Fly to Edinburgh

Edinburgh castle is one of the most known landmarks in all of Scotland and is the most popular sight among tourists. In the medieval ages, the castle was home to a number of kings and queens. Queen Margaret and King Malcolm Canmore (king from 1058 to 1093) were two of the famous residents. From 1745 until 1920 the castle was headquarter for the British Army in Scotland.

Queen Elizabeth II's former yacht, Britannia, is anchored at Ocean Terminal in Edinburgh and is open to visitors. The royal yacht was built in 1953 and the royal family used the vessel both when representing the United Kingdom and on private occasions.

The ship took its crew: 20 officers, 220 crew, and 45 members from the court used to follow the royal family on board. A visit on board will give you a glimpse of the royal life of the 1950s and you can learn about the ship's special features.

Edinburgh's Royal Botanical Garden is the second oldest in the UK, following the garden in Oxford. The Royal Botanical Garden opened in 1670 but was relocated in 1823. 70 acres of sculptured landscape, including a Victorian greenhouse (entrance for a fee), provides for a wonderful day. The garden is known for its beautiful rhododendrons and azaleas, and it also features a stone garden.

Arthur's Seat is a mountain peak right outside the center of Edinburgh. The top reaches 251 meter above sea level and the views of Edinburgh on a clear day are amazing. Access from the neighborhood Hollyrood, with a 45 minutes walk. The walk to the top is not recommended with flip flops or high heels!

Are you a lover of the arts and interested in seeing a selection of fine and modern art? The Edinburgh Gallery of Modern Art has two sections. One with a permanent exhibition and one with shifting arts. The permanent exhibition contains art of famous European artist Picasso, Matisse, Magritte, Mondrian and Kirchner. Scottish painters are represented as well, with artists spanning from the early 20th century until modern avant garde artists.