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@ TravelTelly
2025-04-04 18:13:02
Edinburgh is a city where ancient history and modern culture meet in the most atmospheric way. From its dramatic castle perched on a volcanic rock to narrow medieval alleys, vibrant festivals, and cozy pubs, Scotland’s capital is a must-visit for travelers seeking both beauty and depth. It’s a city that feels like stepping into a storybook—with a few ghost tales thrown in for good measure.
## **🏛️ Top Things to See & Do in Edinburgh**
### **1️⃣ Edinburgh Castle**
- Iconic and **steeped in royal history**
- See the **Crown Jewels**, the **Stone of Destiny**, and sweeping **views over the city**
- Don’t miss the **1 o’clock cannon fire**!
### **2️⃣ Walk the Royal Mile**
- The main street running from **Edinburgh Castle** to **Holyrood Palace**
- Lined with **shops, historic closes (alleyways), churches, and pubs**
- Pop into **St Giles’ Cathedral** and explore the **Writer’s Museum**
### **3️⃣ Holyrood Palace & Arthur’s Seat**
- The Queen’s official Scottish residence 👑
- Hike up **Arthur’s Seat**, an ancient volcano, for **amazing panoramic views** of Edinburgh and beyond
### **4️⃣ Explore the Old Town & New Town**
- **Old Town:** Medieval, moody, atmospheric
- **New Town:** Elegant Georgian streets and **great shopping on Princes Street**
- Don’t miss **Victoria Street** – rumored inspiration for Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley ✨
### **5️⃣ Museums & Culture**
- **National Museum of Scotland** – interactive and family-friendly
- **Scottish National Gallery** – features art by Turner, Van Gogh, and more
- **Camera Obscura & World of Illusions** – quirky and fun near the castle
### **6️⃣ Edinburgh’s Underground & Ghost Tours**
- Explore the **hidden vaults under the city**
- Join a ghost tour or **learn about Edinburgh’s dark past**, including grave robbers and plague victims
### **7️⃣ Festivals Galore 🎭**
- **Edinburgh Festival Fringe (August)** – The **largest arts festival in the world**
- **Edinburgh International Festival**, **Book Festival**, and **Hogmanay (New Year)** celebrations
## **🍽️ What to Eat in Edinburgh**
- **Haggis, neeps & tatties** – A classic, surprisingly tasty Scottish dish
- **Scottish salmon**, **Cullen skink (smoky fish soup)**
- **Afternoon tea** or **Scottish whisky tasting** in a historic bar 🥃
- Try local spots like **The Witchery**, **Makars Gourmet Mash Bar**, or **The Scran & Scallie**
## **🚶♀️ Tips for Visiting Edinburgh**
✅ Wear comfy shoes – **cobblestones and hills** are part of the charm
✅ Be ready for **4 seasons in a day** – pack layers and a rain jacket ☁️☀️🌧️
✅ **Book ahead** in summer – especially during August festivals
✅ Take a day trip to **Rosslyn Chapel, the Highlands, or Stirling Castle** for more Scottish beauty
✅ Consider the **Edinburgh City Pass** if planning to visit many attractions
