36 Hours in Edinburgh

[elleng]

Tourists descend on Edinburgh every August for the Edinburgh International Festival, a citywide celebration of theater, music, opera and dance performances; the nearly 3,000 Festival Fringe shows; and the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo — military bands playing pipes and drums followed by fireworks. But the Scottish capital’s historic sites and winding walks offer a different charm at quieter times of the year, and its restaurants are the highlight of any visit. Haggis and fish and chips now share menu space with local, organic and sustainable fare, and there is a cafe, restaurant or bar on practically every block. That means you can happily eat and drink your way through the city if the weather is wet — which is not unlikely, so plan your outdoor activities around the daily forecast. Before your trip, check The List (list.co.uk) for restaurant reviews and a guide to exhibitions, shows and events.

http://travel.nytimes.com/2013/07/14/travel/36-hours-in-edinburgh.html

[cbayer]

1. I like these "36 hour" guides.

I used the one for Istanbul and it was great.

Thanks for sharing.

[greatauntoftriplets]

2. Edinburgh's one of my favorite cities!

36 hours isn't enough, but it's better than a shorter time. Favorite museum there is The People's Story. http://www.edinburghmuseums.org.uk/Venues/The-People-s-Story

[elleng]

3. My folks went to the festival a couple of times,

so they spent more time than I did. It is lovely.

[greatauntoftriplets]

4. I happened to be in Edinburgh for the festival first time I was there.

Froze my rear end off at the Tattoo, though it was worth it.

[ginnyinWI]

5. Don't miss the castle and the museum

Edinburgh Castle is well worth it! And also the National Museum of Scotland nearby: admission is free and it is very good! We stayed in a nearby suburban chain hotel called Premier Inn, which was nice. We left our rental car parked there and took a train into the city for the day. Don't try to drive in because you will never find a place to park!

[jeffrey_pdx]

6. Ian Rankin writes a good detective series set in Edinburgh

If you can't afford to travel, its a good picture of the seedier side of Edinburgh. I read them and want to get a pint and a whiskey.