Edinburgh

Edinburgh Travel Guide

Welcome to Edinburgh!

Scotland’s capital city is a must-visit destination for any traveler. From its stunning architecture to its rich history and vibrant culture, Edinburgh has something to offer everyone. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the best places to visit, things to do, where to eat, where to stay, and more.

Places to Visit

Historical Landmarks

  • Edinburgh Castle: Perched atop a dormant volcano, this historic fortress dominates the city’s skyline. Don’t miss the stunning views of the city from the castle walls.
  • The Royal Mile: This charming street runs through the heart of Old Town and is home to many shops, restaurants, and historical landmarks like St. Giles’ Cathedral.
  • National Museum of Scotland: With a vast collection of Scottish artifacts and exhibits on science, art, and culture, this museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in history.

Cultural Attractions

  • The National Gallery of Scotland: This world-class gallery features an impressive collection of Western European art from the 14th to the 20th centuries.
  • The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art: Showcasing some of the most important modern and contemporary art in Scotland, this gallery is a must-visit for any art lover.
  • The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh: These beautiful gardens feature over 3.5 million plant species from around the world and are home to several glasshouses.

Parks and Green Spaces

  • Princes Street Gardens: These lovely gardens run along Princes Street and offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
  • Meadows Park: Located on the outskirts of the city, this beautiful park features walking trails, a lake, and plenty of green space to relax in.

Other Attractions

  • The Royal Yacht Britannia: Learn about the British royal family’s favorite vessel and explore its opulent interiors.
  • Camera Obscura: This unique attraction showcases Scotland’s history through interactive exhibits and offers stunning views of the city from its rooftop garden.
  • The Scotch Whisky Experience: Sample some of Scotland’s finest whiskies and learn about the production process.

Things to Do

Outdoor Activities

  • Hiking and Walking: Edinburgh is surrounded by beautiful countryside, with many hiking trails just a short bus ride away.
  • Cycling: Rent a bike and explore the city or take a scenic ride through the nearby Pentlands hills.
  • Kayaking: Paddle down the Water of Leith and enjoy the city’s wildlife.

Indoor Activities

  • Shopping: The Royal Mile is home to many unique shops selling everything from Scottish crafts to souvenirs.
  • Restaurants and Bars: Edinburgh has a thriving food and drink scene, with plenty of options for every taste and budget.
  • Theater and Live Music: From the world-famous Edinburgh Festival Fringe to intimate live music venues, there’s always something happening in this vibrant city.

Where to Eat

Top Restaurants

  • The Kitchin: This Michelin-starred restaurant serves modern British cuisine using fresh, local ingredients.
  • Number One: Located in the Balmoral Hotel, this elegant restaurant offers stunning views of the city and a menu of Scottish classics.
  • Martin Wishart: With two Michelin stars under his belt, Martin Wishart’s eponymous restaurant is a must-visit for any foodie.

Cafes and Bakeries

  • The Pantry: This cozy cafe serves delicious breakfasts, sandwiches, and cakes in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
  • Sally’s Cakes: This popular bakery offers mouthwatering pastries, scones, and sandwiches to take away or enjoy on the go.

Street Food and Markets

  • The Royal Mile Market: Every Saturday morning, this bustling market sells everything from fresh produce to street food and crafts.
  • Edinburgh Food Festival: Held every summer, this festival showcases the city’s best food producers and chefs.

Where to Stay

Luxury Hotels

  • The Balmoral Hotel: This five-star hotel offers stunning views of Edinburgh Castle and opulent rooms with all the modern amenities.
  • The Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa: Located in the heart of the city, this luxurious hotel features a world-class spa and excellent dining options.

Mid-Range Hotels

  • Hotel du Vin Edinburgh: This stylish hotel is located on the Royal Mile and offers elegant rooms and a cozy bar serving delicious cocktails.
  • The Principal Edinburgh George Street: This beautifully restored Victorian building now houses a stunning boutique hotel with modern amenities.

Budget-Friendly Options

  • Ibis Edinburgh Centre: Located in the heart of the city, this affordable hotel offers comfortable rooms and a convenient location for exploring.
  • Travelodge Edinburgh Central

Things to Know

  • Weather: Edinburgh’s climate is notoriously unpredictable. Be prepared for anything from sunshine to rain showers and wind gusts!
  • Currency: The UK uses pounds sterling (£). You can exchange currency at the airport, banks, or currency exchanges.
  • Language: English is the primary language spoken in Scotland. However, many Scots also speak Gaelic.

Transportation

Getting Around

  • Walking and Cycling: Edinburgh’s compact city center makes walking and cycling a great way to get around.
  • Public Transport: Buses and trams run regularly throughout the city, with frequent departures from major bus stations.
  • Taxis: Available at taxi ranks or by phone.

Tips

  • Respect the City: Edinburgh is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Be mindful of any areas closed for maintenance or events.
  • Be Prepared: Pack layers and waterproof clothing to ensure you’re ready for any weather conditions.
  • Enjoy Yourself!: With its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture, Edinburgh has something for everyone. Take time to appreciate the city’s unique charm.

Other Things of Interest

  • The Edinburgh Festival Fringe: The largest arts festival in the world, with performances taking place across the city.
  • The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo: A spectacular display of military pomp and ceremony on the castle esplanade.
  • The Hogmanay Celebrations: Scotland’s famous New Year’s Eve celebrations take place all over the country.