Standing just over 200ft (61m) high, and known as the Gothic Rocket, the Scott Monument is often…read moremistaken for a church - understandably, perhaps - and dominates the view of the eastern section of New Town along Princes Street. Following Scott's death in 1832 the people of Edinburgh decided that a monument should be built in memory of one of Scotland's best-loved literary figures. At the time he was probably the most widely read British author of the era. The Scott Monument is the largest monument to a writer in the world. some data says, its 2nd largest though. This is especially fitting, given that Edinburgh is a UNESCO City of Literature, having been home to many notable writers, such Scott, Burns, Stevenson, Conan Doyle and many more! There are 287 steps to the top of the Scott Monument, from where you can enjoy breathtaking views of Edinburgh and the surrounding countryside.

This gothic monument to the famous Scottish writer (Sir Walter Scott) is so dark and mysterious…read morelooking during the day. It's an even better view at night when it's all lit up. It kind of makes you wonder what it actually looked like before it soaked up "auld reekie's" pollution back in the 19th century. In a way, the black soot actually gives it more character. It's also a nice contrast with the white Carrara marble statue of the writer. Do you see his dog (named Maida) laying to the right of him? So cute! So, if you can actually see the outer architectural details then you're in for a treat. It stands at 200 feet tall and has about 64 statues that represent some of the most notable characters in his novels. To be honest, I was more impressed with the gargoyles. We didn't attempt to go inside to climb up to the top of it, but many pay to do that. I'm sure it's a nice view. The courtyard surrounding it was being decorated for Remembrance Day celebrations. I loved seeing all the crosses and red poppies around it. It's definitely a must see monument, and certainly one that you're going to eventually pass by at some point during your stay in Edinburgh.

'Remember the men then of Corstprhine who made the supreme sacrafice 1914 - 1919'. This is the…read morephrase that greeted me as I stumbled across the war memorial in Corstorphine. and placed in the idyllic setting of church grounds, opposite the community library, with locals coming and going, yet with a peaceful regard for the monument, you can't help but feel a little sombre and greatful. This is what I love about small towns; community spirit and this is a prime example of rememberance of not only ancestors, but family and friends of those who still reside in Corstorphine. Quite lovely.

There is something special about knowing that the world still cares about its history - yes, you…read morecan read all you like in books and watch it all in films, but it isnt until you find one of these small village war memorials - which are dotted around this area of scotland, and indeed the whole of the united kingdom - that you realise how much this still means to the communites who gave so much for thier country.

Circus Lane is probably one of the most picturesque parts of Edinburgh, thanks to Instagram. It's a…read morebeautiful place and a hidden gem to visit. We went here early on a weekday morning, and it was quite quiet. However, be respectful, as this is a normal street where locals live. If you're looking for a quick pick with a beautiful background, this is highly recommended!

We stayed in Stockbridge area during our visit, so it only took 3-4 minutes walk from my place to…read moreCircus Lane. I took advantage of that and went here a few times during our stay since it's such a picturesque cobbled street. It gets quite busy in the afternoon since everyone wants a photo here, but if you're patient you can get some good shots without people in the background.

All I am going to say is be ready to walk. You are not going to be disappointed. An amazing…read moreexperience. I think we walked 10 miles one day. Beautiful views and nothing disappointing about this at all.

Let this review slip through the cracks but brought it back to life after scrolling through my pics…read moreof Scotland on my phone. Traveling through Scotland it is mandatory to take a stroll in the Royal Mile to see all the historic landmarks and whiskey stores. #1 See the iconic retro red British phone booths with the cool stickers. #2 Take a few pics with the Scottish guy in his kilt playing the bag pipes. #3 walk to the top of the Edinburgh Castle for a 360 degree view of the area. #4 Find the hidden Devil's Advocate Bar and have a cold craft beer. Great experience at the Royal Mile and cant wait to visit here again.

It has taken me a couple attempts to get here as I've never been able to find it but today I did,…read morehidden up a side street in Morningside and it is fantastic as it's so out of the ordinary, so imaginative and a creative use of space. I love it, perfect photo opportunity!

Yeeha! This here is a right gold-star find in Edinburgh. I've scouted it out a few times with the…read moreidea of shooting a film there. it really does look quite authentic. A rootin' tootin' gem of a find in the heart of the big city, pardner.

We walked out of our hotel and right up the stairs and hill to one of the best scenic viewpoints of…read morethe city. Each way was a different vibe. It was a great time to think about the history of what was before you and all around. Many of the buildings are hundreds of years old so it creates an interesting atmosphere. I would highly recommend coming here. On one side is a cafe but we didn't go in. It was busy. Tons of trails and some dogs. We spotted a few off leash so keep that in mind I didn't see any trash on the grounds which was refreshing although there was a touch of graffiti.

Calton Hill offers arguably one of the best views across Edinburgh's city centre. From here, you…read morecan see most of the city, Arthurs Seat, and of course the castle. It's the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and you'll be treated to awesome views of the castle in the distance. Calton Hill was formed over 340 million years ago. It has a huge history from the prehistoric era to today. It was originally a hill fort in ancient times, then King James II of Scotland granted the lands to Edinburgh in 1456. Calton Hill sits just off Leith Street near Edinburgh's popular commercial area. Like many of the parks in the area, it's free to enter so you won't need to reach into your wallet for this one. If you're looking for some of the best views in Edinburgh then make sure you spend some time here. There's also an art gallery up on Calton Hill and an unfinished national monument so there's plenty to see! If you only have time to visit one viewpoint in the city, let this be it. It's a fantastic place to watch the sunset or see the breathtaking views.

This monument was originally initiated as a memorial to those Scottish soldiers that died during…read morethe Napoleonic Wars in 1816. It was meant to be based on the Parthenon in Athens and the first stone was laid in 1822 but the funding didn't pull through and it was left unfinished in 1829. Only half completed due to lack of funds, it has stood as it is, with its 12 Doric columns rising up from its base, for almost 200 years. Ever since then and even today, proposals have been discussed for finishing the monument but they don't take off. It's still an iconic landmark on top of Calton Hill Edinburgh and people mostly just climb on top for a few photos. (I did not try thiugh) Some more notable monuments you can find around here are the Dugald Stewart Monument which is dedicated to the famous philosopher and was built by William Henry Playfair.

It was built as a Scottish memorial to those who died in the Napoleonic Wars. It may look familiar…read moreto you. That's because it was meant to look like the Parthenon in Athens. Apparently, Edinburgh was known as the "The Athens of the North" in the late 18th century. I didn't know that. My thought was that it had something to do with all the intellectual Scots that lived there during this period of time. The ones that are still famous today. Then again, it may be more about Charles Cockerell's design and William Playfair's construction of this monument that gave it the name. They were both heavily influenced by Greek architecture. You'll see some of that in other structures on Calton Hill. Unfortunately, it was never completed and maybe that's a good thing. It would have been a closed off building blocking the views of the trees and the sky. The unfinished monument allows you to see through it like a window. It sits on top of a high pillar. People do somehow climb up there, but I don't think that it's really encouraged. Otherwise, there would be steps leading up to it from the ground level. There's an even better view awaiting you from the Nelson Monument. Just something to consider when visiting Calton Hill.

Very busy bar. Indoor & outdoor seating. Hostess will seat you inside to the left or first come,…read morefirst serve seating to the right and outside. The staff was friendly. Full bar to include local gin and beer offerings. Good menu. The pie was great as was the beer and gin we had. Traditional decor inside. It's definitely worth coming in for just a pint or staying for a meal.

Greyfriars Bobby is one of Edinburgh's most popular tourist attractions. Located just in front of…read morethe entrance to the Greyfriars Kirk can be found the bronze statue of Bobby. Hundreds of fans flock here every day to pay their respects, all eager to get a closer look at their doggy hero. History and why it is famous- and trust me guys, he is inthe same league as Hachi- Bobby, born in 1856, was a Terrier who spent over 14 years guarding the grave of his beloved owner. John - a dedicated nightwatchman for the Edinburgh City Police Force - carried out his duties with his trusty companion night after night. After John's untimely death in 1858, Bobby refused to leave his master's grave until the day he died himself. The rumours about this little dog began to spread far and wide, and Bobby soon had quite the fan base. In 1867, the Lord Provost of Edinburgh presented him with his very own collar. This gesture signified that Bobby was a licensed dog, meaning that he was protected against the new law that had recently been enforced, which stated that all unlicensed dogs would be destroyed. Bobby passed away in January 1872, and as a final token of his loyalty, was buried close to his master in the Kirkyard. A granite fountain with a statue can be found opposite Greyfriars Kirkyard - a permanent memorial to this faithful pup. Bobby's grave can be found immediately inside the gate of Greyfriars Kirkyard. He was buried close to his much-loved John, ensuring that the pair's astonishing bond would never be broken. It is not uncommon for doting visitors to leave sticks, dog toys, and flowers on his grave.

It's just one of many interesting closes along the Royal Mile. This one is named after the Lord…read moreAdvocate's House. The house of Sir James Stewart used to be at the lower end the stairs near Cockburn St. It's literally steps away from the Supreme Courts building in Parliament Square. Well, about 70 steps up. Today, it's more of a shortcut between Market Street and the Royal Mile. The best feature of Advocate's Close is actually the perfectly framed view of the Scott Monument through the archway. You'll also see how high you are on the hill when walking up or down this steep & worn set of stairs. Hopefully they will add handrails to it one day like others that we've seen throughout the city. I mean, they don't call them "Death Stairs" for nothing. Oh, and theres's a very popular gastropub called the Devil's Advocate near the bottom of the steps. We didn't get to visit it, but it came highly recommended. It's just another reason to visit it.

Edinburgh is riddled with closes and Advocate's Close is a fine example of these narrow lanes that…read moreconnect streets throughout and behind the Royal Mile. The tall buildings that line the path give many closes a canyon-like feel with many of them sloping steeply down from the Royal Mile. It's like walking into the underground! Advocate's Close is particularly popular with tourists and I can see why. At the top, it offers a beautiful peek-a-boo view of the Sir Walter Scott Monument in the distance and some of Edinburgh's central buildings. Walk all the way down and it connects you to Cockburn Street below. Definitely try walking through a close or two as they are great shortcuts to get from one street to another along the Royal Mile.