Edinburgh is one of the most beautiful capitals in Europe: the medieval castle dominating the city, the Royal Mile with its historic pubs and the single malt whisky tradition in the distilleries of the nearby Highlands.
Edinburgh: history, whisky and festivals
Edinburgh is one of the most fascinating cities in northern Europe: the volcanic castle dominating the medieval Old Town, single malt whisky in the pubs of the Royal Mile, the summer festivals that turn the city into a giant theatrical stage.
Edinburgh Castle
The castle, built on a volcanic eruption dating back 700 million years, is one of the most visited castles in the United Kingdom. It houses the Scottish Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny (the stone on which Scottish kings were crowned) and the National War Museum of Scotland.
Ticket: 18-20 pounds. Arrive early to avoid the queues.
The Royal Mile and the historic pubs
The Royal Mile connects the castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse (the sovereign's residence in Edinburgh). The street is lined with little tartan and whisky shops, but above all with dozens of historic pubs where you can taste Scottish beers and whisky.
The Bow Bar (Victoria Street) is considered the best pub in Edinburgh for its selection of single malt whisky (over 300 labels).
The Fringe Festival
The August Fringe Festival (the largest arts festival in the world) turns Edinburgh into an open-air theatre: 50,000 shows in 300 venues over three weeks. Book accommodation a year in advance.