_1746023364839_thumb_1200.jpeg?w=1200&q=75&fm=webp)
If you're interested in history, Edinburgh is one of the world's most captivating destinations. But it's not all dust and wizards; you may be exploring a structure that's a thousand years old one second, and then seeing the latest creations from Scotland's most innovative artists the next. Everything you might possibly want to see, see, and eat in the capital of Scotland is here on our list of must-visit attractions in Edinburgh!
Explore towering and majestic views from Arthur’s Seat
Is there a city in your area that can say it has an extinct volcano!? Edinburgh, for one, is among them. Arthur's Seat rises out of the expansive grasslands of Holyrood Park, making it visible from most parts of the centre. Put on your hiking boots or saddle up your bike if you want to pay a visit. At the peak, you'll find unparalleled views of the city skyline, and the journey is (relatively) straightforward. The grassy slope on the east side, rising from Dunsapie Loch on Queen's Drive, is the simplest way to approach Arthur's Seat, but there are other possible approaches. Trust us, this is one of the best Edinburgh places to see? Remember the iconic scene from One Day? Arthur’s Seat just happens to be one of the most important locations for this show!
Learn about Greyfriars Kirkyard's past
Greyfriars Kirkyard has been a resting place for the departed since the late 1600s, yet it is far from a typical cemetery. Actually, it ranks high among Edinburgh's most visited attractions. Rubbing Bobby's nose is said to bring good fortune; the monument outside the gates is a memorial to the loyal dog that slept by his owner's tomb for fourteen years. During the early 19th century, there was a serious issue with the exhumation of corpses for dissection at Edinburgh Medical College. To prevent this, the city built fenced graves called mortsafes- making this one of the most important attractions in Edinburgh!
See the world's first vertical distillery up close and personal
How about that whisky you like with a twist of lime? This unique drink attraction will appeal to both whisky connoisseurs and non-connoisseurs alike. In the trendy neighbourhood of Leith, you'll find a whisky distillery with breathtaking views of Edinburgh and the Scottish countryside. The visually pleasing Port of Leith Distillery first opened its doors to the public at the tail end of 2023, and let me tell you, the whisky it produces is absolutely mouthwatering. Tours and tastings may be scheduled, or you can just relax with a drink in hand and take in the scenery. Surely you’ll agree that this is one of the most unique places to visit in Edinburgh!
The Royal Mile
Even if you made an effort, it would be difficult to overlook Edinburgh's Royal Mile. A series of streets that connects the two royal structures of Scotland's capital—Edinburgh Castle at the peak of the hill and the Palace of Holyroodhouse, one mile below—forms the Royal Mile, which winds its way through the Old Town, although Edinburgh also has a New Town, constructed in the late 1700s. Also, you may find some great, albeit touristic, shopping in its small alleys, which are known as Edinburgh's famous 'shuts'. But skip the trinkets and go for the cashmere—the real stuff in Scotland—at the wool stores on the Royal Mile.
Sip (and spill some) tea at Gleneagles
This afternoon tea at the Spence is unlike any other, held in a stunning pastel-colored luxury hotel. For £60 per person, you may indulge in a variety of sweet and savoury treats, such as a rhubarb and custard choux bun, dressed crab with tomatoes and basil, and a smoked salmon croissant with crème fraîche and caviar. Absolutely! Scones are also available. And if you'd like a glass of champagne, that's an additional £75. Undoubtedly, it's a treat, but it's well worth it.
Edinburgh Castle is a great place to take a royal history lesson!
Edinburgh Castle stands tall above Scotland's capital, perched on Castle Rock and overlooking the city below. The Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny, and a plethora of magnificent chambers suited for Scotland's erstwhile royal family are on display within the ticket-only event. Visit the National War Museum while you're here and take in the serene atmosphere of Edinburgh's oldest structure, Saint Margaret's Chapel, which dates back to 1130. The castle is best visited first thing in the morning before it becomes too busy, but if you can, try to stay until 1 o'clock in the afternoon, when they fire a cannon into the sky. You can still get a good look at the castle from a distance if you're not willing to pay the hefty entrance price of £18.50 (about $24). Just make your way to the top of the Royal Mile. Enjoy the breathtaking views of Edinburgh and the surrounding highlands without paying a dime.