Edinburgh Scotland Travel Guide

Edinburgh Scotland

Upon first sight, the idea of spending your vacation in Scotland might seem unusual. People tend to frequent exotic, tropical cities. However, Edinburgh is far from being a boring trip idea. Aside from the rain common to the United Kingdom, the capital of Scotland vacation destination worth considering. Edinburgh is surprisingly small and cozy, yet cultured with attraction options for those on a budget. As one of the most unusual cities in Europe, what other area is home to an extinct volcano covered in Gothic buildings? What about a castle perched above Princess Street Gardens with of view of the entire city?

History is simply pouring out of Edinburgh. The city is divided into the Old Town and the New Town. In the Old Town, medieval streets run down the Castle, embodying the era where residents crammed together for protection. While, the New Town is north of the Castle and is ultimately more posh. However, both parts of the city are best experienced on foot. Walking will grant you access to the Princess Street Gardens, the Waverley Train Station, and the spooky underground systems. For example, the Edinburgh Vaults open into haunted chambers under the Old Town where vault tours guide visitors through the spider web of caves and finally into bars.

Fried Mars Bars & Haggis, Oh My!

Speaking of bars, Edinburgh hosts the most bars and restaurants per capita in the United Kingdom. Food and drinks will never fail to surprise you in Scotland. Bars serve excellent whiskey and wine, while restaurants are filled with fish and chips, Cullen skink, Scotland’ national dish—the haggis—and the famous fried Mars bars. International dishes are quite exquisite as well, especially Indian cuisine.

Culture and fun are two things this city never lacks. The Edinburgh Festival compromises several simultaneous festivals during the summer time. Plan ahead and book your accommodations in advance. Hotels and vacation homes fill up quickly as people line the streets in celebration. Scotland’s capital likes to express itself with laughter, theater, and art. Edinburgh is home to five national galleries. These include the National Gallery of Scotland, which is free, and the Royal Scottish Academy Building. In addition, your children will feel welcome in this town. Take a trip to the Dynamic Earth, the Edinburgh Dungeon and the Edinburgh Zoo. In summary, each activity holds the quirkiness of the city, and there really is no place like Edinburgh.

Map of Edinburgh Scotland