Best Places to See in Edinburgh

By Chander Parkash

The centre of Edinburgh is divided neatly in half by Princes Street, the principal shopping area. To the south lies the Old Town, site of the ancient city, which grew along the route of the Royal Mile, from the Castle Rock in the west to The Palace of Holyroodhouse in the east. At the end of the 18th century, building for the New Town started to the north of Princes Street. The area is still viewed today as a world-class example of Georgian urban architecture, with its elegant façades and broad streets. Princes Street has lots to offer, including shopping, art galleries, the towering Scott Monument and the landmark Balmoral Hotel clock tower, as well as the city's main train station, Waverly.

Edinburgh: Getting Around

Central Edinburghis compact, so walking is an excellent way to explore the centre. Other options include a comprehensive bus service and a multitude of black taxis. Avoid exploring the centre by car, because the streets tend to be congested with traffic, and parking may be difficult. Car use has been actively discouraged by the local authority in recent years. On main routes special lanes are provided for buses, taxis and bicycles, and in the suburbs there is also a good network of bicycle paths.

Edinburgh: SIGHTS AT A GLANCE

Historic Areas, Streets and Buildings

Edinburgh Castle

The Exchange

Greyfriars Kirk

New Scottish Parliament

New Town

The Palace of Holyroodhouse

The Royal Mile


Monuments

ScottMonument


Landmarks

Calton Hill

HolyroodParkand Arthur's Seat


Museums, Galleries and Exhibitions

National Gallery of Scotland

Our Dynamic Earth

The Royal Museum and Museum of Scotland

Scottish National Portrait Gallery