Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland that is in a condition of traditional and dynamic life but with the presence of wonderful sceneries that will cause the interest to any visitor. No matter if what you like most is castle tours, trekking, or historical tours, Edinburgh is the right place for you. Do you want to check out some best things to do in Edinburgh?

Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle, nestled on Castle Rock which is the perfect place to enjoy the most stunning panoramic views of the city, is the most famous landmark in Scotland. This historic and prominent castle has witnessed a good deal of Scotland's history and is also a tourist attraction where visitors can look at the ancient buildings, intriguing museums, and the view of the city. The Crown Jewels of Scotland, the Stone of Destiny, as well as the impressive Great Hall are the major highlights of the location. Who'd believe, you might also witness the One O'clock Gun firing which is known for its deafening noise. The castle will be a sensational experience and an ideal option for history fans and others who have an interest in experiencing the rich heritage of Scotland.

Holyrood Palace

On the other end of the Royal Mile stands Holyrood Palace, the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. This wonderful palace is a main attraction with remarkable history as it was once the home of Mary, Queen of Scots. In the palaces of this kind, the visitors can explore the grand apartments of the state, the historical chambers, and the ruins of Holyrood Abbey. The gardens in the vicinity of the palace provide a quiet and serene atmosphere, which makes the place an ideal spot for those who are both time and nature lovers. Besides the fact that the palace is also a site for official events, be sure to verify on the days of your visit if it is open to the public. 

Real Mary King’s Close

An unusual and maybe even a little spooky place to go is to Real Mary King’s Close. Explore deep under the Edinburgh mountains and walk along the secret corridors and chambers that have been there since the 17th century. As you go on the tour, you will collect a lot of stories about some old people who lived in the city, you will hear the tales that have been passed along throughout the years, and if you get lucky, you might be able to hear about some ghostly experiences as well. Once upon a time, the guided tours were way too boring and lacked life, but now they had a complete rethinking and have found a new way to perform these stories in an original and thrilling way. Curiosity is inseparable from the visitors in place who have a soft spot for mysterious and historic locations.

Water of Leith Walkway

When you are tired of a loud city, stop by the Water of Leith Walkway for a relaxing and quiet stroll. This area has the Water of Leith river flowing through it and provides a peaceful escape from the city. On the trail, you might come across some artful corners Wagner like Dean Village, a nice old residential area with lovely old buildings. You can even see some animals like herons and otters as you move along. Whether you prefer walking, cycling, or just sitting and watching the sea, this is a great place to relax and bask in the splendor of Edinburgh’s natural settings.

Calton Hill

For the most beautiful full-scale tourist image of the city, take a trip to Calton Hill. This hill is an abode place for several historic landmarks, one of them which is the National Monument inspired by the Parthenon in Athens, and the Nelson Monument, which provides a panoramic view of the city. The ascent to the hilltop is not too difficult and, up there, you will be able to enjoy breathtaking views of Edinburgh, the Old Town, Arthur's Seat, Salisbury Crags, and the Firth of Forth. At sunrise or sunset, it is a great place for taking pictures or enjoying the city’s beauty in general.

Scott Monument

The Scott Monument, which is a granite Gothic-style tower dedicated to the well-known Scottish author, Sir Walter Scott, is deemed one of the must-see landmarks in Edinburgh. The colossal sculpture that was built in the Gothic style and is located in the gardens of Princes Street is the largest writer’s monument in the whole world. The flight of narrow spiral steps inside the monument gives guests a picturesque vantage point over the city center. The monument is encased in a thick bed of vegetation and is a delightful place to have a rest in the middle of your busy walk. If you are a bookworm or adore architecture, this place will be up your alley.

Exploring Edinburgh Beyond the Landmarks

Even though these famous landmarks are the first things that tourists think about, the city of Edinburgh still features a variety of attractions. The city is well known for its festivals such as the Edinburgh Festival Fringe which is the largest arts festival in the world. If you are going during August, you will be part of one of the greatest theater, comedy, music, and street productions. Edinburgh is also known for its great eateries, quaint coffee shops, and traditional Scottish pubs where you can have a taste of local meals like haggis, neeps, and tatties.

Travel Tips for Visiting Edinburgh

If you are planning to travel to Edinburgh, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the entry requirements. US visitors who want to travel from the United States need to verify that they have the UK ETA for US citizens before they go. This electronic travel authorization is a combination for entrance to the UK which ultimately is very convenient, therefore, traveling around the city will be less difficult.

Since Edinburgh has the potential to have unpredictable weather, one should always have a jacket, and comfortable shoes. This is especially if the plan is to take a trip that involves a lot of walking around the city. Public transport is solid with buses and trams carrying passengers to all parts of the city. Still, many of the stopping points in Edinburgh are a walking distance apart from each other and therefore walking is one of the great ways of seeing the city's beauty.

How to Apply for a UK ETA

If you need to apply for a travel authorization, the UK ETA online application is a simple and convenient process. It allows eligible travelers to conduct their application at their homes, which in turn helps them to plan their visit and avoid unnecessary delays. Before going on a trip, all the information needed should be ready, and a final check for the trip is necessary to make it as smooth as possible.

The lush capital Edinburgh is a city created through an immense history, a cultural centre, and also the home of great beauty. You could take a historical view of the city visiting old castles and underground streets, or you might simply relax in green spots and visit viewpoints to get some of the rewarding moments the city offers you. 

Make Memories in Edinburgh

If you are always interested in history, wildlife, or festivals, there is no end in sight to many exciting activities in Edinburgh. Regardless of the time of the year, you will be able to find some of the best spots in Edinburgh to visit. Don’t forget to apply for your ETA. Pack your stuff, concentrate on having nothing but fun and watch the Scotland capital come to life!