Must See In Edinburgh Scotland

Edinburgh is Scotland’s vibrant capital city and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United Kingdom. Located on the east coast of Scotland, the city has a rich history dating back to the 12th century. With its cobbled streets, vibrant nightlife, and stunning architecture, Edinburgh is a must-see for anyone looking for a unique city experience. From its ancient castles and cathedrals to its iconic monuments and lively festivals, here’s everything you need to know about Edinburgh.

History and Geography

Edinburgh is the second-largest city in Scotland after Glasgow and has a population of just over 500,000 people. It is located on the banks of the River Forth on the east coast of Scotland, just 25 miles from the English border. The city has been inhabited since at least the 2nd century AD, with archaeological evidence suggesting that it was a major settlement during the Iron Age. In the 12th century, King David I of Scotland established Edinburgh as a royal burgh, and it rapidly grew into an important port city. The city was the birthplace of the Scottish Enlightenment in the 18th century, and by the 19th century it had become a major cultural centre with a thriving music and theatre scene.

What to See and Do

Edinburgh is home to some of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks and attractions, making it a popular destination for tourists. The city is filled with historic sites and museums, as well as an abundance of pubs and restaurants. Here are some of the must-see attractions in Edinburgh:

Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, situated atop an extinct volcano. The castle dates back to the 12th century and is home to the Honours of Scotland, including the Stone of Destiny, which was used in the coronation ceremonies of Scottish kings and queens. Visitors can explore the castle’s many rooms and grounds, including St Margaret’s Chapel, which is believed to be the oldest building in Edinburgh.

The Royal Mile

The Royal Mile is a cobbled street that runs from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Along its length, visitors will find many historic buildings, including St. Giles’ Cathedral, The Real Mary King’s Close, and The Scottish Parliament. The street is also lined with shops selling souvenirs, traditional Scottish foods, and local crafts.

Arthur’s Seat

Arthur’s Seat is an extinct volcano that sits atop a hill in Holyrood Park. It offers stunning views of the city and its surroundings. Visitors can hike up to the summit or take a leisurely stroll through the park’s many meadows and woodlands.

Calton Hill

Calton Hill is an iconic viewpoint in Edinburgh that offers spectacular views over the city and its surroundings. Atop the hill sits several monuments, including Nelson’s Monument, dedicated to Admiral Horatio Nelson who defeated Napoleon’s forces at Trafalgar in 1805.

The National Museum of Scotland

The National Museum of Scotland is one of Edinburgh’s most visited attractions. The museum houses a vast collection of artifacts from around the world, including artifacts from Ancient Egypt, Greece, Rome, and China. There are also interactive displays about science and technology, as well as exhibits about Scotland’s history and culture.

Popular Tours in Edinburgh

When visiting Edinburgh, there are plenty of tours available to explore the city’s rich history and attractions. Here are two popular tours that visitors may want to consider:

Edinburgh Castle Tour

The Edinburgh Castle Tour offers an in-depth exploration of one of Edinburgh’s most iconic landmarks. The tour begins at the castle gates, where visitors will learn about its 1,000-year history before exploring its many chambers and rooms. Visitors will also get to see St Margaret’s Chapel and the Honours of Scotland in all their glory. This tour provides a comprehensive look at one of Scotland’s most important historical sites and can be booked here.

Old Town Ghost Tour

The Old Town Ghost Tour takes visitors on a spooky journey through Edinburgh’s dark past. The tour visits some of Edinburgh’s oldest streets and tells tales of hauntings, murders, executions, and other chilling stories. Visitors will learn about Edinburgh’s rich history as they wander through some of its oldest neighbourhoods. This tour provides an intriguing look at Edinburgh’s darker side and can be booked here.

Festivals and Events

Edinburgh hosts some of the world’s best festivals and events throughout the year. These include the world-famous Edinburgh Fringe Festival in August, which is considered one of the biggest arts festivals in the world. Other popular events include Hogmanay (New Year), The Beltane Fire Festival (May), and The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo (August).

Conclusion

Edinburgh is one of Scotland’s most beautiful cities and a must-see for any visitor to the country. It has a rich history, iconic monuments and attractions, lively festivals and events, and plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy. From exploring its ancient castles and cathedrals to taking a ghost tour through its old town streets, there is something for everyone in Edinburgh.