Map Of Edinburgh And Lothians

Top Attractions and Hidden Gems

Edinburgh is a city steeped in history and culture, with top attractions like Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and the National Museum of Scotland. But there are also hidden gems to discover, such as the picturesque Dean Village, the vibrant street art of the Leith area, and the secret gardens of Dunbar’s Close.

Food Scene

Edinburgh has a thriving food scene, with everything from traditional Scottish fare to international cuisine. Don’t miss out on trying haggis, neeps, and tatties, or sampling some local whisky. For something different, head to the Bross Bagels shop for delicious bagels with unique flavours like salt beef and pastrami.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Travelling on a budget? Edinburgh has plenty of free attractions, such as the Scottish Parliament Visitor Centre and the Museum of Childhood. For cheap eats, head to the markets on the Grassmarket or Stockbridge, where you can find delicious street food at affordable prices. And don’t forget to take advantage of the city’s extensive public transport network, including buses and trams.

Outdoor Adventures

Edinburgh and the Lothians are home to stunning natural landscapes and plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures. Take a hike up Arthur’s Seat for panoramic views of the city, or explore the Pentland Hills Regional Park. For something more adrenaline-fuelled, try ziplining at Go Ape or surfing at Belhaven Bay.

Historical Landmarks

As the capital of Scotland, Edinburgh is home to numerous historical landmarks, including Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and St Giles’ Cathedral. Don’t miss out on exploring the Royal Botanic Garden, which dates back to the 17th century, or the picturesque Rosslyn Chapel, which has links to the Knights Templar.

Family-Friendly Activities

Travelling with kids? Edinburgh has plenty of family-friendly activities, such as the Edinburgh Dungeon, where you can experience the city’s dark history through interactive exhibits. The Camera Obscura and World of Illusions is another great option, with optical illusions and a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the city. And don’t forget to explore the city’s numerous parks and playgrounds.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Experiences

If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, consider exploring the Scottish Seabird Centre in North Berwick, where you can spot puffins and seals. The John Muir Way is another great option, offering 134 miles of scenic walking and cycling routes through the Lothians and Fife. And for something truly unique, visit the Jupiter Artland sculpture park, which features outdoor art installations in a stunning rural setting.

Natural Wonders

Edinburgh and the Lothians are home to numerous natural wonders, such as the Firth of Forth, a stunning estuary with views of the Forth Bridge and the Bass Rock. The Scottish Seabird Centre is another great spot for nature lovers, as is the Scottish Deer Centre in Cupar, where you can see red deer and reindeer up close.

Vibrant Nightlife

Edinburgh has a vibrant nightlife scene, with everything from traditional pubs to trendy cocktail bars. The Grassmarket area is a popular spot for a night out, with plenty of bars and live music venues. For something more upscale, head to the George Street area, where you’ll find stylish cocktail bars and clubs.

Local Markets

Edinburgh has a thriving market scene, with everything from vintage clothing to artisanal food. The Stockbridge Market is a popular spot for foodies, with local producers selling everything from craft beer to gourmet cheeses. The Grassmarket area is another great option, with a weekly market selling everything from handmade jewellery to antiques.

Beaches and Mountains

Edinburgh and the Lothians are home to some of Scotland’s most stunning beaches and mountains. The Pentland Hills Regional Park is a popular spot for hiking and mountain biking, while the East Lothian coastline boasts miles of sandy beaches. Don’t miss out on visiting the picturesque seaside town of North Berwick, where you can take a boat trip to the nearby Bass Rock.

Cultural Immersion

Immerse yourself in Scottish culture by attending a traditional ceilidh dance, where you can learn Scottish country dancing and enjoy live music. The Scottish Storytelling Centre is another great spot to learn about Scottish folklore and history. And don’t forget to try some traditional Scottish whisky, which is produced in distilleries throughout the Lothians.

Art and Music Scene

Edinburgh has a thriving art and music scene, with numerous galleries and music venues throughout the city. The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art is a must-visit for art lovers, while the Usher Hall is a popular spot for live music performances. And don’t miss out on the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, which takes place every August and features thousands of performers from around the world.

Walking Tours

Explore the city on foot with a walking tour, which will take you through the historic Old Town and the elegant New Town. The Real Mary King’s Close tour is a unique option, taking you through the underground streets of the Old Town. And for something more offbeat, try the Edinburgh Ghost Tour, which explores the city’s haunted history.

Architectural Marvels

Edinburgh is home to numerous architectural marvels, such as the iconic Forth Bridge, which spans the Firth of Forth. The city’s Old Town and New Town are both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, with stunning examples of Georgian and Victorian architecture. And don’t miss out on exploring the city’s numerous churches and cathedrals, such as St Mary’s Cathedral and St Giles’ Cathedral.

Historical Sites

Edinburgh is steeped in history, with numerous historical sites throughout the city. The Royal Mile is a must-visit, with numerous historical landmarks such as Gladstone’s Land and the Scottish Parliament Visitor Centre. The Surgeons’ Hall Museum is another great option, with exhibits on the history of surgery and medicine. And don’t miss out on visiting the Edinburgh Vaults, a series of underground chambers that date back to the 18th century.

Biking Routes

Biking is a great way to explore Edinburgh and the Lothians, with numerous scenic routes throughout the region. The John Muir Way is a popular option, offering 134 miles of cycling routes through the Lothians and Fife. The Water of Leith Walkway is another great option, with a 12-mile cycle path that runs from Balerno to Leith.

Wellness Retreats

If you’re looking to relax and recharge, consider a wellness retreat in Edinburgh or the Lothians. The Macdonald Houstoun House hotel is a popular spa retreat, offering a range of treatments and facilities such as a sauna and indoor pool. The Bonham hotel is another great option, with a spa and wellness centre that offers yoga classes and other wellness activities.

Adventure Sports

For adrenaline junkies, Edinburgh and the Lothians offer plenty of opportunities for adventure sports. Try bungee jumping at Highland Fling Bungee or white water rafting at the Pinkston Watersports Centre. For something more unusual, try coasteering at Belhaven Bay, which involves swimming, climbing, and cliff jumping.