Edinburgh is a city of castles, legends and dramatic scenery. Built around ancient volcanoes and overlooking green hills, Scotland's capital is sometimes called the Athens of the North. Its story includes a cast of unforgettable characters: freedom fighter William Wallace, the tragic Mary, Queen of Scots, Enlightenment thinkers David Hume and Adam Smith, actor Sean Connery and writers Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and J.K. Rowling.

There's much more here than bagpipes and kilts. Edinburgh is the second most visited city in the U.K. after London, and it's packed with things to do. Walk the Royal Mile from Edinburgh Castle down to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the King's official residence in Scotland. Hike to the top of Arthur's Seat for sweeping views, explore the elegant Georgian streets of the New Town and visit the Scottish National Gallery for free. Wander the neighborhood pubs and shops to live like a local, and if you visit in August, catch the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the largest arts festival in the world.

Edinburgh is easy to reach by train from London and makes a perfect base for the Highlands. I'll plan your stay and connect it to Loch Ness, the Isle of Skye or a whisky tour.