Arcadia New Zealand

Edinburgh has always been a city I’ve wanted to visit, and now that I’m studying abroad in London, it felt like the perfect opportunity to take a day trip and immerse myself in the Scottish capital’s charm. From picturesque streets and hidden bookshops to free museums and stunning views, my day in Edinburgh was a whirlwind of discovery and wonder.

As soon as I arrived, I couldn’t help but wander the cobbled streets of the Old Town. Edinburgh’s streets are like living history, and I found myself getting lost in the maze of narrow lanes and alleys. The city’s architecture is breathtaking—medieval buildings, Gothic spires, and quirky little shops tucked away in every corner. I took countless pictures, each capturing a different side of Edinburgh’s unique charm. Every street corner felt like a photo opportunity, whether it was the vibrant colors of the buildings, the winding staircases, or the distant views of the Edinburgh Castle looming over the city.

One of the best parts of the day was exploring the many free museums that Edinburgh has to offer. I started my museum journey at the National Museum of Scotland, a treasure trove of art, history, and culture. The museum’s exhibits ranged from ancient artifacts to contemporary Scottish art, and I found myself lost in the stories that each piece told. What I love about Edinburgh is how accessible these cultural experiences are—no admission fee and yet so much to discover.

After a few hours of museum hopping, I decided to visit one of the city’s hidden gems: its old bookshops. Edinburgh is known for its literary history, and walking through the quaint, narrow bookshops that line its streets was like stepping back in time. Each store had its own character, with shelves stacked high with secondhand books, many of which were decades old. The smell of paper and the quiet atmosphere made me feel like I was in a different world. I spent a good hour browsing through the books, picking up a couple of classics and even a few obscure titles that caught my eye.

As the day went on, I found myself in a perfect spot to enjoy one of the city's most famous events: the Edinburgh Fireworks Festival. Taking place near the end of the day, the festival was a breathtaking spectacle. I watched as the night sky lit up with colorful fireworks, the explosions echoing off the ancient buildings of the Old Town and the mighty Edinburgh Castle. The energy of the crowd was infectious, and I couldn't help but feel lucky to witness such a magnificent celebration in this historic city.

As the fireworks faded and the crowd dispersed, I made my way back through the streets, enjoying the peaceful yet lively atmosphere of Edinburgh at night. I stopped at a cozy café to reflect on the day, sipping a warm drink while watching the last rays of the sunset disappear behind the castle. Edinburgh, with its mix of history, culture, and natural beauty, had truly won me over. It’s a city that invites exploration, whether you’re capturing its beauty through a lens, wandering through its museums, or simply getting lost in one of its many old bookshops.

For me, this day trip was a perfect reminder of how much there is to discover when you wander with no set plan. Edinburgh is a city full of surprises, and I can’t wait to return and continue my adventure through its charming streets.