Your tour of Europe will be incomplete if you do not visit beautiful Scotland. Edinburgh, the Scottish capital, is often called the “Athens of the North”. The city features a number of neo-classical architectural features, and there are activities to suit all ages and tastes.

Tourism in Edinburgh peaks during the summer and early autumn months due to the many annual events hosted by the city. Among these are the famed Royal Military Tattoo, Art, Jazz & Blues, and International Film Festivals. Known for its many festivals, Edinburgh also hosts several celebrations during the rest of the year, including the International Science and the Scottish International Storytelling Festivals. If you plan to visit during the winter holidays, make sure to join in Edinburgh’s famous four-day Hogmanay/New Year’s celebration.

Art lovers will find an eclectic variety of museums within Edinburgh’s vibrant city center. Visit the National Museum of Scotland or the Royal Yacht Britannia. Alternatively, check out the Museum of Edinburgh (formerly Huntly House), the Museum of Childhood, or the artwork at 28 Charlotte Square.

Edinburgh has a fascinating history, including the shocking Burke and Hare murders in 1828, and the myriad of ghost stories embedded within Scottish culture. Travel around Edinburgh by bus, cycle, chauffeured car, or guided tour to explore the many parks and gardens of secret Edinburgh.

No visit to Scotland is complete without spending some time touring its legendary countryside. Visit the beautiful lochs, look out for the infamous Nessie in Loch Ness or bask in the beauty of the Angus Glens. You should also explore the Highlands with its vast areas of wild heather, herds of red deer and magnificent golden eagles, or pop over to the Isle of Skye or visit the Outer Hebrides for a taste of island life.

You can book your vacation accommodations online, and it is easy to arrange luxury apartment rentals in a variety of different locations in and around Edinburgh. Alternatively, tourists on a budget will find short term rentals and vacation rentals easy to source in the locality.