Must See Places In Edinburgh

Edinburgh is one of the most culturally vibrant cities in the United Kingdom, and its history and culture makes it a great destination for tourists. From its iconic skyline to its cobblestone alleyways, Edinburgh is a city full of unique sights and experiences. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a cultural holiday, or a city break with friends, Edinburgh has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll cover the must-see places in Edinburgh, plus two popular tours that you won’t want to miss.

Introduction to Edinburgh

Edinburgh is the capital city of Scotland and is located in the south-east of the country. The city has been inhabited since the Iron Age and has a rich history and culture. It is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in Scotland, including Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood Palace and The Royal Mile. The city is also known for its vibrant arts scene, with countless museums, galleries, theatres and live music venues.

As of 2021, the population of Edinburgh is approximately 495,360 people, making it the second-largest city in Scotland after Glasgow. Edinburgh has been a popular tourist destination for centuries and is especially renowned for its annual festivals, such as the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and the Edinburgh International Festival. The city is also home to a number of world-famous universities, including the University of Edinburgh and Heriot-Watt University.

The city itself is divided into several distinct districts: Old Town, New Town, Leith and Southside. Each area has its own unique character and atmosphere. Old Town is full of cobbled streets and winding alleys, while New Town is renowned for its Georgian architecture and grand squares. Leith is Edinburgh’s port area and is home to many seafood restaurants and bars. Southside is the most residential area of the city, but it also has some great attractions, such as Arthur’s Seat and the Royal Observatory.

Edinburgh has become increasingly popular with tourists over the years, and it’s easy to see why. The city boasts a wonderful mix of history, culture and modern amenities. With its bustling city centre, vibrant nightlife and stunning architecture, Edinburgh is sure to be a memorable holiday destination.

Must-See Sights in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is full of unique sights and attractions that you won’t want to miss. Here are some of the must-see places in Edinburgh:

Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle is one of the most iconic landmarks in Scotland and is certainly one of the most popular tourist attractions in Edinburgh. Founded in the 12th century, Edinburgh Castle is perched atop an extinct volcano and offers spectacular views of the city below. The castle is home to many historical artifacts, including the Stone of Destiny and the Honours of Scotland, as well as a number of military museums. The castle also hosts a number of events throughout the year, including the Military Tattoo and concerts by international acts.

Holyrood Palace

Holyrood Palace is an official residence of The British Monarch and is located at the end of The Royal Mile in Edinburgh. Built in 1671, the palace was once home to Mary Queen of Scots and today it still serves as a working palace, hosting official receptions and ceremonies throughout the year. The palace also houses a number of state apartments, which can be explored by visitors.

The Royal Mile

The Royal Mile is one of the most famous streets in Edinburgh and runs from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace. The street is lined with historic buildings and attractions, including St Giles Cathedral and The Scotch Whisky Experience. The street is also known for its vibrant atmosphere, with street performers and vendors selling souvenirs and traditional Scottish food.

Arthur’s Seat

Arthur’s Seat is an extinct volcano located just outside Edinburgh’s city centre. The peak offers stunning views of the city below and is a popular spot for hiking and nature walks. Arthur’s Seat is also home to several ancient monuments, including St Anthony’s Chapel and St Margaret’s Cave.

Calton Hill

Calton Hill is a hill located just east of Princes Street Gardens in Edinburgh. The hill offers spectacular views of the city centre and is home to several monuments, including the Nelson Monument and the National Monument. Calton Hill also hosts a number of events throughout the year, including concerts and fireworks displays.

Royal Botanic Garden

The Royal Botanic Garden is located just south of Edinburgh’s city centre and is one of the oldest botanic gardens in Britain. The garden covers 70 acres of land and is home to thousands of species of plants from around the world. There are several walking trails through the gardens, as well as a cafe and gift shop.

Popular Tours in Edinburgh

Edinburgh has several popular tours that will help you explore the city in more detail. Here are two popular tours that you won’t want to miss:

Edinburgh Castle Tour

The Edinburgh Castle Tour will take you on a journey through centuries of history as you explore one of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks. On this tour, you will learn about the castle’s long history, discover hidden secrets, explore its grand hallways and admire its stunning views. You’ll also learn about some of its more famous residents, including Mary Queen of Scots and William Wallace. This tour will provide you with an in-depth look into the history of Edinburgh Castle. You can book an Edinburgh Castle Tour online for your convenience.

Old Town Walking Tour

The Old Town Walking Tour will take you on a journey through some of Edinburgh’s most historic streets as you explore its winding alleys and cobbled lanes. On this tour, you will learn about the city’s fascinating history, admire its grand architecture and take in its unique sights. You’ll also discover some hidden gems along the way, such as The Real Mary King’s Close or Greyfriars Bobby statue. This tour will provide you with an in-depth look into the history of Old Town Edinburgh. You can book an Old Town Walking Tour online for your convenience.

Conclusion

Edinburgh has something for everyone; from its iconic skyline to its cobblestone alleyways, this vibrant city has plenty to offer visitors from around the world. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a cultural holiday, be sure to check out some of these must-see places in Edinburgh: Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood Palace, The Royal Mile, Arthur’s Seat, Calton Hill and the Royal Botanic Garden. And don’t forget to book yourself one (or two!) popular tours to explore further – we highly recommend both the Edinburgh Castle Tour and Old Town Walking Tour for your convenience!