Princes Street Gardens is a dramatic swathe of greenery in Edinburgh’s very centre, directly beneath Castle Rock. These twin parks — East and West — were created in the 1820s after the draining of the polluted Nor Loch, a medieval defensive lake. They are separated by The Mound, an artificial hill formed from excavation debris during the New Town’s construction. The West Garden is larger and home to the Ross Bandstand, a stage for summer concerts and Hogmanay celebrations. Near The Mound entrance, the intricate Floral Clock blooms with a new design each year since 1903. More than just a scenic shortcut, the gardens are a testament to city-making: a Victorian solution to urban blight that became one of Edinburgh’s most beloved civic spaces, perfect for a stroll, a picnic, or simply admiring the iconic views.

The National Museum of Ireland on Kildare Street is a treasure trove of artefacts dating from as early as 7,000 B.C. Take time to visit The Treasury, which features outstanding examples of Celtic and Medieval art, such as the famous Ardagh Chalice, the Tara Brooch, and the Derrynaflan Hoard.

This family-run business has been creating pottery for generations already, and their beautiful products are well-known in the area. From vases over plates to cups, you can get everything within this authentic shop, so take your time and get a good look on the mosaic and the painted ceramics – you may also find a piece to take home.

Take an hour and a half to see everything that has made Traverse City what it is today. The History Center's trolley tour takes you through Slabtown, Traverse City's oldest neighborhood, as well as the downtown, Bay front and Warehouse districts. Learn a little bit about Traverse City's early days and its growth into an agricultural and tourism town. Reservations required.