Arcadia Scotland

While I have enjoyed getting to explore multiple countries in Europe during my time abroad, my favorite trips have been exploring the UK outside of London. During a visit to see one of my friends studying at University of St. Andrews in Scotland, I spent an afternoon in Edinburgh. It is easily one of my favorite cities I have ever been in, and I highly recommend going if you get the chance. Here are some of the spots I visited that I loved during my trip:

Eat at Scran Bistro:

For a wonderful brunch spot just off Market Street, try out Scran Bistro. It was an adorable restaurant tucked into an alleyway with a delicious menu for all palettes. Especially after getting off the plane, this was the perfect meal to revive me. Everything was delicious, but I highly recommend the Scran Fries. Smothered in chips, cheese sauce, sweet chili chicken, macaroni and crispy onions, this dish was one of the best I have ever tasted. I wish I could go back just to have it again.

Stroll down Victoria Street:

For any Harry Potter fan, Edinburgh is a dream. J.K. Rowling wrote several chapters of the first book in the city and frequently returned for subsequent novels. In particular, you must check out Victoria Street, which serves as the inspiration for Diagon Alley. With cute colorful shops and boutiques, it makes for a great afternoon of shopping and a beautiful photo opportunity. They also decorate each storefront for Christmas in elaborate fashion, so it is especially wonderful around the holidays.

Tour Edinburgh Castle:

Situated on a hill overlooking the city, Edinburgh Castle is arguably the most iconic landmark in the city. While you have to climb up to get to it, the views of Edinburgh are unmatched, and there are lots of cool rooms and exhibits to look at once inside. They also still fire a cannon at one o’clock everyday. The castle has something for everyone to make it enjoyable and provides an incredible view of the city at all angles. The one downside is the fog that can envelope Edinburgh and partially obstruct the view, but the castle is still beautiful regardless. My friends and I got highland cow souvenirs at a store at the bottom, so I highly recommend the activity for that alone.

Shop along Princes Street:

Complete with a mixture of brand-name shops and unique boutiques, Princes Street is any shopping lover's dream. It is the perfect place to find souvenirs or buy new outfits. My friends and I had a great time exploring the street and ended up with cute Christmas pajamas, so it was a win-win.

Have dinner at Vittoria on the Bridge:

For a delicious and fulfilling dinner after a day of exploring, head to Vittoria on the Bridge. A vibrant Italian restaurant, they have an extensive menu built for pasta lovers like me. I split the focaccia with friends and then ordered the carbonara, which was absolutely incredible. The ambiance of the place was equally amazing with a cute interior that was buzzing with people. I would absolutely go back and eat here again. 

If you get the chance to make it to Edinburgh, it is a beautiful city that is a perfect break from the complete hustle and bustle of London. With so much to do and eat, I would go back again and again.