The magic city of Edinburgh
Magical Edinburgh: A short photographic journey
You should know by now that I love travelling and one of my biggest joys is visiting a new amazing destination. Few places have charmed me as much as Edinburgh, Scotland, even before I set foot there.
This city seamlessly blends rich history with vibrant culture, offering an array of captivating scenes waiting to be immortalized through the lens. From its iconic landmarks to hidden gems, Edinburgh is a treasure trove for photographers seeking both classic and unique shots, but not only photographers. I genuinely feel that this city is a dream destination for every visitor that is not just a tourist. Having said that, even tourists will have a blast here as well!
“I always feel that when I come to Edinburgh, in many ways I am coming home.”
A Nice Dream
The reason for our trip to Edinburgh was an invitation from a couple we are friends with, which we gladly accepted.
We stayed at their home, a beautiful, high-ceilinged, old, stone apartment complex, with the thick warmth of cold cities and, of course, the beautiful decor that our friends had taken care of.
We took many endless walks in the cold city, which were thoroughly enjoyable. Edinburgh is amazing and the people are friendly, smiling, and... rosy-cheeked. The architecture is a huge plus, and even more impressive, though difficult to describe, is the urban planning of Edinburgh. Where you are walking on a small uphill slope, you suddenly find yourself on a bridge, only to realize that three levels below you is the street you were walking on five minutes ago!
Part of Edinburgh's charm lies in its diverse architectural wonders. Whether you are drawn to the medieval charm of the Old Town or the elegant Georgian architecture of the New Town, the city offers endless opportunities for stunning photographs.
Landmarks and Views
Edinburgh Castle: Perched atop Castle Rock, this historic fortress offers panoramic views of the city. For a unique perspective, try photographing the castle in fog. It's easier than you think.
Calton Hill: Calton Hill, home to the National Monument and the Dugald Stewart Monument, offers panoramic views of Edinburgh. Any time is ideal for climbing up here. It is always crowded, but this is not a problem as the area is huge. The National Monument is the unfinished replica of the Parthenon (also nicknamed "the shame of Edinburgh"). Although construction began in 1822, it was never completed. The plan was to make it a replica of the Parthenon, and today it remains an unfinished but authentic part of the Edinburgh skyline.
Arthur's Seat: This ancient volcano in Holyrood Park offers a challenging hike that is rewarded with stunning views of the city. It may look familiar, as it has been used in several films and TV series.
The Royal Mile: The Royal Mile crosses the heart of Edinburgh's Old Town, connecting the magnificent Edinburgh Castle with the start of the climb up Arthur's Seat.
Oxford Bar: Inspector Rebus's favorite hangout. Have a beer here and feel like you're another one of Ian Rankin's heroes.
Dean Village: Edinburgh's Hidden Gem
While Edinburgh's city center boasts numerous photo opportunities, the hidden gem called “Dean Village” is something you are not prepare for.
Dean Village is just that: a proper village in walking distance from the city center!
This is very hard to describe and photos might help, but the feeling of walking by the river, in a picturesque village, 10 minutes from the center of Edinburgh. will amaze me every time I think of it. Unbelievable.
Practical Tips for Edinburgh
To get the most out of your photography trip to Edinburgh, keep the following tips in mind:
Lighting and timing: The soft light in the early morning and late evening brings out the beauty of the city. These times also help you avoid the crowds, although people also offer various opportunities for special photos.
Prepare for the weather: The weather in Edinburgh can be unpredictable. Always carry a waterproof bag for your camera and dress in layers to stay comfortable while shooting.
Equipment recommendations: A versatile zoom lens (e.g., 24-70 mm) is ideal for capturing both wide landscapes and detailed architectural photos. I would also recommend a telephoto lens, ideally a 70-200 mm.
Walk around the city: This is the best advice for almost any city in the world, but here it is really essential to walk around the city if you want to feel the atmosphere of "Edin-bruh."
Don't expect much from the food: To be honest, the food we ate was nothing remarkable, but that didn't detract from the enjoyment of the trip. I mean, if Scotland, with all its beauty, also had delicious cuisine, it would be a divine injustice.
Conclusion
Edinburgh's enchanting blend of history, culture, and natural beauty makes it a photographer's paradise. From the iconic Edinburgh Castle to the hidden treasures of Dean Village, the city offers a wealth of subjects to explore and photograph.
By carefully planning your visit and embracing the city's unique charm, you will create memories filled with the magical essence of Edinburgh.
One Friday evening, walking back to our friends' house, we saw two more striking images:
queues of young people waiting their turn to enter the club, wearing miniskirts, shorts, and short sleeves (with temperatures close to 0 degrees Celsius) and
an ambulance waiting on the corner.
We learned from our friends that the ambulance was on duty every Saturday night and that the club was The Cav (no longer in existence), where Trainspotting 2 was filmed.
Incredible Scots.
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