Edinburgh Things to See: A City Guide for Tourists

Located in Scotland, the city of Edinburgh is a popular destination for tourists from around the world. It is a city steeped in history, with beautiful architecture and vibrant culture. From the lush green hills of the surrounding countryside to the cobbled streets of the city centre, there are plenty of exciting things to do and places to visit. Whether you are looking for a romantic weekend away or an action-packed family holiday, Edinburgh has something for everyone.

Introduction to Edinburgh

Edinburgh is Scotland’s capital city and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United Kingdom. It has a population of over 500,000 people and is one of the oldest cities in Europe, with evidence of human settlement dating back over 3,000 years. Known as “Auld Reekie’, it is a city of contrasts, with its winding medieval streets and ancient castles juxtaposed against modern shopping centres and vibrant nightlife. It is considered one of the most beautiful and photogenic cities in Europe, with its skyline dominated by the iconic Edinburgh Castle and its winding streets full of historic buildings.

The city is home to some of the world’s most famous festivals, including the Edinburgh International Festival and Fringe, the world’s largest performing arts festival. The vibrant cultural scene also includes regular exhibitions, concerts and events throughout the year. With its rich history, enchanting architecture and vibrant culture, there is plenty to keep visitors entertained.

Things To Do in Edinburgh

There are plenty of things to see and do in Edinburgh, from exploring its historic castle to taking in a show at the Edinburgh Playhouse. Here are some of the top attractions in the city:

Edinburgh Castle

No trip to Edinburgh would be complete without a visit to its iconic castle. Located atop an extinct volcano, this mighty fortress has stood guard over the city since its inception in the 12th century. Visitors can explore the castle’s many turrets and towers, as well as visiting the National War Museum which tells the story of Scotland’s military history. The castle also houses the Honours of Scotland, the oldest set of crown jewels in Europe. It is also home to the One O’Clock Gun, which is fired every day at 1pm sharp.

Arthur’s Seat

Arthur’s Seat is the highest point in Edinburgh and offers spectacular views of the city and surrounding countryside. It is an extinct volcano which rises 251 metres above sea level and can be reached by a steep but rewarding hike up its slopes. This is a great way to spend a sunny day in Edinburgh, as well as being a popular spot for watching sunrise and sunset over the city.

National Museum of Scotland

The National Museum of Scotland is one of the city’s most popular attractions. This museum features a vast array of exhibits ranging from natural history to science and technology. There are also interactive displays and activities for children, making it a great family-friendly destination. The museum is free to enter and boasts an impressive collection of artifacts dating back hundreds of years.

Royal Botanic Garden

The Royal Botanic Garden is one of the world’s oldest botanical gardens and is home to a vast array of plants from around the world. Visitors can explore its many gardens and glasshouses while learning more about plants and their uses. There are also regular events throughout the year such as concerts and workshops, making this an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll or a fun day out with friends or family.

The Royal Mile

The Royal Mile is one of Edinburgh’s most famous streets and is home to some of its oldest buildings. This cobbled street runs from Edinburgh Castle all the way down to Holyrood Palace, making it ideal for a day of sightseeing or souvenir shopping. Along the way you can explore historic churches, pubs and other attractions such as Camera Obscura and World of Illusions.

Edinburgh Sightseeing Bus Tour

For those who want to take in all that Edinburgh has to offer but don’t have time for lengthy walks, why not take an open-top bus tour? The Edinburgh Sightseeing Bus Tour takes you around all of the major attractions in the city in just one hour. You can hop on and off at any point during your journey, allowing you to explore areas in more detail if you wish. This is great for tourists who want to get an overview of what Edinburgh has to offer without having to traverse its winding streets on foot.

Popular Tours in Edinburgh

In addition to all the great things to see and do in Edinburgh, there are also some fantastic tours available which can add an extra layer of enjoyment to your stay in the city. Here are two popular tours which you should consider when planning your trip:

Old Town Walking Tour

The Old Town Walking Tour takes visitors on a journey through some of Edinburgh’s most historic sites. Led by a local guide, this two-hour tour takes you through cobbled streets lined with old buildings and churches, giving you an insight into life in this ancient city. You will also learn about its many myths, legends and fascinating stories from times gone by.

Book an Old Town Walking Tour to experience one of Edinburgh’s most popular attractions.

Ghost Tour of Edinburgh

For those who are feeling brave enough, why not take a spooky Ghost Tour of Edinburgh? Led by a costumed guide, this tour takes visitors through some of the spookiest parts of town with tales of hauntings and paranormal activity. You will visit some of Edinburgh’s oldest graveyards and learn about its mysterious past along the way.

Book a Ghost Tour if you fancy experiencing a different side to Edinburgh’s history!

Conclusion

Edinburgh is one of Europe’s most beautiful cities with plenty to see and do for tourists visiting for the first time. From exploring its iconic castle to taking in a show at one of its many theatres or joining a walking tour, there are plenty of exciting things that visitors can enjoy while exploring this historic city. With its rich history, enchanting architecture and vibrant culture, there really is something for everyone in this wonderful city!