Car rental in Edinburgh is a great way to see not just the city and its lovely suburbs, but also the rest of Scotland – a country of sublime contrasts and marvelous landscapes.

If you’re driving in the UK for the first time, the key thing to remember is that you’ll be driving on the left, in a right-hand-drive car, and overtaking on the right.

Speed signs are in miles per hour, and in city centers and built-up areas the limit is 30mph. You’ll see streets clearly marked for 40mph and on main roads it’s 60mph. On freeways you can drive up to 70mph. Seat belts are compulsory for the driver and all passengers.

If you’d like a handy guide to driving in UK (and other locations in Europe) you can find one here. It’s worth knowing that Edinburgh is currently rolling out some 20mph zones in the heart of the town, so look out for the signs.

On-street parking is restricted in the city center, so it’s best to find a paid parking lot, unless your accommodation has its own parking.

Edinburgh’s New Town and Old Town are contrasting places to drive – one laid out on a grid system, the other clearly built before cars were thought of. A tram system is in operation in Edinburgh, and cyclists have right of way.

If you’re looking to explore Scotland beyond Edinburgh, you can reach Glasgow on the M8 heading west, while the A90/M90 leads north to Perth, Dundee, Aberdeen and the Highlands. 

Both the medieval Old Town and the neoclassical New Town of Edinburgh are designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

They both capture what is special about this city – the classic architecture, the cobbled streets, and the long, colorful history. The towering rocks and crags of the undulating hills that surround add a natural touch to the New Town’s sense of order.

Castle on the hill

Making the spectacle all the more dramatic is Edinburgh Castle, perched on a rock overlooking the city. It’s unclear when the castle was first completed, with some evidence suggesting it was as early as the 2^nd century AD.

It’s been around in its current form since the 11^th century, changing hands repeatedly through wars and intrigue, becoming home to various royals over the centuries. It’s a great place to visit, offering both a fantastic view of the city and a glimpse into its history.

Pass through the 16^th century Portcullis Gate and make time for the World War Two-era ‘One O’Clock Gun’ which fires every day. The Great Hall, the Vaults, the Royal Palace, the bed chamber of Mary Queen of Scots, the Stone of Destiny – there’s so much to enjoy here.

Don’t forget to visit the Camera Obscura, a unique attraction that gives a 360-degree moving panorama of the city and has been in operation since 1835. Like a hi-tech hall of mirrors combined with a science museum, the six-floor attraction is a celebration of visual trickery, packed with holograms, optical illusions and interactive exhibits.

For another amazing view, climb the 287 steps of the Scott Monument. Dedicated to the writer Sir Walter Scott, it was finished in 1846, features statues based on his characters and towers some 61 meters tall.

Get to the Grassmarket

A perennially popular area, Grassmarket is a lively part of the old town with bustling streets, great cafes and excellent shopping – along with a farmers market every Saturday. It’s where you’ll find one of the city’s icons, the sculpture in bronze of Greyfriars Bobby on Candlemaker Row. You can visit his monuments, learn his story and pay your respects to this most loyal of dogs.

Take a break from your touring at The Devil’s Advocate. Based in an old Victorian pump room, they serve a great burger alongside more ambitious mains featuring Scottish ingredients like venison haunch with soft red fruits.

Feasting and the festivals

Visit Edinburgh in August and you’ll be just in time for the annual month of festivals. There’s the Edinburgh International Festival, the Fringe, the International Book Festival, Edinburgh Art Festival and the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

With so much going on, it pays to get tickets in advance. The Fringe is the home of comedy and experimental theater, while the international festival focuses more on high-end opera, dance and concerts.

The city truly comes alive at this time of year, with visitors from across the globe and world-class entertainment around every corner. Fuel yourself for all the activity with a great choice of Michelin-starred restaurants.

The Martin Wishart restaurant in Leith is one where vegetarians are never short-changed – there’s even an eight-course tasting menu that takes in Emmental soufflé and wild mushroom tart. The small but sharp three-course set lunch is an affordable way to sample his stunning food.

At the Kitchin, Tom Kitchin oversees a former ‘Best UK Restaurant’ winner that specializes in Scottish produce such as North Sea wild halibut, Tweed salmon and Newhaven lobster.

Finish off this gourmet tour at Paul Kitching 21212 (it also has rooms) for witty takes on chicken curry, and dishes with evocative names like ‘Eat French Snow’ and ‘Scuffles and Trollops’.Food, culture, art, architecture, centuries of Scottish history – it’s no wonder Edinburgh is a favorite for visitors. Car rental in Edinburgh means you can enjoy all the city has to offer and get out to discover the rest of Scotland too.