A Weekend in the Scottish Capital

Edinburgh is a city that you must walk through; its cobbled streets give you a breathtaking view of the Georgian grandeur. Owing to its vast and exciting history, there are a number of places of interest in Edinburgh. So, if you are on a short break in Edinburgh for the weekend, where should you go and what shouldn’t you miss?

Touchdown

Whether you fly down or come in by train, you need to find a suitable accommodation that keeps you equidistant from all the attractions. Consider hotels in Edinburgh City Centre like Piries Hotel Central Edinburgh that is in close proximity to all the major hotspots.

Arthur’s Seat

This is a great way to start off your short break in Edinburgh, and gives you a spectacular view from Arthur’s Seat. If you are prepared to take on hiking, the 251 meter high volcanic summit is an easy climb that can be accomplished under 30 minutes from Dunsapie Loch. However, you can also set out via a bike or car. The best experience is to catch the sunrise wrapped in warm blankets.

Edinburgh Bus Tour

A guided tour is the best and fastest way to see the monuments like St Giles’ Cathedral, Scott Monument, Scottish Parliament and National Galleries of Scotland to name a few. You can choose a tour that suits your taste as well.

National Museum of Scotland

It houses a variety of collections in honour of its culture and heritage. You can take in the rich Scottish history, right from the primeval age. The roof garden on top offers a 360 degree view of this beautiful city and is the spot for some great photographs. Across the museum, pass by the Greyfriars Bobby monument – Edinburgh’s favourite residents which is a Skye terrier

The Castle

Your weekend breaks in Edinburgh isn’t complete without a long gaze at this magnificent ancient stronghold. The Edinburgh Castle dominates the city’s skyline over the peak of an extinct volcano. It has been the home to the royalty of many centuries including Mary Queen of Scots, Queen Margaret and King James VI. Sights that cannot be missed include Stone of Destiny, Crown Jewels and the castle’s ancient dungeons. The world famous gun, the Mons Meg booms across the city to commemorate the hour at 1pm, and you can be a part of the little crowd gathered to watch the sight.

Princes Street Gardens

Take a stroll in Princes Street Gardens that rests on the foot of the Castle. It divides the Old Town form the New. The rich gardens are alive with seasonal floral pieces, monuments and other statues. It is a place to relax and take in the sun; you can choose you pack a picnic basket from your hotels in Edinburgh City Centre as you let your kids play and decide to read a book.

West End Village

Seated at the west end of Princes Street, at the centre of the cobbled William Street, the picturesque West End Village is a haven of quirky accessory stores, individual boutiques and unique gift shops. Within walk able distance from the city centre it is one of the best places to do some quick and meaningful shopping.

 

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