No other city in Britain has so many great attractions so easily accessible. Scotland's premier castle, major museums and galleries and royal palace, garden and yacht, and many historical buildings are all within a mile of each other.
At the centre of Scottish life for more than nine hundred years, Edinburgh Castle was one of the strongest fortresses in the kingdom. It has served as a royal palace, arsenal, gun foundry, state prison, and as a place of safe-keeping for the State Records and Crown Jewels.
Festivals & Events
Whether it's the frantic fun of August's Festivals, the capital's top venues bringing you the best in arts and entertainment or those extra special one off events, here's what you need to know.
Want to know about Edinburgh's 12 major festivals? Here's a quick guide to the capital's year round programme, from our friends at Edinburgh Festival City.
Edinburgh Fringe Festival
The unruly brother of the ‘official’ festival, the Fringe is a gigantic theatrical ‘lucky dip’ for its patrons. You never quite know what you’re going to see – either in the venues or on the streets.
Edinburgh Shopping
Much more than Princes Street – sample the New Town exclusivity of George Street or quirky Victoria Street in the Old Town. Discover classic department and top-name designers stores.
Edinburgh took this most Scottish of celebrations and transformed it into a spectacular four-day event, the biggest of its kind in the world, complete with street parties, music and fireworks.