1. Visit the Edinburgh Castle
This is the city's top attraction and a UNESCO-listed world heritage site.
This once military fortress sits atop a hill overlooking at the main city.
Inside the castle, you'll run thru a rich history of Scottish royalty and military warfare.
Tip: Purchase your tickets before hand, preferably with the skip-the-line option, and arrive in the castle early.
You'll be expecting tourist to come in droves all year round. There's a bit of a walk and uneven ground to get inside the castle so wear comfortable shoes. It can be windy too.
Check the weather forecast too prior to your visit as this activity is mostly outdoors.
There are quite a few cafes but we recommend that you carry your own snacks or water. Allow at least 2 hours when planning your visit to this Scottish icon.
Be there when they blast the cannon.
2. Check out the Palace of Holyroodhouse
The Palace of Holyroodhouse serves as the official residence of The Queen.
Perfectly situated at the foot of the Royal Mile, this place is open to visitors who are keen to explore the history of Scottish royalty.
Tip: If you're intending to make a visit to The Queen's Residence, get your tickets early.
We also suggest a guided-tour as it helps you in understanding the rich history of Scottish royalty as well as this palace.
The palace also sits next to Arthurs Seat so you may combine it with your travel itinerary.
3. Take a piece of Da Vinci's Code and visit the Rosslyn Chapel
Rosslyn Chapel was recently made world-famous because of its association with the Hollywood movie, "The Da Vinci Code".
The place carries so much mystique with its impressive stonework and carvings.
Tip: Rosslyn Chapel is mentioned in countless stories; therefore a quick brush of its history-reading helps prior to visiting the place.
We recommend that you join a guided tour which includes a return trip to Edinburgh if you intend to visit. There's a bit of a drive in case you plan to do it on your own so that's worth considering.
Once inside the complex, we suggest you talk a walk outside the chapel too.
A good time to make a visit to this place will be in the mid to late afternoon. Chances are you get less crowd and the sun's rays reflects perfectly on the chapel.
Finally, make sure that you check the underground floor where Tom Hanks famously ended his scene in the 'Da Vinci Code' movie.
4. Explore Edinburgh's Old Town
Much of Edinburgh's rich history is reflected in this area from churches, museum and old buildings.
The Royal Mile stands out which practically connects the Palace of Holyroodhouse and the Edinburgh Castle.
Cafes, restaurants and shops line up at each side of this historic street.
Tip: Grab your walking shoes and take a stroll to the cobbled streets of the Royal Mile.
It always a crowd drawer so a morning or late afternoon walk fits in perfectly. Allow at least 2 hours when exploring the area as there's just so much to see and discover within the area.
Try spotting the shop where JK Rowling wrote the Harry Potter Book series.
5. Walk thru the Princess Street Gardens and to the City Centre
The Princess Street Gardens is peppered with interesting historical structures and monuments which can be easily accessible coming down from Edinburgh's Old Town.
It's a popular hangout for tourists owing to its central location within the City Centre.
Tip: Pick a perfect day and walk at your own pace and enjoy the scenic views of this lovely garden.
It's a photographers paradise with the Edinburgh Castle as a backdrop as well as the Old Town and long stretch of greenery.
Take your time and be part of Edinburgh's rich history explained thru their monuments and memorials.
Edinburgh is also home to a number of Michelin-starred restaurants if you're looking for one. You may want to check out their shops too as they have store sales all-year round. We snapped a wool jumper and a wind breaker jacket for 30 euros!
