Edinburgh Castle: A Timeless Fortress
Discover the majestic Edinburgh Castle, a historical landmark steeped in rich Scottish heritage and offering breathtaking views of the capital.
Perched atop Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle is a magnificent historical landmark that offers breathtaking views and a rich tapestry of Scottish history. A must-visit for any tourist, it showcases the grandeur of Scotland's past with its stunning architecture and fascinating exhibitions. Explore the Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny, and the National War Museum of Scotland, all housed within this iconic castle. Visitors can immerse themselves in centuries of history while enjoying panoramic views of the vibrant city of Edinburgh. An experience like no other awaits at this majestic fortress.
A brief summary to Edinburgh Castle
- Castlehill, Edinburgh, EH1 2NG, GB
- +441312259846
- Visit website
- Monday 9:30 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-6 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-6 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-6 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-6 pm
- Sunday 9:30 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early to avoid long queues, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Take advantage of the guided tours for a richer understanding of the castle's history.
- Don't forget to visit the St. Margaret's Chapel, the oldest surviving building in Edinburgh.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as there are steep paths and cobbled streets to navigate.
- Plan to spend at least a few hours exploring all the exhibitions and enjoying the views.
Getting There
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Walking
If you're in the New Town area, a pleasant walk to Edinburgh Castle is a great option. Start at the top of George Street and head west until you reach Castle Street. Turn left onto Castle Street, which will lead you directly to the foot of the castle. You will see the castle perched atop the volcanic rock. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes from the center of New Town.
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Public Transport - Bus
You can take a bus to get closer to Edinburgh Castle. Head to the nearest bus stop on George Street. Look for bus numbers 3, 5, 7, 8, or 37, which stop at the Castle Terrace. The ride takes about 5-10 minutes, and the fare is approximately £1.70 for a single journey. Once you get off at Castle Terrace, it's just a short walk (about 5 minutes) up the hill to the castle entrance.
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Taxi or Rideshare
For a more convenient but slightly more expensive option, you can take a taxi or use a rideshare service like Uber. Simply hail a taxi on the street or book through an app. The ride from central New Town to Edinburgh Castle will take about 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic, and will cost around £5-£10.
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