Get a sense of history at Edinburgh Castle. Then walk down the Royal Mile and around some of the surrounding alleys of Old Town for a glimpse back in time.
Choose from more than 500 performances of all kinds at the Edinburgh Festival in August and early September. It's the biggest cultural event in Europe and an amazing celebration of the performing arts. The world-famous Military Tattoo is also staged during the festival, as is the alternative Fringe Festival.
Set your watch to the 1 p.m. boom of gunfire from the castle.
Take in an exhibit at the City Arts Centre, where past exhibits have ranged from contemporary photography to Star Trek to antique Asian art.
Become a kid again at the Museum of Childhood, where you can peruse centuries of children's toys, books and paraphernalia.
Spend the night at a bed-and-breakfast for some good old-fashioned Scottish hospitality.
Decide what time of year you'll be visiting. As elsewhere in Europe, summer is the high tourist season. Come in late spring or early autumn, if possible, when the weather is still good but the tourists have gone.
Find out if there are any festivals or events you'd like to check out.
Decide whether you want to see Edinburgh, or experience the Edinburgh festivals, in August and early September. Unless you're interested in the festivals, don't bother coming in August; it's ridiculously crowded and impossible to find a room.
Seek out inexpensive flights, transportation and accommodations. It may be cheaper to fly to London and then take a connecting flight or four-hour train ride to Edinburgh.
Check the weather forecast shortly before leaving, and pack accordingly. Don't forget an umbrella, as it can rain at any time.
