When in Edinburgh
As Scotland's capital city, Edinburgh quite rightly receives its fair share of tourists every year, from both the UK and further afield. Over two million visitors make the trip north every year, far outnumbering the city's own population of 500,000 and helping to create an atmosphere of a city that knows how to relax, turn strangers into new friends and have a good time.
Regarded as one of the greenest and most architecturally beautiful cities in Northern Europe, Edinburgh provides the perfect city break for those that dislike the dirt and pollution of many other metropoleis but still want to take advantage of the cultural and entertainment opportunities afforded by large urban centres. With the air described as "bracing" to say the least, an energetic stroll around Edinburgh can blow away as many cobwebs as a trek across Scotland's moors or lochs, while the attractive open spaces and architecture threaten to rival the countryside in the beauty stakes as well.
In recognition of its unique appeal, Edinburgh has been classified as a World Heritage Site, putting it on a par with Florence, Prague and the Taj Mahjal. The idea of a World Heritage Site was developed in 1972, when the United Nations decided that it had a duty to preserve sites of outstanding universal value. Urban centres can only be included if they are of exceptional interest, with Edinburgh's inclusion no mean feat and proof of its attractive qualities. The city was in part awarded World Heritage status in recognition of its idiosyncratic blend of medieval old town and neo-classical new town, which fuse together to make Edinburgh a city well worth exploring.
Known affectionately by many as the Athens of the north, Edinburgh firmly dispels the myth that culture in the UK can only exist in London. The city is nothing if not a hot bed of cultural, learning and general sporting facilities, with an international reputation for supporting culture and the arts. Many international festivals are held in the city, including most notably the world-renowned Edinburgh Festival in August, with few established comedians having not made the pilgrimage to the famous Edinburgh Fringe. As well as hosting one of the world's best cultural festivals, Edinburgh is also famed for its New Year's party, with the annual Hogmanay attracting more visitors every year than the much-loved medieval city can even accommodate.
Travel to Edinburgh is easy, as the city is well served by planes, trains and roads. A number of airlines fly into Edinburgh airport, including popular cheap flight options such as bmi, easyjet and Ryanair. The airport caters for those flying from within the UK and further afield, serving destinations such as Atlanta, Helsinki and Ibiza to name but a few. UK travellers will often finds its cheapest and quickest to reach the city by air, although a number of regular and affordable coaches and trains also serve the city. Upon arrival, travel around Edinburgh is cheap and simple, with many destinations accessible on foot and an impressive bus network covering the city.
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Introduction
