Old Maps Of Edinburgh

Introduction

Edinburgh is a city steeped in history and culture, with a rich heritage that can be traced back centuries. One of the best ways to immerse yourself in this history is through Old Maps Of Edinburgh, which offer a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past. This travel guide will take you on a journey through Edinburgh’s top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.

Top Attractions

Edinburgh Castle

Perched atop a volcanic peak, Edinburgh Castle is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. It has served as a royal residence, military barracks, and prison over the centuries, and today it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Scotland. Visitors can explore the castle’s many exhibits, including the Scottish Crown Jewels and the famous One O’Clock Gun.

The Royal Mile

This historic street stretches from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and is lined with shops, restaurants, and attractions. Visitors can explore the many closes (narrow alleyways) that branch off the Royal Mile, each with its own unique history and stories to tell.

The National Museum of Scotland

This museum is home to a vast collection of artifacts that tell the story of Scotland’s history, from prehistoric times to the present day. Exhibits include everything from ancient fossils to modern art, and there are plenty of interactive exhibits and activities for visitors of all ages.

Hidden Gems

The Real Mary King’s Close

Beneath the streets of Edinburgh lies a hidden network of underground tunnels and chambers, known as the “closes”. The Real Mary King’s Close is one of the most famous, and offers a fascinating glimpse into life in Edinburgh during the 17th century. Visitors can explore the underground streets and hear stories of the people who lived there.

The Dean Village

This picturesque village is tucked away in a quiet corner of Edinburgh, and offers a glimpse into the city’s medieval past. Visitors can explore the narrow streets and alleys, admire the beautiful architecture, and relax in one of the many parks and gardens.

The Botanic Gardens

Located in the heart of Edinburgh, the Botanic Gardens offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Visitors can explore the many greenhouses and gardens, which are home to a wide variety of plants from around the world.

Food Scene

Edinburgh is famous for its food scene, which offers everything from traditional Scottish cuisine to international flavors. Some of the top restaurants in the city include The Kitchin, The Scran & Scallie, and The Witchery by the Castle. Visitors can also explore the many food markets and festivals throughout the city, such as the Edinburgh Farmers’ Market and the Edinburgh Food Festival.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Edinburgh can be an expensive city to visit, but there are plenty of ways to save money without sacrificing quality. Some budget-friendly tips include staying in a hostel or Airbnb, taking advantage of free attractions like the National Museum of Scotland, and exploring the city on foot or by bike.

Outdoor Adventures

Edinburgh is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, and there are plenty of outdoor adventures to be had. Some of the top activities include hiking in the Pentland Hills, cycling along the Water of Leith, and kayaking on the Firth of Forth.

Historical Landmarks

Edinburgh is home to a wealth of historical landmarks, from medieval castles to Georgian townhouses. Some of the top sites include St Giles’ Cathedral, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the Georgian House.

Family-Friendly Activities

There are plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy in Edinburgh, from museums and galleries to parks and playgrounds. Some of the top attractions for families include the Edinburgh Zoo, the Camera Obscura and World of Illusions, and the Royal Botanic Garden.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Experiences

For those looking for a more unique experience, there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path activities to enjoy in Edinburgh. Some top picks include exploring the city’s many hidden gardens and green spaces, visiting the Cadies & Witchery Tours for a spooky evening out, and taking a ghost tour of the city’s haunted sites.

Natural Wonders

Edinburgh is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, from rugged coastlines to rolling hills. Some of the top natural wonders to explore include Arthur’s Seat, the Pentland Hills, and the Firth of Forth.

Vibrant Nightlife

Edinburgh is known for its vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars, clubs, and music venues to choose from. Some of the top spots include The Jazz Bar, The Liquid Room, and The Basement.

Local Markets

Edinburgh is home to a variety of local markets, where visitors can find everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. Some of the top markets to explore include the Grassmarket Market, the Stockbridge Market, and the Edinburgh Farmers’ Market.

Beaches and Mountains

Edinburgh is surrounded by some of Scotland’s most beautiful beaches and mountains. Some of the top spots include Portobello Beach, Cramond Island, and the Cairngorms National Park.

Cultural Immersion

Edinburgh is a city steeped in culture, with a rich history and vibrant arts scene. Visitors can explore the city’s many museums and galleries, attend a performance at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, or take a guided tour of the city’s many historic sites.

Art and Music Scene

Edinburgh is home to a thriving arts and music scene, with plenty of galleries, theaters, and music venues to choose from. Some of the top spots include the National Gallery of Scotland, the Royal Lyceum Theatre, and the Usher Hall.

Walking Tours

One of the best ways to explore Edinburgh is on foot, and there are plenty of walking tours to choose from. Some of the top tours include the Old Town and Underground Ghost Tour, the Harry Potter Tour, and the Royal Mile Tour.

Architectural Marvels

Edinburgh is home to some of Scotland’s most beautiful and historic architecture, from medieval castles to Georgian townhouses. Some of the top sites to explore include the Royal Botanic Garden, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and the Scottish Parliament Building.

Historical Sites

Edinburgh is a city with a rich history, and there are plenty of historical sites to explore. Some of the top picks include the Edinburgh Castle, St Giles’ Cathedral, and the Royal Mile.

Biking Routes

Edinburgh is a great city for cycling, with plenty of bike-friendly routes and paths to explore. Some of the top biking routes include the Water of Leith, the Union Canal Towpath, and the Innocent Railway Path.

Wellness Retreats

For those looking to relax and unwind, there are plenty of wellness retreats and spas to choose from in Edinburgh. Some of the top spots include the One Spa at the Sheraton Grand Hotel, the Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh – The Caledonian, and the Balmoral Spa.

Adventure Sports

For adrenaline junkies, there are plenty of adventure sports to enjoy in Edinburgh. Some of the top activities include bungee jumping, white-water rafting, and rock climbing.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an adventure seeker, Edinburgh has something for everyone. This travel guide has covered just a small fraction of the many attractions and experiences available in this incredible city, so be sure to explore and discover all that Edinburgh has to offer.