The city of Edinburgh is a popular capital of Scotland because of the exciting events that are happening every year that includes Edinburgh Festival and the lively Edinburgh Fringe. Once you are inside the city center you will be amazed that there are lots of things to do in Edinburgh. It is known as the “Athens of the North” because of its gorgeous sceneries that can compete with the Athenian attractions. The place is a dream destination for photographers as there are endless sites to capture.
1. Arthur’s Seat
It is hard not to notice the beauty of this extinct volcano as it rises from the green land of Holyrood Park. This is one of the best places to visit in Edinburgh to try your hiking boots going up to 250 meters high. There is nothing to match the beauty of the skyline view of the entire Edinburgh from its peak. Local women believe that the morning dew especially during May on top of the mountain can make them more beautiful.
2. Edinburgh Castle
You can see the magnificent castle from different parts of the city as it sits on top of a huge and tall rock. Edinburgh attractions like the castle that has been used to defend the city from enemies since the 2nd century. Also, it has been the nestling place of important figures in the country including Bonnie Prince Charlie and Mary Queen of Scots. Take a short visit to the castle and discover the interesting history of the castle.
3. Princess Street
As you set foot to Edinburgh you will immediately welcome by a famous attraction which is Princess Street as it is the main access of the city since 1770. Aside from being the starting point of your journey, this is also the right place to shop from high street stores. What to do in Edinburgh right after your flight is to take your snack at the Princess Street Garden.
4. Holyrood Palace
Located close to the Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood Palace is a known home for the British monarchy since it stands in 1678. Today, tourists and locals can still marvel at the amazing architectural design and showcase the life of kings and queens during the 17th century. Other things to do in Edinburgh inside the palace are seeing some fine arts and enjoy a cup of tea inside its extravagant café.
5. Leith
Leith area is also known as Shore has been an important spot for tourism because this is where you can find other popular landmarks such as Leith Theatre and well-known restaurants like Lioness of Leith and Fishers where you can order fresh seafood. There are numerous places to visit in Edinburgh but Leith is the most visited especially during Fringe.
6. Camera Obscura
Established in 1835, the building is one of the oldest Edinburgh attractions of the city. Inside are family-oriented activities perfect for vacationers with kids. It offers awesome experiences and hands-on activities to explore such as the mirror maze, vortex tunnel, and climbing up to the rooftop for an excellent city view.
7. Mary King’s Close
This is a part of Edinburgh where you can discover the old life in the city. The tour composes of walking down winding roads as well as steep alleyways known as “closes”. If you want to know what to do in Edinburgh especially around the place it is advisable that you opt for a guided tour.
8. St. Giles cathedral
The cathedral has been a crowd favorite place for many tourists to take stunning photos because of its gothic style architecture and stained glass windows. Most of the things to do in Edinburgh are connected to its rich history and this old church is one of the places to learn about the city’s ancient culture.
9. Scottish National Gallery
This is the National art gallery of Scotland making it a top destination for vacationers. The building was built with a neoclassical style of architecture in 1859 that houses a huge collection of fine arts. These are just a few of the places to visit in Edinburgh that showcases the works of many Scottish artists.
10. Royal Botanic Garden
This has been the center for the scientific study of the medicinal purposes of plants since its creation in 1670. It is now used for the conservation of 275,000 species of plants and popular among other Edinburgh attractions. Aside from the garden, you can also take a short visit to Inverleith House to find some contemporary artworks.
