Travel guide - Edinburgh
According to 19th century writer Robert Louis Stevenson, "Edinburgh is what Paris ought to be". Situated beside the North Sea and not far from the wild beauty of the lochs and moors, the city of Edinburgh is straight out of a fairy tale. The dark, romantic silhouettes of the Castle and St Giles' Cathedral recall Scotland's medieval history.
A city which is both steeped in history and yet which is enjoying a cultural boom, Edinburgh is a cosmopolitan place which boasts a host of festivals and traditional celebrations, such as Hogmanay. The Scottish capital, listed as a Unesco world heritage site, successfully combines tradition and modernity. You are likely to see at least one kilted Scotsman playing the bagpipes near the station, in the heart of the city!
Your stay in Edinburgh will naturally include an exploration of the cobbled Old Town. Discover the roots of Scotland musical traditions at the Ceilidh Festival, and have fun learning how to do some of the dances!
No visit to Edinburgh would be complete without a dram of whisky! Scotland is of course internationally famous for this drink and you will find a host of distilleries here, many of which can be visited. The Scotch Whisky Experience offers visitors tastings of fine malt whiskies: come and educate your palate.
Perched on a rocky outcrop in the Old Town, Edinburgh Castle offers a journey back in time. The narrow streets and medieval buildings around it evoke a picturesque village in the Middle Ages, and make Edinburgh an ideal destination for romantic getaways, perfect for discovering on foot. With its verdant parks and its medieval monuments, the city is a truly romantic place.
If you are visiting with the family, don't miss Edinburgh Zoo and in winter, the Christmas market!
Edinburgh is also the city of festivals par excellence. A dozen or so major festivals are organised each year, including the famous Edinburgh Festival and its Fringe which take place in August, as well as the International Film Festival in June. But Edinburgh is also a thriving student city which buzzes with energy and creativity. For a spot of shopping, head to Princes Street, where you'll find the major fashion shops as well as Jenners, the historic department store. When night falls, head to George Street for a night of clubbing!
Edinburgh, which has been called the Athens of the North thanks to its neoclassical architecture, is a lively and contemporary city, yet one which has remained faithful to its historic heritage and its traditions.
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Discover our practical information Today 16 ideas for visits and activities / 14 hotels
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