All you need to know to make the most of your stay in this historic city

"Scotland's capital has plenty to offer visitors - whatever your passions. From the medieval Old Town’s cobbled streets to the elegant Georgian crescents and tempting boutiques... Stroll the city’s green gardens, meander up the Royal Mile to its hilltop castle or visit the museums of Canongate and take a peek at the Queen’s Scottish abode, Holyrood Palace."

Edinburgh’s top sights

"No visit is complete without a trip to Edinburgh Castle, home to Scotland’s crown jewels and the Stone of Destiny. Dating back to the 16th century, it’s best known for its Great Hall, St Margaret’s Chapel and the Scottish National War Memorial. Out of town, the must-see sight is the Royal Yacht Britannia, now retired in the waterfront suburb of Leith, just three miles from Edinburgh centre. In Leith for lunch? Try the cosy Royal Yacht’s café or Martin Wishart’s The Kitchin for Michelin-starred cuisine."

Festivals aplenty

Did you know that Edinburgh hosts 12 festivals throughout the year? Time your visit with the Science Festival in April or book ahead for its famous Hogmanay celebrations to see in the New Year. August is the busiest period with seven festivals including the Edinburgh Book Festival, the Edinburgh Art Festival and the most famous of them all: the Edinburgh Fringe Festival with over 22,000 performers.

Parks & gardens

"If you’re seeking a little fresh air, head to Arthur’s Seat, the 823-foot hill that overlooks the city in Holyrood Park, for expansive skyline views. Push on to the pretty village of Duddingston where The Sheep Heid Inn is said to be one of Scotland’s oldest pubs. There’s more green space at the pretty Princes Street Gardens and in the Meadows near Edinburgh University’s campus (ideal for picnics), where you’ll find tennis courts, playgrounds and even a putting green."

Whisky & spooks

The city is packed with guided tours and itineraries, whether you want to go DIY or follow a group. Different themes include historical routes, educational whisky tours, or even ghost trails, since Edinburgh claims to be one of the most haunted cities in the world…

Eating out

"Whether you’re set on tasting the local haggis or you prefer to stick to the familiar, Edinburgh is packed with options for a quick bite. Try the Swedish-run Hemma for a Scandi-Scottish smorgasbord or the Brew Lab for a great roast and hip ambiance with free wifi. Cake fiends should try Lovecrumbs or Falko’s Konditormeister in Bruntsfield for its fantastic cheesecakes. Of course, you’ll find breakfast ‘at home’ in our Edinburgh Ibis Hotels. At the ideally located Edinburgh Centre Royal Mile, you can make the most of the all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet in stylish surroundings."