Exploring Edinburgh, Scotland: A Guide to History, Attractions, and Tips for Your Stay
Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital city is a captivating blend of rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture. Whether you’re drawn by the medieval charm of the Old Town, the elegant streets of the New Town, or the magnificent castle that overlooks it all, Edinburgh promises an unforgettable experience. Here’s a personalized guide with insights from my stay at Apart Bernard Rooms, a fantastic accommodation near royal mile.
A Brief History of Edinburgh
Edinburgh’s history dates back to ancient times. The city is famously built on seven hills, with Edinburgh Castle, a fortress that has stood for centuries, perched atop one of them. The Old Town is filled with narrow alleys known as closes, grew around the castle and its winding streets feel like a journey back in time.
By the 18th century, Edinburgh expanded into the New Town, an area known for its Georgian architecture and wide streets. Old Town and New Town are now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, blending the city’s medieval and modern aspects beautifully.
Top Things to Do in Edinburgh
Edinburgh Castle: This historic fortress is a must-see. Sitting on Castle Rock, it offers stunning views of the city. Inside, you can see the Crown Jewels of Scotland and the famous Stone of Destiny. Try to go early in the day to avoid crowds.
St. Giles‘ Cathedral: Located on the Royal Mile, St. Giles‘ Cathedral is a beautiful church with impressive stained glass windows and intricate stonework. It’s a peaceful place to visit, and its history goes back to the 12th century.
Royal Mile: This famous street is filled with history, shops, and restaurants. Walking down the Royal Mile, you’ll see beautiful old buildings, street performers, and souvenir shops.
Grassmarket and Victoria Street: Grassmarket is a lively area with many pubs, cafes, and shops. Victoria Street, known for its colorful buildings and unique shops, is one of Edinburgh’s most photographed streets. It’s a great place to wander and shop for gifts.
- Greyfriars Kirkyard: This old graveyard is known for its spooky legends and unique tombstones. It’s also the resting place of Greyfriars Bobby, a loyal dog remembered for staying by his owner’s grave for years. Many visitors come to see Bobby’s statue and learn about the stories of the people buried here.
6. Arthur’s Seat: For an amazing view of the city, hike up Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano. It’s not a very difficult climb, and the view from the top is worth it.
7. Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art: If you love art, don’t miss this museum. It’s just a short bus ride from the city center and has beautiful modern art pieces, both inside and in the outdoor sculpture park. Plus, entry is free!
8. Princes Street Gardens: Located between Old Town and New Town, these gardens are perfect for a peaceful break. You can relax, take photos with the castle in the background, or enjoy the seasonal flowers.
9. National Museum of Scotland: This museum is free to enter and has a wide range of exhibits, from Scottish history to science and nature. It’s perfect for families or anyone interested in learning about Scotland’s culture.
My Stay at Apart Bernard Rooms
During my trip, I stayed at Apart Bernard Rooms. It’s a great place if you want to be close to all the main sights in Edinburgh. Here’s what I loved about my stay:
Spacious and Stylish Rooms: My room was large, nicely decorated, and super clean. It had a warm, cozy feeling, which was perfect after a long day of sightseeing.
Quiet and Peaceful: Although it’s in a central location, the rooms were quiet. I slept very well every night, without any noise from outside.
Spotless Shared Bathrooms: Even though the bathrooms were shared, they were always very clean and well-kept.
Homey Atmosphere: Apart Bernard Rooms has a relaxed, homey vibe. It’s the perfect place to rest between exploring the city’s many attractions.
Day Trip to Loch Ness, Glencoe, and the Highlands
One of the highlights of my trip was a day tour to Loch Ness, Glencoe, and the Scottish Highlands, which I booked through GetYourGuide. It was an amazing way to see more of Scotland’s natural beauty. Here’s what we did:
Loch Ness: Our first stop was Loch Ness, known for its legendary monster, Nessie. The lake is beautiful, surrounded by mountains and forests. You can even take a boat ride on the lake for a closer look.
Glencoe: Glencoe is one of the most stunning valleys in Scotland. The mountains and rugged landscape are amazing, and our guide shared stories about its history, including the famous Glencoe Massacre.
The Highlands: The drive through the Highlands offered incredible views. From rolling hills to quiet lakes, this region is truly magical. It was a great way to see more of Scotland’s beauty beyond the city.
This tour was a perfect way to explore more of Scotland, and our guide provided lots of interesting facts and stories. I’d highly recommend it if you want to see the Highlands in a single day.
Tips and Recommendations for Visiting Edinburgh
Prepare for Changing Weather: Edinburgh’s weather can change quickly. Wear layers, bring a waterproof jacket, and comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to do a lot of walking.
Book Tickets in Advance: Many popular attractions, like Edinburgh Castle, can get crowded. Booking tickets early can save you time.
Get Around by Walking or Public Transport: Edinburgh is very walkable, especially if you’re staying near the city center. For longer distances, buses and trams are easy to use and affordable.
Try Scottish Food: Don’t miss out on local dishes like haggis, neeps, and tatties (turnips and potatoes) or fish and chips. For a special meal, visit The Witchery by the Castle for a unique dining experience.
Explore Lesser-Known Spots: Edinburgh has many hidden gems beyond the main sights. Dean Village is a lovely riverside area, and the quirky shops in Grassmarket are fun to explore.
Leave Room for Spontaneous Discoveries: Edinburgh is full of surprises. Whether it’s a charming café, a hidden alley, or a small art gallery, keep time in your schedule to wander and see what you find.
Edinburgh is a city that captures your heart with its rich history, friendly people, and unforgettable sights. My stay at Apart Bernard Rooms made exploring the city easy and comfortable, while the day trip to the Highlands gave me a taste of Scotland’s natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or simply enjoying the scenery, Edinburgh has something special for everyone.
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