Are you searching for the Best Places to Visit in Edinburgh? Are you thinking of a trip to Europe and wondering what to explore in Edinburgh? We’ve got you covered. Edinburgh’s most stunning city in the UK rises from the broad Firth of Forth to a high, rocky pinnacle crowned by the towers and walls of stone that make up Edinburgh Castle.
The Scottish capital city is an essential hub of culture and arts and is renowned for its events. This includes Edinburgh International Book Festival, the Edinburgh International Book Festival that welcomes over 1,000 authors to the glittering festive Christmas Markets, and the Edinburgh Fringe, the biggest festival in the world for the arts.
In addition to internationally renowned events, such as The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, there are many exciting events and entertainment possibilities here. Edinburgh might appear to be two distinct cities, yet they’re very different. The 18th-century New Town‘s elegant Georgian communities of stately terraces are in contrast to those of the Old Town‘s narrow curving lanes, high staircases, steep stairwells, and secret passageways.
Many of the most well-known tourist destinations are located on the Royal Mile, which follows the top of the hill that runs between Castle and Holyrood Palace and Princes Street. Make sure you explore the opposite aspect of the hill, where you’ll discover the stunning Grass market.
It is one of Edinburgh’s biggest market squares, dating back to it was established in Middle Ages. It rings with the past. The pedestrian-friendly zone is filled with cafés and shops; look out for The White Hart Inn, where Robbie Burns once composed poetry.
To ensure you make the most of your trip to the highly charming Scottish city, check out our top tourist attractions and things to do in Edinburgh.
Lauriston Castle And Gardens
Lauriston Castle And Gardens is one of the best places to visit in Edinburgh. In Edinburgh, Lauriston Castle is a magnificent mansion that welcomes visitors for guided tours and walks around its stunning gardens. The castle, with an expansive view of Silverknowes Beach and the Firth of Forth, lies six miles northwest of the city’s center.
The castle’s Edwardian furniture, which has been left unaltered since the last tenant quit 100 years ago, is maintained by Museums & Galleries Edinburgh, which manages the castle.
Visitors can wander through these formal and Japanese gardens after an informative tour of the castle and enjoy a delicious breakfast at the cafe on-site. The furniture, decor, and art collections of Lauriston Castle are some of the finest in the city and provide an excellent illustration of the life of the Edwardian time.
Lauriston Castle and Gardens Highlights
- Mimi’s Bakehouse, located in the castle, and provides an exquisite take-out menu of hot drinks and cakes that have won awards, is worthy of particular attention.
- One of Scotland’s finest examples and one of a unique tower houses built in the 16th century that boasts impressive 19th-century additions and unique gardens.
- The extravagant Reid family amassed impressive art as well as furniture collections. These are on display all over Lauriston Castle.
- Lauriston Castle has a rich story worth exploring on a guided tour. You’ll discover that there was an old tower house used as a dwelling for the medieval period before the Earl of Hertford built the present tower in 1544.
Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle is one of Britain’s most frequented tourist destinations and the most well-known landmark in Scotland.
The highlights of a visit include the famous One O’clock Salute from Half Moon Battery (cannon fire celebrates the custom of helping ships to synchronize their clocks) as well as the magnificent Scottish National War Memorial and National War Museum as well as the fantastic collections of crown jewels located inside Edinburgh Castle. Royal Palace.
Another exciting aspect includes another notable feature, the Stone of Destiny (aka”the Stone of Scone) that was famously stolen in the reign of Edward I and placed under the English throne in London, and returned to Scotland over 700 years later, in the year 1996.
If you’re looking to cut down on time, you should consider buying a Get Rid of the Line Edinburgh Castle Entrance Ticket, which will allow you to take your time touring the castle instead of waiting in long lines.
Stroll the Royal Mile
The Royal Mile refers to the streets connecting Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse. With charming townhouses, churches, and historical landmarks, this beautiful thoroughfare is an excellent spot to walk around its stores (including Kiltmakers), Inns, museums, inns, cafes, restaurants, and other establishments.
Most of these buildings are tall, between six and 15 stories. They are often referred to locally as “lands.” The narrow alleys, also known as “winds,” with their adorable hidden backyard “close,” weave in and around them.
The most well-known places to visit are located at the top part of the Royal Mile – commonly called Castle Hill – and comprise Outlook Tower and the Camera Obscura, as well as the Tolbooth (St. John’s Highland Church), featuring the city’s tallest church tower. It also houses the fascinating People’s Story Museum and Gladstone’s Land, an eight-story house for merchants decorated with beautiful ceiling artwork and original furniture.
Another place worth a visit is Lady Stair’s Close, home to The Writer’s Museum. The Museum is home to exhibitions of manuscripts, portrait prints, and other memorabilia from Robert Burns, the writer Robert Burns and writers Sir Walter Scott and Robert Louis Stevenson.
Just around the corner, and with a view of Princes Park, the Museum on the Mound is worth a visit for its exhibits that relate to the historical background of economics and money.
The National Museum of Scotland
- The museum is so incredible that you’ll be amazed that you can go to it for absolutely nothing!
- It is a great way to discover more about Scotland’s past and the world.
Why it’s so cool: This museum contains the most incredible objects from Scotland and around the globe. That’s why this is one of the Edinburgh must-sees. The exhibit features things like the duplicated Dolly the Sheep, the Schmidt Telescope, and one of the most extensive collections of mammals you’ll encounter.
What you can do: This is one of the most captivating historical displays you’ll experience! Therefore, you should take a look at at least a small portion of the 50,000-plus specimens of mammals as well as The Fashion and Style Gallery.
Both are breathtaking. If you’re in the mood after, take a look at the World Cultures to display for an even more fascinating education.
Arthur’s Seat
Arthur’s Seat is one of the best places to visit in Edinburgh.
- This is your one opportunity to stand at the edge of a volcano that is no longer active. Therefore, don’t miss it.
- Views from this location are breathtaking, So don’t forget your camera.
- It’s a relatively easy hike to the top. However, you’ll need some fitness level to complete it.
The reason it’s so impressive: If you visit Edinburgh, you’ll first see the stunning scenery. The best way to view these places is from up.
Arthur’s Seat is a relic of the past volcano accessible from the city’s center. You’ll have unbeatable views of the entire city skyline from the top. It’s an excellent area to explore for free when you’re Backpacking Scotland.
What can you do? Put on those hiking sneakers and start walking. Start to the hills early in the day or later in the evening to admire the city’s skyline in its most stunning lighting.
If you’re visiting in May, don’t forget this May Day festival when young ladies wash their faces by soaking their faces in the morning dew of the hill. It’s believed to make them appear younger and attractive, so try the ritual a go!
Palace of Holyroodhouse and Holyrood Abbey
The Palace of Holyroodhouse – usually called Holyrood Palace – is the Queen’s official Edinburgh residence and has often been at the heart of Scottish history. It was built in 1678. was the place where James II and James IV were married, the place where James V and Charles I were crowned, and also where “Bonnie Prince Charlie” was in court in 1745.
Suppose the Queen is not in her residence (usually during the 51 weeks of the year since she is only present to celebrate “Royal Week” every summer, the public is allowed access. In these instances, the public is allowed access to the breathtaking Historic Apartments (former home of Mary Queen of Scots) and The State Apartments, famous for their exquisite furniture, including tapestries, plasterwork, and tapestries.
The Great Gallery displays portraits of Scottish Kingships, both mythical and real. It also houses the Queen’s Gallery, which opened in 2002 as part of the Golden Jubilee celebrations, and hosts rotating exhibitions from the Royal Collection. The nearby 12th-century Holyrood Abbey was established during the reign of King David I.
If you’re traveling with children, ensure that you allow them to dress up in costumes at the Family Room; and if you have time, stay for a while in the charming café and have a delicious afternoon tea. Guided tours are also available.
Location: Royal Mile, Canongate, Edinburgh
Official site: www.royalcollection.org.uk/visit/palace-of-Holyroodhouse
Set Sail for Royal Yacht Britannia
The Royal Yacht Britannia is one of the UK’s most popular tourist attractions linked to the monarchy. Over the years, the Queen has hosted heads of state and celebrities from around the globe on this lavish vessel.
After more than 40 years of working for the Royal Family, the 60-year-old yacht was re-routed to Leith, the port of Edinburgh, as the centerpiece of Britannia’s Visitor Centre.
When you arrive, you’ll discover the past of this and other royal yachts while exploring the five main decks of the ship. The highlights include rooms like the Royal Apartments with bedrooms, the gorgeous sun lounge, and the Royal Deck Tea Room, where you can have coffee and cakes.
If you’re looking to pamper yourself with a luxurious escape, take a look at a stay on the old lighthouse vessel The Fingal, which is docked alongside the Royal Yacht.
Address: Ocean Drive, Leith, Edinburgh
Official site: www.royalyachtbritannia.co.uk
The Scott Monument
The Scott Monument is one of the best places to visit in Edinburgh.
- This is an excellent spot to take in the city sights If you’re not afraid of the heights and dark, twisting staircases!
- A massive tribute to Walter Scott, one of Edinburgh’s most beloved literary figures.
- A stunning illustration of Victorian Gothic architecture that looks amazing in photographs.
What makes it so unique: It isn’t every day that a writer is given an immense memorial to their talents, but that’s precisely why this structure is a must included in your Edinburgh schedule.
It’s essentially a huge building dedicated to the talents and legacy of the city’s favorite son. The tower also provides some of the most spectacular views of the city’s skyline that you’ll ever see.
What can you do there: You can climb to the top of the tower and take in the view if you’ve got an impressive stomach and a solid set of feet.
This tower stands 61.11 meters high and includes 287 steps. There’s no elevator, and the staircase’s twist is appropriate with its Victorian Gothic architecture, so prepare to take a walk.
Walk the Length of Princes Street
It is bustling. Princes Street is the New town’s main avenue of traffic. It stretches for nearly one mile along the street and is lined by vibrant gardens and elegant stores such as the traditional-minded Jenners of Edinburgh, founded in 1838.
It is one of the longest-running department stores. Another option for shopping is The Princes Mall, popular with its boutiques set in cafes and fountains and a myriad of places to shop. In addition to these shrines for consumption, there are restaurants, ranging from fast food restaurants to fine diners.
The New Register House, home to the Scottish National Archives, some dating as much to thirteenth-century, is of importance to those who are keen on genealogy. Princes Street’s past landmarks include the 200-foot tall Sir Walter Scott Monument and the David Livingstone Memorial. It’s a memorial to the missionary as well as an African explorer.
When you’re exhausted from all the shopping and history, make your way toward Princes Street Gardens, home to the world’s most famous floral clock (1903). From this location, visitors are offered stunning perspectives from Edinburgh Castle, which overlooks the gardens.
Scottish National Gallery & Portrait Gallery
The Scottish National Gallery & Portrait Gallery is one of the best places to visit in Edinburgh. The most famous Scottish historical individuals through the 16th century are displayed in the Scottish National Portrait Gallery. The Scottish National Portrait Gallery is among Edinburgh’s three main art galleries.
The gallery’s most notable of its over 65,000 works is the enormous frieze that depicts Scotland’s most famous characters, including Robbie Burns, Sir Walter Scott, Sean Connery, Robert Louis Stevenson, and Mary Stuart Bonnie Prince Charlie, among other notables.
The gallery also houses for Scottish National Photographic Collection. Scottish National Photography Collection. The gallery was established in 1859. Scottish National Gallery is the second-largest art collection.
It is also home to the most extensive European sculptures and paintings collection. The collection contains works dating from the Renaissance period to the Post-Impressionists.
Lectures, tours, and art classes are offered for the public to enjoy as a dining establishment. A shuttle bus service is also provided to connect these two galleries to Scottish National Gallery. Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art (see below for more details).
Address: The Mound, Edinburgh
Official site: www.nationalgalleries.org/
Conclusion
All destinations are awesome! According to my opinion, Edinburgh Castle is the best to start. I hope you have enjoyed our list of Best Places to Visit in Edinburgh.
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