The Scottish capital can legitimately be called one of the most culturally rich cities in Europe, if not the world. It attracts more than 13 million tourists on a yearly basis and continues to delight every visitor on its enchanting streets. There is a range of apartments and cheap hotels in Edinburgh to use as a base from which to go out and enjoy what the city has to offer. We take a look at ten of the best sights.
Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh’s castle is probably the most iconic attraction of the cultural city. The 12th century castle sits proudly atop Castle Rock and dominates the Edinburgh skyline. Visit the castle to really delve into the history that the great city has behind it.
Old Town
Another part of the city that offers an intriguing history lesson is the Old Town area – the architectural delights on show are truly something to behold. The most famous street in Edinburgh, the Royal Mile, is found in the Old Town area and boasts an array of wonderful restaurants, bars and shops for all visitors to enjoy.
Arthur’s Seat
Around a mile to the east of Edinburgh Castle is Arthur’s Seat, where you can visit an actual volcano – but don’t worry, it’s extinct. This is the only site in the world in which you can stand on the site of a volcano within a major city, which only serves to add to the uniqueness of Edinburgh.
Holyrood Park
Holyrood Park is located on the edges of the Edinburgh and offers visitors the perfect respite from the stress of a busy city. There are many great walking and climbing spots, so be sure to bring your hiking boots. There is even a loch in the park for you to explore – all in reaching distance from the centre of one of the most buzzing cities on the continent.
Royal Observatory
Astronomy is quickly growing in popularity across the world and, luckily for star-gazing visitors to Edinburgh, the city is home to the Royal Observatory. You can join the search for exoplanets and extra-terrestrial life or just sit in on some of the many lectures that are dotted about the calendar.
Gilmerton Cove
Located in one of the suburbs of the city is Gilmerton Cove, which is an underground network of passageways that were carved by hand. It is now used as an educational spot for all visitors after it was reopened in 2003 after a long-running campaign from the City Council and the Gilmerton Heritage Trust.
National Museum of Scotland
The newly renovated National Museum of Scotland is one of the newest and, indeed, most popular attractions in the city. It features the famous bits of Scotland as well as great international exhibitions. It was recently awarded the best building award from the RIAS following its renovation this year.
Princes Street Gardens
If you are looking for a place to relax in the city but don’t fancy a trip to Holyrood Park, these gardens are the perfect place for you. Edinburgh is, in fact, one of the greener cities around in terms of gardens and parks, so you won’t struggle to find a place to put your feet up.
Nelson’s Monument
A climb up Nelson’s Monument will give you one of the best views of Edinburgh and its beautiful surroundings. It is, as you might guess from the name, dedicated to Admiral Lord Nelson, who died in the Battle of Trafalgar.
Mary Kings Close
Mary King’s Close is similar to Gilmerton Cove in the way that it is an underground network of tunnels. You can take a guided tour beneath the Royal Mile to learn more about the history of Edinburgh, as well as divulging in a couple of ghost stories and legends.