Edinburgh: A City of Culture and History

Edinburgh, the UK's picturesque capital, is perched atop rocky hills and dominated by the imposing Edinburgh Castle. Renowned for its cultural festivals, including the Edinburgh International Book Festival and the Edinburgh Fringe, the city is a hub for the arts and entertainment.

See also: Where to Stay in Edinburgh

Edinburgh's contrasting New Town and Old Town offer a blend of stately Georgian terraces and medieval lanes. Don't miss the historic Grassmarket area, once a medieval market square, and the White Hart Inn, a haunt of poet Robbie Burns.

Top Attractions in Edinburgh

1. Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle, Britain's most iconic fortress, offers a glimpse into the nation's history with its Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny, and the One O'clock Salute. Consider a Skip the Line ticket to bypass the queues.

Official site: www.edinburghcastle.scot

2. Palace of Holyroodhouse and Holyrood Abbey

The Queen's official residence in Edinburgh, Holyrood Palace, is steeped in royal history. Visitors can explore the State Apartments and the Historic Apartments of Mary Queen of Scots when the Queen is not in residence.

3. Stroll the Royal Mile

The Royal Mile connects Edinburgh Castle with Holyrood Palace, lined with historic buildings, shops, and attractions like the People's Story Museum and The Writer's Museum.

4. Climb to Arthur's Seat and the Salisbury Crags

Arthur's Seat offers panoramic views of Edinburgh, while the Salisbury Crags provide dramatic cliffside scenery within Holyrood Park.

5. Set Sail for Royal Yacht Britannia

The Royal Yacht Britannia, once the floating residence of the Royal Family, is now a museum at Edinburgh's port area, Leith.

Official site: www.royalyachtbritannia.co.uk

6. National Museum of Scotland

The National Museum of Scotland houses a vast collection of artifacts, including Dolly the sheep and ancient Egyptian treasures.

Official site: www.nms.ac.uk

7. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is a 70-acre oasis with a rich collection of plants and a herbarium.

Official site: www.rbge.org.uk

8. Princes Street and Gardens

Princes Street is Edinburgh's main shopping boulevard, flanked by beautiful gardens and historic monuments like the Sir Walter Scott Monument.

9. Camera Obscura & World of Illusions

Camera Obscura & World of Illusions offers a mix of historical city views and interactive optical experiences.

Official site: www.camera-obscura.co.uk/

10. Scottish National Gallery & Portrait Gallery

The Scottish National Gallery and Portrait Gallery display Scotland's finest art, from Renaissance to modern pieces.

Official site: www.nationalgalleries.org/