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5 sites not to miss in Edinburgh

The Whiskey capital of the world? Maybe, and that should be enough to draw the tourists in. If not, there’s a lot more to boot. Though the essence of the cosmopolitan world has started looming large in the city it is still retaining its traditionalism in all its former glory. This is where the city’s distinctive factor lies. The Old, as well as the New Towns of Edinburgh, have been incorporated in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites since 1995. But there are distinctly 5 sites not to miss in Edinburgh.

Hence, its popularity as one of the top tourist destinations in the UK is comprehensible. The city is flanked by a number of tourist destinations. However, some of them deserve special importance. If you are there for a short span of time make sure you do not miss the top five tourist attractions in Edinburgh.

The five things to see in Edinburgh are:

Edinburgh Castle:

A majestic fortress that dates back to as long as the 12^th century is a site to behold. The massive castle is now home to an array of galleries and preserves an immense variety of exquisite collections. It has a number of other attractions too like the Scottish War Museum and historical re-enactors. In the precincts of the Edinburgh Castle are held the festival of traditional pipes and drums in the month of August.

The Royal Mile:

It is said that a stroll down the Royal Mile is a must for all tourists visiting Edinburgh. Along the street of the Royal Mile you will come across a large variety of traditional pubs and restaurants, the Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre, Parliament Square, St. Giles Cathedral, the Museum of Childhood, the Scottish Parliament, Dynamic Earth, Palace of the Holyrood House and a host of other attractions. It is truly the historic heart of the city.

Royal Botanical Garden:

Located on the north of the city center, the Royal Botanical Garden is the second oldest botanical garden in the British Isles. It is incorporated in an area of 70-acres. The garden houses an herbarium, a tropical house with exotic orchids, an alpine house, a heather garden, Great Britain’s biggest palm house, a collection of cacti and succulents, an extensive arboretum, a woodland garden, a terraced moorland garden, an aquatic house and a rock garden. There is also an Exhibition Hall where various exhibitions are held. Gardens aren’t my thing, but this is pretty cool!

Arthur’s Seat:

A hike to the top towards the east of the city will bring you to a now dormant volcano where Arthur’s Seat rests. The place also has the remnants of an iron-age fort. And from its vicinity one can get a picturesque view of Edinburgh.   It’s found in the centre of Holyrood park. Holyrood Park is a beautiful incorporation of a plethora of attractions. There is a remnant of an ancient volcano, the dramatic Salisbury Crags, three lakes, a bird sanctuary etc

The Scott Monument:

A Victorian gothic monument in tribute to the Scottish author Sir Walter Scott. You’ll find this 60m sight in the Princes Gardens in the city.  You can get inside and climb most of it, which offers awesome sights of the city.

5 sites not to miss in Edinburgh: These are my top 5 things to see in Edinburgh but there are a lot more (Port o’Leith, National of Gallery etc.) however if you only have a couple of days – these are your 5 must-sees in Edinburgh. 2 days should be enough to tick off the main sites.

I love this city, one of the few places in the UK I reckon I could actually live. The people are friendly, the city is beautiful but make sure to dress up warm, oh and you should probably bring a raincoat too. Scotland isn’t blessed with the best weather in the world but look on the bright side, if it gets a little chilly – it’s a perfect excuse to sample some of Scotland’s finest export – Scotch whisky. Happy travels!

FURTHER READING?

While in town, think about signing up for the 3 peaks Challenge!

Don’t travel without travel insurance ($10 a week!).