibrant cities and offers plenty of things to see and do for tourists. From exploring historical sites to sampling local cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful Scottish capital. With its impressive skyline, vibrant nightlife and buzzing cultural scene, there’s no better place to explore than Edinburgh!