If you're thinking about taking a city break, why not go to Edinburgh and enjoy the delights this historic city has to offer?
Famed as much for its thriving contemporary cultural scene as well as its historic importance, there's plenty to take in in the bustling Scottish capital.
The arts and cultural events of the Edinburgh festival provide an excellent source of entertainment each August but, visiting prices can skyrocket at this time, so if you'd prefer to witness the city in its natural state, visit in spring when the chill in the air is softer and the daffodils are in bloom.
Edinburgh is much easier to navigate around than London, which is huge in comparison, but it's a good idea to get your bearings first by taking a ride in an open-top bus tour. Buses will take you through the medieval Old Town and 18th century Georgian New Town, back to where you started out.
The best views of the city are to be had at Edinburgh Castle, Scotland's number one attraction. Situated on a huge hill within the city, standing at the castle offers panoramic views of Edinburgh and its surrounding area, including Arthur's Seat, the long-extinct volcano standing over the city.
Why not visit the Dogs' Cemetery, said to be the most haunted location in Edinburgh; quite a tall order considering the city's many rumoured ghosts and ghouls? You should obviously check out Scotland's Crown Jewells, as well as the Stone of Destiny, during your city break.
Relax after exploring in some of the many pubs along Rose Street, or wander through the shops in Princes Street, which is awash with the latest fashions.
After dark, take one of the city's many ghost tours, if you're brave enough, before heading to one of the many restaurants Edinburgh has to offer.
If Indian cuisine is your thing, perhaps one of the most interesting restaurants to visit is 9 Cellars in York Place in the heart of the city. Located below-ground, this restaurant is set in nine cellars as the name suggests, giving the illusion of private dining, depending on which table you're given. The food is innovative and delicious, and wine is very reasonably priced. Be careful not to sip too much though; navigating your path back to your table from the toilets in 9 Cellars can prove a little tricky with all its twists and turns.
Or if Italian food is what you fancy, well worth a visit is La Partenope, a lively restaurant specializing in fish and shellfish. The prices are reasonable considering the quality, and the food authentic.
There is so much to see and enjoy in Edinburgh, sometimes just one city break isn't enough!
Thomas Pretty is a travel writer with many years of experience writing about travelling the world. Find out more about city break at http://www.greatgetaways.co.uk/
