Things to See in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a city steeped in history, with a culture and atmosphere that has been shaped by the city’s past. The capital of Scotland is known as the “Athens of the North” and has been a major city since the Middle Ages. Edinburgh is home to a variety of attractions, from ancient monuments and historic buildings to modern architecture, art galleries, and bustling markets. With its winding streets, cobbled alleys, and stunning scenery, Edinburgh is a city of wonders that will captivate and enthrall visitors from all over the world.

A Brief History of Edinburgh

Edinburgh has a rich and varied history dating back to the 12th century. The city was founded in the early Middle Ages by King David I and has been the capital of Scotland since the 15th century. Since then, Edinburgh has been an important political and economic center in the UK and Europe, and it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995.

The city’s history is evident everywhere you look, with ancient monuments, historic buildings, and stunning architecture. Edinburgh is also home to a thriving cultural scene, with many galleries and museums, as well as a vibrant music and nightlife scene.

Famous Sites in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is home to some of the most iconic sites in Europe. The most famous of these are the iconic Edinburgh Castle, which dates back to the 12th century and is perched atop an extinct volcano; the Royal Mile, which runs between the castle and Holyrood Palace; and the Scott Monument, a tribute to Scottish author Sir Walter Scott.

The Old Town of Edinburgh is also a popular destination for tourists, with its narrow cobbled streets and winding lanes lined with shops and pubs. Other popular attractions include the National Museum of Scotland, the Scottish National Gallery, and Princes Street Gardens.

What to Do in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is an incredibly vibrant city with plenty of things for visitors to do. Whether you’re looking for culture, entertainment, or just a bit of sightseeing, there’s something for everyone in Edinburgh.

The city’s world-famous festivals are a great way to experience the culture of Edinburgh. The biggest and most famous of these are the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, which takes place every August, and the Hogmanay Festival, which takes place on December 31st each year.

For those looking for a more relaxed experience in Edinburgh, there are plenty of parks and green spaces to explore. Arthur’s Seat is one of the most popular spots in the city, offering stunning views of the cityscape. The Royal Botanic Garden is also worth a visit, where visitors can explore the beautiful gardens, greenhouses, and historic buildings.

When it comes to entertainment, Edinburgh offers plenty of options for visitors. From traditional pubs to modern clubs and bars, there’s something for everyone in this cosmopolitan city. The Theatre Royal and the Playhouse are two of the most popular venues for live entertainment in Edinburgh.

A Walking Tour of Edinburgh

One of the best ways to experience the culture of Edinburgh is through a guided walking tour of the city. On a walking tour, visitors can discover some of the most iconic sights in Edinburgh, such as Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, Princes Street Gardens, and much more.

The tour usually begins at the iconic Edinburgh Castle, which has been a royal fortress since the 12th century. From here, visitors can explore the castle grounds, as well as its many attractions such as St Margaret’s Chapel and the Great Hall. From here, visitors can then explore the Royal Mile, which is lined with shops and pubs, as well as St Giles Cathedral and other historic sites.

The tour then takes visitors down Princes Street Gardens to visit attractions such as the National Museum of Scotland and St John’s Church. From here, visitors can explore other attractions such as Calton Hill or take a stroll along The Meadows park. Finally, visitors can end their tour at Arthur’s Seat for some stunning views of the cityscape.

Book an Edinburgh Castle Tour

For those looking to explore more of Edinburgh’s history, a guided tour of Edinburgh Castle is an absolute must-do. On an Edinburgh Castle tour, visitors can explore the castle grounds as they learn more about its history from their guide. The tour includes visits to attractions such as St Margaret’s Chapel and Great Hall, as well as access to other parts of the fortress that are not usually open to the public. Visitors can book an Edinburgh Castle tour through Viator for an informative and immersive experience of this iconic landmark.

Book a Royal Yacht Britannia Tour

Those looking for something a little different can book a Royal Yacht Britannia tour for an unforgettable experience. This guided tour takes visitors aboard Her Majesty’s former Royal Yacht Britannia for a unique insight into life on board this iconic yacht. Visitors can explore all five decks of this luxurious yacht, including its state rooms and royal apartments. They will also learn about how this yacht was used by members of the Royal Family over the years. Visitors can book a Royal Yacht Britannia tour through GetYourGuide for an unforgettable experience aboard this impressive vessel.

Book an Edinburgh Ghost Tour

For those looking for an alternative experience in Edinburgh can book an Edinburgh Ghost Tour for an eerie experience of Scotland’s capital. On this guided tour, visitors will be taken on a journey through some of Edinburgh’s most haunted sites as they learn about the city’s spooky past. Visitors will get to explore some of Edinburgh’s most famous sites such as Greyfriar’s Kirkyard and Mary King’s Close as they hear stories about ghosts and ghouls from their guide. Visitors can book an Edinburgh Ghost Tour through Viator for an immersive experience that will stay with them long after their tour has ended.

Conclusion

Edinburgh is a city that is full of wonders for visitors from all over the world to explore and enjoy. From ancient monuments to modern-day attractions and stunning scenery to vibrant nightlife, there is something for everyone in this beautiful city. Whether you’re looking for culture, entertainment, or simply sightseeing, there’s no shortage of things to do in Edinburgh that will keep visitors entertained during their stay in this historic city.