Exploring Edinburgh: What Is There To Do and Where to Go?

Edinburgh, Scotland can be seen as one of the most beautiful cities of the United Kingdom. Situated amidst the rolling hills of the Scottish countryside, it is the perfect destination for travellers looking for a bit of old world charm and adventure. Whether you are an avid history enthusiast, an eager explorer, or an adventure seeker, Edinburgh has something for everyone.

From ancient attractions to modern wonders, Edinburgh has a wealth of activities for visitors of all ages and interests. From its awe-inspiring architecture to its lively pubs, you will find plenty to keep yourself entertained in Edinburgh – even if you’re only there for a weekend! But what is there to do in this historic Scottish city and what should you see while you’re there? Here’s a guide to help you make the most of your time in Edinburgh.

Outdoor Adventures in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is blessed with an abundance of green spaces, allowing outdoor adventurers to explore its surroundings freely. Whether by foot, bike or kayak, you can take in the beautiful countryside views while exploring all that Edinburgh has to offer.

For a classic outdoor experience, hike up Arthur’s Seat, a dormant volcano located in Holyrood Park, for breathtaking views and panoramas of the city below. If you’d prefer to start from a more central point, the National Gallery of Scotland houses a wonderful rooftop terrace offering unparalleled views of Edinburgh Castle.

If you’re looking for more vigorous outdoor activities, you can try your hand at rock-climbing or caving in areas surrounding the city, which provide spectacular views from the heights of the surrounding hills. You can also take a boat ride on some of Scotland’s iconic lochs for great sightseeing and plenty of opportunities to appreciate wildlife and aquatic activities such as fishing or kayaking.

And if you’re interested in adventure sports, why not take part in an exhilarating day of white-water rafting on the River Forth? White-water rafting experiences in Edinburgh provide a great opportunity to study local nature and culture while you experience it first-hand.

Architecture and History in Edinburgh

Edinburgh has its fair share of awe-inspiring architecture, much of which dates back centuries. From historical landmarks such as Edinburgh Castle and Greyfriars Kirk to modern attractions such as Dynamic Earth, you can explore different eras of architecture throughout this beautiful city.

Edinburgh Castle, located atop an extinct volcano in the heart of the city, is the area’s most popular attraction. This iconic structure includes two museums within its walls, as well as a lively esplanade that hosts shows and festivities throughout the year. If you’re looking to learn more about medieval life in Scotland, have a look around the Royal Mile, which is home to many traditional shops and restaurants. And finally, if you want to explore the city’s newer discoveries, visit Dynamic Earth – an interactive science centre featuring exhibitions that teach about Earth’s past and future.

Edinburgh Culture and Cuisine

No trip to Edinburgh would be complete without visiting its vast array of cultural attractions. From live music venues such as the city’s Usher Hall to theatres like the famous Edinburgh Playhouse, you can find entertainment around every corner.
The city is also home to a variety of interesting nightclubs and bars, ranging from traditional watering holes such as The Flying Colours pub to trendy nightclubs like Cabaret Voltaire. Enjoy a meal or two at some of Edinburgh’s most notable restaurants and cafes, offering everything from Scottish staples such as haggis to international cuisine like Thai and Indian dishes.

If you’re looking to sample some true Scottish culture while in Edinburgh, why not join a pub crawl? A pub crawl will take you through some of the city’s most iconic drinking hotspots and introduce you to the culture that tourists rarely get to experience. Why not book an Edinburgh Pub Crawl with Viator, where you can tour some of Edinburgh’s best local pubs with a friendly guide?

Shopping In Edinburgh

For anyone looking to add something more tangible to their holiday memories, Edinburgh is home to some amazing shopping areas that are sure to leave everyone satisfied. From traditional shops like The Royal Mile Market with its homemade crafts and souvenirs to shopping malls such as The Gyle Centre and Princes Street Gardens, you can find almost anything your heart desires while strolling near some of your favourite landmarks.

The shopping district in Old Town offers a wide variety of clothes shops selling everything from vintage clothing pieces to luxury designer labels. If it’s high street fashion that catches your eye, then Princes Street is where you should head – packed with high street fashion stores including Gap and Zara, trading alongside vintage boutiques such as Beyond Retro.

As far as souvenirs go, spice up your holiday mementos by visiting local antique shops along the Royal Mile where you can find items like vintage postcards dating back many decades ago or quirky keepsakes like Kilt pins for your loved ones back home.

Final Thoughts

Edinburgh is one of those rare places that offers something unique for everyone – from outdoor adventurers to cultural connoisseurs – whether you are looking for a quick getaway or an extended stay. There’s so much to explore when it comes to this charming Scottish city – from history and nature walks to delicious food experiences and even exciting activities such as white-water rafting. What’s more is that it has plenty of options for shopping enthusiasts too – so why not take advantage of everything this magical city has to offer? Why not book an Edinburgh Pub Crawl with Viator; join a local guide on this pub crawl experience through Edinburgh’s most iconic pubs and see why locals love this city so much?