The top 10 places to go sightseeing in and around Edinburgh

There is no shortage of things to see and do in Edinburgh

Dean Village

This village within a city often goes under the radar of tourists due to its discreet location - a visit to Dean Village, however, is often a highlight for those enjoying a stay in the capital.

Perched on the Water of Leith, the former milling village is a photogenic patchwork of architectural styles.

Arthur's Seat

A hike up Arthur's Seat is essential for residents and visitors of Auld Reekie.

At 251 metres, the dormant volcano is the perfect vantage point for the rest of the city, offering unique views of Edinburgh Castle, Calton Hill and Leith.

How women pioneered Edinburgh's brewing industry

Leith, the setting of Trainspotting, has recently become Edinburgh's up and coming neighbourhood, with much of the area punctuated with trendy bars and restaurants.

The Port of Leith has played a significant role in history as Edinburgh's main port and was the site of the 16th century Siege of Leith. Be sure to visit the unique Lamb's House while in the area, which was visited by Mary, Queen of Scots in 1561.

Mary King's Close

Located beneath the Royal Mile, Mary King's Close is a warren of hidden streets, frozen in time since the 17th century.

Hour long tours of the concealed thoroughfare run throughout the day and offer a unique insight of life in old Edinburgh.

Visit: High Street, 2 Warriston's Close, EH1 1PG - realmarykingsclose.comSt Giles' Cathedral

If this place of worship could speak, it would have a story or two to tell of the debauchery and public humiliation which has occurred on the Royal Mile over the years.

Today, the distinctive cathedral is an awe-inspiring sight for those who venture inside. The Thistle Chapel - located to the rear of the cathedral - has a particularly interesting appearance and history.

Visit: High Street, EH1 1RE - stgilescathedral.org.ukGreyfriars Kirkyard

Best known as the setting in a heart string tugging story about a man and his dog, this city kirkyard is also the "birthplace" of several Harry Potter characters and the home of one of the world's "most dangerous" poltergeists.

Despite the frightening tales relating to the cemetery, Greyfriars in reality is a peaceful escape from the bustling city with a unique perspective of Edinburgh Castle.

Visit: Candlemaker Row, EH1 2QQ - greyfriarskirk.comREAD MORE - The most interesting stops on the Royal MileRosslyn Chapel

Situated on the outskirts of Edinburgh, Rosslyn Chapel has played host to Templar Knights - and Tom Hanks - throughout its intriguing history.

A stroll down to Roslin Glen and Rosslyn Castle also make for a wonderful walk once you've toured the place of worship.

Visit: Chapel Loan, Roslin, EH25 9PU - rosslynchapel.comRoyal Botanic Gardens

Spread over seventy acres, these gardens house thousands of beautiful species of flowers and plants.

Entry to the majority of the gardens is free, but it's well worth parting with £6.50 to visit the opulent glasshouse that acts as a centrepiece for the gardens. This transparent structure is home to a number of exotic and tropical plants.

Visit: Arboretum Place, EH3 5NZ - rbge.org.ukPalace of Holyroodhouse

Sitting in the shadow of Arthur's Seat Holyroodhouse is Queen Elizabeth II's Scottish residence.

When her majesty isn't present, the stunning palace is open to tourists. Tours of the Holyroodhouse reveal its relation to Scottish historical figures, including Bonnie Prince Charlie and Mary, Queen of Scots.

Visit: Canongate, EH8 8DX - royalcollection.org.ukCalton Hill

Though pint-sized in comparison to its bigger brother Arthur's Seat, Calton Hill offers a picture-perfect perspective of the city.

While atop the city peak study the parthenonesque National Monument - known locally as Edinburgh's disgrace - and take time to visit the Nelson Monument, erected to commemorate Vice Admiral Horatio Nelson.