On the edge of town, scale rocky crags to get a closer look at Arthur's Seat, a once-active volcano that erupted more than 300 years ago. Though interesting by itself, the views from the rocky vista are the best in the city, showcasing a 100-kilometer, 360-degree panorama. This is a large park, perfect for hiking, and is fun for kids, thanks to a lake full of well-fed ducks and swans. Although there is plenty of discussion, no one knows where the strange name originated.

This hill provides the ideal perch for viewing Edinburgh's loveliest sights, including the Castle, New Town, Holyrood and Arthur's Seat. At 100 feet, you'll be surprised at how extensive the view is from the crest. At the top of the hill is Nelson's monument, offering added lift for increased perspective of the city. You'll find numerous other interesting monuments, including the National Monument, often called Scotland's Disgrace, which was supposed to be massive, but which ended up being 12 simple columns due to lack of funding.

After more than a century, this is still one of the most popular tourist attractions in Edinburgh, affording some of the best views of the city from a small, darkened room. This odd but fascinating exhibit is similar to a periscope, using mirrors and lenses to show scenes occurring all over the city. Or, you can go the less voyeuristic route and catch the view from the roof. Photography exhibits are also featured.

The Edinburgh Castle was a royal residence until the late 16th century when Mary Queen of Scots and her supporters were moved to Holyroodhouse. The 12th century, Norman-style St. Margaret's Chapel still stands in its original form. Inside the castle, you can see the Scottish Crown Jewels, the French prisons, and the most famous cannon in the UK, Mons Meg. Be sure to notice the Witches' Well, where women were burned for witchcraft during the 16th and 17th centuries. While you are here, take a lot of pictures because the view of the city from the castle is spectacular.

One of Edinburgh's most renowned monuments is this Gothic structure built in honor of the then-controversial writer Sir Walter Scott. This structure consists of a church spire that is over two hundred feet tall. Sitting inside the spire is the famous author and his dog, Maida, accompanied by sixty-four carved representations of the characters in his novels. Visitors who make the 287-step climb to the top of the monument will enjoy the spectacular view afforded over the city.