Winter Wonderland Destinations in Edinburgh, Edinburgh, City of, United Kingdom

Edinburgh, United Kingdom, Edinburgh, Destination & Trip Type Pages, Winter Wonderland Destinations

Winter Wonderland Destinations in Edinburgh, Edinburgh, City of, United Kingdom

1. Edinburgh Christmas Market

A traditional German-style market offering festive food, drink, and gifts. Solves the challenge of finding a unique holiday shopping experience.
  • Unique Gifts: Offers locally made crafts, jewellery, and Christmas decorations.
  • Festive Food: Serves mulled wine, hot chocolate, and other winter treats.
  • Live Music: Provides live music performances throughout the market.

2. Princes Street Gardens Ice Rink

A seasonal ice rink set against the backdrop of Edinburgh Castle. Solves the challenge of finding a fun winter activity.
  • Ice Skating Lessons: Offers beginner lessons for those new to ice skating.
  • Ice Rink Hire: Allows private hire of the rink for parties and events.
  • Skate Aid: Provides skate aids for children learning to ice skate.

3. The Royal Mile

A historic street filled with shops, restaurants, and pubs. Solves the challenge of finding a place to explore Edinburgh's history.
  • Historic Buildings: Home to many iconic landmarks like St Giles Cathedral and Edinburgh Castle.
  • Unique Shops: Offers a variety of independent shops selling traditional Scottish goods.
  • Tourist Attractions: Many tourist attractions are located along the Royal Mile, such as museums and exhibitions.

4. Scott Monument

A Victorian Gothic tower commemorating Scottish author Walter Scott. Solves the challenge of finding a picturesque landmark to visit.
  • Gothic Architecture: Features intricate carvings and gargoyles.
  • Panoramic Views: Offers stunning views of Edinburgh from its observation platform.
  • Guided Tours: Provides guided tours detailing the history and architecture of the monument.

5. Edinburgh Zoo

A large zoological park home to many rare and endangered species. Solves the challenge of finding a fun day out for families.
  • Penguin Parade: Allows visitors to watch penguins being fed daily.
  • Giant Panda Habitat: Houses the only giant pandas in the UK.
  • Snow Monkey Encounter: Provides an opportunity to learn about and interact with snow monkeys.

6. Arthur's Seat

An extinct volcano offering panoramic views of Edinburgh. Solves the challenge of finding a scenic hiking destination.
  • Hiking Trails: Offers various trails suitable for different fitness levels.
  • Historic Sites: Located within Holyrood Park, near the Palace of Holyroodhouse and St Anthony's Chapel.
  • Scenic Views: Provides breathtaking views of Edinburgh and the Firth of Forth.

7. National Museum of Scotland

A museum showcasing Scottish history, art, and science. Solves the challenge of finding an educational activity.
  • Diverse Exhibits: Covers topics ranging from natural history to fashion and design.
  • Interactive Displays: Includes hands-on exhibits for visitors of all ages.
  • Free Entry: Entry is free, making it a budget-friendly activity.

8. Scottish National Gallery

A national art museum featuring works by famous artists like Monet and Rembrandt. Solves the challenge of finding an artistic experience.
  • Impressionist Collection: Features a significant collection of Impressionist paintings.
  • Scottish Art Showcase: Highlights the work of Scottish artists throughout history.
  • Guided Tours: Provides guided tours for visitors, explaining the history and context of the art on display.

9. Camera Obscura

An optical illusion attraction offering a unique view of Edinburgh. Solves the challenge of finding an interesting tourist experience.
  • Virtual Reality Experience: Offers virtual reality experiences for visitors.
  • Skyscape Theatre: Allows visitors to see a live, rotating 360-degree view of Edinburgh.
  • Mirror Maze: Includes a mirror maze for visitors to explore.

10. Calton Hill

A hill with historic monuments and panoramic views of Edinburgh. Solves the challenge of finding a scenic viewpoint.
  • Historic Monuments: Includes the National Monument, Dugald Stewart Monument, and Observatory House.
  • Scenic Views: Provides stunning views of Edinburgh, the Firth of Forth, and Arthur's Seat.
  • Sunrise and Sunset Points: Ideal for watching sunrises or sunsets.

11. Palace of Holyroodhouse

The official residence of the British monarchy in Scotland. Solves the challenge of finding a royal attraction.
  • State Apartments: Includes state apartments furnished with treasures from the Royal Collection.
  • Abbey Ruins: Features the ruins of the 12th-century Holyrood Abbey.
  • Guided Tours: Provides guided tours for visitors, explaining the history and significance of the palace.

12. St Giles Cathedral

A beautiful Protestant church with significant historical importance. Solves the challenge of finding a religious or historical landmark.
  • Architectural Style: Features a blend of Gothic and Renaissance architecture.
  • Historical Figures: Associated with important historical figures like John Knox and David Hume.
  • Guided Tours: Provides guided tours for visitors, explaining the history and architecture of the cathedral.

13. Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

A historic botanical garden featuring over 14,000 plant species. Solves the challenge of finding a green escape in the city.
  • Palm House: Houses tropical plants and palm trees in a glasshouse.
  • Chinese Garden: Features a traditional Chinese garden, including a pagoda and water features.
  • Guided Tours: Provides guided tours for visitors, explaining the history and plant species found within the gardens.

14. The Real Mary King's Close

A hidden underground street in Edinburgh's Old Town. Solves the challenge of finding a unique historical experience.
  • Hidden History: Allows visitors to explore the underground streets that were sealed off in the 17th century.
  • Costumed Characters: Includes costumed characters portraying residents from the 17th century.
  • Storytelling: Tells stories of the lives and deaths of the people who lived on the Close.

15. Edinburgh Castle

A historic castle overlooking the city of Edinburgh. Solves the challenge of finding an iconic landmark to visit.
  • Historic Buildings: Includes the Crown Jewels of Scotland and the Stone of Destiny.
  • Military History: Tells the story of Edinburgh's military history over centuries.
  • Guided Tours: Provides guided tours for visitors, explaining the history and architecture of the castle.