Edinburgh
Scotland
Backpacking Edinburgh
Information on Edinburgh, sights to see, nightlife, activities and more.
Edinburgh, the Scottish capital, is a city of sheer beauty; the medieval Old Town is peppered with history and lore, and its cobbled streets, hidden closes and wynds beg to be wandered. The locals are incredibly friendly, the pubs are world-class, and the surrounding natural scenery is beautifully draped across a series of rocky hills overlooking the sea. It’s a town intimately entwined with its landscape, with buildings and monuments perched atop crags and overshadowed by cliffs. From the Old Town’s picturesque jumble of medieval tenements piled high along the Royal Mile, its turreted skyline strung between the black, bull-nosed Castle Rock and the russet palisade of Salisbury Crags, to the New Town’s neat grid of neoclassical respectability, the city offers a constantly changing perspective. Backpacking Edinburgh is a chance to discover the old town’s magical cobblestone streets and lively pubs for yourself. Edinburgh is well-known for being a cultural heavyweight in the UK. The city is a major hub for the arts, philosophy, music, and progressiveness. Scotland as a whole is very different from the rest of the UK, and Edinburgh is the embodiment of Scottish pride, urban culture, and history.
Must See
Edinburgh Castle - Edinburgh Castle is one of the oldest fortified places in Europe. With a long rich history as a royal residence, military garrison, prison and fortress, it is alive with many exciting tales. When you climb Castle Hill, you will walk in the footsteps of soldiers, kings and queens. The castle is now a world-famous visitor attraction. It’s also an iconic part of the Old and New Towns of Edinburgh World Heritage Site.
Scottish National Museum - with collections relating to Scottish antiquities, culture and history, science technology, natural history, and world cultures. The museum is part of National Museums Scotland. Best of all admission is free.
Must Do
Hike to Arthur’s Seat - Arthur’s Seat is a 20 minute walk out of Edinburgh old town. Similar to the hill Edinburgh Castle is built upon, Arthur’s seat is a much-larger inactive volcano providing a rewarding hike to those chasing adventure and boasts the most unbelievable 360° view of Edinburgh and Scotland.
Harry Potter Tour - Edinburgh was the inspiration for a lot of landmarks in Harry Potter. The free tour will take you to spots where JK Rowling gathered inspiration for the books.
Princes Street & Gardens - A busy street lined with shops, historic monuments and restaurants that runs between old town & new town.
Nightlife
Edinburgh may be famous for its historic old world charm, but one thing is for sure, Edinburgh likes to party. When the sun goes down over Edinburgh, a world of clubs, dancing and live music bring the city to life. Wind, rain and cobbled streets don’t stop the people of Edinburgh from partying - Scottish people love to party. The high number of thirsty university students mixed in with the locals, and travelers makes for an interesting and awesome Edinburgh nightlife scene.
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