Edinburgh, Scotland, popped up on my radar as a top destination to visit in the UK when scouring the internet for the best European hotspots. Photos I had seen made this location look like the most charming city, with unbelievable natural landscapes available as only little day trips away. After being here in person, however, I have found that seeing it online did not even begin to do this city justice.

The first thing you will notice when exploring Edinburgh is that every street seems to dance with magic. With it’s castle like architecture lining every street, I have never felt more like I was walking through a fairy tale! Rising from cobblestone courtyards, cafe’s, bookshops, chic boutiques, and more create the coziest vibe that make for a home away from home feeling. I ended each day with so much peace and comfort, which was strange for me because usually the chaos of cities leave me feeling tired and worn out! Another nice aspect of this city and its culture was how laid back their parks were. Passing through fields of green lined with blossoming trees and flowers you will find Edinburgh’s inhabitants soaking in some Scottish sun and relaxing with a good book. It was so refreshing to see people enjoying their time in this way!

Not only does this city create such an enjoyable atmosphere, but it’s selection of cafes added to its relaxing vibe. Edinburgh had a lot of students, and I have found that cities with more University students trafficking it’s streets tend to give way to more laptop friendly, trendy cafes. Each cafe has its own unique storefront which adds to the beautiful aesthetic you will pick right up on from the street.

Something I also found interesting about Edinburgh was it’s vintage clothing scene! I found a ton of super cute vintage shops thanks to this website done by Culture Trip https://theculturetrip.com/europe/united-kingdom/scotland/articles/the-best-vintage-stores-in-edinburgh/ . Each shop has its own specialty, some focusing more on 90s style trends, others on vintage Scottish pieces (lots of knit, wool, and YES plaid kilts)! If you are into vintage shops you could spend a few hours wandering the city exploring all the cute apparel that will take you right back to your jean jacket and scrunchie days.

Aside from it’s trendy little shops and eclectic cafes, the nature available for you to escape to outside of Edinburgh will blow you away. I did a 12 hour day trip tour to the Scottish Highlands, Glencoe, and Lochness, and the scenery was unbelievable. With rolling hills dotted with sheep changing to towering mountains leading way to shimmering lakes, Scotland’s natural scenery is one definitely worth a visit.

I hope this post helped sparked some UK travel excitement in you, and that you can be led to the places that will fill you with the most awe and wonder. There’s so much for us to tap into when we step outside of our comfort zone, and doing so in the pursuit of wanderlust is a risk worth taking :)

-Lauren