When planning a vacation to Edinburgh - City of Edinburgh, you will find that this beautiful city offers a diverse mixture of historic and modern architecture and design. The winding streets and wonder walking paths give you a feeling of entering another dimension.

As Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh hosts more and a million visitors a year. Most people come to the city to enjoy the beauty and the festivals that take place throughout the year. The city is divided on one side with medieval buildings, shops, and pubs. This is Old Town and contains much of the historical artifacts that a person will find of great interest when visiting and studying Scotland. The New Town is’th century Georgian architecture as well as modern buildings. The mix of architectural styles is one of the rare incidences when a city has grown throughout the centuries without razing the old to build the new.

A vacation of Edinburgh will take longer than a few days. Each side of Edinburgh has unique and delightful sites to see. Starting at the top of Royal Mile you can visit the Edinburgh Castle. This castle is open to visitors and provides an opportunity to see the home of Mary Queen of Scots, information and plaques on the many historic events that took place in the castle, and a beautiful view of the city from the gardens of the castle.

Although only a mile long, Royal Mile offers something to explore with almost every step you take on a stroll down this avenue. There are a multitude of shops, cafes, and museums that provide a person with the chance to relax and learn about the culture and history of the Scots. When you have finally reached the end of Royal Mile the Queen’s official residence will be waiting to be toured. Holyrod Palace has been used as a royal residence for hundreds of years. When the royal family is not in residence, one can explore the castle and grounds of this magnificent building and enjoy the historical objects and items that are to be found there.

John Knox home in the High Street section of Royal Mile is a must see. This home is a completely renovated late 15th century building that is entered by forestairs. The stairs provide a rare look at the actual entries of homes in the late 15th century. Once in the home the hand painted ceilings, art and decor give you a look at the kind of life that this protestant minister lived in the–00s’. In Canongate you will also get an opportunity to explore the medieval architecture that is predominant in that district of Edinburgh.

A commemoration to three famous authors can also be found on Royal Mile. Lady Stairs home provides a visitor with art, history, and books from the works of Sir Walter Scott, Robert Burns, and Robert Louis Stevenson. The home is renovated in the classic and elegant design and decor of the period and reflects the love and warmth for these wonderful authors.

You will hear a lot about Grassmarket Square and it is a must see. By following Candlemaker Row you will come to a square that is surrounded with antique shops, pubs, restaurants, and boutiques. You will find five star hotels and restaurants throughout the city and be able to enjoy an array of both traditional foods and the cuisine of the diverse cultures that reside in Edinburgh.

Dividing Old Town and New Town is Princes Street. This half mile street provides one with monuments, shops, buildings, and gardens that are a delight. Many residents of Edinburgh enjoy the gardens for reflection and relaxation. From the gardens you can see the castle and all of Old Town.

There is so much to see and do in Edinburgh - City of Edinburgh. You will find the Royal Botanical Gardens, The Royal Yacht Britannia, and many other sites. There are festivals, parades, and parties on a regular basis throughout the year. And, if you arrive and are not sure where to begin, the open-top bus offers a tour of the entire city to give you a chance to plan your route for the adventure.

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