Top 5 Things To Do in Edinburgh
Edinburgh as a Tourist Destination
Edinburgh has never denied the myths and fairytales. It’s this magic that you would see everywhere in the Scottish capital. It’s undeniable, yet very real in history, a bridge connecting old-world nostalgia with the twenty-first century.
As you stroll down the magical Circus Lane, you can almost feel like returning to medieval Scotland. It’s close to the Dean Village, and you can access both places by a short walk from Stockbridge. Taking a walking tour around the city and its neighborhoods is one of the best things to do in Edinburgh, by all means. Some of the places are downright magical, and if you have the guts to meet with the ghosts of Edinburgh, don’t forget to visit the Real Mary King’s Close. It’s adjacent to the St. Giles Cathedral, which is also a noteworthy place to visit. But of course, your footsteps should also lead to the mighty Castle, the city’s crown jewel perched atop a rocky formation.
If all the sightseeing makes you feel famished, you may want to visit a traditional Scottish pub for a taste of the quintessential whiskey. The Scotch, as it is respectfully known all over the world, has a fascinating history that is worth exploring to the last. The Scotch Whiskey Heritage Center is a real place where you are introduced to an interactive experience to learn how whiskey is made and its various types. The tour ends with a glass of whiskey, so you would not likely give this a miss.
The Holyrood Distillery also offers a whiskey tour, and it might be worth a trip. Among other attractions, you should explore the National Museum of Scotland, showcasing the evolution of Scottish lifestyle and culture through the ages. Walking down the Royal Mile, you can find the past and present of the city connected through the ages of Scottish heritage.
Things To Do in Edinburgh
1. Edinburgh Castle
Visiting the Edinburgh Castle is usually the first thing to do when you are just starting the sightseeing experience. The castle has a rich history of garrisons and wars and is solemnly known as the great Defender of Scotland. Located in the City Center, it is easily accessible from all parts of the city, but you should definitely consider booking the tickets in advance from the website. It is one of the most historical places to visit in Scotland that presents a glimpse of the bygone royal heritage through historical tours. Audio guides are available so that you can explore the castle and the National War Memorial at your own pace and really get to feel the essential Scottish pride that it embodies. The gun still fires at the specified time when the clock strikes one, six days a week. Inside the castle, you can also taste the limited edition One O’Clock Whiskey to savor the experience.
2. Royal Mile
The Royal Mile is the very lifeline of the Edinburgh experience. It refers to the key thoroughfare in the Old Town, where the major attractions of the city can be found. From the Edinburgh Castle to the Cathedral and the John Knox House, the mile carries the heartbeat of the city. You can also find many shops lined along the mile, from souvenir shops to old book stalls and more. If you feel hungry, there are quite a few eateries and cafes where you can settle down.
Other things to do in Edinburgh include visiting the Holyroodhouse, a palace that still resonates with the story of Mary, the Queen of Scots. Scotland also has a rich literary history, and the Royal Mile celebrates it at the Makar’s Court and the Scot Monument. Exploring the Royal Mile offers a subtle glimpse into how Scotland has evolved from its royal heritage to the modern parliament and is definitely an experience you will remember.
3. Arthur's Seat
The Arthur’s Seat is a natural formation in the City of Edinburgh and is a great destination to go on a secluded nature hike away from the bustle of the city. The ancient extinct volcano is still reminiscent of millions of years in rock formations that can be seen at Arthur’s Seat. It is the peak point of Holyrood Park, presenting stunning 360-degree sights of the city from the top. The climb should take about an hour as you finally reach the vantage point to see the panoramic city.
Attractions at the top of the hill include a large compass and the ruins of an old hill fort. For the best time to visit Edinburgh, you might want to arrange the visit in late August, just in time to enjoy the pleasant weather. By this time of the year, the crowds are not so vigorous, and you can also see the abundance of autumn foliage in and around the city.
4. Palace of Holyroodhouse
The Palace of Holyroodhouse is a well-known destination in Edinburgh town and, to this day, remains active on official duties. It’s still visited by members of the Royal Family when they come to Scotland, so you might expect to find some of the staterooms closed to the general public. All in all, it is a rather impressive architecture, made famous in history as the residence of Mary, the deposed Queen of Scotland. It is verily considered one of the major tourist attractions in Scotland, especially if you are interested in royal history and how modern Scotland relates to its past.
Once upon a time, it was the Holyrood Abbey, and you can still see the remnants of the monastic past in the ambience of the Holyroodhouse. Explore the abbey, especially the gardens, to get a taste of the life of royals who have spent countless hours in this secluded space. The Holyrood Palace Gardens extends to over ten acres, so you must take your time to explore the surroundings.
5. National Museum of Scotland
The National Museum of Scotland preserves the diorama of Scottish history through the ages, besides being one of the best places to explore the many colors of world culture. The museum has several amazing exhibits, and one of them is The Maiden, which is a precursor of the French guillotine. It was introduced as a means of execution by Mary, who unfortunately suffered a tragic death by beheading. The Maiden last took a head in 1716, and you cannot help but feel the thrill of death standing by it.
Other attractions include 11 pieces of the Lewis chessmen, the Lunnasting stone, and the significant Galloway Hoard. This hoard is considered a powerful reminiscent of the Viking heritage of Europe and is a national treasure by all means. These and the other attractions define the very experience of Edinburgh as a tourist destination, a place that you must visit at least once in your life. The National Museum also has an Egyptian coffin from the 16th century BC.
