I think Edinburgh is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, and since I have been there recently, I absolutely want to write an article about it.
There’s so much to see, and they were really intense days, full of culture and history but also fun.
In this article, I’ve decided to list 5 of them. I’ve selected the ones that, in my opinion, you must not miss. They should be perfect for a weekend, and you could still do more if you are planning a longer trip.
1. Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle has played a crucial role in Scotland’s history. Throughout the ages, it has served as a royal residence and military base, witnessing numerous sieges and historical events
I have to say I was somewhat uncertain at first whether to go or not. I have seen several castles around the world and thought it might not be that interesting.
Clearly, following the visit, I changed my mind, and I believe it was one of the most beautiful, if not the most beautiful, castles I’ve ever seen.
The location is stunning, perched on a mountain. The interior is huge and interesting to visit, with several exhibits and halls that also house the National War Museum and The Crown Jewels.
Don’t forget to be there for the “One-o’clock gun” that is still fired every day at 1 pm, except on Sundays, and dates back to 1861.
A standard ticket is 19.50£ if you book online with a set date and time slot. While a flexible one is 29.50£.
2. The Royal Mile
When you head to the castle, you will walk along the Royal Mile, a historic stretch connecting Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace.
The Royal Mile is the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, and here you will find many of the cultural and historical features of the city.
You should definitely explore closes (narrow alleys) and wynds (lanes), which lead to hidden courtyards and even underground streets like Mary King’s Close (but it requires an entrance ticket).
If you don’t wanna pay, the street is dotted with historical landmarks like St. Giles’ Cathedral and Canongate Kirk.
3. Arthur’s Seat
Arthur’s Seat is a stop that I absolutely recommend to lovers of nature and adventure.
It’s a volcanic hill rising 823 feet (about 250 meters) above sea level and is the highest point of the entire Scottish capital.
At the summit, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping vistas of Edinburgh’s skyline, including landmarks like Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile.
The only thing I recommend is to choose a day with good weather (if possible) and bring hats and scarves during winter because it can be very windy.
4. The National Museum of Scotland
You can’t leave Edinburgh without visiting the National Museum of Scotland; it’s also free!
As the name suggests, it’s a fascinating museum covering everything from Scottish history and archaeology to science and nature.
The things you shouldn’t miss, in my opinion, are:
- The Lewis Chessmen, which are iconic medieval chess pieces carved from walrus ivory (probably one of the few surviving complete medieval chess sets).
- Dolly the Sheep, which is one of the museum’s star attractions. The first mammal to be cloned from an adult cell, a real symbol of groundbreaking scientific achievement
5. Holyrood Palace
The last thing I would definitely recommend if you go to Edinburgh is the Holyrood Palace.
Holyrood is the official Scottish residence of the British monarch and has been at the center of Scottish and British history for over 500 years.
Some of you probably know that it was once the home of Mary, Queen of Scots, and the site of dramatic events during her reign (including murders that are always present in Scottish history).
It’s a pretty interesting visit because you will really get into the private aspects of the monarchs, in their daily lives and in the rooms where they regularly lived.
The entry ticket if you book online is £21, but an audio guide is included, which I absolutely recommend you take because it explains the whole history of the complex.