A Visitor's Guide to Edinburgh: What to See, Do, & Where to Stay in 2019

Updated: 1/5/2019 | January 5th, 2019

Updated: 1/5/2019 | January 5th, 2019

The cobbled streets, tight quarters, the castle, the Gothic architecture of many of its buildings —Edinburgh’s beauty is inescapable.

Originally, I visited Edinburgh for my birthday back in 2009 and, enjoying the city’s beauty and history, have been coming back ever since, even spending a new year’s here a few years back! I absolutely love this city and its people.

Edinburgh has been the capital of Scotland since the 15th century (though people have lived here since 8,500 BC). The city was destroyed by the English in 1544, but eventually recovered and became the center of the Scottish Reformation in the 16th century. In the 19th century, Edinburgh lost it’s status as the #1 city in Scotland to the manufacturing city of Glasgow. However, Edinburgh was famous for its literary figures and became an educational and literary capital growing rapidly during the later 19th century.

In the 20th century, Edinburgh remained a city of banking, and education, growing rapidly in the later part of the century and early 21st century thanks to tourism and just a growing interest in Scotland.

Edinburgh is a small city with friendly people and history everywhere. I love walking down the small, cobblestone streets, and getting lost in the little squares and back alleys of the city. Here, locals will say hi to you and chat you up over a pint in the local pub.  It’s a magical town that inspires you at every turn.

If you’re going to visit Edinburgh, here are some of the best things to see and do in Edinburgh on your trip:

The Royal Mile

This historic street stretches from the Castle to the palace and is the most popular street in the city. It’s the main thoroughfare in the Old City and is a great place to people watch, sightsee, listen to buskers, and grab a bite to eat.

This historic street stretches from the Castle to the palace and is the most popular street in the city. It’s the main thoroughfare in the Old City and is a great place to people watch, sightsee, listen to buskers, and grab a bite to eat.

St. Giles Cathedral

This not-technically a cathedral (cathedrals need a bishop and this one has none) is very old and beautiful. Also known as the High Kirk of Scotland, St. Giles Cathedral was founded in the 12th century (though little remains from that period) and is the primary place of worship for the Church of Scotland. The cathedral is located between the Castle and the Palace, it’s a good place to see stunning Gothic architecture and good stained glassed windows.

This not-technically a cathedral (cathedrals need a bishop and this one has none) is very old and beautiful. Also known as the High Kirk of Scotland, St. Giles Cathedral was founded in the 12th century (though little remains from that period) and is the primary place of worship for the Church of Scotland. The cathedral is located between the Castle and the Palace, it’s a good place to see stunning Gothic architecture and good stained glassed windows.

High Street, +44 131-225-4363, stgilescathedral.org.uk. Open Monday-Friday from 9am-7pm (5pm during the off season), Saturday from 9am-5pm (closed during the off season), and 1pm-5pm on Sunday. Guided rooftop tours are 6 GBP per person, and a photo permit for the church (interior) is 2 GBP.

Take a ghost tour

Edinburgh is actually considered one of the

Edinburgh is actually considered one of the most haunted cities in the world . In the 17th century, Lord Advocate Sir George Mackenzie was appointed to round up religious dissidents. Some 18,000 people were rounded up and killed on his watch. the story goes that his tomb was disturbed by a homeless man, releasing his vengeful spirit. Since then of 500 people have claimed to have seen (or been attacked!) by the ghost of Mackenzie. This has led to the popularity of haunted walking tours around the city. There are plenty of different tours to choose from, including walking tours, underground tours, and bus tours (available during both the day and night). Some of the best companies to check out at Get Your Guide Mercat , and New Europe

Edinburgh Castle

The roots of Edinburgh castle were likely established around the 2nd century, though it wasn’t until the 7th where we start to see the formations of a castle take shape. Today’s castle was built in the 12th century, though many parts have been reconstructed over the years. While it’s not the best castle in the world, it has an interesting history, a daily cannon fire, great views, and historic artifacts in it. It’s definitely worth a tour if you’re into history or architecture!

The roots of Edinburgh castle were likely established around the 2nd century, though it wasn’t until the 7th where we start to see the formations of a castle take shape. Today’s castle was built in the 12th century, though many parts have been reconstructed over the years. While it’s not the best castle in the world, it has an interesting history, a daily cannon fire, great views, and historic artifacts in it. It’s definitely worth a tour if you’re into history or architecture!

Castlehill, +44 131-225-9846, edinburghcastle.scot. Open daily from 9:30-6pm (5pm in the winter). Admission is 18.50 GBP for adults (17 GBP if you book in advance) with discounts available for children.

The Scott Monument

This Gothic tower stands an impressive 61 meters high and is actually the second tallest monument to a writer in the world (the first is in Cuba). Sir Walter Scott was a novelist, playwright, and historian known for such books as Ivanhoe and Rob Roy. For a good view of the city, climb up the stairs!

This Gothic tower stands an impressive 61 meters high and is actually the second tallest monument to a writer in the world (the first is in Cuba). Sir Walter Scott was a novelist, playwright, and historian known for such books as Ivanhoe and Rob Roy. For a good view of the city, climb up the stairs!

E. Princes St Gardens, +44 131-529-4068, edinburghmuseums.org.uk/venue/scott-monument. Open daily from 10am-9pm (4pm in the winter). Admission is 8 GBP for adults with discounts available.<

The Elephant House

The cafe became super popular for one reason: Harry Potter. J.K Rowling spent many an hour here writing her epic Harry Potter saga. Once that fact became known, Harry Potter fans from all around the globe have flocked here to see the place with their own two eyes. More often than not, there are people outside taking photos and even a line to get in!

The cafe became super popular for one reason: Harry Potter. J.K Rowling spent many an hour here writing her epic Harry Potter saga. Once that fact became known, Harry Potter fans from all around the globe have flocked here to see the place with their own two eyes. More often than not, there are people outside taking photos and even a line to get in!

21 George IV Bridge, +44 131-220-5355, elephanthouse.biz. Open Monday-Thursday from 8am-10pm, Friday from 8am-11pm, Saturday from 9am-11pm, and Sunday from 9am-10pm.

Rosslyn Chapel

Built in the 15th century,

Built in the 15th century, this famous chapel is a Da Vinci Code lover’s dream. There are many (alleged) links to both the Freemasons and the Knights Templar. Even if you don’t believe in any of that, the detailed carvings are impressive and the chapel’s long history make it worth checking out. (It’s not far from the city and a good excuse to get out of Edinburgh for a bit!)

Chapel Loan, +44 131-440-2159, rosslynchapel.com. Open daily from 9:30am-5pm (6pm in the summer). Admission is 9 GBP, with discounts avilable. Interior photography isn’t permitted

Museum of Edinburgh

When you’re strolling down the Royal Mile, don’t forget to check out the Museum of Edinburgh. It will give you a much a better understanding of the city’s history and how it became the city that it is today. Best of all, this museum is free!

When you’re strolling down the Royal Mile, don’t forget to check out the Museum of Edinburgh. It will give you a much a better understanding of the city’s history and how it became the city that it is today. Best of all, this museum is free!

edinburghmuseums.org.uk/venue/museum-edinburgh. Open daily from 10am-5pm. Admission is free but donations are welcome.

Hike to Arthur’s Seat

If you want a sweeping view of the city you’re going to have to put in the work. It’s not a particularly difficult walk, but some parts can be a bit steep. The wind can get incredibly strong up there, but it’s the perfect place for a picnic to watch the sunset if you feel like stretching your legs.

If you want a sweeping view of the city you’re going to have to put in the work. It’s not a particularly difficult walk, but some parts can be a bit steep. The wind can get incredibly strong up there, but it’s the perfect place for a picnic to watch the sunset if you feel like stretching your legs.

Visit the Writer’s Museum

This museum covers the lives of 3 of the most famous Scottish writers: Waler Scott, Robert Burns, and Robert Louis Stevenson. You’ll learn about their personal lives as well as their work. There are numerous paintings, writings, and personal objects from their lives. It’s a neat museum that sheds some light into the history of some of Scotland’s most successful writers.

This museum covers the lives of 3 of the most famous Scottish writers: Waler Scott, Robert Burns, and Robert Louis Stevenson. You’ll learn about their personal lives as well as their work. There are numerous paintings, writings, and personal objects from their lives. It’s a neat museum that sheds some light into the history of some of Scotland’s most successful writers.

Lawnmarket — Lady Stair’s Close, +44 131-529-4901, edinburghmuseums.org.uk/venue/writers-museum. Open daily from 10am-5pm. Admission is free.

Scottish National Gallery

This museum first opened in the 1850’s and is home to Scotland’s national collection of fine art. If you want to get a deeper understanding of Scottish history and culture, this is a great place to dive in.

This museum first opened in the 1850’s and is home to Scotland’s national collection of fine art. If you want to get a deeper understanding of Scottish history and culture, this is a great place to dive in.

The Mound, +44 131-624-6200, nationalgalleries.org/visit/scottish-national-gallery. Open daily from 10am-5pm (7pm on Thursdays). Admission is free, though some exhibits cost money.

The Scotch Whisky Experience

If you’re a fan of Scotch, you’ll not want to pass up a whiskey tasting. This is one of the best options in town, offering up tours, tastings, and a full day training school. Located on the Royal Mile, you can try all sorts of different local whiskeys. Since this isn’t a distillery you’re free to browse selections from across the country, making this a great choice for someone looking to sample a wider variety of whiskey.

If you’re a fan of Scotch, you’ll not want to pass up a whiskey tasting. This is one of the best options in town, offering up tours, tastings, and a full day training school. Located on the Royal Mile, you can try all sorts of different local whiskeys. Since this isn’t a distillery you’re free to browse selections from across the country, making this a great choice for someone looking to sample a wider variety of whiskey.

354 Castlehill, +44 131-220-0441, scotchwhiskyexperience.co.uk. Open daily from 10am-5pm (open later in the summer). A basic tour is 27 GBP, with discounts available. For their more comprehensive tours, prices will be higher and you’ll need to book in advance.

Do a pub crawl

If you’re planning on doing the rounds and searching for the city’s best drink, join a pub crawl. They are a great way to meet other travelers and you’ll be taken to bars, pubs, and nightclubs you might not have discovered otherwise. There are plenty of available pub crawls in the city, but the biggest (and best) is the Edinburgh Pub Crawl. They take you to 7 bars and your ticket includes 6 free drinks as well as some additional discounts.

If you’re planning on doing the rounds and searching for the city’s best drink, join a pub crawl. They are a great way to meet other travelers and you’ll be taken to bars, pubs, and nightclubs you might not have discovered otherwise. There are plenty of available pub crawls in the city, but the biggest (and best) is the Edinburgh Pub Crawl. They take you to 7 bars and your ticket includes 6 free drinks as well as some additional discounts.

69 Cowgate, +44 7547-022-182, edinburghpubcrawl.com. Pub crawls occur every night. Tickets are 7 GBP.

***If you’re planning to visit 

If you’re planning to visit Edinburgh , this list will help you get your trip started. It is one of my favorite places in Europe. While the city is a major tourist destination, it lacks a lot of the crowds that swamp other cities in Europe (except during major festivals, then this place is a zoo). And best of all? Edinburgh is not that expensive either! It’s a win-win!

Book Your Trip to Edinburgh: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight
Find a cheap flight to Edinburgh by using Skyscanner or Momondo. They are my two favorite search engines. Start with Momondo.

Book Your Accommodation
You can book your hostel in Edinburgh with Hostelworld. My suggested place is Castle Rock. If you want to stay elsewhere, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates. (Here’s the proof.)

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. I never ever go on a trip without it. I’ve been using World Nomads for ten years. You should too.

Need Some Gear?
Check out our resource page for the best companies to use!

Want More Information on Edinburgh?
Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Edinburgh for even more planning tips!

Photo Credit: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15

The Top Things to See and Do in Brussels in 2019

Updated: 1/5/2019 | January 5th, 2019

Updated: 1/5/2019 | January 5th, 2019

Welcome to the capital of Belgium and the European Union. At times it can feel a little stuffy, but it is also a picturesque and historic city with lots to offer to intrepid traveler. The city has plenty to keep you busy (especially if you’re a fan of beer!) and makes for a great stop over between nearby Amsterdam and Paris.

There have been people in the Brussels area since the Stone Age. Its location enabled it to benefit from trade, growing rapidly under Roman and then Frankish rule. The city was almost destroyed by the French during the Nine Years Wat in 1695 when over 4,000 buildings were destroyed. The region was then controlled by the Netherlands until 1830 when the Belgians declared independence.

There is a lot of things to see and do in Brussels. I think the city is worth a good two or three-day visit in order to soak in all the history, food, and beer!

Things to Do and See in Brussels

Here is a video of my favorite attractions in the city:

Don’t want to watch the video? Fine! Here’s a list of everything you should see:

• The Royal Palace – This palace was originally constructed in the 18th century. It’s where the King and Queen host receptions and handle state affairs, though they don’t actually live there full time. To help you get a sense of the size, the facade of the building is actually 50% longer than Buckingham Palace!
• Notre Dame – This 15th-century Gothic Catholic church, officially titled The Church of Our Blessed Lady of the Sablon, was where the city’s rich and well-off came to worship. The church is also home to two incredible Baroque chapels that were added in the 17th century.
• The Palace of Justice – The most important court in Belgium, the Palace of Justice was built in the 19th century and was actually the largest structure built in that century. This massive building is actually larger than St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome and cost approximately 45 million Belgian Francs to construct and furnish.
• Manneken Pis and Jeanneke Pis – These are two famous statues in the city. One is a replica from the 17th century while one is a more modern addition. What makes them interesting (and a bit odd) is that they are of children peeing. They are meant to reflect the Belgian sense of humor, which is why they are hugely popular in the city.
• Petit Sablon – This park has a collection of 48 statues, each representing a historical profession that was common in the city. Every pillar and statue has a unique design, as does each section of the wrought-iron fence. The central fountain is surrounded by a semicircle of 10 famous individuals from the 16th century.
• European Parliament – Book a tour and get a glimpse behind the scenes of the unofficial capital of Europe. These informative tours will give you a much more nuanced understanding of how the EU works and how it goes about making changes that affect all of its member states.
• Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert – This is the oldest shopping arcade in Europe, home to cafés, restaurants, and chocolate shops. It was designed as a way to create a shopping area that was well lit, to prevent illicit and nefarious goings-on (essentially it was made so the rich could feel more comfortable going there).
• Cantillion Brewery – This brewery was founded in 1900 and now offers tours to the public. On the tour, you’ll get to watch the beer-making process in action, learn about older brewing equipment and methods from the 20th century, and sample some of their beer!
• Drink at Delirium – This place has the longest beer menu in the world, home to over 2000 beers (they actually won the Guinness Record for it!). There are beers from over 60 countries here, including a wide selection of Belgian beers. Sure, it’s crowded and touristy, but it’s fun and a great place to try the local beers.

Budget Travel Tips for Visiting Brussels

To make the most your of your visit, here are a few tips to help you enjoy your time in Brussels:

• Brussels is a tiny city and incredibly walkable. Save money on public transportation and just walk everywhere!
• The area near the Palace of Justice as well as the Place Jordan is great for dining and drinking.
• Skip the Beer Museum as it’s not worth the money. Instead, head to the brewery in the video for a more engaging experience.
• If you’re flying into Brussels Charleroi Airport (the budget airport), be sure to book your ride to town in advance. FlixBus is the cheapest option, with tickets for as little as 5 EUR. BlaBlaCar is another budget-friendly option, as well. The regular shuttle from the airport will be around 14 EUR.
• Get the plat du jour. Many restaurants offer a dish of the day or a fixed menu at cheaper prices during lunch, which will save you a few bucks if you plan on eating out.
• Rent the Villo. These bikes are available around the city for free if you are traveling for less than half an hour. If you need it for more time, a day pass is 1.60 EUR and a 7-day pass is 8.20 EUR.
• If you’re going to use public transportation, get a metro pass. A single journey on the metro system is 2.50 EUR but the day pass is 7.50 EUR. If you’re staying longer in the city, buy a MOBIB basic card for 5 EUR. It will save you almost 1 EUR per trip!
• Skip renting a car. Unless there is a specific reason or you’re going to be driving out into the countryside, you don’t need a car. Traffic can be slugging, and the trains and buses are perfectly fine for getting around.

***

Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or planning to stick around for a few days (or weeks!), Brussels will be able to keep you entertained. It’s a picturesque city with all the beer, waffles, chocolate, and frites that you can handle, making it a worthwhile stop on any trip to Europe.

Book Your Trip to Brussels: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight
Find a cheap flight to Brussels by using Skyscanner or Momondo. They are my two favorite search engines. Start with Momondo.

Book Your Accommodation
My favorite hostel in Brussels is Sleep Well. You can book a different hostel in Brussels with Hostelworld. If you want to stay elsewhere, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates. (Here’s the proof.)

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. I never ever go on a trip without it. I’ve been using World Nomads for ten years. You should too.

Need Some Gear?
Check out our resource page for the best companies to use!

Want More Information on Brussels?
Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Brussels for even more planning tips!