Edinburgh like you've never seen it: secrets, mysteries, and must-see places!

The complete guide to things to do and see in Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland and the second most visited city in the UK after London.

What to see in Edinburgh? Mysterious, fascinating, and rich in history, Edinburgh is the second most visited city in the UK after London. The capital of Scotland, nicknamed the "Athens of the North," captivates with its unique position on volcanic hills and the castle that dominates the entire city.

Its charm is amplified by the perfect blend of the Old Town, with its maze of medieval streets, and the New Town, an impeccable example of Georgian architecture, both recognized as UNESCO World Heritage sites. A perfect combination of past and present.

If you are planning a trip of two or three days, here is a guide to must-see attractions, with curiosities and tips to make the most of your visit.

The symbol of the city, the Edinburgh Castle, stands high on Castle Rock, a dormant volcanic rock. This ancient fortress, inhabited since the 9th century BC, tells centuries of Scottish history.

Don't miss St Margaret's Chapel, the oldest gem of the castle, and the Honours of Scotland, the precious Crown Jewels.

At the Esplanade, stop at the Witches' Well, a commemorative fountain dedicated to women accused of witchcraft. And remember: every day (except Sunday) at 1 PM, the cannon of the Mill's Mount Battery fires blanks to mark the hour.

From the main rampart, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the city, the Firth of Forth, and the surrounding hills.

At the end of the Royal Mile, the Palace of Holyroodhouse is the official residence of the royal family in Scotland. Once a monastery founded in 1128, the palace is famous for the dramatic episodes of the life of Mary Stuart, Queen of Scots.

Here you can visit the royal apartments, stroll through the picturesque Holyrood Gardens, and admire the Great Gallery, decorated with portraits of Scottish monarchs.

This imposing Gothic church from the 12th century is linked to the figure of John Knox, leader of the Scottish Protestant Reformation.

Don't miss the stained glass windows and the Thistle Chapel, decorated with fine woods and symbols of the Order of the Thistle. Its central tower, with its distinctive crown, is one of the city's most recognizable symbols.

Edinburgh's Old Town retains its medieval atmosphere, and its beating heart is the Royal Mile, the ancient street that connects the castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

Get lost among the closes, the narrow alleys that branch off from the main street, explore the shops of Scottish crafts, and discover the fascinating Mary King's Close, an underground labyrinth rich in macabre stories and ghost legends.

A must-visit museum for those who want to delve into Scottish history. Here you'll find over 10,000 artifacts, from medieval relics to archaeological finds from the Highlands, including the famous sheep Dolly, the first cloned mammal.

From the museum's panoramic terrace, enjoy spectacular views of the city.

If the Old Town fascinates with its medieval atmosphere, the New Town impresses with its Georgian elegance.

Take a stroll through Princes Street Gardens, a green oasis in the heart of the city, and admire the Walter Scott Monument, a tribute to the famous Scottish writer.

Art lovers cannot miss the five national galleries, from the Scottish National Gallery to the Dean Gallery, where modernity and tradition coexist in perfect harmony. Galleries that house works by artists such as Rembrandt, Van Gogh, and Turner.

Beneath the surface of the city lies a dark and mysterious world. Guided tours will take you into the labyrinths of Mary King's Close, a journey through stories of ghosts and everyday life in 17th century Edinburgh. Only for the bravest!

If you want a break from the city, explore Holyrood Park. A short hike will take you to the top of Arthur's Seat, a dormant volcano from which to enjoy spectacular views of Edinburgh and the surrounding area.

Just a few miles from the city, Rosslyn Chapel is a Gothic masterpiece rich in symbolic details, also known for appearing in the film "The Da Vinci Code."

Also explore South Queensferry, a charming village where you can admire the Forth Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The surroundings of Edinburgh offer breathtaking scenery and fascinating places to explore in a day. One of the must-visit destinations is Stirling Castle, a symbol of Scottish history and linked to the figure of William Wallace.

If you love nature, a visit to Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park will give you charming views, among lakes, hills, and forests.

For sea and history enthusiasts, St. Andrews is a coastal gem famous for being the birthplace of golf and for its ruined cathedral. Don't miss the chance to explore Rosslyn Castle, made famous by the novel The Da Vinci Code, where history and mystery intertwine.

Each destination is easily reachable from Edinburgh, making these trips perfect for those wanting to discover Scotland beyond the capital.

Beyond the most famous attractions, Edinburgh offers unusual experiences worth living:

Edinburgh is famous for its festivals, including the Edinburgh International Festival and the Fringe Festival, which enliven the city every summer with theatrical performances, music, and art.

During the Christmas season, Edinburgh's Christmas brings a magical atmosphere with markets, lights, and skating rinks.

If you are a fan of J.K. Rowling's saga, don't miss these places:

Edinburgh enjoys a humid, windy, and rainy climate. Winters are cold and summers are cool.

Rain is very frequent in the city almost all year round. During the winter season, average temperatures do not drop below freezing, although there are occasional intense polar cold spells. Summers are cool, with average temperatures reaching a maximum of 20°C.

The shoulder seasons are cool or nearly cold, with temperatures not exceeding 50 degrees Fahrenheit.