Castles, Cliffs, and Cobbled Streets: My Guide to Edinburgh
Halò from Edinburgh! 🏴
Traveling solo can be a little intimidating, but Edinburgh made it feel magical. With its dramatic castle views, cobblestone streets, and cozy charm, it’s the kind of place that instantly feels like a storybook. Whether you’re spending a weekend or extending your trip, this city has so much to offer—especially if you’re on a budget!
Quick Overview
Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland, one of the four countries that make up the United Kingdom (alongside England, Wales, and Northern Ireland). It’s located at the northern tip of the UK and is packed with history, character, and postcard-worthy views.
I visited Edinburgh twice during my study abroad program in London in the summer of 2023. The city pulled me in so quickly that I had to go back after my program ended. Even after two visits, I still wasn’t ready to leave!
If your trip happens to fall in August, try to catch the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. It’s a large-scale, outdoor performance featuring military bands, pipers, drummers, dancers, and other performers from around the world, held nightly against the dramatic backdrop of Edinburgh Castle. If your schedule allows, don’t miss it—it’s truly unforgettable.
🥁 Fun fact: The word “tattoo” actually comes from a Dutch phrase meaning “turn off the tap,” once used to signal the end of the day for soldiers.
A Must-See: Edinburgh Castle
Perched high above the city on Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle is one of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks. It dominates the city skyline and holds centuries of history within its walls. From royal drama to military strategy, this fortress has seen it all–and it’s one of the best places to start your Edinburgh adventure!
🪨 Fun fact: Castle Rock is actually an ancient volcanic plug, formed by an eruption hundreds of millions of years ago.
The castle dates back to the early 1100s and was originally built by King David I. Over the centuries, it served as a royal residence, military stronghold, and prison. It’s known as the most besieged place in Great Britain, having endured countless attacks throughout history.
Today, the castle is Scotland’s most visited paid attraction, drawing over two million people each year. It’s still an active military site and also hosts events, concerts, and even weddings.
🎟️ Admission is £21.50 (around $24 USD), and for just £3.50 more, you can rent the audio guide. I did, and it made the visit so much more engaging. Highly recommend!
👑 Honours of Scotland
Inside the Crown Room, you’ll find the oldest Crown Jewels in Britain, along with the legendary Stone of Destiny, used in royal coronations.
🕐 One O’Clock Gun
This tradition dates back to 1861—a cannon is fire every day at 1:00 p.m. (except on Sundays, Good Friday and Christmas Day) to help ships keep time. Today, it’s a fun moment for visitors to witness.
🕳️ Prisoners’ Escape Hole
In 1811, 49 French prisoners of war carved a hole in the Devil’s Elbow wall and used laundry lines to lower themselves down Castle Rock. The hole is still there today—a small but fascinating piece of the castle’s layered history.
🛣️ The Royal Mile
The Royal Mile is the heart and soul of Edinburgh’s Old Town—and one of the most iconic streets in Scotland. It stretches for about a mile between two royal landmarks: Edinburgh Castle at the top and Holyrood Palace at the bottom.
Walking this historic street feels like stepping back in time. You’ll pass centuries-old buildings, street performers, tartan shops, whisky bars, and secret little alleyways called “closes” that lead to hidden courtyards. There’s something fascinating around every corner.
🎒Tip: Wear comfortable shoes—the cobblestones are charming but a little bumpy!
🏰 Holyrood Palace
The official Scottish residence of the British monarch, this palace has beautiful grounds and centuries of royal history to explore.
🎶 Fun Activities in Edinburgh
🎸 Stramash
One of my most fun nights in Edinburgh was at Stramash, a live music and sports bar in Old Town. It’s located in a converted 18th-century Free Church, which gives it a unique and electric atmosphere. The crowd was full of energy, and the live music made it impossible not to have fun.
🍺 Fun fact: The word “stramash” is Scottish slang for a noisy commotion—pretty fitting for a place full of music, dancing, and good chaos!
🍫 The Chocolatorium
If you’re a chocolate lover like me, The Chocolatorium is a must. We learned about chocolate’s history, sampled all kinds, and even made our own custom bars. It costs £38 (about $43 USD) and was one of the sweetest parts of the trip.
🥃 The Scotch Whisky Experience
I didn’t get the chance to go, but The Scotch Whisky Experience is right on the Royal Mile and offers tastings and guided tours. The Silver Tour starts at £24 (around $27 USD). At the end of the day, definitely make sure to try a glass of Scotch Whisky—it’s incredible.
🎉Fun fact: Scotch is a type of whisky made in Scotland. The “whisky” spelling without the “e” is used for Scotch whisky. A whisky cannot be called Scotch unless it is entirely produced and bottled in Scotland.
✨ Final Thoughts
Edinburgh is one of those places that just stays with you. Whether you’re standing on castle walls overlooking the city, sipping whisky in a cozy pub, or wandering through old stone streets, it feels like you’re walking through a storybook.
If you’re traveling solo like I was, don’t worry—Edinburgh is welcoming, safe, and easy to explore. You don’t need a huge budget to enjoy everything the city has to offer. Just bring your curiosity (and maybe a rain jacket), and let Edinburgh work its magic.