Exploring Edinburgh: A Journey Through Scotland's Historic Capital

• Mary Kings Close Tour - Mary Kings Close is my favorite tourist attraction in Edinburgh. It is a tour of the underground city that was built on top of it in the 17th century to build Parliament.

• Grass market - Grass market is a square home to rich culture in the middle of the city with tons of restaurants and pubs and great views of the Edinburgh Castle.

• Edinburgh Castle - Edinburgh Castle is the historic castle that sits on the top of a volcanic rock in the center of Edinburgh. It used to house royals, but now you can tour it. Be sure to be there for the noon canon firing and if you’re there in August, don’t miss the Military Tattoo!

• Princes Street Gardens - Princes Street Gardens are gardens in central Edinburgh that split the New Town and the Old Town. They are great escapes for a walk or a picnic.

• Edinburgh Festival Fringe — If you’re visiting in August, you won’t miss the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. The Fringe is a celebration of arts and culture and takes over the city throughout the month of August.

• The Writers Museum — The Writers Museum is centered in the Old Town and celebrates famous writers of Scotland. It is a beautiful building and tells a wide range of stories.

• Arthur’s Seat — Arthur’s Seat is a hike with beautiful views at the top that overlook the whole city. It can get quite windy at the top, so be sure to bring a few layers!

• Dean Village - Dean Village in Edinburgh is a picturesque neighborhood just 5 minutes from Princess Street, known for its quaint stone buildings and historic charm. Once a bustling grain-milling area, it now offers serene walks along the riverbank.

• Visit Whisky Experiences! - Within the city center you will find two Whisky experiences, The Scotch Whisky Experience and the Johnny Walker Princes Street. At each location you are able to try Whiskies from different regions of Scotland. Johnny Walker Princes Street also has a rooftop restaurant and bar where you can try various cocktails made with Johnny Walker.

• Christmas Markets — If you happen to be in Edinburgh during Christmas time, do not miss the Christmas Markets in Princes Street Gardens

Day trips:

• Glasgow - Glasgow is known as the largest city in Scotland and is accessible by a 50-minute train ride from Edinburgh Waverley Station or Haymarket Station. Being more of a modern city, Glasgow is known for its art scene, nightlife and music.

• The Highlands — Either by renting a car or booking a day tour, make a trip to the Highlands to see all the beauty of Scotland, and the Highland cows, of course!

Where to eat

• White Horse Oyster & Seafood Bar - One of my favorites in Edinburgh. Nestled on the High Street in Old Town, White Horse is an escape from the hustle and bustle and serves fresh seafood. Be sure to order a seafood platter to get a bit of everything!

• Hawksmoore - Hawksmoore is a steak and seafood restaurant located in the old National Bank of Scotland Banking Hall, making it a stunning location for a delectable meal. Don’t miss their Sunday Roast!

• Cadiz - Cadiz is a seafood restaurant in Edinburgh that has a Spanish flare. If you’re in Edinburgh on a Sunday, be sure to check out their Paella Sundays.

• BABA - BABA is a Mediterranean restaurant on George Street focusing on mezze plates, charcoal grill and unique cocktails. Shared plates are highly recommended!

Where to drink

• Dragonfly - Dragonfly is my favorite cocktail bar in Edinburgh and one of the oldest! Located right outside of Grass market, it's the perfect contrast from the traditional pubs you will find in the area.

• Panda & Sons — Panda & Sons is a speakeasy-style cocktail bar serving innovative cocktails, craft beer and wine. Reservations are recommended!

• Jolly Judge - Jolly Judge is a cozy bar located at the end of a close off the Royal Mile. With low ceilings and a warm fire, Jolly Judge is a great bar to enjoy a local pint!

• The Hanging Bat — The Hanging Bat is a craft beer bar that offers over twenty beers & ales on tap. They also serve cocktails, wine and modern pub fare, all just as unique as their beers.

• The Bow Bar — The Bow Bar is a traditional pub on Victoria Street serving cask ales and single malts. Be sure to try the cask ales!