"Edina! Scotia's darling seat!"
Yes, I think Robbie Burns summed it up quite nicely. Although I would go further to say that Edinburgh is one of the world's darling cities. Clearly I am biased since I called the city home for 6 months in 2006, but still amidst my many travels, Edinburgh stands out.
Oh, and please...it's pronounced Edin-burrah.
See
Edinburgh Castle - Edinburgh's official landmark is impressive in its stature and history, but it also affords gorgeous views of the whole city.
Do
Walk down the Royal Mile - I recommend starting from Edinburgh Castle and working your way downhill to Holyrood Palace. Along the way you'll be able to admire the medieval architecture and also pick up that souvenir kilt.
Climb Arthur's Seat in Holyrood Park - An absolute highlight of Edinburgh. It takes a good hour to reach the top of Arthur's seat, and it's a beautiful hike. Along the way you'll lose the city and instead find yourself in what looks like a scene from Braveheart - rugged craggy rocks, small ponds, and thickets of heather and thistle. Then, once you reach the top, reach for your camera - awesome views of Edinburgh and the sea beyond!
Visit the House of Holyrood Palace and the Scottish Parliament building - Holyrood Palace and the new Parliament building are striking juxtapositions of Scottish architecture. The palace is beautiful and houses treasures from Scotland's days of monarchy...
The Parliament buildling, well, looks like a giant threw together some mud and sticks.
For some people, Scotland might be the last place they think of when they imagine culinary travel destinations...more of a gastronomical plight than a delight. Well they are wrong! Granted, one of my Scottish roommate's favorite meals was a wrap containing hardboiled eggs and mayonnaise, I like to think that is the old Scotland and not representative of what the country has to offer.
Edinburgh is incredibly cosmopolitan and its cuisine reflects this attribute. You'll find excellent Middle-Eastern and South Asian cuisine as well as inventive continental European fare.
Please also sample some typical Scottish fare. Scotland is surrounded by water on all sides and there is no shortage of delicious fresh fish. And I'm sure you won't forget to try Scotland's national dish...Haggis! (It really is wonderful with neeps and tatties..trust me)
Mosque Kitchen ($) - Mosque Kitchen is a real hole-in-the-wall..er, basement rather. If you're up for a huge and delish plate for curry for just 3GBP, you've found the right place. Just walk around to the back of the mosque and you'll find the makeshift cafeteria in the basement.
Palmyra Pizza ($) - Crack kebabs. Seriously, the kebabs here are that addictive. I have yet to find a superior kebab elsewhere.
Original Kushi's ($) - While linking to Kushi's website, I just discovered that Kushi's has recently closed due to fire damage :( Well, should it reopen soon please go! Original Kushi's boasted delicious and inexpensive Indian. I might also try a new restaurant, Kushi's Diner, owned by the same family.
Petit Paris ($) - Located in the historic Haymarket, Petit Paris makes an ideal lunch-spot. You'll get tasty and authentic French for only a few Quid.
La Tasca ($$) - Okay, so while bragging to someone about this great Spanish tapas find, it was revealed to me that it in fact a chain. Well, who cares?! They've got great tapas!
The Witchery ($$$$) - One of Edinburgh most fabled and yes, expensive, restaurants. The setting is gorgeous, however, and matches the haute cuisine. For a deal, try the early-bird prix fixe.
Drink
Okay, so there's nothing particularly special about The Southsider pub..it just has sentimental value since Jared and I would frequent the pub for a pint or a wee dram. Regardless, make sure you budget some time to just unwind in a cozy pub, the most welcome respite from the blustery Scottish weather. Don't forget that pubs also offer delicious and reasonably priced food.
The Southsider - Great pub, great pub food.
Chocolate Soup - Boasting huge mugs of hot chocolate with dozens of creative toppings, Chocolate Soup is the perfect place to warm up on a chilly Edinburgh day.
El Barrio - The place for mojitos and salsa dancing in Edinburgh. Okay, maybe you're not looking for the latin vibe in Scotland, but I love this joint.
