Edinburgh ...A City of Contrast

Copyright to © Edinburgh Brand.

Edinburgh is Scotland’s capital and one of the world’s most spectacular cities where every visitor is captivated by a stunning skyline and magnificent architecture. History and culture combine with a vibrant atmosphere, offering opportunities for visitors to enjoy a memorable stay. Historic medieval buildings sit alongside cutting edge contemporary architecture.

Steeped in centuries of colourful history, the Royal Mile and is a clear favourite with visitors, offering a variety of museums and shops is at the heart of the Old Town. The Mile runs from Edinburgh Castle, standing majestically on a 400 foot rocky crag, to the magnificent Palace of Holyroodhouse, set in acres of parkland and overlooked by an extinct volcano. Between these two supreme landmarks, is a rambling medieval town of narrow closes and cobbled streets along which lies an abundance of fascinating museums, distinctive shops and popular pubs and restaurants. Today, while still retaining its distinctive character, the Old Town is a thriving community and a compelling and lively area of the city waiting to be explored.

The New town is home to many of the city’s cosmopolitan shops, bars and restaurants. The New town incorporates the picturesque Dean Village and Stockbridge areas where collectors of antiques can browse at their leisure.

Attractions

© Richard Campbell

Shopping - Edinburgh is a shopper’s paradise with something for everybody. Prince Street offers big names stores full of designer labels such as Jenners and Harvey Nichols. Small, independent shops specialising in everything from traditional tartat to contemporary Scottish crafts can be found in the Victoria Street and Grassmarket area.

	Edinburgh Castle – Is Scotland’s top visitor attraction and home of the Scottish Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny. The castle is a powerful national symbol and part of Edinburgh’s World Heritage Site.
© Harvey Wood, Douglas Corrance and Marius Alexander

The National Galleries of Scotland – Is home to an outstanding collection of Scottish, European and International Art from Renaissance to Post Impressionism. The National Galleries of Scotland comprise of five galleries located around the city such as The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art and Dean Gallery. The galleries house several magnificent permanent collections and a variety of exhibitions. The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art Gallery © Edinburgh Brand

The Museum of Scotland – A striking and impressive contemporary building where visitors can discover the historical facts about Scotland, its people and culture.
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The Royal Botanic Garden – Include twenty eight hectares of beautifully landscaped grounds and stunning views of the city. The gardens provide inspiration and relaxation to its visitors. The gardens offer visitors the chance to explore the gardens with a guided tour from an expert. For more information>

Open Top Bus Tours - Are an excellent means of viewing the whole city. Linking the Old Town with the Royal Yacht Britannia, tours explore Edinburgh's Georgian New Town and Holyrood Park. Simply hop on and off the bus to visit your favourite attractions. For more information>

Useful Links

Edinburgh Convention Bureau

Experience Edinburgh Discover Scotland

Visit Scotland Edinburgh Network Office

Edinburgh International Conference Centre

Visit Scotland

General Information

Weather - To check the weather forecast in Edinburgh>

Webcams of the City - To see what is happening live in Edinburgh>

Money – The currency in Scotland is the pound sterling, the Scottish banks also have their own banknotes. Most cashpoints (ATMs) accept major credit cards as well as Cirrus, Maestro and Plus cash networks. Banks are usually open Monday to Friday from 9:30am to 4:30pm. Some banks are also open on Saturdays.

Language – English is the spoken language in Scotland. However people who live in the rural areas of Scotland may speak Scottish Gaelic or Scots.

Telephones - Mobile telephones can be brought into Scotland. It is advisable to check that your network provider will operate in Scotland. There are plenty of public telephones dotted throughout the city. International call cards can be purchased in many locations around the city.

To make an international call:

Direct dialling
00 + Country Code + Area Code + Local Number

Medical Care - Visitors from EU countries are entitled to medical treatment under the EU Reciprocal Medical Treatment agreement. Before you travel you should collect an E111 form. Check that the doctor or dentist that you use is registered with the Scottish Health Board and inform him or her that you want to be treated under the EUs social security arrangements.

Visitors from other countries should check with their insurance agent or broker before travelling.

In the event of an emergency, visitors may telephone or go directly to the casualty department of the major hospitals.

Smoking - Scotland is now a smoke free city. A smoking ban was introduced in March 2006 in public enclosed places and open places. Scotland pubs, night clubs, restaurants and cafés are now smoke free zones. You can still smoke out of doors, in your hotel room, or in private accommodation.

Electrical Current – The electrical current in Scotland is 220/240 volts (50 cycles) and a standard three pin plug adapter may be required.