Getting around Edinburgh

Strolls, Stops and Stunning Views - The Easy Way to Explore Scotland’s Capital

"In Edinburgh, every step is a story, every corner a glimpse into centuries past—walk it, ride it, but don’t rush it."

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A bagpiper busking with the Great Highland bagpipe on the streets of Edinburgh - Shutterstock

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In today’s email:-

• Getting around Edinburgh

• Edinburgh For The Art Lover

• Around the Web: A Time Capsule by the Water; Edinburgh’s Secret Eden; The Aberdeenshire Royal Trail and more…

• Everything you need to know about visiting the Scottish Highlands and the Isle of Skye

• Experiences Likely To Sell Out

• 🌟 New: Travel Quizzer is Here!

• From Social Media: Have you been to the oldest pub in Edinburgh yet?

• Scottish Food You Will Love: Edinburgh Food Tour: Top Tips For Budget-friendly Eats

• Coo Wee: The Most Beautiful City In The World

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Getting around Edinburgh

Exploring Edinburgh is as easy as falling in love with it. The city’s compact size means it’s perfect for walking, especially if you're starting on the Royal Mile—a cobbled ribbon of history linking Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Wander through wynds and closes, dip into museums like The Writers' Museum or Real Mary King’s Close, and watch street performers at the heart of the Old Town. If your feet need a wee break, the hop-on-hop-off bus tours offer a brilliant overview of the city, looping past must-sees like Calton Hill, the National Museum of Scotland, and the Georgian elegance of the New Town.

For those who love a gentle pace but want to see a lot, Edinburgh’s transport options strike the perfect balance. You can catch a tram straight from the airport into the city centre or hop on a Lothian Bus to head out to the coast at Portobello or up to the green expanse of the Royal Botanic Garden. Many top sights are just a short stroll from each other—Arthur’s Seat, for example, looms behind Holyrood Park and offers panoramic views if you’re feeling adventurous. And after a day on your feet, there’s no better reward than a dram in a cosy pub or a hearty Scottish meal on Rose Street.

CitySightseeing double decker tourist bus in Edinburgh city, view with Scott Monument - Shutterstock

Edinburgh For The Art Lover

Welcome to Edinburgh, a city steeped in history, culture and artistic expression, where the cobblestone streets whisper tales of the past and the vibrant arts scene paints a dynamic canvas of the present. For the art lover, Edinburgh is a treasure trove of creative experiences, offering a rich tapestry of galleries, museums and exhibitions that span the spectrum from classical masterpieces to cutting-edge contemporary works.

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Around The Web

A Time Capsule by the Water

Tucked away just a ten-minute stroll from Princes Street, Dean Village is a peaceful haven of 19th-century stone houses, cobbled paths, and the gentle flow of the Water of Leith. It’s a slice of old Edinburgh that feels more like a storybook than a capital city. Bring your camera—this one's postcard-perfect.

Edinburgh’s Secret Eden

Situated beside Duddingston Loch and overlooked by Arthur’s Seat, Dr Neil’s Garden is a botanical wonder few tourists ever find. Created by two dedicated doctors, it’s a tranquil retreat brimming with rare plants, quiet benches, and views that soothe the soul.

The Castle’s Best Kept Secret

Want that classic photo of Edinburgh Castle rising above the rooftops? Head to The Vennel Steps in the Grassmarket. It's a steep but short climb—and once you reach the top, you'll be rewarded with one of the most underrated views in the city.

A Walk Across the Sea

When the tide is out, you can stroll a tidal causeway to Cramond Island—a windswept scrap of land dotted with wartime relics and seabirds. But don’t dawdle! The sea returns fast, so plan ahead and check the tide times for a wee adventure with a dash of thrill.

The Hidden Courtyards of the Royal Mile

Beyond the buzz of souvenir shops and street performers, the Royal Mile hides a network of narrow closes and secret courtyards. Try Dunbar’s Close Garden—a serene 17th-century-style garden where time slows and the city noise fades into birdsong.

Craigmillar Castle: Edinburgh’s Forgotten Fortress

Just a short bus ride from the city centre lies Craigmillar Castle—less famous than its hilltop cousin but arguably more atmospheric. Once a refuge for Mary, Queen of Scots, its rugged walls, spiral staircases and rooftop views make it a dream for history lovers and peace seekers alike.

The Aberdeenshire Royal Trail

If you want to explore some of the most important places in Scotland’s royal history, the Aberdeenshire Royal Trail is a journey you won’t forget. This region in the northeast of Scotland is home to more castles than anywhere else in the UK—over 260 in total. Many of these castles are tied to the country’s royal past, including Balmoral Castle, which was bought by Prince Albert for Queen Victoria in 1852 and is still a private holiday home for the royal family today.

Medieval fortress Dunnottar Castle is a ruined medieval cliff-top fortress dating to the fourteenth century. Aberdeenshire - Shutterstock

Top Experiences In Scotland Likely To Sell Out

2024 is going to be a busy year - Here is a list of the top experiences that will most likely sell out and you should book in advance. Don’t delay!

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🌟 New: Travel Quizzer is Here!

Are you ready to prove your travel smarts? Don’t miss the chance to play the hottest new trivia game for travel lovers!

Here’s a taste: Where is the famous Kylemore Abbey located?

Think you know? Don’t wait—thousands of trivia buffs are already hooked. Play Travel Quizzer now!

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From Social Media

Have you been to the oldest pub in Edinburgh yet?

Scottish Food You Will Love

Edinburgh Food Tour: Top Tips For Budget-friendly Eats

Coo Wee

The Most Beautiful City In The World

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