- Walt Stoneburner / Art Photos / CC BY
Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland is a multi-award winning traveler’s delight. The rich cultural and historical roots coupled with the stunning natural beauty makes it a must see destination for one and all. Despite being noted as a World Heritage site by UNESCO the city pulsates with energy and life as it boasts of many fashionable and swanky restaurants, bars and other attractions.
The city offers activities and sites for all ages. Some of the most notable ones will give you your combined fill of history, culture, adventure, festivities and whatever else your heart desires.
- Arthur’s Seat – Situated in the centre of the city and formed by an extinct volcano, towers a hill over Edinburg. A climb to the top is rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of the city which makes it a must for every visitor to experience this for themselves at least once. However, it is good long hike to the top and might leave you huffing and puffing for a little while. But, once you get to the top not only will the view tear your mind away from any feeling of exhaustion, you’ll also experience a sense of accomplishment from besting the climb up. Nonetheless, when visiting Arthur’s Seat do not forget to wear sensible athletic shoes.
- The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo – An impressive annual series of military musical show featuring both auditory and visual delights. Spectacular performances by gifted musical performers from around the world and remarkable visual lights and fireworks display promises a good time for both home as well as international audiences. Watch out for the piper’s performance as it spins in further magic into the already magical night.
- Camera Obscura and World of Illusions – Created in the mid 19th century by optician Maria Short, Scotland’s first built tourist attraction offers five stories of visual spectacle. A set of powerful telescopes on the roof, an impressive view across the city skyline, the interactive visual exhibits throughout the building, hands-on optical illusions, vortex tunnel, mirror maze and shrinking room etc. allows you to personally take part in each display and experience the place more closely than anything else. What’s even remarkable is that the place actually claims to give you a full refund if you’re not really satisfied. But then again it is not really possible to visit this place and leave with a frown.
- Restaurants – As mentioned above, the city offers a number of restaurants that guarantees to delight you gastronomical sense. There is ‘The Ship on the Shore’, bearing relevance to its name, this place puts forward some of the best sea food dishes you’ll ever have. Plus the nautical theme within the restaurant and the sight of water outside creates the right ambience making your visit all the more enjoyable.
The Michelin starred restaurants ‘Castle Terrace’ and ‘The Kitchin’ each present the mouth-watering and sensational food that earns a Michelin star. the heady menu of the hotels makes it very difficult to pick and choose from the delicious array.
Apart from those mentioned above, there are many other must see spots in Edinburgh like the National Museum of Scotland, Gilmerton Cove, Royal Botanic Garden and of course the old town. So once you reach Edinburgh you can be assured that it is not going to be one of the regular spa retreat vacation. This city will lure you out of your hotel rooms and keep you on your feet all day long. However, you’ll need some help with all that moving around.
Author’s Bio – Sam Payn loves to write on the places he explores. From Sixt offer van hire to Paris hotels – he covers up all topics related to tour and traveling.
