One of the best reasons to visit Edinburgh – besides the beauty, history, pubs and whiskey – is the fact that no car is needed! The city is walkable and the public transportation is great. If you happen to be there during one of their many festivals, or the Royal Military Tattoo – even better.
The stay:
The Tigerlily Hotel – is an eclectic 33-room boutique hotel located on George Street in New Town. The hotel is perfectly located for shopping as well as bar and pub hopping. A quick walk up hill and you are in the center of Old Town and standing in front of Edinburgh Castle. Our room came with breakfast and the food was delicious. The hotel bar is a see and be seen party place. I highly recommend this hotel.
Restaurants
Cafe St. Honore – is a lovely French cafe which serves Scottish local and seasonal produce. Reasonably priced, with a warm cafe atmosphere, this restaurant is well worth a visit. There is a 2 course menu for L18.00 and a 3 course menu for L23.50.
Ondine Restaurant – is a seafood restaurant and oyster bar in the heart of historic Old Town. Come for the oysters and stay for the delicious roasted shellfish platter or the grilled langoustines. The seafood is simple, fresh and delectable!
Activities
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo – If you are lucky enough to be in Edinburgh in August when the Military Tattoo performs at Edinburgh Castle then you are in for a real treat.
Tip: Make sure you book your tickets well in advance since they usually sell out.
The Scotch Whisky Experience is a must do activity. I send everyone there – and it never disappoints. We took the Silver tour, but there are several to choose from. The tour includes a whisky barrel ride through the production of Scotch whisky, a view of the World’s largest collection of Scotch whisky, a souvenir whisky glass and a tasting. How fun is that?
Day trips
Sterling Castle – is an easy 52 minute train ride from Edinburgh Waverley Station to the town of Sterling. There are also many day tours to this important site. Sterling Castle is one of the largest castles in Scotland and one of the most historically important . Mary Queen of Scotts was crowned at this castle in 1542.
Tip: Anstruther Fish Bar, in the lovely seaside village of Anstruther, has won many awards for their fish and chips including Seafish Fish and Chip Shop of the Year, Scotland’s Takeaway of the Year Award and Seafish Best in Scotland. If you are looking for some damn good fish and chips (or chicken and chips) stop here.
TisforTravel 
Leave a Reply