Edinburgh is the heart of Scotland. What to see and where to go in Edinburgh? Sights of Edinburgh - what to see

Edinburgh is the ancient capital - the heart of Scotland, the history of this city goes back to the distant past. It is impossible not to admire him, you fall in love with him at first sight, and there is an irresistible desire to stay in him forever! Edinburgh, a city built on a volcano, is amazing and fascinating.

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For the first time in history, Edinburgh was mentioned in the 6th century AD. The city was originally called “Din Edin” (Dunеideаnn) and was founded in the 10th-11th centuries. In 1130, David I (King of Scotland) awarded the city the status of “burgh” (i.e., fortress). Before the conquest of Scotland by the British, Edinburgh was one of the most important centers of social and political life in the country. For many centuries this was the residence of Scottish kings

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In the 11th century, Edinburgh Castle was built, which was completed and expanded until 1927. It was in this castle that Mary Stuart gave birth to the future King James I in 1566. The main districts of Edinburgh are the Old Town and the New Town. The city has many small shops selling souvenirs for tourists. Edinburgh is also full of cafes and restaurants, many of them decorated in the style of the Victorian era.

Edinburgh city center map:

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It is not for nothing that Edinburgh is considered one of the most beautiful and green cities in the UK. Every year the capital of Scotland is visited by a huge number of tourists, no less than London. This city has an interesting history, which the indigenous people are proud of, which they remember and are happy to tell to visiting people. A favorite place for tourists in the capital of Scotland is Edinburgh Castle, which rises majestically on a huge rock. At its gate there is a square that is intended for parades. It is here that the military band festival takes place every year at the end of August.

Edinburgh Castle The history of the appearance of the castle, and with them the city of Edinburgh itself, is so foggy and shrouded in mystery that it constantly gives rise to controversy among archaeologists

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“The embryo of the nest of Scottish kings” - Edinburgh Castle was the small Norman chapel of St. Margaret, built by order of Margaret, the wife of King Malcolm. The 11th century chapel is the oldest building in the castle. And Malcolm, by the way, shared power with Macbeth for a long time and with varying success

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The castle was built over centuries, the latest building is the War Memorial, which does not at all stand out from the general style. The castle was a palace, a fortification, a treasury, an armory, and a prison. Everything is as it should be, even there is its own never-fired Tsar Cannon :) And the room where the first Stuart was born, who wore two crowns - James VI in Scottish calculus and I in English

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You cannot photograph the crown, scepter and sword: these are the oldest royal regalia in Great Britain, because... the ancient attributes of power of the English kings were destroyed by decision of parliament (after the execution of Charles I). After the restoration of the monarchy, copies were made according to the model of the previous ones, and it is these copies that now lie in the treasury of the Tower

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The rich military past of the castle is reminiscent of powerful bastions and fortress walls, as well as an exhibition located in old barracks and casemates. Actually, one tour of Edinburgh Castle is enough - and you can consider that you have studied the history of Scotland. In front of the main gate there is an esplanade - a small area intended for parades. In the last days of August, the international festival of military bands Tatu is held there annually. Translated from English tattoo means “drum roll”.

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The Royal Mile stretches through the entire old city all the way to Holyroodhouse Palace. This is one of the most charming streets in the world (although in fact the distance from one point to another is not a mile, but a little more - 1 mile and 107 yards). The street got its name because the queen walked along it every day exactly a mile to the cathedral for services. The queen considered such a walk a mandatory condition necessary for spiritual enlightenment in the temple.

The British claim that the Royal Mile is famous for its ghosts, watching the path from the palace to the cathedral. The Royal Mile is not only the tourist mecca of Edinburgh, it is a place where the entire history of the city and Scotland connects the two royal residences - in the castle and in the palace, and is simply a string of streets that turn into one another, changing their name at any intersection with the side ones. .

Daniel Defoe described it as "the largest, longest and most beautiful street in the whole world." To the east of Edinburgh Castle lies the picturesque Holyrood Park

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The Palace of Holyroodhouse, where the street ends, is a purely decorative structure, only stylized as a medieval castle. King James IV began building it at the very end of the 15th century. next to the ancient abbey, the ruins of which remain to this day. The glory of Holyrood is associated with the name of Queen Mary Stuart, who lived there most of her life. Now the castle houses a museum: among its exhibits are collections of antique furniture and jewelry, a portrait gallery of 80 Scottish kings

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The Grassmarket is one of the most charming streets in the Old Town. Once upon a time there was indeed a green market (as well as a city scaffold), today it is more like the kingdom of the green serpent. This is where the city's most famous pubs and restaurants are located. Needless to say, life in this area is vibrant "from dusk to dawn." Our Dynamic Earth is an ideal holiday destination for young families. Visitors go on an exciting journey into the past, present and future of our planet. The excursion is interactive and rich in the latest achievements of science and new technologies.

Saint Jill:

It's nice to take a walk around the Royal Botanic Gardens. From the extinct volcano Arthur’s Seat there are incomparably beautiful views of the sea, hills and the city itself.

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Many literary figures were born in Edinburgh: Sir Walter Scott, Irwin Walsh and, of course, the author of the Harry Potter saga, JK Rowling.

It's worth taking time to watch the sunset from Arthur's Hill. It's an amazing sight. The highest point in the group of hills in this park offers stunning views of the city. There are many museums in Edinburgh that are worth visiting, such as the Writers' Museum, where you can learn about the life and work of Scottish creators, the National Gallery of Scotland, the oldest art gallery in the region, the Museum of Edinburgh and many others

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Edinburgh was recently chosen as the capital of Europe based on the criterion of having the best private hotels. Thus, only 11 European hotels were named the best, seven of which are located in Edinburgh, Scotland

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The city is very popular among tourists due to its rich historical heritage, outstanding natural beauty, as well as extensive cultural heritage. As a result of the growing tourist flow, more and more private hotels are opening here, each of which is trying to beat its competitors

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According to experts, Edinburgh currently has a large number of Georgian-style hotel properties, which can usually boast good locations and excellent rooms - such hotels are not found in either Milan or Paris. At the moment, small private hotels are already much more popular among tourists than large hotels owned by international chain operators.

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Firstly, the mountains against the backdrop of the pre-storm sky, endless in its blue and violet. Secondly, the atmosphere of the city is a combination of old castles and majestic buildings with complete youth recklessness - yes, there are just tons of men in kilts, the sounds of bagpipes persistently do not subside, and the girls seem to be just busy organizing crazy pre-wedding hen parties in such clothes that any role-playing games seem like a stupid attempt at originality. There is a group of flight attendants, and shepherdesses, and ladies in pink. Young people are walking around in a great way - there is roar, laughter and fun everywhere. There are crazy taxis here, more like multi-colored gramophones

In August, the city hosts the world's largest annual festival, the Edinburgh Fringe - the world's largest arts festival, attracting many actors, dancers and musicians from around the world to the city. The capital of Scotland has gained great fame from its tradition of celebrating the New Year (Hogmanay) on a grand scale. At this time, Princess Street is filled with celebrants, and more than 4.5 tons of fireworks soar into the sky. .

Edinburgh is also very changeable. In one hour, the weather can change dramatically several times - from soft sun to cold downpour with strong wind. However, the sun there is quite a rare occurrence even in the warm season (during that June day that I spent in Edinburgh it rained 3 times, 4 times there was dazzling sun and a couple of times there was a stormy wind, forcing me to even put on a warm hat!):

The city also looks gloomy thanks to its architecture. Due to increased air humidity, the stone from which buildings are built darkens. This looks especially great on Gothic churches, making them look heavy and ominous.

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Palace of Holyroodhouse Edinburgh museums and a monument to Scotland's most famous Skye Terrier - a story in the spirit of the White Beam - see Edinburgh. Part 2----------->>>>>>>>>

In the capital of Scotland you will see magnificent architectural ensembles that you will definitely want to photograph. The city has a rich history, it is not for nothing that it is called “Northern Athens”. The green hills give it a special charm; they perfectly complement the overall picture. About Edinburgh attractions a lot of programs have been written and filmed, but they are unlikely to fully convey the entire atmosphere. I don't pretend to either. I’ll just try to introduce you to the beauties of the Scottish capital and tell you about the most interesting things.

Edinburgh sights

This is where the history of the city begins. Edinburgh first became known in the 11th century, when Malcolm the Third ruled here. Since those times, the Chapel of St. Margaret, the oldest building of the castle, has been preserved on the top of Castle Rock. It was dedicated to the ruler's wife. Near the chapel is Mons Peg, a giant cannon from the 15th century.

Today Edinburgh Castle is open to tourists and is the main attraction of the city. The main street of the capital of Scotland, the Royal Mile, leads to this legendary building. As soon as you begin to approach your destination, you understand: such a huge fortress can last for many more millennia, it is perfectly protected, everything is thought out to the smallest detail and it amazes with its scale. By the way, every year a solemn event is held here - the Royal Edinburgh Military Band Parade. There is also something to see inside the castle: the Crown of Scotland and the Stone of Scone are kept here. I’ll tell you more about the latter.

Skunk stone

This is a sacred relic of Scotland, which has other names - Jacob's Pillow, Stone of Destiny, Coronation Stone.

During the coronation, the Scottish kings sat on it as if on a throne. According to one legend, it was this stone that the Apostle James put under his head instead of a pillow when he saw a ladder from heaven and angels descending along it. If you believe the second legend, the stone ended up in Scotland thanks to a princess named Scota, the daughter of Pharaoh Ramsess II.

Palace of Holyroodhouse

It is located next to Edinburgh Castle. Even today, the Queen of Great Britain enjoys staying at Holyrood Palace. The first stone on the site was laid by Malcolm the Third and Margaret's son David the First in 1128. David miraculously escaped while hunting; it seemed to him that divine guidance itself had warded off trouble from him, so he promised to erect a building in honor of the “holy cross” (this phrase translates the word “Holyrood”).

A lot happened in the palace; they will probably tell you on excursions about the murder of Queen Mary Stuart’s secretary (who was her lover) and Henry Stuart (her husband).

Canongate

This is an area located near the Palace of Holyroodhouse and the Royal Mile. Canongate also has a very rich history, it is connected with the creation of Holyrood Abbey. For some time, there were even slums here, but, fortunately, in the middle of the last century, the authorities decided to build new houses, and later offices. The “crown” of the new style was the opening of the Scottish Parliament building in 2004, so the area can now be called a political center.

Today there are also the pedagogical university of the University of Edinburgh, a kindergarten and a junior school, and a Center for Physical Education and Sports. But Canongate Tolbut will surely attract more attention from tourists.

Previously, the building served as a court and prison, but now it houses the Museum of Scottish History and Life.

What to see in the New Town

The main street of modern Edinburgh is Princes Street. There is always a very lively atmosphere here, which is not at all surprising. Princess Street has a huge number of restaurants, cafes and shops.

An excellent opportunity to take a break from sightseeing in the Scottish capital, have a snack and get some nice souvenirs. However, even here you cannot do without interesting and significant buildings. For example, you can see the monument to Walter Scott seemingly rising above the city.

Inside the square tower, tourists will be able to see the statue of the famous writer and the dog located at his feet. The monument is separated from the top by 287 steps, which are decorated with arcades with many sculptures that depict the heroes of the works of Walter Scott.

For example, the national cuisine of Scotland, which you can get acquainted with in one of the local restaurants. It is worth trying a variety of game dishes, lamb and salmon. What's for dessert? Of course, cupcake! You probably didn’t know, but the country is associated with this delicacy. People in Edinburgh and Scottish cities in general love baking and enjoy baking all kinds of cookies, pies and buns. Are you full and want some spectacle? You will have them too!

The Edinburgh International Arts Festival is held every year at the end of August or at the very beginning of September. It is considered one of the largest in the world. Thousands of spectators and participants come here from different parts of the world. The Queen of Great Britain also definitely comes to this event.

What's on the Edinburgh Arts Festival programme? A daytime parade of bagpipers and an evening parade of Scottish regiments from all over the world, performances by classical music performers, opera singers, theater actors, and dancers. Master classes and seminars and art exhibitions are also organized.

The event takes place in Edinburgh's tallest cathedral, the Hub, which is a short walk from Edinburgh Castle.

Already planning to head to Edinburgh? Great! Find great deals below.

Well, in the end, I propose to take another look at the sights of the capital of Scotland

Heads and Tails Edinburgh

I hope you enjoyed your virtual tour of the Scottish capital. I will be glad to comments, likes and tweets. Have a great holiday and pleasant impressions!

In Edinburgh, more than anywhere else in Scotland, the distinctive Scottish way of life is very evident. Bagpipes and kilts are still part of everyday life here. Scottish food, consisting exclusively of healthy ingredients, is of very high quality. It is based on beef, lamb, game and a lot of fish. Not only Scottish cheese and Scottish beer are known throughout the world, but also Scotch whiskey.

Let's explore the architecture of Edinburgh from a bird's eye view! Edinburgh Castle, St. Giles, the Balmoral Hotel, St. Cuthbert's Church, the Church of St. Andrew and St. George, the University of Edinburgh, the National Monument of Scotland, all these buildings define the face of Edinburgh today...

Edinburgh castle
Edinburgh Castle, Scotland's most popular landmark, appears to float above the center of Edinburgh. Walking across the drawbridge inside the fortress, you can see the famous Stone of Scone or the Stone of Destiny, a sacred Scottish relic on which English and Scottish monarchs were crowned for many centuries, as well as the halls, museums and castle chapel. The castle offers a breathtaking view of the entire city. Every day, except Sunday, at exactly one o'clock in the afternoon, a signal cannon is fired from the fortress walls. Edinburgh Castle is also the perfect backdrop for the annual Military Band Festival. During the Edinburgh Festival and on New Year's Day, festive fireworks explode over the fortress; in addition, the new adventures of Harry Potter are staged at Edinburgh Castle.

Palace of Holyroodhouse
The Palace of Holyroodhouse, once the site of conspiracies, murders and political intrigue, today serves as the official residence of the British Queen. It is located at the very end of the medieval cobbled Royal Mile, the city's main street leading to Edinburgh Castle. Here Mary Stuart spent the darkest days of her life, her tragic fate to this day does not leave anyone indifferent. It was in the Palace of Holyroodhouse, in front of the pregnant queen, that her Italian secretary David Riccio was killed on the orders of her husband Lord Darnley. Today, many of the Scottish Queen's personal belongings are on display here, including those that belonged to Mary Stuart shortly before her early death in captivity. Copyright www.site

Writers Museum
The Writers' Museum is located on a narrow street off the Royal Mile. Portraits, manuscripts and personal items on display here tell the story of the lives and works of Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott and Robert Louis Stevenson. In addition, the museum hosts special events exhibitions dedicated to other famous Scottish writers past and present.The medieval courtyard in front of the museum is called the "Makers" Court, where the sayings of Scottish authors over the past 600 years are carved into the cobblestones. Edinburgh's Walk of Literary Fame!

In addition to London, another popular tourist destination in the UK is the city of Edinburgh. Being the capital of Scotland, Edinburgh is rich in historical and architectural attractions, numerous cultural sites, art galleries and museums, as well as, of course, a variety of evening entertainment opportunities: pubs, bars, restaurants, clubs.

The attractions of Scotland and Edinburgh regularly attract a lot of tourists, but a special influx of visitors begins at the end of summer. Edinburgh attracts three times more guests than usual in August, because it hosts famous Edinburgh Festival, which is a joint holding of several festivals of various directions.

Therefore, at this time it is better to take care of the issue of accommodation here in advance and look at numerous hotels in Edinburgh, as well as book them, which can be easily done thanks to the Hotellok service. Another reason for mass public celebrations is New Year or Hogmanay. when theatrical performances, fairs and other exciting events are held.

Brief history

Scientists have found that the first settlements on the territory of modern Edinburgh belong to the Bronze Age. This is evidenced by the findings of historians and archaeologists: primitive painting, ancient tools.

The first tribe to settle here was the Votadin tribe.. Even the ancient Romans in the 1st millennium BC. wanted to conquer this people, as evidenced by some surviving documents. The Votadins built the fortress Din Eidyn, which literally translates as “the fortress of Eidyn.” This name went through several transformations until it reached its modern name - Edinburgh.

After numerous battles, in 638 AD. The fortress came into the possession of the Northumbrian Angles, who had a huge influence on its development. During this period, the characteristic suffix “burg” was added to the name of the city.

Three centuries later, the fortress began to belong to Scotland. The fastest pace of development of the city can be attributed to the 12th century. Then the Church of the Holy Crucifixion (Holyrood Abbey) was built, and the royal court moved to Edinburgh Castle.

Later, the parliament that arose in Edinburgh determined the development of Edinburgh as the capital of Scotland. As the city's political influence waned, cultural life continued to flourish: local philosophers, scientists, writers and artists continued to play a significant role in world culture.

In 1450, Edinburgh was surrounded by a fortress wall; now this area is called the Old Town. It is characterized by tall buildings of 11, or even 14-15 floors, since Edinburgh could only grow in height at that time. In the 18th century, a new area arose to the north of the city - the New Town. Since 1995, these areas have been listed as World Heritage Sites.

Edinburgh has been the capital of Scotland since 1437. In 1998, the British Parliament adopted the Scotland Act, which determined the creation of its own parliament and administration here. They can adopt their own laws in Scotland and regulate the taxation system.

Local Attractions

Edinburgh is home to some of the must-see sites and attractions when visiting Scotland.

One of the first things you should visit is the main symbol and landmark of Edinburgh – Edinburgh Castle.. From the outside it seems that the castle is floating above the city. The observation deck here offers stunning views of Edinburgh. Jewelry, ancient weapons, and historical values ​​are exhibited here for tourists.

No less worthy of a visit is the Palace of Holyroodhouse, which was previously an abbey. The ruins of the abbey remain here to this day, only now the palace itself serves as a royal residence. This is where official events and receptions are held when the Queen visits Scotland.

These two objects are connected by the so-called “Royal Mile”. This is the name given to four roads in Edinburgh, which are exactly one mile long. Moving down from Edinburgh Castle, along this street and its branches you can see some attractions and buy souvenirs.

Along the way, you can stop by the Camera Obscura and World of Illusions museum, where you can taste this traditional Scottish drink and learn how to make it.

Almost in the center of the Royal Mile is St. Giles' Cathedral, the center of religious life in Scotland.

The Royal Mile also has one secret street - Mary King's Dead End. In the 18th century, it was walled up when the city administration building was being built, and in 2000 it was opened again. Now on the territory of the underground street there is a museum showing the life of the Scots in the 16th-19th centuries.

Edinburgh opens the doors of its art galleries to tourists, among which the most famous The National Gallery of Scotland is the oldest of its kind in the region, the National Portrait Gallery and the Gallery of Modern Art on the grounds of the Royal Botanic Gardens. The botanic garden itself is also an attraction, as it is one of the oldest botanic gardens in the UK.

Edinburgh's history can be explored by visiting the National Museum of Scotland and the National War Museum. Also open to the public is the royal yacht Britannia, which has now been converted into a museum on the water.

Edinburgh is famous for its zoo, or rather, its inhabitants. It is located near the city center and was created not so much for entertainment as for research work. However, this does not prevent crowds of tourists from visiting it. The creators of the zoo were able to show not only the diversity of animals inhabiting our planet, but also convey the urgent problem of endangered animal species.

When you come to Edinburgh, you should definitely visit several unusual museums. For those interested in geology, biology, geography and other natural sciences, You should definitely see the exhibitions of the museum “Our Dynamic Earth”, where you can “visit” the epicenter of an earthquake or volcanic eruption, feel how the planet breathes, learn about various other processes and unusual phenomena on earth.

Those who are passionate about literature should visit the Museum of Authors, which tells about the pride of Scotland in the field of poetry and prose: Walter Scott, Robert Burns, Robert Stevenson. By the way, visiting this museum is free, which is determined by the tradition of “what to take from a poet.”

Edinburgh also delights children and those who remain children at heart, opening access to the Museum of Childhood, filled with souvenirs, books, entertainment, toys and other children's attributes. The museum always has a joyful and cheerful atmosphere that appeals to both young and adult visitors.

Important information for tourists

Tourists who want to visit all the sights and interesting places of Edinburgh and save money at the same time are better off purchasing an Edinburgh Pass, through which you can visit about 30 museums and galleries in the city for free, get discounts in shops and restaurants, and also travel around the city for free.

The price for a 1 day card is £24, 2 days £36 and 3 days £48. You can purchase it at the airport, train station or information offices throughout the city.

If we consider Edinburgh hotels, then the historical center naturally has the most expensive options. Edinburgh's relatively inexpensive hostels and hotels are located in the lower part of the Royal Mile and its side streets, as well as in the south of the city and Leith.

Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland and one of the country's most visited cities by tourists. Travelers are attracted here by the attractions of Edinburgh, of which there are many in the city. I suggest you get acquainted with the most popular of these amazing places

The heart of the city is the legendary Edinburgh Castle, the main stronghold of Scotland. The castle rises proudly above the city, and it is impossible not to notice it. Be sure to visit here, and then you can safely say that you have visited the very heart of Scotland


The second most popular castle in Edinburgh is Holyroodhouse. From here leads the famous road called the Royal Mile, connecting Holyrood to Edinburgh Castle. There are many legends surrounding the founding of the abbey in this place and the construction of the castle, but the true reason remains hidden. Holyrood means Holy Cross in the local language.


Edinburgh Zoo opened in 1913 and is located just a few minutes' walk from the city centre. This is one of the best and most famous zoos in the world, so don’t miss your chance and visit here


The building of the National Gallery of Scotland, built in 1853, immediately attracts attention. it houses a magnificent collection of art objects, the best works of world artists and sculptors

The Royal Museum of Edinburgh houses 36 galleries with a wide range of art collections from around the world. The museum is located in the very center of Edinburgh, so you should not miss the opportunity to visit here. Among the new attractions in Edinburgh, it is worth highlighting the Museum of Scotland. Its exhibition tells about the history of the country in detail, from its very foundation to the present day.


The Scottish Gallery of Modern Art also contains many valuable and interesting exhibits, in total there are about five thousand examples of modern art


One of the most beautiful streets not only in Scotland, but also in the world, is the Royal Mile, which I mentioned above. It connects the Palace of Holyroodhouse and the Palace of Edinburgh. This is where the largest concentration of tourists is observed, with many souvenir shops, restaurants and cafes. Well, the number of beautiful buildings from different centuries here is completely incalculable. If you are passing through Edinburgh, be sure to walk along this street and feel the atmosphere of the city


This concludes our review of Edinburgh attractions. Please complement and share your impressions in the comments!

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