Top Holiday Attractions in Edinburgh - what to do, where to go and what to see
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If you are heading to Edinburgh for a cottage holiday or self catering short break we have compiled some of the must see places and the best things to do. Whether you are looking for some family fun, visit relaxing and peaceful gardens or immerse yourself in the history and culture of Edinburgh then take a look at some great ideas below.
And, if you are still to book your self catering accommodation we have listed some great Edinburgh cottages and apartments close to the attractions and available direct from independent owners and leading holiday operators.
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Edinburgh Zoo, Edinburgh
Attractions in Edinburgh
This is Scotland's most popular wildlife attraction, with more than 1,000 animals, including meerkats, pygmy hippos, tigers, lions and blue poison arrow frogs. Set in beautiful parkland the zoo has the world's biggest penguin pool.
Edinburgh Butterfly & Insect World, Edinburgh
Attractions in Edinburgh
Walk through an indoor tropical rainforest inhabited by thousands of the world's most beautiful butterflies. Also visit the unique Scottish honey-bee zone.
The Cadies and Wichery Tours, Edinburgh
Attractions in Edinburgh
Witchery Tours take a lights-hearted look at tales of witchcraft, plague and torture. Explore the eerie alleyways and creepy courtyards of the Old Town with your ghostly guide, who will blend history with humour and fact with fable.
Edinburgh Dungeons, Edinburgh
Attractions in Edinburgh
Transport yourself back to the darkest moments in the Scotland's history within the deep depths of the Edinburgh Dungeon. Everything that you see is based on real historical events from the gruesome tale of Burke & Hare, to Edinburgh's Great Fire, torture and the plague. With a chilling boat ride into the lair of cannibal Sawney Bean the Edinburgh Dungeon provides a thrilling and fun experience that will leave your family screaming for more! Are you brave enough? Location: Edinburgh (Scotland)
Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh
Attractions in Edinburgh
Experience the splendour and majesty of the legendary Edinburgh Castle! Perched on an extinct volcano, the castle has played home to many great events throughout history, and now you too can explore its amazing grounds and beat the queues with our fast track tickets. Enjoy a true piece of Scottish history with a phenomenal day at the amazing Edinburgh Castle! Location: Edinburgh (Scotland)
Bedlam Paintball, Edinburgh
Attractions in Edinburgh
Get the ultimate adrenaline rush at Bedlam Paintball. Be prepared to utilise tactics, teamwork and quick thinking as you experience all the multiple game scenarios available.
National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh
Attractions in Edinburgh
This magnificent museum tells the story of Scotland; its land, people and culture; through the rich national collections. The stunning themed galleries cover landscape and wildlife, early people, the kingdom of the Scots, industry and empire, Scotland transformed and the 20th Century.
Scottish National Portrait Gallery, Edinburgh
Attractions in Edinburgh
The gallery provides a visual history of Scotland, told through portraits of those who shaped it; royals and rebels, poets and philosophers, heroes and villains. Mary, Queen of Scots; Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott and Sean Connery are all there.
Our Dynamic Earth, Edinburgh
Attractions in Edinburgh
See how the Earth works. Take a walk though Scotland's geological history and travel back in time to follow the creation of planet Earth. Be shaken by a volcano, feel the chill of the polar ice and get caught in a tropical rainstorm. Look to the future – you decide what could happen.
The Royal Yachet Britannia Edinburgh, Edinburgh
Attractions in Edinburgh
The Britannia experience starts in the visitor centre where you can discover her fascinating story. Then step aboard for a self-led audio tour of five decks, giving a unique insight into what life was like on board
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, Edinburgh
Attractions in Edinburgh
Founded in the 17th Century as a ‘physic garden', growing medicinal plants, the Royal Botanic Garden is now acknowledges to be one of the finest in the worlds where unusual and beautiful plants can be found. It's a place to rest and relax away from the city's hustle and bustle.
Looking for Accommodation close to Edinburgh
If you are looking to spend a short break or holiday in Edinburgh there is a lot of great quality self catering accommodation, ranging from apartments and cottages to lodges and chalets, to choose from. Of course, you will also find some lovely guest houses, bed and breakfast and hotels in Edinburgh. Find out more by using the links below:
- Self catering cottages and apartments in Edinburgh
- Lodges in Edinburgh
- Holiday parks in Edinburgh
- B&B and Guest House in Edinburgh
- Hotels in Edinburgh
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