Edinburgh is arguably the most attractive city in the whole of the UK. Even though some travellers treat Edinburgh as a stopover on their way to other nearby destinations, interestingly, this Scottish destination has a lot to offer. It may be an ancient city associated with images of rowdy pubs, a sea of tartan and grassy hills you’ve probably come across but that has not hindered the city from entertaining its visitors with numerous attractions.
However, some tourists already know that Edinburgh is a great destination and this is explained by the large number of travellers who travel here every year. Besides, Edinburgh is among the world’s top-rated tourist destinations. This is not without good reasons. The truth is, there are plenty of things to do and see around here. This is where ancient meets modernity and together they live in harmony.
If you want to have a meaningful and memorable stay during your visit to this romantic Scottish city, here is a detailed list of the best places to tour and the sightseeing opportunities available. Be sure to spare some quality time for the adventures because the choices will spoil you.
1. Edinburgh castle
You can’t travel to Edinburgh and fail to explore the Edinburgh castle. It wasn’t recently voted as the top UK Heritage Attraction in the British Travel Awards without valid reasons. This incredible castle deserves to top the list of the attractions you intent to visit during your trip here.
The Edinburgh castle is quite significant considering it houses vital Scottish artefacts including the Honours of Scotland (the oldest crown jewels in the UK) and the stone of destiny (the ancient symbol of Scottish monarchy). Ensure you take a guided tour with a castle steward or use the audio guide to explore everything there is to be explored in there.
2. The Calton Hill
Calton Hill has been a favourite spot for many visitors who come to Edinburgh. Founded in 1724, Calton Hill is among the country’s first public parks. It is located east of New Town and it supports a number of iconic monuments and buildings so much to an extent of it earning the name Athens of the North. Some of the famous structures you’ll get to see here include the Nelson monument, the Burns monument and the national monument. Other than the hill providing a panorama view of the city below, it also provides a stunning site you can take incredible photos you’ll love to see forever. Thus, ensure you have your camera or your smartphone and it’s fully charged.
3. The royal mile
The streets linking the Palace of Holyroodhouse and Edinburgh Castle is what is being referred to as the royal mile. Lined with charming churches, historic landmarks and iconic townhouses, this street makes up one of the best places to stroll at any time of the day. Be sure to reach the upper end of the royal mile where you’ll find some of the most popular attractions.
4. The palace of Holyroodhouse
The palace of Holyroodhouse, typically referred to as the Holyrood palace is the queen’s official residence in Edinburgh. It has been in the centre of Scottish history since it was built in 1678 and this doesn’t seem to change anytime soon. Known for its stunning plasterwork, tapestries and furnishings visit the palace and see it for yourself where both James II and James IV were each married as well as where James V and Charles I were each crowned.
The palace is open to the public except for the one week during summer when the queen is around. At any other time of the year, you are free to visit the palace and guided tours are available too. If you are bringing kids along, allow them to enjoy dressing on the costumes available in the family room as you sit at the café enjoying a nice cup of tea.
5. Grass market
This picturesque grass market has continued to be one of Edinburgh’s most important market squares since middle age. It is full of history; a great place to be if you want to know more about how people lived here in the early days.
6. Royal botanic garden
After a long busy day of sightseeing the various attractions, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to look for somewhere quiet to rest your feet. That place is none other than the royal botanic garden. This is a perfect place whenever you feel the need to relax and unwind. The garden covers a whole 70 acres of land and it’s highly maintained. When you get here, you are likely to forget you are in such a busy city. The serenity here is on another level. This is a perfect space when you want to take nature walks or if you’ve travelled with your significant other, enjoy some romantic moments.
In addition to its beauty and the serenity it brings to this world, the royal botanic garden is also popular for its rhododendron flowers. No wonder Edinburgh city continues to be an important centre for study since the late 19th century. So, when you visit this awesome garden, take a stroll and see these exotic plants as well as the contemporary art gallery in the adjacent Inverleith House. And by the way, it doesn’t matter the time of the year you choose to visit this garden, there is always something unique in bloom. The only thing you shouldn’t fail to carry is your camera. The serene is photogenic more than you can imagine.
7. Bars and pubs
Edinburgh is one destination you can tour just to experience what you’ve lacked in your local pubs and bars; good pub food, whisky and pint. Meaning, if you love nightlife when travelling, Edinburgh won’t disappoint you. In any case, it will give you an experience hard to forget.
8. Arthur seat
Arthur seat is located at the verdant Holyrood Park. Standing 800 feet above sea level, Arthur seat provides a breathtaking view of the whole city. When you reach here, you’ll be guaranteed to enjoy a panoramic view of the nearby attraction sites like the Scott monument and Edinburgh castle as well as the sea.
This site, which was a former volcano is great for hikes. The trails are accessible from the queen’s drive near the Holyroodhouse Palace. So, if you intend to reach up there, then pack your hiking gear. You’ll need to be in appropriate wear to reach the top. The hike may be a little bit strenuous particularly to someone who is not used to regular walking but from the experience of most travellers who’ve been here already, the view after you reach the top is worth any of your sweat.
Discover Edinburgh
Edinburgh has enough tourist attractions to keep you occupied throughout your visit. It is indeed a breathtaking capital with enough attractions to entertain both locals and visitors. Therefore, don’t just stop off at Edinburgh on your way to other places. This fascinating city requires your time and attention. Otherwise, how will you discover all its hidden gems?
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