Capital of Scotland. Edinburgh is not only Scotland’s capital. It’s one of the oldest (about 2,000 years) and most fascinating cities in Europe, home to one of the world’s most famous cultural festivals, and a symbol of ‘Scottishness’. Thanks to a strong policy of devolution from the British government, the Scottish Parliament—one of its historic institutions—was revived in 1999 after having been closed in 1707 following unification.Where is Edinburgh? The city lies in southern Scotland, centrally placed in relation to Great Britain. Let’s discover the best things to see in Edinburgh.
Edinburgh Castles
1 Edinburgh Castle
Standing out in the Old Town is the city’s highlight, Edinburgh Castle, perched atop an impressive volcanic rock. Access is via a drawbridge, guarded by kilts-wearing sentries, leading to the vast Esplanade, which hosts parades and the Military Tattoo show each summer.
Passing through Lucullus Gate, a grilled portcullis at the summit, you’ll find St. Margaret’s Chapel, a small Norman-style church from the 11th century. On Crown Square stands the Royal Palace in pure Scottish Renaissance style, home to the magnificent Crown Jewels, Mary Stuart’s apartments, and the Great Hall, which was the original seat of the Scottish parliament and now displays weapons and armor.
What to See in Edinburgh
2 The Royal Mile
No visit to Edinburgh is complete without strolling the ‘Royal Mile’. This ancient backbone of the Old Town connects the castle to Holyrood Palace. The Royal Mile (about 3 km) is lined with historic buildings, including the St. Giles’ Cathedral—the city’s principal Presbyterian church with the Chapel of the Order of the Thistle, Scotland’s highest chivalric order—the Parliament, preacher John Knox’s house, and Huntly House, now the Museum of Edinburgh’s History.
Edinburgh Landmarks
3 Holyrood Palace
At Holyrood Palace (17th century), you can tour the State Apartments, featuring the magnificent Great Gallery lined with portraits of Scottish monarchs, and the Historical Apartments, marked by the dramatic history of Mary Stuart. The adjoining ruins are all that remain of original Holyrood Abbey (12th century). The palace is open daily from April to October (9:30 am – 6:00 pm), and from November to March (9:30 am – 4:30 pm). Entry costs around £10.
4 Holyrood Park
Undoubtedly the most beautiful park in Edinburgh—a city known for its green spaces—is Holyrood Park. Among its features is Arthur’s Seat, a scenic area on an ancient volcano offering some of the best city views. To the south, near the entrance, you’ll also find Salisbury Crags, another panoramic spot.
What to Do in Edinburgh
5 The Royal Yacht Britannia
A tour aboard the Britannia (not the cheapest ticket in town) offers a unique glimpse into the lives of the British royals. Among other rooms, you can see Queen Elizabeth’s bedroom. From April to October, opening hours are 9:30 am – 4:30 pm; November to March, 10:00 am – 3:30 pm. You can get there with buses 11, 34, 22, 36 from Princes Street or the Britannia Tour bus from Waverley Bridge.
6 Princes Street, Edinburgh
The heart of the 18th-century Georgian New Town is Princes Street, the city’s most famous shopping avenue, celebrated for its gardens and The Mound, a distinctive street linking it to the Old Town. Along here, you’ll find the National Gallery of Scotland, home to works by Italian, Flemish, French, and Dutch masters, and the Royal Scottish Academy, which hosts temporary exhibitions.
7 National Gallery of Scotland
The National Gallery of Edinburgh houses one of the UK’s finest collections of Old Masters paintings, second only to those in London. Entry is free and the gallery is open from 10 am to 5 pm (until 7 pm on Thursdays).
