Things to do in Edinburgh

About Edinburgh

Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland, defined by its dramatic contrast between the medieval Old Town and the neoclassical New Town. Perched on a volcanic crag, [97] Edinburgh Castle dominates the skyline, while the sprawling [32535] Princes Street Gardens fill the gorge between the two historic districts. Visitors can explore the underground history of the city at [32125] The Real Mary King's Close or walk the historic Royal Mile connecting the castle to [31434] The Palace of Holyroodhouse. The city remains a global hub for literature and science, with world-class collections at the [273] National Museum of Scotland.

Good to know

1. 1

   Edinburgh was the first city in the world to have its own municipal fire service, established in 1824.

2. 2

   The city is built on an extinct volcano known as Arthur's Seat, which is located within the center of Holyrood Park.

3. 3

   Edinburgh has more listed buildings per square mile than almost anywhere else in the United Kingdom.

4. 4

   The city's 'New Town' was a planned 18th-century development designed to provide more space and air than the overcrowded, narrow closes of the Old Town.

5. 5

   Edinburgh is home to the world's oldest surviving bank note, issued by the Bank of Scotland in 1696.