Explore Edinburgh: The Best Places To Visit In Scotland’s Capital City

Edinburgh is a city like no other. Straddling the Firth of Forth and surrounded by undulating hills and castles, the Scottish capital is a city of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the cobbled old town to the bustling city centre, Edinburgh has something for everyone. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local, this guide to the best places to visit in Edinburgh will help you make the most of your time in Scotland’s capital.

History of Edinburgh

Edinburgh has a long and rich history stretching back to the late Bronze Age. Archaeological evidence suggests that people have been living in the area since around 2,500 years ago. Over the centuries, Edinburgh has been transformed by periods of occupation and conquest, as well as wars, famine, and disease. The city has been a royal seat since the 12th century and it was during this time that many of its most iconic monuments were built.

In the 19th century, Edinburgh was transformed into a modern city, with the development of the New Town and an influx of new residents from all over the UK. The 19th century also saw Edinburgh emerge as an important cultural centre, with a flourishing literary scene and some of Scotland’s most renowned writers. The city has since become a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world.

Things To Do In Edinburgh

From its vibrant festivals to its world-class museums, Edinburgh is bursting with things to do and places to explore. Here are just some of the highlights:

Edinburgh Castle

No visit to Edinburgh is complete without a visit to its iconic castle. Sitting atop an extinct volcano, the castle has been an important landmark for centuries and is now one of Scotland’s most popular tourist attractions. Home to many famous residents over the years, including Mary Queen of Scots, the castle is a must-see for any visitor to Edinburgh. The castle offers a range of tours, including audio tours and guided tours, as well as a range of exhibitions and events throughout the year.

The Royal Mile

The Royal Mile is one of Edinburgh’s most iconic streets. Stretching from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace, it is home to some of the city’s oldest buildings as well as many shops, restaurants, and bars. The street is also lined with monuments and statues dedicated to some of Scotland’s most famous figures. The Royal Mile is a great place to explore on foot and soak up the atmosphere of this ancient city.

Museums and Galleries

Edinburgh is home to some of Scotland’s finest museums and galleries. Highlights include the National Museum of Scotland, which houses an impressive collection of artifacts from all over the world; the Scottish National Gallery, which showcases artwork from some of the world’s greatest painters; and the National Portrait Gallery of Scotland, which displays portraits of famous Scots from throughout history.

Festivals

Edinburgh is renowned for its vibrant festival scene. The city plays host to a number of annual events throughout the year, including the world-famous Edinburgh Festival Fringe in August, which is one of the largest arts festivals in the world. Other highlights include the Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival in July, the Edinburgh International Book Festival in August, and Hogmanay in December.

Shopping

From designer boutiques to traditional markets, Edinburgh offers a range of shopping experiences for all tastes and budgets. The main shopping area is centred around Princes Street and George Street; here you will find high street chains as well as independent stores selling everything from fashion to antiques. For those looking for something unique, head to the atmospheric Grassmarket or the bustling Cowgate where you will find an array of independent shops and stalls.

Tours in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is home to many fantastic tours that will help you make the most of your time in the city. From private guided tours to hop-on hop-off buses, there’s something for everyone. Here we take a look at two popular tours:

Edinburgh Ghost Tour

Explore the darkest side of Edinburgh with this thrilling ghost tour. Led by experienced guides and historians, you’ll hear tales of hauntings and supernatural occurrences as you explore some of the city’s most haunted locations. You’ll visit sites such as Greyfriars Kirkyard – one of Scotland’s most haunted cemeteries – as well as other spooky locations around the Old Town. Learn about some of Scotland’s most terrifying tales and uncover some chilling secrets as you explore Edinburgh’s ghostly past. Book an Edinburgh Ghost Tour here.

Edinburgh Castle Tour

Discover one of Europe’s most iconic castles with this guided tour of Edinburgh Castle. Explore its grand halls, courtyards, battlements, and bastions as you learn about its fascinating history from your knowledgeable guide. You’ll also have the chance to see some of its impressive artworks, such as the Scottish Crown Jewels, as well as take in stunning views over Edinburgh from atop its walls. This tour is perfect for anyone wanting to experience one of Scotland’s most important monuments for themselves. Book an Edinburgh Castle Tour here.

Conclusion

From its stunning architecture to its vibrant culture, Edinburgh is a city that has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for culture or nightlife, history or adventure, this beautiful city has it all – and with so much to see and do it can be hard to know where to start! We hope that our guide to some of the best places to visit in Edinburgh has helped you plan your trip to Scotland’s capital; now all that’s left to do is book your tickets and get exploring!