Rugged Edinburgh is considered by many to be one of the most charming European cities. As well as being very striking in terms of its architecture and natural surrounds, it also holds a formidable reputation as a city of culture, and there are a multitude of Edinburgh attractions to explore. Edinburgh earned the nickname of 'Athens of the North' for being one of the major world centres of Enlightenment philosophy.

Perhaps the best way to uncover the key sights of this extraordinary capital is on one of the omnipresent day tours available - choose between bus tours and guided walking tours - there are different advantages to each option. One thing you can be sure of is that you could never run out of things to do in Edinburgh.

The imperious, awe-inspiring Edinburgh Castle is the single most important destination to visit on any Edinburgh tour. It is the most popular attraction for visitors to Edinburgh and holds a strong and varied history. You may be unaware of the legends surrounding the castle. It is said to contain a ghost of a piper playing as well as a headless drummer on the battlements. Try to catch the traditional One O'Clock Gun time signal. Even if you do not go to the very top of the castle, you are still afforded stunning panoramic views of the city below.

The magnificent Holyrood Park is only a few minutes away from Edinburgh's Old Town, and thus easily accessible. Covering a five-mile radius, it is an exceptional place to explore and the central Arthur's Seat proves a popular walk, in fact being relatively easy to climb. Wander the ruins of the once majestic Holyrood Abbey and St Anthony's Chapel. Uncover Holyrood Palace, still used today since its reconstruction in the seventeenth century.

In late summer, the world renowned Edinburgh International Festival runs from mid August to early September. The Edinburgh International Festival originated in the wake of the Second World War, with the expressed goal to 'provide a platform for the flowering of the human spirit' and continues to bring great performers from around the world together to showcase their talents. For something different and uncoventional, the eclectic and wide-ranging Edinburgh Fringe Festival takes place at around the same time as the International Festival.

Conclusion: There is a great range of things to do in Edinburgh and it is best to undertake an Edinburgh sightseeing tour, to really make the most of what this city has to offer. Edinburgh tours to key Edinburgh attractions could be taken in the form of bus tours or guided walking tours - there is something for everyone. You will not be disappointed by Edinburgh - in fact, you will be astounded and enchanted by the range of cultural attractions it has.

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