Bordeaux-Merignac Airport

The citadel of King Edwin in ancient Gaelic, the city of Edinburgh developed around the castle erected on Castle Rock. It became the capital of Scotland during the 15th century and was subsequently transferred to English authority under the alliance treaty of 1707, losing its parliament in the process, which it later regained in 1999. Nowadays, the city is a major financial, university and tourist centre, the second most visited city in Great Britain after London, and boasts a port of call for cruises in Northern Europe, at Leith. Its remarkably preserved districts of the old town, the new town and the financial quarter provide a unique atmosphere that visitors will not fail to notice.

The French are always welcome in Scotland and nowhere more so than in Edinburgh. The two nations are indeed connected by the Auld Alliance - a genuine bond established through several treaties against the common English enemy and the presence of a Scottish guard for the kings of France until the 18th century. Furthermore, the Scottish shared dual nationality with France until 1903! The castle with its legendary crown jewels and the palace of Holyroodhouse, the Queen's official residence, are just two of the city's must-see sites. On the other side of the city, don't miss the gardens of Princes Street adjacent to the Georgian architectural buildings and squares of the new town, which dates back to the 18th century. Visitors should also pay a visit to the world-class museum, the National Gallery of Scotland and the Britannia yacht formerly owned by the Queen, now docked at Leith. Finally, a trip to Edinburgh would not be complete without sampling the city's three gastronomic traditions - beer, the national beverage, whisky, and the famous haggis, a meat and spice-based Scottish delicacy.

• Time difference:  -1h00
• Currency:  Livre Sterling
• Contacts and useful links:  

  Edimbourg Airport

Destination served by: