Scotland : beautiful Edinburgh

The capital city of Scotland since the 15^th century.  

To be honest, Edinburgh was not a city that was high on our bucket list. But eventually we are SO glad we did this trip with our good friend Carlo. Cause boy…this city is beautiful! Edinburgh is located in a region called Lothian and is home to the Scottish Parliament, the seat of the monarchy in Scotland. After London this city is the second most popular tourist destination when it comes to historical and cultural attractions. When strolling through these fascinating streets, it really feels like you are going back in time.

This city has a beautiful skyline, because it stands on 7 hills. Edinburgh is a smaller city in comparison with Glasgow but it really has its charmes!

Not to mention the local people, they are so unbelievable friendly! There were a lot of people, whether we were in the (grocery) shops, park or in the museum trying to make a conversation with us and asking if we enjoyed our stay and what we should see and do. We’ve been to many places, but their hospitality is amazing! We just can’t say enough, we LOVE Scottish people!

Here is our where to go list!

Arthur ’s Seats

Is the main peak of the group of hills which form the most of Holyrood Park. The hill is 250,5 metres high (822 ft) and its formed by an extinct volcano. We climbed all the way up, it was pretty exhausting but it was all worth in the end. When you see this panoramic view of the city, wow it’s just breathtaking. Make sure to wear (comfortable) sport shoes!

National Galleries of Scotland

Full of works from Scott artists and some of the world’s famous paintings from Vincent van Gogh, Rembrandt, Monet etc. It has a very nice collection of Dutch 17th and 18th century art. And the best thing is the entree is free! You can also enjoy live music concerts here. When we were visiting this museum we didn’t know that the band Cherrygrove would be performing, so that was a surprise! This band was so good, a mix of traditional songs, contemporary melodies and original compositions. Hearing the music (in particular the songs : Osmosis, the prize, Home on my mind) really felt like..yes we are in Scotland haha. Make sure to check them.

Edinburgh Castle

This Castle is one of the UK’s famous tourist attraction and iconic building in the city. Its located atop of an extinct volcano, like the Arthur’s Seats but another extinct volcano.

Carlton Hill

Is also a hill in central Edinburgh. It is an UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will find here several iconic monuments like The Nelson Monument, National Monument, Dugald Stewart Monument.

Edinburgh old Town

If you want to get the taste of the real Edinburgh, this is the place to be. This is where the history of Edinburgh is. Old buildings on the Royal Mile, lots of shops and traditional Scottish bars/café/restaurants to visit. Strolling through the little side streets. Such a great atmosphere.

Royal mile

A wide street with historical buildings, souvenirs shop, restaurant and cafés.

Princes Street Garden

A beautiful park near the Princess street. Here you can sit on the many benches and enjoy the great view of the Castle.

Princes Street

The shopping area! Here you can shop till ya drop!

There is lots of other great attractions and activities you can visit and do here!

———————————————————–

Below some pictures :

Arthur ’s Seats

Carlton Hill

New Town

Park Edinburgh

Old Town

Lakeland , a shop for baking and cooking! 

National Galleries of Scotland

We also visited Glasgow, more in our next post 🙂 !