A Guide to Edinburgh: Discover the Best Places to See

Edinburgh is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, and its many attractions draw visitors from all over the world. From its breathtaking architecture to its vibrant culture and history, Edinburgh is a destination that you won’t soon forget. In this guide, we’ll explore the best places to visit in Edinburgh, including its top attractions, popular tours, and more. Read on to learn more about this captivating city and everything it has to offer.

History of Edinburgh

The city of Edinburgh was founded as a royal burgh in the 11th century by King David I. Since then, it has grown into one of Scotland’s most important cultural centers. It is home to the Royal Mile—a cobbled stretch of streets connecting Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse—and numerous other historic sites.

Edinburgh is home to a variety of cultural institutions and popular attractions, including the National Museum of Scotland, the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, and the Scottish National Gallery. It is also a popular destination for festivals, including the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, which is one of the largest arts festivals in the world.

Places to Visit in Edinburgh

Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Located on top of an extinct volcano, the castle has been used as a fortress since the 12th century. It houses numerous historical artifacts, including the Honours of Scotland—the oldest set of crown jewels in the United Kingdom—and the Stone of Destiny, which was used in the coronation of Scottish monarchs from 1296 to 1651. Today, visitors can explore the castle grounds, see the Royal Apartments, and visit the Military Prison and National War Museum.

National Museum of Scotland

The National Museum of Scotland is one of Edinburgh’s most popular attractions. Located in Chambers Street, it is home to collections spanning natural history, world cultures, science and technology, and art. Highlights include the Ancient Egypt collection, which features mummies, sculptures, and jewelry, and the Art & Design collection, which includes works by renowned Scottish artists such as Charles Rennie Mackintosh.

Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is a beautiful oasis in the heart of Edinburgh. Established in 1670, it comprises over 70 acres of stunning grounds, including a rock garden and an arboretum. Visitors can explore the gardens and greenhouses, which house thousands of plants from across the world. Throughout the year, there are various events and exhibitions taking place in the gardens, such as garden walks and art exhibitions.

Scottish National Gallery

The Scottish National Gallery is one of the most visited art galleries in Scotland. Located in the centre of Edinburgh, it is home to a large collection of European art from the Renaissance to the 20th century, including works by Rembrandt, Monet and Van Gogh. In addition to its permanent collections, it also hosts temporary exhibitions and events throughout the year.

Arthur’s Seat

Arthur’s Seat is an extinct volcano located on the outskirts of Edinburgh. It offers stunning views of the city and is a popular spot for hikers and nature lovers. The summit can be reached by a steep path that winds through the park—a journey that takes around an hour and a half. From the top of Arthur’s Seat, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Edinburgh’s skyline and beyond.

Holyrood Palace

Holyrood Palace is a royal residence located at the end of the Royal Mile in Edinburgh. It has been a royal residence since 1671 and is still used by members of the royal family today. Visitors can explore the palace grounds and gardens, as well as The Great Gallery—a collection of portraits depicting historical figures from Scotland’s past.

Popular Tours in Edinburgh

Edinburgh City Sightseeing Tour

Explore Edinburgh with a 2-hour city sightseeing tour! This tour offers visitors a comprehensive overview of all that Edinburgh has to offer—from its cobbled streets to its stunning architecture. Highlights include Calton Hill, Princes Street Gardens, The Royal Mile and more. On this tour, you’ll also learn about Edinburgh’s fascinating history from your knowledgeable local guide. Book a City Sightseeing Tour here.

Edinburgh Ghost Tour

Take a spooky journey through time with an Edinburgh Ghost Tour! On this 2-hour walking tour, you’ll explore some of Edinburgh’s most haunted locations with your professional guide. Discover tales of murder and mystery at various locations around the city—including Greyfriars Kirkyard—and learn about Edinburgh’s dark history as you go. Book a Ghost Tour here.

Edinburgh Whisky Tasting Tour

Experience Scotland’s national drink with an Edinburgh Whisky Tasting Tour! On this 3-hour tour, you’ll visit some of Edinburgh’s most famous distilleries—including The Scotch Whisky Experience—and sample various types of whisky. Learn about whisky production from your knowledgeable guide as you go, and discover some lesser-known distilleries along the way. Book a Whisky Tasting Tour here.

Conclusion

As you can see, Edinburgh is a captivating city with many attractions for visitors to explore. From its historic sites to its vibrant culture, there’s something for everyone in this enchanting city. Whether you’re looking for a sightseeing tour or a whisky tasting experience, there are plenty of activities to choose from in Edinburgh. So why not make your next trip to Scotland a memorable one by visiting this beautiful city? We hope this guide has given you an idea of what Edinburgh has to offer—now it’s time to start planning your trip!