Edinburgh: The Best & WORST of Visiting Edinburgh - Wolters World
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Exploring Edinburgh: The Love-Hate Relationship
Edinburgh, the captivating Scottish capital, captivates visitors with its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene. However, like any travel destination, it comes with its own set of pros and cons. In this article, we’ll delve into the five things you may love and hate about visiting this beautiful city, highlighting some mild annoyances along with the joys of exploring Edinburgh.
The Hates: Mild Annoyances to Be Aware Of
Navigating the Streets and Parking Woes
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Edinburgh is famously known for its seven hills, which means that visitors will have to prepare for a fair bit of uphill walking. While the map may suggest that attractions are close to each other, the reality is sometimes quite different. For example, getting from the lower to the upper city can be less straightforward, sometimes requiring navigation over bridges. Good walking shoes are essential, especially if you want to avoid the complaint of "my legs are going to die" from fellow travelers.
Crowded Tourist Spots
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If you plan to drive in Edinburgh, brace yourself for the challenges of parking and navigating the city's streets. Driving on the left side of the road can be confusing for some, especially when attempting to master roundabouts. However, the real struggle arises in finding parking. A simple recommendation is to fly into Edinburgh, explore the city without a car, and then rent one for your travels around Scotland. This avoids the headache of city driving and parking altogether.
Getting Oriented Among the Hills
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Like many popular cities, Edinburgh can get overwhelmingly busy, particularly on weekends. The Royal Mile, stretching from St. Giles Cathedral to Edinburgh Castle, can feel cramped with tourists and buskers alike. If possible, visiting during the week or in the off-season can help you avoid the crowds. Note that if you visit during the renowned Edinburgh Festival in August, the city can become a veritable sea of people.
Challenges at Edinburgh Airport
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The stress of traveling can be exacerbated at Edinburgh Airport, which many travelers find needs significant improvement. It can feel cramped, especially on weekday mornings when flights are busiest. Security and check-in lines can be long, so arriving early is essential. While the tram connecting the airport to the city center is reliable, the experience at the airport can leave much to be desired.
Family Dining Restrictions
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Family-friendly options are abundant in Edinburgh, but dining out with kids may come with its own obstacles. Many pubs have a policy where children are only allowed until a certain evening hour, or not at all, making it difficult for families wanting to enjoy traditional pub grub like haggis or fish and chips. Planning to dine out for lunch rather than dinner can ease this frustration.
The Loves: Why Edinburgh is Worth It
The Royal Mile and Its Attractions
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A visit to Edinburgh wouldn’t be complete without exploring the Royal Mile. This iconic stretch is dotted with intriguing sites, including the breathtaking St. Giles Cathedral and the majestic Edinburgh Castle, which provides stunning views of the city. This historical thoroughfare is popular for a reason, showcasing the city’s rich heritage and impressive architecture.
Breathtaking Scenery and Views
Beyond the Royal Mile lies a city filled with picturesque views. Climbing up Arthur’s Seat or Calton Hill offers stunning panoramas of Edinburgh and its surrounding landscape. Each vantage point provides incredible photo opportunities, so make sure to bring a good camera to capture the postcard-worthy scenery.
Unique Shopping Experiences
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Edinburgh is known for its eclectic shops that offer everything from vintage clothing to Scotland-themed souvenirs. While the New Town features standard high street shopping, the Old Town, particularly around Grassmarket, is where many unique and quirky stores can be found. Whether it's exploring bookstores or picking up a special memento, shopping in the city is sure to be memorable.
Rich Museums and Cultural Sites
The city is home to a variety of museums, many of which go beyond the typical tourist attractions. The Museum of Childhood and the Storytelling Museum are two noteworthy places that delve into Scotland's vibrant history and storytelling tradition. Exploring these venues provides a fascinating glimpse into local culture and history.
Excellent Tourist Infrastructure
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Finally, one of the significant advantages of Edinburgh is its excellent tourist infrastructure. From a range of accommodations, including bed and breakfasts, hotels, and apartments, to a reliable public transport system, getting around is convenient for visitors. Helpful staff at tourist attractions are eager to share their knowledge, ensuring that your trip is enjoyable and informative.
Conclusion: A City of Contrasts
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While Edinburgh may present travelers with some mild annoyances during their visit, the magnitude of beauty, culture, and history far outweighs these inconveniences. With its stunning views, eclectic shopping, rich museums, and welcoming tourist infrastructure, Edinburgh remains a city full of charm. Embrace both the loves and the hates as part of your travel adventure, and enjoy exploring this captivating Scottish capital.