The capital of Scotland, Edinburgh, is one of the world's greatest cities. The extraordinary architectural heritage and historical magnificence of Edinburgh soon charm the visitor. Edinburgh is a center of culture and one of Europe's most handsome cities. The beauty of its setting and its predominantly stone buildings, allied with its intellectual traditions have earned it the title of 'Athens of the North'.

The city lies on rising ground, from the sea on the north side to hills on the south. The Old Town was developed from the 11th century, originally within defensive walls, around the rock on whose peak is situated the famed Edinburgh Castle. From the late 18th century, the City expanded to the north through a planned series of fine neo-classical streets and squares, which make up the New Town. Further expansion followed in the 19th & 20th centuries, and Edinburgh retains a rich architectural heritage within what is still a compact city of some 500,000 people.

It is also a city of fine gardens, and open spaces including Holyrood Park - with the twin peaks of Arthur's Seat and Salisbury Crags - one of the largest city centre natural parks in Europe, and Princes Street Gardens, between the Old and New Towns.