When it comes to Scotland, there's something special about the country as a whole. The friendliness of its people, the atmosphere, and what feels like an almost instant change from city life to the rural countryside with rolling hills and mountains for miles on end; there's so much that Scotland has to offer, and its capital is just the start.
Edinburgh isn't just vibrant, there's a constant list of things to do. Even though it's hilly, the attractions are still some of the most accessible you'll find not just in Scotland, but the UK as a whole, and whilst there are many places to visit, I thought I'd share my top 5 with you all.
1. Visit The Kitchin The Kitchin is by far my favourite restaurant. Based in Leith, just minutes from the Royal Yacht Britannia - the Michelin starred restaurant was opened by Tom Kitchin, the youngest winner of a Michelin star in 2006 awarded the Michelin star just 6 months after opening The Kitchin. My favourite time to visit here is when Grouse season has just begun, and my favourite starter is the Pigs head and Langoustine.
Whenever I'm on a long weekend in Edinburgh, I tend to visit The Kitchin on the first night and then The Scran & Scallie - Tom Kitchin's gastro pub on the last night before going home. The Scran & Scallie was where I got my first taste of ale, and it had to be Yer Ben which has been a firm favourite since!
2. Designer Shopping at Livingstone Whilst not in Edinburgh itself, Livingstone designer outlet is easy to get to by bus, and all of the bus drivers I've ever encountered in Edinburgh are some of the friendliest I've come across! I spent pretty much a full day here and found some excellent bargains!
3. Visit Royal Yacht Britannia Yes believe it or not the Royal Yacht Britannia is accessible! Probably the worlds most iconic boat to ever be built, the Royal Yacht Britannia served the royal family for 43 years and is considered Scotland's Best visitor attraction. As this is also in Leith, my advice would be to combine a visit to the yacht on the same day you dine at The Kitchin if you plan to.
4. Edinburgh Fringe Festival Like comedy? Want a mix of well-known acts but the option to see those up and coming or not yet discovered by the main stage? Then come to Edinburgh during fringe! When I went, the venues were pretty accessible, and some of the shows even had free entry! Even if you don't go to see the shows, visiting Edinburgh during fringe shows even more of the vibrancy that Scotland as a whole has to offer.
5. Scotch Whiskey Experience The Scotch Whiskey Experience is probably one of the highlights of Edinburgh for me. The tasting sessions are excellent, and with some of the packages, you can even get a whiskey tasting glass, certificate and other goodies to take home with you. The tour around the brewery is wheelchair accessible, and like most Scots; the staff are super friendly! I'd recommend the Platinum tour if wanting the gifts, or the gold tour if it's just the tasting experience you're after.
Well, there you have it! My favourite top 5 things to do or see in and around Edinburgh! Got any favourites that I've missed? Let me know in the comments!