Things to do in Edinburgh
Although Edinburgh is renowned for its international festival during August, the city is alive with activities and attractions throughout the entire year. Rich in history and culture, visitors to the city will find places to explore literally around every corner.
Dominating the skyline with its undeniably breathtaking location, Edinburgh Castle is at one end of the Royal Mile and is the best known and most visited tourist attraction in the Scottish capital. As well as the historical wealth that the castle affords, visitors can also gain panoramic views over the city and the Firth of Forth. Royal apartments and the ancient Honours of Scotland - Crown, Sceptre and Sword of State - can all be viewed.
From one end of the Royal Mile to the other, the new Scottish Parliament caused much controversy on its opening. Visitors can judge for themselves whether they approve of the new architecture; those who do not can easily cross the road to the Palace of Holyroodhouse - the Queen's official residence in Scotland - an elegant building nestling at the foot of Arthur's Seat and Salisbury Crags. The extinct volcano is a favourite of both walkers and tourists, providing views of the city and, on a clear day, out towards the Kingdom of Fife and East Lothian.
Numerous museums and galleries line Edinburgh's streets, with the most central being the National Gallery. As the oldest of the city's five galleries, it is home to Scotland's greatest collection of European paintings and sculpture from the Renaissance to post-impressionism. Modern art can be found at both the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art and the Dean Gallery.
Edinburgh is increasingly becoming a shopper's paradise; all budgets are catered for, from the high street stores on Princes Street to the more upmarket stores on the elegant George Street. Harvey Nicholls, which opened recently on St Andrews Square, has cemented the city's reputation as one of the UK's best shopping cities.
For those keen to take a break from all the sightseeing and shopping, Princes Street Gardens, which are nestled between Princes Street and the Mound, provide a perfect spot to soak up the atmosphere of the city. Ten minutes walk from the centre of town lie the Botanical Gardens, a vast and beautiful park surrounded by some of Edinburgh's finest townhouses.
Edinburgh becomes one of the world's most buzzing cities during its International Festival and Festival Fringe. During the month of August hundreds of venues across the city play host to a variety of events, from dance shows and comedians to theatre, opera and audiences with world-famous authors. At wintertime the city is also a special place to be, with visitors recommended to visit Prince's Street Garden's Winter Wonderland. With an ice rink, German market and a big wheel, the Wonderland is one of the most popular things to do during chilly December days.
Edinburgh's welcoming and friendly locals, combined with the numerous things to do, mean that many visitors find themselves more than willing to listen to the city's motto of 'haste ye back'.
|
Things to do
