Things to see and do Edinburgh

It is the official residence of Her Majesty the Queen when she is in Scotland. At the exact opposite of the castle, at the bottom of the Royal Mile, she spends a week there at the beginning of each summer to conduct receptions and ceremonies in the capital. The site was occupied from 1128 by Holyrood Abbey, whose ruins can still be seen in the gardens. At the beginning of the 16th century, James IV and V built a palace there and definitively established political power in Edinburgh. The various conflicts of the second half of the century caused a lot of damage. Renovations began at the beginning of the 17th century, before Cromwell's troops ravaged a large part of the building in 1650. After the Restoration, a complete reconstruction of the palace is planned and the face it bears today is mainly given to it between 1671 and 1678, with a square plan of 70 meters on each side. After the 1707 Act of Union between Scotland and England, Holyrood lost his main functions. It was seized by the Jacobites in 1745 and Bonnie Prince Charlie courted it for a few weeks. From 1796 to 1803, the Count of Artois, the future Charles X of France, lived here in exile. The French royal family even returned from 1830 to 1832, after the July Revolution. At the end of the 19th and beginning of the 20th century, the interiors were partially restored and adapted to the comfort of the time.

State Apartments reflect the influences of successive monarchs. They are particularly famous for their decorated tapestries and ceilings. The highlight of the show is the superb Great Gallery, the largest room in the palace. There are 89 portraits of legendary and true kings of Scotland. They were painted by Jan de Wet between 1684 and 1686. You can also discover the dining room, the throne room and the various reception rooms used to date by the Queen on various occasions, such as the sumptuous Morning Drawing Room. The sumptuous furniture of Charles II's King's Bedchamber is impressive and the various antechambers are richly decorated.

Mary Queen of Scots' (Mary Stuart's) room is located in the northwest tower of the palace, just above the Darnley Rooms where her second husband, Henry Stuart (Lord Darnley) lived. Many intimate objects that belonged to him are kept there. In particular, there is a tragic portrait depicting the Queen in mourning costume, with a scene in the background depicting her execution at Fotheringhay Castle in 1587. The carved oak wood oratory where she isolated herself every day to pray is also there and the splendid Lennox Jewel, a heart-shaped pendant decorated with an emerald, is also remembered, which is said to have been made for Margaret Douglas, Mary Stuart's mother-in-law, to commemorate the deaths of her husband (Matthew Stuart) and her son (Henry Stuart). The latter was responsible for Holyrood's most famous drama: on March 9, 1566, he had Davide Rizzio, Mary's closest advisor, murdered. The crime took place in her room, right in front of her, while Henry himself held her while his men stabbed the unfortunate 56 times.

Holyrood Abbey is located in the gardens of the palace. It is the first building on the site, erected in 1128 by King David I. It would take its name from the Holy Cross, "rood" in ancient Scottish. Several coronations, weddings and funerals of members of the royal family took place there.

To climb to the top of this small hill, it is best to approach it through Leith Walk and continue on to Royal Terrace and Regent Terrace. As you ascend, you will see old buildings such as the Royal High School and The Calton Jail, a prison that opened in 1817. The most interesting thing is to contemplate the city from its heights and then, eventually, to gain a little more altitude by climbing the tower of the Nelson Monument. Carlton Hill offers one of the most beautiful views of the city, with a panorama that sets the castle ablaze like the Fife of Forth.

Completed in 1953, the Royal Yacht Britannia is the last of a long line of 83 royal ships dating back to Charles II in 1660, built at Clydebank, near Glasgow, and is 126 metres long with a capacity for 250 guests and 240 crew. In service from 1954 to 1997, it was a floating embassy for the Royal Family, which travelled some 2,014,278 km during 696 visits abroad and 272 to the United Kingdom. After 44 years of good and loyal service on the seas, he is demobilized and moored in the port of Leith. He is not ordered a replacement and the mastodon becomes one of Edinburgh's flagship attractions. On the programme: the highlights of the ship's history, the control room, the admiral's apartments, Her Majesty's bedroom and her Rolls Royce, which she took everywhere. One also immerses oneself in the underside of diplomacy and protocol, walking through the many lounges and reception rooms, but also the terraces where the Queen liked to relax.

The Royal Yacht Britannia was recently awarded a prize as one of Scotland's top tourist and cultural attractions, according to the National Tourist Board's website. No doubt this is due to the historical and cultural interest, but also to the possibility - oh so attractive for admirers of British royalty - of having tea in the "Royal Deck Tea Room" ... You can also spend a night in the luxury hotel located in the nearby ship, the Fringal.

This botanical garden is a perfect outing in good weather and rainy weather, as you can enjoy a tropical climate in the greenhouses. Lovers of plants or neophytes, everyone will find, in the rarity, multiplicity and beauty of the specimens presented material to be amazed. It is still one of the most beautiful collections in the world! Guided tours are available and explanatory panels provide a wealth of fascinating information, both on amazing natural phenomena and on conservation work.

Glasshouses are a visit in the tour. Their access is not free, unlike the rest of the park, but they are worth discovering. There are 10 of them, each corresponding to a climatic zone and specific species. 10 rooms, 10 climates (hot!), 10 floristic universes! We discover with happiness, a splendid garden of water lilies, an incredible collection of orchids, carnivorous plants, succulent plants... The design of the premises is also interesting, since the greenhouses were built between 1834, in a pre-Victorian style, and 1967, with a more classical and wise simplicity.

Exhibitions are also presented in free access, in the building that hosts you. You will be able to discover photo exhibitions, artists' exhibitions and interactive playgrounds working to raise awareness of the environment. Finally, the Garden offers regular thematic activities throughout the year.

This colourful house in the Royal Mile is unmistakable with its red and ochre facade. A visit to Scotland's capital city only takes on more meaning once you open the doors. Edinburgh's past is revealed here from prehistoric times to the present day, through models, descriptions, mannequins and objects of yesteryear. We discover the capital in all its facets: a city of art, culture and ideas, power, trade, contrasts, pomp, history and stories. We can understand the dark hours of the city, between politics, religion, war and alcohol issues; but also its pride: its prosperity, its architecture and its great figures. Lovers of history and rare objects will also appreciate the medieval relics, the numerous porcelains, the beautifully chiselled silverware - including specifically Scottish pieces such as a quaich or thistle-cups -, the pottery with their reconstructed workshop, or the original manifesto of the Covenantaires. Each district is detailed, from Old Town, where Canongate formed a separate village, to New Town, where the original plans of architect James Craig can be seen. An important section is devoted to the port of Leith, a veritable highway of the colonies and the Orient. Petit Futé 's "coup de coeur" goes to the curiosity cabinet, a reminder that fan devotions are not just for pop stars. Amongst other things, we discover a piece of oatcake cooked by Robert Burns' wife, a golf ball that once belonged to Robert Louis Stevenson...

The Real Mary King's Close is a collection of alleys and underground dwellings that were in the heart of Old Town in the 17th century. They took the name of one of the daughters of the lawyer Alexander Close who owned several properties there. In the 18th century, they were partially demolished and buried during the construction of the City Chambers. It was from that moment, in the bowels of the city, that the maze entered into the darkest mysteries and legends of Edinburgh; and this, for 400 years. Archaeologists' research has made it possible to understand how some poor families have found refuge there in the face of the capital's overpopulation. It was also here that the plague patients were isolated so that they would die hidden from everyone. The evocation of the disease is then an opportunity to disentangle the true from the false and to fight many preconceived ideas. Ghost stories are legendary, such as that of a little girl named Annie who was seen by a medium and to whom many visitors still bring gifts today, or those of the many victims of the legendary murderers Burke and Hare, whom they reportedly hid before selling them to hospitals. Reopened to the public in 2003, The Real Mary King's Close lifts the veil on dark hours and cursed destinies, in a gloomy universe that does not leave anyone indifferent. The visit lasts one hour and makes sense thanks to actors in costumes for a successful immersion.

Opened in its current form in 2006 by merging older collections, the National Museum of Scotland houses 16 galleries, 8,000 objects and a complex whose architecture is both Victorian and ultra-modern. Here, as in any general museum, you will find the traditional sections devoted to anthropology, world cultures through time and natural history: Egyptian priest's sarcophagus and mummy, Assyrian mural fresco, dinosaur skeleton and stuffed animals, a few sculptures, paintings and many others... Science and technology also have a voice with the oldest colour television on the planet and the body of Dolly the Sheep.

The most fascinating part of the tour is undoubtedly the one that presents in an exciting way the whole history of Scotland, from its origins to the present day. The visitor's aesthetic pleasure and imaginary escapades into the past are encouraged by the scenography of the plays and their didactic approach. With many treasures of national heritage, one travels alongside the country's first inhabitants, the Picts, the Vikings, the Scots, many anonymous people, but also Scottish heroes, such as Mary Stuart, whose superb harp and a replica of the tomb can be discovered; Robert Burns, a renowned poet, whose handwritten letters can be read; and Bonnie Prince Charlie, the accursed prince of the Stuart cause, whose travel silver can be admired.

From the Scottish Dene meaning deep valley, Dean Village, first known as Water of Leith Village, was a community of millers first mentioned in 1128. At the beginning of the 18th century, eleven mills were maintained here and the baxters of the bakers' guild conducted a flourishing trade. Nowadays, the district is appreciated for its setting below the city. Follow the Water of Leith Walkway or join the Gallery of Modern Art via the Dean Path, cutting through the picturesque Dean Cemetery.

This is a great place to discover whisky. Several tours are available, in 50 min, 90 min and 90 min + dinner. In addition to the guided tour, there are one or more commented tastings. You will learn to savour and identify the contents of your dram, the traditional whisky unit, in a room housing the world's largest private collection. No less than 3,400 different bottles are pampered there and it is a delight to walk through it to contemplate its old labels.

Not every capital city in the world can boast of having a volcano right in the city centre. Edinburgh has two. While Castle Rock is less impressive and has been covered by the castle, Arthur's Seat is a 251-metre giant that gives a real highland flavour to anyone who climbs it. The origin of its name is a mystery and many like to think that it is linked to the legendary Celtic king, although this remains unlikely. At its feet, the vast plateau that ends in 46-metre cliffs facing Queen's Drive is called Salisbury Crags. Together they form Holyrood Park, a 260-hectare park created in 1541 by James V on the grounds of a former royal hunting reserve. The most direct route to conquer Arthur's Seat is on its eastern slope, but the most popular trail is probably the Radical Road trail from the west, a few steps from Holyrood Palace. Built on the initiative of the writer Walter Scott, this small construction site was intended to give work to idle weavers and to make walkers appreciate the natural and heritage heritage heritage of the site. Along the way, one can see St. Margaret's Loch, an artificial lake where geese and ducks paddle, and the ruins of St. Antony's Chapel. Once up there, the view is spectacular. At one glance, one embraces Old Town, New Town, the Firth of Forth and the Lothian. Allow about 2 hours for the hike, good shoes and enough to cover yourself.

St. Giles' Cathedral has become an icon of the Edinburgh skyline because of its crown-shaped bell tower. The first stones still visible were laid in the 12th century, but most of the building dates from the 15th century. It is the most important place of worship of the Church of Scotland in its capital. It is dedicated to Saint Giles, a Greek hermit who lived mainly in France between the 7th and 8th centuries. Protector of lepers and the lame, he was particularly popular in the Middle Ages, so much so that he became the patron saint of Edinburgh. Inside, don't miss the central pillars, the oldest witnesses of the place, nor the stained glass windows which are impressive. Also worth seeing are the stained glass window dedicated to the poet Robert Burns, the statue of John Knox and the quotation that sums up the character's commitment: "Give me Scotland or I die", the authors' "corner" and the organ. The Thistle Chapel, built in 1911, has a richly decorated ceiling and carved woodwork of great aesthetic quality. For example, an angel can be seen playing the bagpipes. It is also possible to gain height with paying guided tours on the roof (beware, they are quickly sold out!). Volunteer guides are also present to tell you all about the secrets and beauties of the building. Masses are always celebrated in the building (on Sundays at 8, 10, 11.30 and 8 pm) and concerts are regularly organised.

This 1620 church is not only famous for its monument to the Covenanters, the Scottish Presbyterians who fought against the imposition of the Anglican faith. Its mysterious cemetery, dotted with moss and old stones, is the final resting place of the most devoted dog in Scottish culture: Greyfriars Bobby. After the death of his owner, a policeman named John Gray, this little Skye Terrier came to sleep next to his master's remains for 14 years, until his own death in 1872. Today, the two friends are buried side by side and a statue honors the memory of faithful Bobby on George IV Bridge. More recently, other graves have been recorded as having inspired J. K. Rowling as she wrote regularly from the nearby Elephant House café. Potterheads and the curious will find the poet William McGonagall, the Potter family, and Thomas Riddell, who is believed to be the origin of Voldemort's birth name. Since the latter is often the most sought-after, we'll save you some time: once in the cemetery, go around the church and into a walled annex to George Heriot's School. The grave is at the far right.

More hidden, you will also find Sirius Black, Slughorn and Alastor Moody. If you wish, there are 100% Harry Potter tours! This is the most famous cemetery in Scotland.

People have been coming here since 1835 to admire Edinburgh through the lorgnette of a periscope whose panoramas are projected onto a large table-screen. This visit is particularly popular with children, who appreciate the fun aspect. On six floors, a maze of attractions and exhibitions also provides a whole world of optical illusions and curiosities based on sounds, lights, mirrors and tunnels, for fans of the genre. At the top, the Outlook Tower also offers beautiful views of the surrounding area, including the castle, which is just across the street.

This is the first time since 1925 that the Scottish capital has redone its single malt. The distillery is housed in a beautiful historic building, some 180 years old, a few steps from Holyrood Park and Old Town. You will discover how whisky and gin are made and will be able to follow different guided tours, according to your wishes: immersion in the distillery, visit and tasting of whisky or gin, masterclass on whisky. Explore also the shop and its selection of rare and vintage whiskies, the "Holyrood Prestige Collection"!

The oval balloon buffs will be right at home here. The stadium of anthology was inaugurated in 1925, when the national team won its first grand slam. It is an integral part of Scotland's heritage and occupies a special place in the imagination of fans around the world. Between 1942 and 1944, it was even requisitioned to serve as a Royal Air Force depot. Although it can now accommodate more than 67,000 spectators, it had a much larger capacity, which had to make way for certain security arrangements. Yet it holds the world record for attendance at a rugby match, with an attendance of 104,000 at a Scotland-Wales match in 1975. U2, James Brown and David Bowie have each filled it, but it is when the players flanked by a thistle on their hearts enter the pitch that the stadium vibrates in unison, singing the famous 'Flower of Scotland'. The visit lasts 1h30 and plunges into the bowels of the enclosure, from the changing rooms to the players' tunnel, including the royal box, the press areas and the TV studios...

You'll visit areas that are usually inaccessible and you'll be told many stories about the history of rugby, Scottish exploits, stadium sights, but also about the sport and the preparation of international matches. Visits can be privatized and adapted on request. Reservations are required as visits are limited in place or may be cancelled depending on current events.

Nicolas Loisel, your French guide, fell in love with Scotland after a few trips and settled there 10 years ago. With E-City, he becomes your guide and driver (in electric Tesla) to discover, for half a day (for Edinburgh), a day or a whole stay, Scotland in a totally personalized way. It will take you to the most emblematic sites as well as to unsuspected and even more breathtaking sites! He will offer you unusual and original experiences, 100% tailor-made, for a unique stay.

It is one of the must-see visits for lovers of religion and ancient books. In addition to the history of the house and its famous inhabitants - James Mosmann, royal jeweller, who made the Scottish crown; John Knox, father of the Scottish religion and key figure in history - it tells the story of the Humanities and first impressions. There is a collection of books by great humanists, a bible from 1521 and John Knox's History of the Reformation within the Realme of Scotland. The place also hosts the Scottish Storytelling Association.

A Frenchwoman living in Edinburgh after an instant love affair with the city, Sarah takes you on a guided tour of her beloved capital in French. It offers different tours, to be taken in private or public groups: "On the Tracks of Harry Potter in Edinburgh", "The must-see in Edinburgh", an aperitif-walk, a "Crimes and Punishment" tour and tailor-made tours, according to the participants' requests. She will also be happy to give you her good addresses to have a drink, eat well or discover the hidden jewels of the city.

At the foot of the Balmoral and next to the Princes Mall, this tourist office, called here Edinbugh iCentre, provides a very useful amount of information about the city, but also about the whole country. The brochures are numerous and complete, by theme or region. You will find turnkey programs for an excursion to scare yourself, to marvel, to taste local specialities or to dance. We'll also tell you about the best things to do in the city!