Edinburgh

Edinburgh wears its history like a cloak, crowned by a fortress on an extinct volcano and a medieval spine of closes that tumble down to the elegant Georgian New Town.

Its unique pull lies in this dramatic geology: a compact capital where you can climb a wild hill like Arthur's Seat for sweeping views, then be back in a Michelin-starred restaurant by night, all while the city pulses with centuries of literary and scientific innovation.

Fly into:

• Edinburgh Airport EDI

Edinburgh is highly walkable, especially the Old and New Towns. Lothian Buses cover the wider city efficiently. For Portobello beach or the Forth Bridges, local buses and trains are readily available.

Take advantage of the long summer evenings to climb Arthur's Seat for sunset views, then seek out a traditional pub in the Old Town for live folk music and a dram of whisky. In August, the city is transformed by the Fringe Festival, a vibrant, chaotic, and exhilarating experience where every street is a stage.

Best in Summer

Summer: generally mild around 15-20C, but highly changeable with periods of sunshine and sudden showers. Evenings can be cool.

• waterproof jacket
• comfortable walking shoes for cobblestones
• warm layers for variable weather
• a small umbrella