A picturesque city with plenty of history, Edinburgh makes a great jumping off point to start your trip to Scotland. While in the capital, visit the castles and monuments, explore the Royal Mile in Old Town, and make New Town your destination for shopping and cocktails.
Visit:
- Castlehill | The oldest part of Edinburgh is Castlehill, located on the upper side of the Royal Mile. The wide cobblestoned street leads right up to the castle, between shops selling woolen scarves and bag pipers dressed in tartan.
- Edinburgh Castle | The Castle is one of Edinburgh’s most popular sites, if you are interested in touring the grounds and taking a peek at Scotland’s crown jewels, get there for 9:30 when it opens, or the bell ringing at 1:00pm. Even just walking right up to the castle along the Royal Mile, and crossing the draw bridge is a great way to experience the city.
- Arthur’s seat | Hiking up to Arthur’s seat will give you panoramic views, especially during sunrise.
- National Monument | This is Scotland’s monument to fallen soldiers, set high on Calton Hill with great views and greek inspired structures.
- Victoria Street | A colourful and highly photographed street with interesting shops in the historic Old Town.
- Scott Monument | A striking Victorian Gothic monument, found in the Princes Street Garden. Climb up the narrow curved stairs in the tower for great views of the city.
Vegetarian Eats & Drinks:
- Start your day with breakfast at Urban Angle, a small organic cafe, or Valvona Crolla for yummy italian pastries.
- We came across Sandy Bell’s while we were walking down Candlemaker Row, and stayed for the friendly vibe and selection of beers and ciders on tap. The Scottish folk band that was playing made the whole experience.
- For a tasty treat visit The Baked Potato Shop in Old Edinburgh serving vegetarian baked potatoes, soups and salads.
- Hula juice bar and gallery is a good stop to get your vitamins for the day.
- For an excellent plant-based dinner visit David Bann and enjoy innovative vegetarian and vegan dining.
- Great for picnics, I.J Mellis Cheesemonger is a small shop on Victoria Street with a wide array of Scottish Cheeses.
Stay:
The Glass House
Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa
The Glass house is a beautiful boutique hotel built up from an old church, with an outdoor rooftop garden and exclusive whisky tasting experiences. The Sheraton Grand Hotel has nice castle view rooms, and the One Spa is incredible, offering eight stages of hot saunas, rain showers, and indoor and outdoor pools. With this blissful treatment you’ll be fully relaxed and ready for your holiday!
We were in Edinburgh in the fall and there were lots of pubs and shops to hideaway during the chilly weather and soak in the local atmosphere. Take the time to explore, wander around, and on a clear day take advantage of the views from some of the many lookout points.
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