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Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland . "Auld Reekie" is overlooked by Edinburgh Castle a city that contrasts old and modern. Edinburgh is on the east coast of Scotland . A city of culture, nightlife and fun.
The Scottish capital of Edinburgh is the United Kingdom's second most popular tourist destination, behind London. Each year, Edinburgh attracts millions of visitors who are captivated by the city's mystical images of castles, kilts, and bagpipes.
Edinburgh is located on the east coast of Scotland and is home to just under 500,000 people. Edinburgh is a world center for art, literature, and culture, with the city playing host to a wide variety of festivals and events throughout the year that showcase its distinct heritage.
Edinburgh's Old and New Towns have gained distinction as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The focal point of the city is Edinburgh Castle, located in Old Town. Perched atop an extinct volcano and dating back to the 12 th century, the castle's commanding presence can be seen from nearly everywhere in the city. It is home to the Scottish crown jewels.
The Royal Mile runs through the heart of Old Town, from Edinburgh Castle to The Palace of Holyrood House, once the home of Mary, Queen of Scots and now one of Queen Elizabeth II's official Scottish residences. Along this picturesque cobblestone street are a number of traditional pubs serving fish and chips and haggis, as well as shops selling Scotch whiskey, Scottish shortbread, and tartan clothing. Notable sites include the Scotch Whiskey Heritage Center; St. Giles Cathedral; the Museum of Childhood; the Museum of Edinburgh; and John Knox's House, the city's oldest house and former home of the leader of the Protestant Reformation. Old Town is also home to the Royal Museum and Museum of Scotland; the National Gallery of Scotland; the Scottish National Portrait Gallery; and the Scott Monument, which commemorates Scotland's literary hero Sir Walter Scott.
New Town was formed in the 18 th century and is the commercial center of Edinburgh. Here, visitors will find familiar retail chains as well as several trendy restaurants and nightclubs. Sites of particular historical interest include the architectural grandeur of Charlotte Square; the well-preserved Georgian House, now a museum owned by the National Trust that reflects the lavish lifestyle of Edinburgh's 18 th century aristocrats; and Princes Street Gardens.
Edinburgh's many unique festivals attract massive crowds each year. The festival season starts with the New Year celebration of Hogmanay and includes the Edinburgh International Festival, The Fringe, the Edinburgh International Film Festival, the Edinburgh Military Tattoo, the Edinburgh Book Festival, and the Edinburgh Jazz and Blues Festival. Next to Hogmanay, the Tattoo is perhaps the most iconic of all of the festivals. It is a symbol of Edinburgh's pageantry and Scottish pride.
Edinburgh has a good public transportation system that includes buses, trains, trams, and taxis. The nearby mountains, lochs, and villages are easily accessible from the city.
Edinburgh in the 11th century was confined to the rock where the castle sits and is the Old Town . In the 18th century Edinburgh expanded with a number of streets and squares. Today Edinburgh has grown to a size of over 500,000 residents.
The centre of Edinburgh is marked by Princes Street Gardens a large expanse of parkland. To the south is Edinburgh Castle . To the north of the gardens is Princes Street the main shopping area.
Edinburgh eGuide lists the very best Edinburgh accommodation, provides an Edinburgh restaurant guide, details Edinburgh attractions and Edinburgh tours. Edinburgh official eGuide is the primary source for Edinburgh tourism information for Edinburgh. For complete Edinburgh Information please use the navigation on the left of this page, the Edinburgh site map or the quick links below.
The team at Edinburgh eGuide very much hope that you enjoy your Edinburgh holidays and have a wonderful time in Edinburgh.
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