Edinburgh (part 1)

Frequently named as one of the best places to live and work in the UK, Edinburgh is without doubt the jewel in Scotland’s crown. This beautiful and cosmopolitan city, with its many wonderful attractions, makes an immediate and favourable impression on the many visitors who travel here. And with the present value of the pound, there's no better time to start planning your visit.

As you emerge into the bustling shopping thoroughfare that is Princes Street, the skyline is dominated by the Castle, sitting atop the craggy core of an old volcano, gazing down over the town.

Surrounded by stunning scenery, historic buildings and wonderful architecture, Edinburgh has real “wow” factor. Don’t just take our word for it, ask any of the 3.6 million visitors it receives each year. They make it the UK’s most visited destination after London and one of Europe's favourite tourist destinations.

With three universities, the most famous of which is the University of Edinburgh the city has a sizeable student population drawn from all corners of the globe. This helps to give Edinburgh an energetic buzz, but with quietness and tranquility always within easy reach.

Pubs, clubs, restaurants, shopping, museums and galleries, historical sites and the Scottish Parliament are all there to be visited and enjoyed.

And if you enjoy shopping, Edinburgh will be right up your street. There are department stores and shops of all sizes to cater for every taste, including some great whisky shops.

Although it has a population of around 450,000, one of the best things about Edinburgh is that it is a relatively compact city.

Anyone who is moderately fit will find most attractions and places of interest within easy walking distance of the Castle, although some walking up and down hill will be required.

For anyone less able an excellent transport service is available, principally buses and taxis. There are also a number of tourist buses that circumnavigate the historic areas of the Town allowing you to jump on and off as you please.

Edinburgh has been the Scottish capital since the 15th century and has two distinct areas, the Old Town, dominated by the medieval Castle; and the neoclassical New Town, whose development from the 18th century onwards has had a far-reaching influence on European urban planning.
It is the wonderful juxtaposition of these two contrasting historic areas, each with their own important buildings, that gives the city its own unique character. This was recognised by the award of UNESCO World Heritage status in 1995.