Top 10 Things to Do in Edinburgh, The Capital of Scotland

It is said that only a decade is insufficient to visit the ancient sites of Scotland. The saying is true since the history of archaeology takes historians back to the Roman and Celtic eras. We need years to visit the current, famous walks and buildings. Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is equally renowned for captivating millions of tourists every year because of its rich history, ancient archaeological sites, and more. This article discusses some famous spots and things to do in Edinburgh. So, get ready for a fantastic tour of the Scottish capital.

Introduction to Edinburgh

Let us introduce Edinburgh before discussing the tourist activities so the facts about the city may powerfully fascinate you for a long tour. Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland, with its history rooted in centuries. We can claim the city to be one of the oldest in the country and it is based on facts. According to Wikipedia, the signs of human inhabitation in Edinburgh date back to 8500 BC.

According to reports in 2022, Edinburgh was home to almost 5 lac people covering nearly 264 square kilometres. Today, the city is considered the most powerful one in Scotland, with rapid economic growth. Industrial development makes it more prominent. On the other hand, from a tourist point of view, it has thousands of reasons to attract visitors.

Things To Do In Edinburgh

Here comes the most crucial part of our discussion: “Things to do in Edinburgh.” Highlighting these 10 things from thousands is tricky. It resembles choosing 10 pearls from millions scattered on the seashore. Let us tell you about some tips to make the journey memorable first, do not stick to only these activities, respect the nature and people there, enjoy the city’ history in their traditional kilt outfits to appreciate their culture. Doing so will add to the fun!

Visit Edinburgh Castle

Visiting something other than Edinburgh Castle might be quite an unfair decision. It is a historical entity in Edinburgh that has witnessed human development from the Iron Age. The castle remained home to royal families from the 11th to the 16th century. Standing on a rock facing the water, it is surrounded by gardens. That’s why the views from the castle allow viewers to experience some eye-pleasing scenes.

Undoubtedly, the surroundings of the castle amuse visitors; likewise, the interior also surprises visitors with hundreds of things. One can witness the Honour of Scotland, the oldest British crown jewels, placed in the castle. Another thing is its wooden roof. Moreover, the Great Hall is also the centre of attention, organized as it was in history.

Explore the History of the National Museum of Scotland

Seeing an ancient city means the visitor is history-oriented, so visiting a museum might be his top priority. No one can afford to return from Edinburgh without visiting the National Museum of Scotland, the largest museum in the country with 12 million items.

Mentioning a few items from 12 million to visit under one roof is impossible. Some common things one must consider visiting in the museum are the Grand Gallery, which has a Millennium Clock, Dolly the Sheep (the first mammal cloned from an adult cell), etc.

Get Amazed by Scottish Art in the National Art Gallery

An art-related festival is celebrated in Scotland every year. It aims to promote art and inform people about its impact on Scottish identity. The event is known to have been established in the 1820s.

Surprisingly, the gallery has more than 120,000 items to educate people about the importance of art. Different items in the gallery are available, such as paintings, sculptures, decorative items, and photographs. Some very famous artistic things to see in the gallery are:

• Collioure
• Lake Thun and the Stockhorn Mountains
• Portraits of Queen Anne
• Portraits of Sir James MacDonald and Sir Alexander MacDonald
• Margaret Lindsay of Evelick, the Artist’s Wife

Jump to Calton Hill 

Mountains and hills are prominent in Scottish landscapes. One should visit Calton Hill, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Scotland. Views from the give visitors an overview of the city. Several monuments and other scenes await to be seen.

Another worth visiting place is the Nelson Monument, built between 1807 and 1815. The monument reminds us of the Scottish victory in the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. Similarly, many historical and modern buildings can be seen from the hilltop.

Ensure Wondering in Lauriston Castle and Gardens

Another castle that grabs visitors’ attention is Lauriston Castle. Initially built in the 16th century and extended in the 18th century, it is an L-plan tower and castle covering 30 acres of Parkland and gardens. 

Lauriston Castle has many traditional things in the same condition that were added at the time of extension in the 18th century. Some everyday objects are Italian furniture, carpets, clocks, porcelain, tapestries, and decorative art. One must book a guided tour to visit this masterpiece.

Visit Victoria Street

Victoria Street in Edinburgh is worth visiting. Built in 1830, it still has many reasons to be visited besides being a historical point. First, the colourful buildings and shops in the street are a great symbol of Scot’s love for art. Similarly, the street is considered the most photographed spot in Edinburgh.

Moreover, Victoria Street is often said to be the inspiration behind Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter series, which is why children love to visit it. This street is a merchandising one attracting thousands of tourists every year. The shops there usually sell products from Harry Potter, Star Wars, and other fictional stories.

Make The Day Memorable at Scott Monument

The Scott monument is situated in Princess Street Gardens. It pays tribute to Sir Walter Scot, a famous writer and poet. The 200-foot-high memorial was completed in 1846. A statue of Sir Walter Scot is placed there. To reach the top, one must climb 287 stairs. These stairs exist in 4 segments so that one can stop, rest, and explore.

It also has a museum on the first floor where things belonging to Sir Walter Scot are placed. The top of this masterpiece offers a stunning view. It is said that people with height phobia even forget their fear of height when they realize what they are about to witness.

Visit Arthur’s Seat

Another iconic place to visit in the Scottish capital is Arthur Seat, a climb in Holyrood Park. It is a volcanic rock 252 meters above sea level. The rock top helps people have an overview of the city from every angle. Being a neighbour to the Duddingston Loch, viewing water scenes or feeding the ducks or swans is a great way of fun. Above all, an attractive walk on the rock grabs visitors’ attention. This walk is relatively smooth; even people in wheelchairs can enjoy the track.

Make Memories in Dean Village

One will have nothing in hand but regret if he visits Edinburgh and misses Dean Village, the most beautiful spot in the city. The village changed its status from historic and industrial to residential serene. Neighbouring the Water of Leith, thousands of stunning views await the tourists.

It incorporated many industrial terms in every era. In the 19th century, the village had 11 mills, supporting the economy of Edinburgh. The town now is a residential area and home to people who consider hospitality an obligation. So, it is necessary to respect them back.

Edinburgh Zoo

Edinburgh is a land of different entities that ensure something special for natural world lovers. “Edinburgh Zoo was established in 1913. It spread over 82 acres and had 3218 animals, 171 species in 2022. Almost 600,00 people visit the zoo annually, making it a top-paid destination in the city. 

Conclusion

Edinburgh has thousands of places that must be visited once. Some common tourist points are the mighty Edinburgh Castle, the National Museum of Scotland, Victoria Street, Edinburgh Zoo, and many more. Remember, these are just a few. Other popular destinations are the royal yacht Britannia, the Scottish Parliament, the Royal Botanic Gardens, The Witchery, and many more.