Edinburgh Travel Guide with Avis Prestige

Discover Edinburgh, Scotland's diverse and culture-packed capital city.

Nicknamed ‘The Athens of The North’ the city is world-renowned for its tireless contributions to academia and the arts. Home to breath-taking sights in both the medieval old town and the stunning Georgian new town, Edinburgh is bursting with neo-classical architecture.

With multiple theatrical venues, modern bars and the ‘Fringe’, the world’s largest art festival, there is always something new to do in this vibrant city. 

We have put together a list of some of our favourite must-see and do experiences in Edinburgh:

 

Edinburgh Castle

Home to the Crown Jewels of Scotland, this 12th-century fortress dominates the skyline of Edinburgh, sitting atop one of the city’s two extinct volcanoes. Be sure to plan your trip to coincide with one of the castles many actor-led events and watch the stone walls come alive as you relive history!

 

Calton Hill

A historic neighbourhood with a modern twist, Calton Hill is lined with monumental buildings that date back to the age of enlightenment. A blissful walk to the top will reward you with sweeping views of Edinburgh and the famous ‘National Monument of Scotland’ that was left unfinished in 1829.

After experiencing the picture-perfect views, pay a visit to the Collective Contemporary Art Gallery and dine at their extraordinary panoramic restaurant. With Edinburgh being a city that supports the arts, it comes as no surprise that Calton Hill is home to the one and only Edinburgh Playhouse, staging musicals and comedy shows for the perfect end to your evening.

 

Leith

Sitting on the coast just two miles from Edinburgh, Leith has a reputation for being a creative, cosmopolitan and culturally significant region in its own right. Also known as ‘The Shore’, this lively port district is home to artists and freethinkers, offering a wide variety of upscale waterfront restaurants and bars. Hire a luxury sports car and cruise the coastline on your way to visit the Leith Theatre, which has been saved from disrepair and is now a haven for music and theatre lovers.

 

Royal Botanical Gardens

Established in 1846, the Royal Botanical Gardens have been described as one of the most beautiful gardens in the world. Spread across 70 acres of glorious landscape, they offer stunning views of Edinburgh’s skyline.

Housing incredible plants from across the globe, multiple modern biomes that recreate tropical climates and a number of Victorian glasshouses, the gardens lie just a mile from the city centre and act as a tranquil domicile for those wishing to take a short break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

 

The Underground Vaults

Paris is well known for its Catacombs, but it is not the only metropolis that once featured life underground. Did you know that Edinburgh sits above an underground city? With centuries of history to uncover, thrill-seekers and history lovers can discover the secrets of the streets of Mary King’s Close, better known as ‘The Vaults’. Tour the hidden labyrinth of tunnels and winding passages that echo with chilling stories of witchcraft and hauntings.

 

Visit Edinburgh with Avis Prestige

Diverse, full of life and bursting with history, Edinburgh is the perfect place for all to visit.

With vehicle collection services available from both central Edinburgh and Edinburgh Airport, your adventure through the city can start immediately! Alternatively, you can also collect your luxury vehicle from Glasgow which is just a short one-hour drive away from the capital city.

View our luxury fleet, consisting of SUVs, saloon and sports cars and contact Avis Prestige today to reserve your high-performance car and experience Edinburgh in style.