Edinburgh Castle's iconic fortress sits atop Castle Rock and is home to Scotland's crown jewels and the Stone of Destiny. History enthusiasts can follow in the footsteps of medieval monarchs and learn about life in a royal castle. The castle provides stunning views of the city and should not be missed!
The National Museum of Scotland is home to Scotland's diverse culture and history, including ancient relics, science & technology, art, and design collections. Stunning interactive galleries provide insights into Scotland's history, from the Bronze Age to its modern-day achievements in various fields.
The Royal Mile is a vibrant historic neighborhood that takes visitors on a fascinating walk through Edinburgh’s past. Stroll along the cobblestone streets and explore the close and alleys, passing by historic landmarks such as St Giles Cathedral and John Knox House. Enjoy the unique ambiance of Edinburgh’s oldest street while exploring its nooks and crannies.
The National Gallery of Scotland boasts a collection of over 2000 paintings from the renaissance to the 20th century, including masterpieces from Van Gogh, Botticelli, and Monet. If art is your passion, this gallery will not disappoint!
The Scottish Parliament is Scotland's devolved unicameral legislature situated in the heart of Edinburgh. Visitors can take a free guided tour to learn about the workings of the Scottish Parliament, take a stroll around the beautiful architecture and enjoy stunning views of Arthur’s Seat. Just next door, the 16th century Holyrood Palace is the official residence of the monarch in Scotland.
The Real Mary King's Close is a unique insight into life in Edinburgh from the 16th to the 19th century. Visitors can tour the remains of an underground community hidden beneath the Royal Mile. The tour is guided by historical characters, making the experience highly immersive.
The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is home to over 13,500 plant species from around the world. The garden is a beautiful, peaceful place to spend time and learn about plant conservation, horticulture, and biodiversity. The garden's stunning 10 Victorian Palm Houses and a Chinese Hillside showcase exotic plants from the world over.
Edinburgh has excellent public transport on buses and trains, and there are taxis and car rentals available for hire. For the eco-conscious traveler, renting bicycles or exploring the city on foot is also an excellent option. It's important to note that driving within Edinburgh's city center can be a challenge due to narrow streets and heavy traffic.
The Edinburgh City fare zone for public transport costs are £1.70 for short rides, and there are day tickets available for £4.00. Taxis from the airport to the city center cost an average of £20.00, and car rentals start at around £25.00 per day.
If you have more time, venture out on a day trip to nearby attractions such as the Scottish Highlands or St Andrews. If you have less time, consider focusing on specific neighborhoods such as Stockbridge or Leith. Don't forget to sample Edinburgh's famous delicacies such as haggis, neeps and tatties and a dram of whiskey!
Edinburgh Airport (EDI) is located approximately 6 miles west of Edinburgh's city center. It offers flights to various domestic and international destinations, and there are several public transportation options such as the Airlink bus, trams, and taxis to get to the city center.