Published By: Nirtika Pandita

The sites to visit in Edinburgh

This side of Scotland is a marvel and demands time to be spent here

The capital city of Scotland since the 15th century, Edinburgh is located on the southern shore of the Firth of Forth. The city is famous for its historical structures, especially the Palace of Holyroodhouse, which is the official residence of the monarch of Scotland. Just not the Palace, a walk down the lanes of Edinburgh will leave you spellbound by the structures and the scenery it has to offer. In fact, the city has for long been known in the fields of medicine, Scots law, literature, philosophy, sciences, and engineering. Situated between the coast and hills, it is also known as 'the windy city, so here are some of the must-visit places in Edinburgh.

Try sitting on Arthur’s Seat

Located in Holyrood Park, Arthur’s Seat is an ancient volcano. It is the main peak of the group of hills in Edinburgh that form most of Holyrood Park. This ancient volcano rises 800 feet above sea level providing panoramic views of the city of Edinburgh and the Lothians, including Edinburgh Castle, and the Scott Monument. Well, do not be worried when you hear it is uphill. It is comparatively easy to climb and is known for hillwalking as there are an array of paths and trails, suitable for all, including the trail to St Margaret's Loch.

Learn history at the National Museum of Scotland

The National Museum of Scotland established in 2006 is a merger of the new Museum of Scotland, and the adjacent Royal Scottish Museum which was opened in 1866. The coming together of the two museums brings collections relating to Scottish antiquities, culture, and history, as well as international collections covering science and technology, natural history, and world cultures. The two buildings are distinctive, as the Museum of Scotland is a modern building design whereas the former Royal Museum building has the architecture of a Victorian Venetian Renaissance facade and a grand hall of cast iron in full height of the building.

Other places to visit in Edinburgh are the National Museum Of Scotland, Scottish Parliament Building, Surgeons' Hall Museums, Camera Obscura, Scott Monument, Calton Hill, Edinburgh Zoo, Museum Of Childhood, Scottish National Portrait Gallery, The Queen’s Gallery, Johnnie Walker Princes Street, Lauriston Castle and Gardens, Edinburgh Dungeons, Real Mary King’s Close, The Scotch Whisky Experience, Rosslyn Chapel, and Royal Yacht Britannia to name a few.