Edinburgh is a wonderful city with many interesting spots to explore!

It's a magical place in its own right, and it's also where author J.K. Rowling wrote part of "Harry Potter". She took inspiration from many locations in the city to create the magical world of Hogwarts. For example, it is said that the Hogwarts cemetery Greyfriars Kirkyard inspired names and some characteristics of Harry Potter characters. Furthermore, the streetVictoria Street is often associated with Diagon Alley, which is very exciting for fans of the series.

There are also places likeGeorge Heriot's School (in Lauriston Place, in Edinburgh's Old Town) which is said to have served as inspiration for the architecture of Hogwarts. And of course, the author herself wrote parts of the books in cafes around the city.

If you're a Harry Potter fan, a visit to Edinburgh can be an incredible experience, exploring these places that inspired one of the most beloved universes in literature and cinema.

 

Main tourist attractions in the city:

• Edinburgh Castle: Dominating the landscape, this iconic castle offers stunning views of the city and houses Scottish history, with exhibits and crown jewels.

• Royal Mile: A historic street connecting Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. It is full of shops, restaurants, pubs and historic buildings.

• Palace of Holyroodhouse: The official residence of the kings and queens in Scotland, it was initially founded as a monastery in 1128. During certain periods, when no members of the royal family are in the palace, it is open to the public. You can explore the luxurious royal apartments and the beautiful surrounding gardens.

• St. Giles Cathedral: An impressive 12th century church with stunning architecture and incredible stained glass windows.

• Arthur's Seat: A hill of volcanic origin, symbol of the city, which offers a challenging but rewarding walk, with a spectacular panoramic view of the city of Edinburgh.

• Museums: Edinburgh has fantastic museums, such as theNational Museum of Scotland, which displays a wide range of historical and cultural artifacts.

• Scottish National Gallery: A great place for art lovers, with an impressive collection of works by artists such as Van Gogh, Rembrandt and Monet.

• Mary King's Close:Explore preserved underground streets that offer a unique insight into life in 17th-century Edinburgh.

• Dean Village: a village situated on the banks of the River Water of Leith, founded by the friars of Holyrood Abbey.

• Fringe Festival: If you visit during August, don't miss the world's largest arts festival, with an incredible array of performances from theater, comedy, music and more.

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Local cuisine:

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Explore thepubsplaces to try typical Scottish dishes and, of course, try some of the famous Scottish whiskey, is a mandatory part of the itinerary. 

Edinburgh has a rich and varied cuisine that reflects the country's culinary heritage. Here are some typical foods you can taste in Edinburgh:

Traditional Scottish cuisine is based on ingredients such as tubers and roots, barley, oats, sheep, seafood and fish.

• ScottishBreakfast - Typical Scottish breakfast, unmissable and delicious, based on lots of protein and fat. Eggs, bacon, grilled tomatoes, sausages, beans (with a more sweet and sour seasoning), toast and black pudding (sausage made with pig's blood, oats, fat and spices).

• Haggis: This essentially Scottish dish is a mixture of lamb heart, liver and lungs with onion, oats and seasoning. It is usually served with neeps (turnips) and tatties (potatoes).

• Cullen Skink: A smoked fish soup that includes smoked fish, potatoes, onions and milk. It's a comforting delight.

• Cranachan: a traditional dessert made with rolled oats, whipped cream, honey, whiskey and red fruits such as raspberries.

• Porridge:A type of porridge, this Scottish breakfast staple is made with cooked oats and can be served with sugar, honey or fruit.

• Shortbread: Traditional Scottish biscuits made with butter, crunchy and delicious.

• Smoked salmon: Scotland is famous for its salmon, and smoking is a traditional technique for preserving and flavoring fish.

• Scotch broth: a thick soup made with lamb, onion, carrots, barley and peas.

• Dundee Cake: Scottish cake made with dried fruits such as sultanas, orange and lemon peel, usually decorated with almonds.

• Whiskey: Although not a dish, Scotch whiskey is an integral part of the culture. Edinburgh has several bars and distilleries where you can try a wide range of whiskeys.

These dishes are just a glimpse of Scotland's rich gastronomic offerings.

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