When people think of Scotland, the first image that often comes to mind is Edinburgh – a city where history, culture, and modern life all meet on cobbled streets, with the dramatic backdrop of an extinct volcano. Known as the “Athens of the North,” Edinburgh is a must-see for anyone travelling to Scotland. Whether you’re here for just a day or planning a longer stay, there’s something to capture every traveller’s heart.
A City of Two Halves: Old Town & New Town
Edinburgh is famously split into two contrasting yet complementary areas:
-
The Old Town – A maze of medieval streets, closes, and hidden courtyards. Here you’ll find Edinburgh Castle, perched high on Castle Rock, and the historic Royal Mile stretching down to Holyrood Palace. Every corner whispers stories of Scotland’s past, from the days of Mary Queen of Scots to the echoes of the Enlightenment.
-
The New Town – A Georgian masterpiece of elegant streets, gardens, and grand squares. Built in the 18th century, it offers a completely different feel – wide boulevards, neoclassical architecture, and stylish shopping on Princes Street and George Street.
Together, they form a UNESCO World Heritage Site that beautifully reflects Scotland’s layered history.
Top Things to Do in Edinburgh
-
🏰 Edinburgh Castle – Scotland’s most iconic fortress, home to the Honours of Scotland (the Crown Jewels).
-
🛣️ The Royal Mile – Explore shops, whisky bars, street performers, and hidden gems along this historic stretch.
-
🌄 Arthur’s Seat – A climb to the top of this extinct volcano rewards you with sweeping views over the city and the Firth of Forth.
-
🎭 The Edinburgh Festival Fringe – Every August, the city bursts into life with the world’s largest arts festival.
-
👻 Ghost Tours – Edinburgh is one of the most haunted cities in Europe, and night tours of underground vaults and graveyards are not to be missed!
Food & Drink
Edinburgh is a foodie’s paradise. Traditional Scottish dishes like haggis, neeps, and tatties are easy to find, but the city also boasts Michelin-starred dining and vibrant street food markets. Don’t forget to sample a wee dram of whisky or a craft gin from one of the city’s distilleries.
Day Trips from Edinburgh
One of the best things about Edinburgh is its location. Within a short drive, you can find:
-
St Andrews – The home of golf and a beautiful coastal town.
-
Rosslyn Chapel – Made famous by The Da Vinci Code.
-
The Scottish Borders – Rolling hills, abbeys, and charming villages.
Travel Tips
-
🚆 Edinburgh is well connected by train to Glasgow, Inverness, and beyond.
-
✈️ Edinburgh Airport offers flights across Europe and worldwide.
-
🚌 Guided tours and private hires are a great way to explore the Highlands if you’re short on time.
Why Edinburgh Should Be on Your List
From its ancient cobbles to its modern festivals, Edinburgh is a city that offers the best of Scotland in one place. It’s a capital city with a small-town feel, where you can wander aimlessly and still stumble upon something magical.
If you’re planning your Scottish adventure, make sure Edinburgh is at the top of your list – whether for a castle tour, a whisky tasting, or simply a stroll with your camera in hand.