The flower of SCOTLAND

Edinburgh has so much to offer everyone, from the party goers to the culture vultures and everyone in between says Marty O'Neill.

- Marty O'Neill

If you're looking for a city break that's literally on your doorstep with the option of only a short boat trip or flight away, then Scotland's medieval capital city is for you!

Edinburgh has many envious titles that make its appeal all the more special. Every time I leave I note that it's been thoroughly explored to my satisfaction, yet the draw of the mysterious old town and its medieval, archaic alleyways always brings me back. It's also the greenest city in the UK, with more trees per head of population than any other. I bet you didn't know that! I like to stay central, though to be honest, it's a compact city and the majority of it can be easily explored on foot. It's also the best way to take in the sheer visual perfection of it all; from the dark and narrow medieval old town, to the sprawling classical Georgian new town. I honestly think some of the residents secretly compete with each other for that perfect entrance way. There's just far too many colour co-ordinated Dublin style doors with strategically placed antique bicycles! Actually, over 75 per cent of the buildings in the entire city are listed. That one simple fact tells you all you need to know about its past, and present.

THINGS TO SEE & DO