Edinburgh, the inspiring capital of Scotland, is a historic, cosmopolitan and cultured city.
"Edinburgh" said writer Robert Louis Stevenson, "is what Paris ought to be"
The city is a UNESCO World Heritage site perched on a series of extinct volcanoes and rocky crags which rise from the generally flat landscape of the Lothians, with the sheltered shoreline of the Firth of Forth to the north.
Edinburgh Castle dominates the city-centre skyline and from its ramparts you can look down on medieval lanes, elegant architecture and sweeping terraces that hold over a thousand years of history, mystery and tradition. Yet you will also see a modern, dynamic capital renowned internationally for its year round festivals which attract the world's leading performers; galleries display cutting-edge art; and boasts an exceptional contemporary blend of pubs, bars and restaurants, which create a lively, cosmopolitan atmosphere with a distinctly Scottish twist.
For international visitors, Edinburgh is the second favourite UK city for tourism after London thanks to its ideal mix of specialist retailers, leading attractions, entertainment, culture and history. Much more than just a city break destination, Edinburgh is the visitors’ gateway to Scotland.
In 2008 Edinburgh was named as of the world's top ten cities by travel magazine Wanderlust. In addition, the 2008 Trip Advisor Destination Awards named Edinburgh as the top 10 destination in Europe and 27th in the world.
Edinburgh, the gateway to Scotland
Many delegates may choose to explore wider Scotland. The thriving city of Glasgow is just 50 minutes from Edinburgh by train and is famed for its shopping, nightlife and links to the worlds of art and fashion. There are also the historic cities of Stirling, Perth and St Andrews to explore – all are within an hour’s travel time from Edinburgh. The magnificent landscape of the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park is just over an hour’s travel by car from Edinburgh. The area is characterised by picturesque lochs, wild glens, high mountains and deep forests.
Further north, the Highlands and Islands offer spectacular, unspoilt mountains, lochs and beaches. They are home to iconic sights such as the Isle of Skye, Loch Ness and Ben Nevis (Britain’s highest mountain). Accessible by train, sea, air and road, the Scottish Highlands and Islands are a dramatic holiday destination enjoyed by visitors from around the world.
South of Scotland, and easily accessible from the city, the Scottish Borders and Dumfries and Galloway represent a land of ancient abbeys, castles and historic houses. The region boasts connections with Robert Burns and Sir Walter Scott and has a long-standing tradition of rugby and many superb golf courses for enthusiasts.
For more detailed information on the City of Edinburgh and wider Scotland, please visit the Scottish Tourist Board, Historic Scotland and Highlands Tourism.
Much of the information on this page is courtesy of the Scottish Tourist Board and Edinburgh Inspiring Capital. The information listed here is published in good faith, and neither the Psychology Network nor the Scottish Tourist Board or Edinburgh Inspiring Capital can accept liability for errors. Please feel free to contact Marina Crowe at the Psychology Network concerning any queries you may have, or any corrections, clarifications or additions you may wish to make.
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