A weekend in Edinburgh

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Probably not many city getaways involve climbing an extinct volcano, but we think the more adventurous of you are going to love it, especially on a clear day! Head to Holyrood Park, located near the bottom of the Royal Mile, and take in the best views of the city from the top of Arthur's Seat. You'll get incredible panoramas over Edinburgh and beyond, across the Firth of Forth to the majestic Kingdom of Fife.

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Another great way to get a feel for this exciting city is to take an open-top Edinburgh Bus Tour. Departing from Waverley Bridge, the tour is an hour in total. It's a hop-on, hop-off service which gives you the freedom to do a bit of exploring along the route. You'll pass some awesome parts of the city such as the New Town, Old Town and Grassmarket, and see Edinburgh Castle, the National Museum of Scotland, The Palace of Holyroodhouse, and much more.

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The best place to appreciate the bustling streets of Edinburgh is from the top of the Scott Monument, a striking Gothic-style structure at the east end of Princes Street. Climb it and take in the sprawling views over Princes Street Gardens, the Scottish National Gallery and many other familiar features of the city skyline.

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Edinburgh is a city of contrasts, particularly when it comes to admiring the juxtaposed architecture of the medieval Old Town and the Georgian New Town. Head to the Royal Mile, taking Waverley Bridge and heading up the picturesque Cockburn Street. Walk up the high street and pop into St Giles' Cathedral, a historic place of worship founded in the 1120s. From there, it's time to go underground and into the lost street of the Real Mary King's Close to uncover the stories of the people who lived there over 400 years ago.

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Head toward the top of the Royal Mile and join a tour at the Scotch Whisky Experience, where you can enjoy a barrel ride to learn all about the whisky-making process and identify which whiskies suit your palate. 

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Tuck into in one of the restaurants on George IV Bridge or on the Royal Mile, where you'll find a great variety of eateries. If you fancy something really special, why not make a reservation at one of the city's Michelin star restaurants? For a nightcap, head down charming Victoria Street to the warm and welcoming pubs of the Grassmarket.

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Just walking up the esplanade on approach, you know you're about to step into one of Scotland's most special historic buildings. Take in the views across the city and learn about the dramatic events which have played out between these ancient walls as you explore great halls, royal chambers, monuments and dungeons. To avoid disappointment, make sure to book your tickets far in advance for guaranteed entry.

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Located just a short walk from the Royal Mile on Chamber’s Street, the National Museum of Scotland is full of intriguing objects and brilliant stories.

This world-class museum is the most visited attraction outside of London and is filled with incredible displays covering history, natural heritage, world cultures, design, innovation, technology and more. Best of all? It's completely free. 

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Edinburgh is home to many of Scotland's greatest artworks, from old masters to contemporary prize-winners. Make your way to Princes Street and wander round the Scottish National Gallery, or see what's on at the Fruitmarket Gallery and City Art Centre, both located on Market Street near Waverley Station.

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Uncover the city's connections to the written word on the Literary Pub Tour. Join this brilliant and witty romp through Edinburgh's wynds, courtyards and pubs covering 300 years of literary history and characters.

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Dine out in the New Town tonight - did you know that many of Edinburgh's top eateries can be found on Thistle Street? Or perhaps you'll venture to Stockbridge, a pretty village-like area with a cool yet relaxed vibe, and choose from the great wine bars, restaurants, bistros and weekly market.