Edinburgh may be small in size, but it feels grand in stature. The Old Town is a labyrinth of narrow medieval streets, jumbled tenements, palaces and castles, while the misleadingly-named New Town impresses with its neoclassical architecture and grand avenues. Wrapped in a blanket of craggy hilltops, it's home to Michelin-star restaurants and world-class theatres alongside thriving nightlife and hectic urban chaos, all set against a tranquil sea view. Climb Arthur's Seat and admire the majestic city and wild highlands in one 360-degrees turn.

Settled since at least the Bronze Age, Edinburgh had been home to Celts, Romans and Angles before the Scots took control of it in the tenth century. A magnificent castle was built to protect the city and, many centuries and many wars with the English later, it still watches over the Scottish capital.

Today, Edinburgh is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, welcoming over a million visitors each year, more than twice its resident population. Some come to sample the famous Fringe Festival; some come to celebrate Hogmanay or Burns Night; and some come simply to experience the every day pleasure of life in this marvellous city.