Why visit Edinburgh
Landmarks
With a variety of treasured landmarks and UNESCO World Heritage sites, Edinburgh is best explored with a local guide. Their expertise and knowledge will ensure no stone is left unturned and travelers see every highlight (plus a few hidden gems!). We suggest exploring Edinburgh by foot or taking a panoramic bus tour to get better acquainted with the stately city. Whatever destination you chose, these destinations are high on our list when visiting Edinburgh.
Royal Mile
Located in Old Town, the Royal Mile served as the city’s main thoroughfare for centuries. Take a walking tour with one of our local experts to find some of Edinburgh – and arguably Scotland’s – most notable sites including Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
New Town
Continue on to visit more of classic Edinburgh with a stroll through elegant New Town. Built in the 1770s in response to the crowding that began to occur in Old Town, New Town offers its visitors superb shopping, great food and drink, and historic landmarks. Our guides suggest walking through Great King Street to get a sense of the original atmosphere and architecture.
Mary King's Close
Head underground to Mary King’s Close to find a world unchanged since the 18th century. Named after a merchant burgess who once resided there, the “close” (or private property) sits beneath the busy streets of the Royal Mile. Brace yourself for ghostly tales and paranormal happenings when you descend into the spooky depths of this close.
Calton Hill
For a breathtaking view of the city, our guides recommend making the trek to Calton Hill where you’ll see Edinburgh Castle, Arthur’s Seat, and a whole new perspective of Edinburgh. To get an even more spectacular view, many of our guests opt to climb the spiral stairs to the top of Nelson Monument on Calton Hill. You will definitely want to have your camera ready!
Attractions
Called the “Athens of the North,” Edinburgh is Scotland’s hub for historic sites, wonderful museums, and lively entertainment. Edinburgh continues to delight millions of visitors – and countless Collette guests – year after year. See what’s in store for you in Scotland’s capital with a few of our favorite Edinburgh attractions.
Arthur's Seat
At the top of this extinct volcano, known as Arthur’s Seat, you’ll see glorious panoramic views of Edinburgh. For those a bit intimidated by the hills, our guides say that you may have an easier journey with plenty of gorgeous views along the Salisbury Crags.
Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
Enjoy a spellbinding display of music, dance, and performance at the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. Performers from every corner of the globe appear in this show, making it an institution in Scotland and Europe. This is a top highlight for nearly every one of our guests that attends.
The Scotch Whisky Experience
Become a true whisky expert, learning about the distilling process and enjoying a wee dram at The Scotch Whisky Experience. Discover how fields of barley are turned into barrels of this iconic drink while sipping on a snifter.
Royal Yacht Brittania
If you’re feeling seaworthy, climb aboard the Royal Yacht Brittania. Discover the sheer size and power of this majestic vessel and learn how it served the British Royal Family for over 44 years. Berthed at Leith, Edinburgh, this tour will give you a whole new outlook on traveling by sea.
Royal Sites
No visit to Scotland would be complete without touring one of its castles or royal palaces. Like the rolling hills and melodies of bagpipers, they are a quintessential part of Scotland. Here are just some of the grand estates you can see in Edinburgh.
Edinburgh Castle
Standing at the head of Old Town you’ll find the imposing and iconic Edinburgh Castle. Explore this massive fortress and walk through the hallowed Grand Hall where you’ll find Scotland’s Crown Jewels. In addition to the castle itself, our guides state there are many other notable buildings inside, including St. Margaret's Chapel, The National War Memorial, and the Half Moon Battery.
Palace of Holyroodhouse
Get a glimpse of the official Scotland residence of Britian’s monarch with your visit to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. When you walk the halls, you can just imagine the past royals (like Mary Queen of Scots) that once graced the palace. We believe this royal site is a must-see.
Craigmillar Castle
Just outside the city center of Edinburgh you’ll find Craigmillar Castle, Edinburg’s “other castle”. Learn of the history of this castle including its use as a safe haven for Mary Queen of Scots. We think it’s a great castle for exploring, with many nooks and crannies and hidden chambers.
Lauriston Castle
This castle was gifted to the city in 1926 and has been virtually frozen in time since its last private owner. For a great view overlooking the Firth of Forth and Cramond Island, head to the castle’s gardens.