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Curator’s statement
London is one of those cities that everyone raves about and goes back to time and again. But for me, I'll be honest — it just hasn't quite won me over yet. Interested in returning to the United Kingdom, but was looking for something *other* than London, I gave Edinburgh a chance. Instantly, this charming city in Scotland stole my heart.
The Fora Difference
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Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay
Hilton Edinburgh Carlton
Where Scottish charm meets luxurious comfort in the heart of the historic city.
On the other hand, Edinburgh has that classic British charm, and it's easy to navigate on foot. London, on the other hand, is all hustle and bustle with its flashy vibe and famous landmarks. But Edinburgh? It's got this magical allure with its rich history, beautiful architecture and vibrant arts scene. As you wander its ancient cobblestone streets, you'll discover majestic castles and centuries-old landmarks around every corner.
London's all about those skyscrapers towering over everything, but Edinburgh? This unique blend of medieval, Georgian and Victorian architecture gives it such a different feel. Walking down the Royal Mile feels like stepping into history, with ancient pubs and stunning buildings lining the way. And those moody skies and damp air? They just add to the whole atmosphere of this enchanting capital city.
Edinburgh offers a diverse range of experiences, making it a perfect destination for any traveler. Here are six ways to enjoy your time in this enchanting city.
1. Plan your own pub crawl, starting from the bottom of the Royal Mile near the Palace of Holyrood. Hit up some cozy pubs for a pint — consider checking out Tolbooth Tavern, The Mitre and The World's End Pub.
2. After you've had your fill of beer, burn off those calories with a hike up Arthur's Seat. It's a bit of a climb, but the views over the city and out to the Firth of Forth are totally worth it.
3. Catch a sunrise at Calton Hill. If early mornings aren't your thing, the view is still stunning any time of day.
4. Grab dinner at Tipo in New Town. They do Italian tapas-style dishes that are perfect for sharing and trying a bit of everything.
5. Take a leisurely stroll to Dean Village, a neighborhood that feels like a step back in time. It's a picturesque spot, ideal for a romantic walk or just soaking in the peaceful vibes with your favorite people.
6. Head over to the Vennel Steps, a narrow staircase that gives you an incredible view of Edinburgh Castle. It's a prime spot for snapping that perfect selfie!
Need to know
The next time you want to explore the United Kingdom, consider Edinburgh. Discover why it is better than London with its traditional British charm, easy walking and interesting mix of medieval, Georgian and Victorian architecture. Dive into its rich history, vibrant arts scene and iconic landmarks like the Royal Mile's ancient pubs and majestic castles. Edinburgh is a magical place to visit. It has beautiful streets and charming places like Dean Village and the Vennel Steps, which look over Edinburgh Castle. You can walk up Arthur's Seat to see amazing views or enjoy Italian tapas at Tipo in New Town.
This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to United Kingdom. In need of further inspiration? Check out Andrea Mokros' guide, Shop and Dine Off the Beaten Path in London, UK.
