Table of Contents
About
Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland, is located near the southern shore of Firth of Forth in the central-eastern part of Scotland. Scottish people also call the city Edina, another eye of Britain, Auld Reekie, and Athens of North.
Despite many cities in Europe, Edinburgh is considered one of the most fantastic cities due to its spectacular geology and diverse landscapes. All sides of its surroundings offer the view of green hills, red cliffs, blue sea, and historical buildings.
Edinburgh consists of amazing architecture, both from the medieval and the new era, that calls us to explore its narrow streets, stairs, passageways, and churchyards on foot.
The popular attractions and sightseeings of Edinburgh have drawn countless visitors in the whole country of Scotland and the United Kingdom. Moreover, visitors adore its gothic-style buildings, entertaining festivals, arts, and more in the city.
History and Culture
Edinburgh city is known for its dynamic history and culture. The picturesque rocks, beautiful buildings, stone decors, and more make it one of the most enjoyable cities in Europe. Its medieval and classic architecture illustrates the evolution of the city with the passage of time.
Until the 18th century, the city consisted of only the old town. Later, James Craig designed the new town that is now the center of Enlightenment.
Edinburgh’s old town structures, charming relics of the medieval era, the Georgian line terraces, festivals, architectures, etc. make this city worth a visit. Its old town has been a UNESCO world heritage site since 1995. It includes the former villages and towns that depict the original settlements of the 19th and 20th centuries.
Being a Christian city, Edinburgh celebrates several festivals, including Easter, Christmas, and their traditional festival of Halloween. The city even celebrates the Hebridean Celtic Festival and the Scottish Arts Council amidst its wheat, meat, and fish cuisine.
Edinburgh is also known as a city of literature, as it is the first city with the certification for the UNESCO city of literature. In the 18th century, it was home to various scientists and eminent thinkers, including James Watt, David Hume, and many more. The national library of Scotland, a library of poetry, the museum of writers, the center of storytelling, and more are the sights representing it as a literature city.
Things To Do in Edinburgh
The most fascinating city in Europe, Edinburgh offers countless attractions & sightseeing to visit. Its variety of sights make it a perfect travel destination for families as well as young backpackers. As Edinburgh is a touristic place with visitors from all over the world, people on solo trips will find it easy to meet new people and companions.
Its old town is the place where most of the Edinburgh attractions can be found, including the Royal Mile and the Edinburgh Castle.
The Edinburgh Castle
In the British Travel Awards, Edinburgh Castle got the highest vote for the UK Heritage Attraction, making it the must-see attraction in your vacation to Edinburgh. It is the most recognizable castle, not only in Edinburgh but in Scotland too, as several well-known people lived here, including the Queen of Scots, Mary.
It sits on the top of a volcanic peak, dominating the skyline with its mesmerizing and breathtaking glimpse. In the Edinburgh Castle, there are some essential Scottish artifacts, including the Honours of Scotland and the Stone of Destiny. This is the oldest crown jewel in the United Kingdom as well as the symbol of Scottish sovereignty.
Exploring the Castle is easy with a guided tour or by an audio guide that is available in eight different languages. The main excitement here among people is for listening to the firing of the One O’Clock gun. It is fired daily, except on Sundays, at around 1 pm. Years ago, the ships used to set their time clocks according to this shot, as it was the timekeeping device for ships. Meanwhile today, it is fired to keep the tradition and the show of the city alive.
Arthur’s Seat
One of the most iconic places, Arthur’s Seat, is an extinct volcano rising out of the grasslands in Holyrood Park. It is the central peak of the hills in Edinburgh and sits 251 meters above the sea level providing an astonishing 360-degree panoramic view of Lothians and the Edinburgh city.
The place offers the church of the 15th century of St. Anthony, birdlife, and the activity to feed ducks/swans at the Duddingston Canal, amidst its easy hiking trail (keyword).
From the east, the pathway is easier due to rock hazards, and hiking in other areas is restricted. It will take around 30 minutes to hike up the place. On windy days don’t forget to take a coat to avoid stormy weather. The easiest way to climb up the hill is by following the paths and trails available. These trails are both buggy and wheelchair accessible. In between the path, visitors can see the church of St. Margaret and other small sights.
Calton Hill
Calton Hill is yet another must-visit attraction in Edinburgh. It is a hill that administers the breathtaking scenic views of the city from its top. The best time to visit the place is early in the morning and in the evening to enjoy the sunrise and sunset alongside the astounding surroundings.
The most preferable thing to do here is to walk around, experiencing the peace and soothing environment of the city. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is also home to the gathering of several historic monuments, including the National Monument, inspired by Parthenon, a former temple in Athens. During new year’s eve, the climb to the Calton Hill offers a thrilling and lovely experience with the displays of fireworks above the castle. Apart from this, many festivals are also celebrated here, including the well-known Celtic Beltane Festival in April.
The Scott Monument
Edinburgh’s Scott Monument is a place built in the year 1832. It was built to commemorate the death of the best writer of Scotland, Sir Walter Scott. This place is located at the eastern end of the Princes Street Gardens.
This monument is considered the greatest memorial of a writer across the world. It stands at the height of 200 feet with the decor of the characters from his novels.
You can climb 287 steps to the top of the monument to experience an astonishing view of the city. Inside it, you can explore the museum room that holds the life and work of Scott. From the top of the monument, you will find a statue of the writer, Scott with his dog.
Princes Streets and Gardens
Princes Streets is the main attraction of Edinburgh that extends to a mile lined with colorful and bright gardens, elegant shops, and the oldest department stores like the Jenners of Edinburgh.
It is the street that is famous for shopping in the Princes Mall amidst the beautiful fountains and cafes. There you will find restaurants serving you fast food as well as gourmet bistros. Here, you can explore the New Register House that is the home of the Scottish National Archives. Some other historic landmarks and attractions on this street include the David Livingstone Memorial, a memorial to the African explorer, and the missionary. Additionally, visitors can find an amazing and oldest floral clock in the world, which was built in 1903. This is why it is a place that offers everything from food and historic landmarks to the astonishing views of Edinburgh Castle.
Edinburgh Dungeon
This is another adventurous and thrilling place to visit in Edinburgh, the Edinburgh Dungeon. It is located a 2-minute walk from the Waverley station providing information about the gruesome history of Scotland, including the cannibals, plagues, murders, and the witches.
It is the top-rated attraction of Edinburgh that with the use of special effects and tactics, provides a thrilling experience to visitors. Visitors can explore the history by exploring the shows like the Witch Hunt, the drop ride, and the Green Lady.
It also provides the live actors portraying the historic scenario and the underground rides for a deep understanding of the darker history. The Dungeon hosts late events that are for visitors above the age of 8 years.
Edinburgh Zoo
Those who are traveling with their kids should put the Edinburgh zoo on their travel itinerary. It is set on 82 acres of land at the edge of Edinburgh and is the top attraction for family visits, as it offers diverse creatures around the world.
On top of this, it is the only UK zoo park that incorporates the housing of pandas and koalas and is the first zoo to breed penguins. There are a variety of animals, including chimps, wallabies, amphibians, and insects in a particular area known as Wee Beasties. Visitors can even participate in various events that offer day-to-day caring of animals. Another activity is Animal Antics, which provides amazing insight into the care and training of several species. The zoo offers a garden and casual food arenas.
How to get to Edinburgh
There are several ways to get to Edinburgh.
By Air – Edinburgh receives flights from the US, Europe, UK, and the Middle East. If there are no direct flights available, visitors can prefer connecting flights from Dublin or London.
By Train – Edinburgh Waverley railway station is the main active railway station in Edinburgh. Visitors can travel to Edinburgh via the train from London or other cities in the UK. Visitors can also go for the Euro Tunnel service from Europe.
By Bus – From the UK, there are daily coach connections available to Edinburgh. Busses are running from 04.45 am – 00.45, except on Sundays and public holidays.