Edinburgh Pictures

Calton Hill offers spectacular views of the city below. Shaiith Getty Images

The 12th-century Edinburgh Castle stares down at the city from the western end of the Royal Mile. ullstein bild Getty Images

Located at the end of the Royal Mile, this palace is the official Scottish residence of the British monarchy. Ryan Finn Flickr

The National Monument in Calton Hill honors those who died during the Napoleonic Wars. Visitors strongly suggest visiting at sunrise or sunset. Judith Robertson Getty Images

The Edinburgh Festival Fringe – which is held every August – is widely acknowledged to be the largest arts festival in the world. John Lawson, Belhaven Getty Images

Hogmanay is Edinburgh's famous New Year's Eve celebration. jmimages Getty Images

This graveyard located right across the street from the National Museum of Scotland houses many famous Scots. If you're a "Harry Potter" fan, make sure to look closely at the names on the tombstones. Southern Lightscapres-Australia Getty Images

If you want to get a great shot of the Edinburgh Castle, there is no better place than the Ross Fountain.  Chris Hepburn Getty Images

A hike up to Arthur's Seat can be a strenous one, but travelers say the view is completely worth the sweat. Loop Images Getty Images

Once an old loch, Princess Street Gardens separates Old Town and New Town Edinburgh. If you'll be here during the colder months, a trip to the annual winter carnival is a must. Christoph Strässler Flickr

Right next to Greyfriars Kirkyard stands the monument to Greyfiars Bobby. Bobby is a beloved character in Edinburgh's history, guarding his owner's grave for 14 years, only leaving for food.  Jen Grantham Getty Images

Take a swig of some of the good stuff at the Scotch Whisky Experience. Jeff J Mitchell Getty Images

Kaleidoscopes, holograms and vortexes – oh my! These are just a few of the wacky exhibits that can be found in Edinburgh's oldest tourist attraction. Karoly Lorentey Flickr

With 20,000 historical artifacts, it's best to plan ahead what you want to see at this mammoth attraction. morebyless Flickr

Just a few miles from the city center, Portobello Beach is the top pick for people looking to escape to the shore.  subberculture Flickr

The Scott Monument is dedicated to Sir Walter Scott and is the largest monument in the world dedicated to a writer. You can find this attraction on the edge of New Town in Princes Street Gardens. Christoph Strässler Flickr