Edinburgh is the quintessence of the Scottish spirit, its impeccable embodiment. Unlike many capitals that have succumbed to the influence of modernity, "Old Smoky Mountains" are whole in their authentic beauty. The historic quarters are as if carved from a single giant gray stone, from the tops of the hills. This proud and impregnable appearance is flesh from the mentality of the highlanders with their centuries-old dream of independence. But the city-cradle of rebellious thoughts is serene: bathed in green parks, inspiring dozens of generations of writers, welcoming visitors on tours and festivals.
Most of all the city will appeal to lovers of British history, culture and literature. Here you can walk in the footsteps of Sir Walter Scott and Robert Lewis Stevensen, remember the characters of Conan Doyle, feel what inspired Rowling. Little and adult readers of the books will be here as in their native element, but the guest with any other interests has little chance to be bored.
The Old Town is a living picture of the Middle Ages. Edinburgh Castle on the Rock and Holyrood Palace on the site of an ancient abbey are the two extremes of this historic preserve. The Royal Mile, the backbone of the Town, takes visitors past St. Giles Cathedral, the town's oldest structure, and the neo-Gothic spire of the Hub. New Town is mesmerizing with its Georgian and Victorian-style neighborhoods, so preserved and organic as if two or three centuries hadn't passed since the world was built. This part is separated from the more modern neighborhoods by the bustling touristy Princes Street.
As one gets to know old Edinburgh, the traveler becomes more aware of Scottish pride, identity, poetry, and romantic patriotism. But such a portrait would be one-sided. Let's add a few more touches to it. Visit a museum of Scotch whisky or sit in one of the cosy pubs on the narrow streets, watch Edinburgh youth at feasts and festivals, just ask a local for directions. Here it is, the missing detail – a contagious good-nature and quiet friendliness as memorable as the monuments of antiquity.