Kimmie

This summer, I had the opportunity to visit Edinburgh for the very first time, alongside my university friends, as part of our graduation trip. After four years of studying and shared memories, this trip felt like the perfect way to celebrate the end of an important chapter in our lives. From Amsterdam, the flight was just an hour and a half, so we arrived with plenty of energy. 

Edinburgh is home to around 523,000 residents, yet it feels both intimate and grand. It’s a city of contrasts: dramatic, almost theatrical architecture built from dark stone, set against lush green hills and volcanic landscapes. The famous Castle Rock, crowned by Edinburgh Castle, sits proudly at the heart of the city like something out of a storybook. Walking through Edinburgh feels like stepping into a different era. The Old Town, with its narrow, winding, cobbled streets, has a distinctly medieval feel, while the New Town offers elegant, neoclassical buildings and wider boulevards. This architectural duality gives the city a unique charm — a perfect balance between past and present. The atmosphere struck me as slightly moody, even a bit gloomy, but in the most enchanting way. It felt like the city had a soul, rich with history and character. 

Despite its historic roots, Edinburgh feels youthful and energetic, thanks in part to its many universities and international student population. It’s a true cultural hub, buzzing with festivals, museums, libraries, and art spaces. The locals we met were incredibly polite, kind, and welcoming. The Scottish accent added to the experience, though at times difficult to understand! We were especially fascinated by the city’s pub culture. Almost every pub we visited had live music, which made evenings out unforgettable. One surprise, though, was how strict they were with ID checks at bars — something we weren’t used to anymore.

One of the things that stood out most was how green Edinburgh is. The city is filled with parks, hills, and open-air spaces, making it incredibly walkable and refreshing. The Scottish air felt clean and crisp. Climbing Arthur’s Seat, an ancient volcano and one of Edinburgh’s most iconic landmarks, was a highlight of the trip. We chit-chatted for hours and had so many laughs. From the top, we were rewarded with panoramic views of the entire city — a breathtaking reminder of Edinburgh’s unique geography.

We stayed for four nights in an Airbnb within walking distance of the city centre, which made exploring easy. Our days were relaxed: late breakfasts, long walks, and plenty of time to soak in the sights. 

Some of the places that made our itinerary unforgettable included:

• The Vennel Viewpoint – for the perfect shot of the castle.
• Edinburgh Castle – a must-see historical landmark.
• The Scott Monument – towering and gothic, dedicated to Sir Walter Scott.
• Grassmarket – a lively square with pubs and history.
• Victoria Street – the famously colorful street that inspired Harry Potter.
• Holyrood Palace – the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland.
• Arthur’s Seat – for incredible views after a rewarding hike.
• Stramash – a vibrant spot for live music and nightlife.

In between sightseeing, we wandered around the city, stopping for coffee, food, and spontaneous shopping trips. These slower moments allowed us to reflect on how far we’d come and reminisce about the past four years together.

If you’re planning your own trip to Edinburgh, here are a few tips we learned along the way:

• Take a fun photo in a photo booth: Take a fun group photo at one of the vintage photo booths scattered around the city.
• Book in advance: Museums and popular attractions can get crowded, so reserve your tickets ahead of time.
• Nightlife timing: Locals tend to head out late — bars don’t really get busy until after midnight!

For me, this trip was more than just sightseeing. It was about celebrating friendships, our graduation, and the beginning of new periods in our lives. There was something truly magical about Edinburgh — the way history, nature, and modern life intertwine to create a city unlike any other. As we boarded our flight home, I couldn’t help but feel grateful. 

Edinburgh was great.