More than a thousand years of history, mystery, and tradition have shaped Edinburgh into the Scottish city it is today. The city offers plenty to do no matter what type of traveler you are or who you’re traveling with. Read on to get lost in Edinburgh’s enchantment and find inspiration to start planning your next trip!
Settled Upon Extinct Volcanoes
At the highest point in Edinburgh, Arthur’s Seat is a popular place to hike for both travelers and locals. This extinct volcano is thought to have first erupted 350 million years ago. There are not many cities where you can climb a nearby extinct volcano and be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the city.
Photo by Rebecca Pattee via Trover.com
Edinburgh Castle Sits in the Heart of the City
It has been determined by archaeologists that humans have occupied the land on top of Castle Rock where Edinburgh Castle now sits since at least the Iron Age in the second century AD. The royal castle has been perched on the rock since at least the reign of David I in the 12th century. Presently, the castle serves mainly as a tourist attraction and is the most popular paid attraction in Scotland. Don’t miss this important remnant of Scottish history on your next visit to Edinburgh!
Photo by Vegard Magnussen via Trover.com
Diverse Pub Scene
Edinburgh has such a wide range of pub options that any traveler is sure to find something that suits their fancy. Grab a pint of beer or some delicious pub food (haggis anyone?) from any of your favorites! Although you’ll have many pubs to choose from, start out with the semi-hidden Jolly Judge or the historic Beehive Inn. There are also plenty of tours available, like pub and whiskey tours, which, of course, include some tasty drinks!
Host of a Phenomenal New Year’s Party
Hogmanay is the word Scots use for December 31st, the last day of the year. As one of the biggest New Year’s celebrations in the world, Edinburgh’s Hogmanay is not one to miss. Enjoy live music, outdoor bars, and the famous Hogmanay Midnight Fireworks, all with the magnificent Edinburgh Castle setting the scene in the background. Be sure to book your hotel in Edinburgh early, as it can get very crowded during this time of year!
Unique Shopping on the Classic Royal Mile
This popular succession of streets known as the Royal Mile runs between Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace and is home to many shops, museums, street performers, and more. As the busiest tourist street in the Old Town, you are always sure to find plenty of activities and people roaming the streets.
Photo by Nita Gulati via Trover.com
Initially, Edinburgh may not be the destination you think of first when deciding where your next journey will take you. With the variety of attractions, history, pubs, shops, and more, underrated Edinburgh deserves a visit and will not leave you disappointed. Allow yourself to get captivated by Edinburgh’s charm and beauty, and see for yourself what makes the city so mesmerizing!
This post is a part of the #HipmunkCityLove Project.
6 Comments
Maaike
March 25, 2015 at 12:52 amI visited Edinburgh a few years ago, and when I went there I had no initial expectations at all. It turned out I had the best weekend in a long time. Such a beautiful city!
Marissa Sutera
March 25, 2015 at 9:58 amI was the same way! Now I can’t wait to get back there 🙂
Gemma Two Scots Abroad
March 24, 2015 at 9:05 amAlways so lovely to hear that other bloggers love our country. We are actually from Fife which is over the water from Edinburgh. Next time you are over hit us up for tips!
Marissa Sutera
March 24, 2015 at 9:20 pmI’m definitely a fan! Will for sure let you know next time I’m in the area for some tips 🙂
Paddy (The Backpack Diary)
March 13, 2015 at 7:56 pmI can vouch for the pubs! 🙂
Marissa Sutera
March 15, 2015 at 10:57 pmOne of the best parts! 🙂