Combining a mixture of the traditional and the cosmopolitan, Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland, contains such a variety of attractions that there has to be something to do for every person who visits this charming and appealing city. And millions do every year, because the city is one of the biggest tourist attractions not just in the United Kingdom, but in all of Western Europe.

Situated on the River Forth in the Lothian region in the East of Scotland, Edinburgh has a history dating back thousands of years, with the tourist attractions to prove it.
Regarded as one of the cleanest and one of the most beautiful cities in the country, the character and history of Edinburgh is witnessed as soon as you set foot in its city center. The "old town" is characterized by an interwoven collection of architectural styles, running back through the ages. To give an indication of the depth of interest in Edinburgh as a historical landmark, within the old city there are more the 4,000 buildings that have been listed as of historical interest.

The focal point of the old town of Edinburgh is the Royal Mile containing such famous and historical buildings as St Giles Cathedral, the Scottish Law Courts, the Royal Museum of Scotland among others. Looking down over the "old town" is the world famous Edinburgh Castle looking down over all of the city center, and on all that is both ancient and modern in Edinburgh.

Situated in the "old town" is another important historical landmark, Arthur's Seat in the Palace of Holyrood, an ancient seat of Scottish kings.

You should never forget that Edinburgh is a city of contrast. It is a city that has been long known for its culture and joy of life.

Every year, in the month of August, Edinburgh springs into a top gear of entertainment and festivities when she hosts the annual Edinburgh Festival. During that time visitors descend on the "old city" from all over the World, and estimates are that it permanent population of around 400,000 people doubles during these four weeks. Many of them take advantage of car hire Edinburgh to travel in and around the city during their stay.

There is so much going on in Edinburgh that it difficult to keep pace with during the Festival month. The most famous of the events during the festival, is the Military Tattoo. Anyone who has ever visited this spectacular event, held in the very grounds of Edinburgh castle, will have experienced the shivers of excitement as the massed bagpipe bands march in close formation to the shrill of their bagpipes.

Running at the same time is the Edinburgh Fringe Theatre where performers from every country in the Globe descend on the city to display their talents in the broadest range imaginable of artistic modes. The "fringe" is still regarded as the largest performing festival of arts, and is run in conjunction with the Edinburgh International Film Festival.
Renting a car can be an economical way to travel around the Edinburgh and its surrounding areas, with some firms offering discounts for rentals of three days and over. Car Hire in Edinburgh usually comes as a 'fully inclusive' package which includes unlimited mileage, collision damage waiver, passenger indemnity insurance and cover for third party, fire and theft - but not usually insurance excess. To rent a car anywhere in the United Kingdom, you must show a full driver's licence and a credit card in the driver's name. Cars are usually rented to customers between the ages of 21 to 70 years. Many people are reluctant to hire cars and drive around city centers. However, Edinburgh's center can be congested and parking a problem.