Home to just under 500,000 people, Edinburgh is Scotland’s capital city. However, don’t let its small size deceive you, Edinburgh’s population swells to more than double this when people come from all over the world for the summer festivals. During the month of August everything from small side-street venues to large concert halls brim with artists and festival goers. This is because Edinburgh is home to the world’s largest arts festival – the Festival Fringe! New Year is also an amazing time of year to visit Edinburgh when the Hogmanay celebrations take place and we play host to some of the world’s biggest parties!
Scotland’s capital city also boasts an impressive range of dining options with more restaurants per head than any other city in the UK. This includes five Michelin-starred restaurants - second only to London.
If you love getting up close and personal with some of the world's most impressive wildlife, then Edinburgh Zoo is definitely the place to be. The 82-acre complex just outside the city centre is home to Britain's only giant pandas, Tian Tian and Yang Guang.
You’ll also have lots of opportunities to go shopping, with many designer brands set up in the city centre such as the UK’s own luxury department store Harvey Nichols. There's a great international feel to Edinburgh, with designer stores from all over the world, including Louis Vuitton, Armani, Calvin Klein, Burberry and Hugo Boss. No wonder people from all over the world bring a little extra spending money when visiting the city.
In 2017, Edinburgh was ranked 2nd best in the world for quality of life. It is certainly one of the most historic cities in the United Kingdom, with buildings such as Edinburgh Castle and the Scott Monument towering over the skyline.