Inverness, Edinburgh and the Highlands of Scotland

(26 Reviews)
100% Recommended

Cristine Etue

Austin, TX

Washington DC Travel Agent Specialist

Washington, D.C., the capital of the United States, is a city rich in history, culture, and political significance. Established by the Constitution of the United States to serve as the nation's capital, it is situated on the Potomac River, borderi...

Washington, D.C., the capital of the United States, is a city rich in history, culture, and political significance. Established by the Constitution of the United States to serve as the nation's capital, it is situated on the Potomac River, bordering Maryland and Virginia. Washington, D.C., is known for its iconic landmarks, vibrant neighborhoods, and pivotal role in American governance.

Founding and Early Years The Residence Act of 1790 established Washington, D.C., as the capital, a decision influenced by its strategic location between the Northern and Southern states. The city was designed by Pierre Charles L’Enfant, who envisioned a grand and functional layout with broad avenues and open spaces. The capital officially moved to Washington, D.C., in 1800.

The War of 1812 saw the British burn significant buildings, including the White House and the Capitol. Reconstruction and expansion followed, with the city growing rapidly after the Civil War. The early 20th century brought modernization, and significant landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial were completed.

A central feature of the city, the National Mall is a landscaped park extending from the Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial. It hosts numerous significant monuments and museums, such as The Capitol, The White House, Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, Jefferson Memorial.

The world's largest museum complex, the Smithsonian Institution comprises 19 museums, galleries, and the National Zoo. Key museums include:National Museum of American History, National Museum of Natural History and the National Air and Space Museum

Washington, D.C., is a cultural hub with a thriving arts scene. Notable venues include:Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and Ford’s Theatre

As the capital, Washington, D.C., is the heart of the U.S. federal government. It houses all three branches:Executive, Legislative, Senate and Judicial.  The city is also home to numerous federal agencies, foreign embassies, and international organizations like the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund.

Washington, D.C., is a city of diverse neighborhoods, each with its own character:Georgetown, Dupont Circle, Capitol Hill, as well as Eastern Market, Adams Morgan and Foggy Bottom.

Washington, D.C., hosts several prestigious universities and research institutions:Georgetown University, George Washington University and American University.

Washington, D.C., is served by a comprehensive public transportation system:Metrorail and Metrobus along with Union Station.  Three major airports serve the Washington, D.C., area: Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, Washington Dulles International Airport, and Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport.

Washington, D.C., is more than just the political center of the United States; it is a vibrant city steeped in history and culture. From its iconic landmarks and world-class museums to its diverse neighborhoods and robust arts scene, the city offers a rich and multifaceted experience for residents and visitors alike. Whether exploring the corridors of power, enjoying the National Mall’s vast open spaces, or delving into its dynamic cultural life, Washington, D.C., provides an unparalleled window into the American experience.    

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As I stepped off the train at Inverness station, the Highland capital welcomed me with a serene beauty I had only dreamed of. Inverness, the gateway to the Scottish Highlands, felt like a place where time flowed a little slower, and nature itself whispered the stories of the past.  I started my journey through the city at Inverness Castle, perched on a hill with a panoramic view of the city and the river below. Though the castle isn’t open to the public, walking around its grounds made me feel connected to centuries of Highland history. Just beyond the castle was the River Ness itself, where a path lined with ancient trees invited me to stroll along the water. My next stop was the Inverness Cathedral, a quiet and unassuming place of worship but no less magnificent in its simplicity. The red sandstone structure stood proudly amidst greenery, its peaceful interior offering a respite from the bustling world outside. But Inverness isn’t just about history and tranquility. I soon found myself at the bustling Victorian Market, an indoor marketplace filled with local goods, crafts, and unique souvenirs.

Leaving the city behind, I rented a car to explore one of the most iconic spots in Scotland—the Loch Ness. The drive south along the A82 was nothing short of breathtaking. The rolling hills of the Highlands stretched out endlessly, their rugged beauty softened by patches of heather and wildflowers. When I finally arrived at the shores of Loch Ness, the sheer size of the loch took me by surprise. I couldn’t resist a boat tour to fully experience the loch. As the boat glided across the calm water, the guide recounted tales of the elusive Nessie, the Loch Ness Monster. Just beyond Loch Ness was Urquhart Castle, its ruins standing proudly on the shores of the loch.

After a few days in the Highlands, it was time to head south to Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital. The train ride from Inverness to Edinburgh was a scenic journey through the heart of the country, passing through lush valleys, over rivers, and beneath towering viaducts. As the train pulled into Edinburgh Waverley Station, I was greeted by the sight of Edinburgh Castle, perched high on its volcanic rock, dominating the city’s skyline.  Edinburgh felt like a city where history and modern life intertwine seamlessly. I began my exploration in the Old Town, walking along the cobbled streets of the Royal Mile, which stretched from the castle at one end to the Palace of Holyroodhouse at the other.  At the top of the Royal Mile stood Edinburgh Castle, a fortress that has witnessed centuries of Scottish history, from royal coronations to bloody battles. Inside, I marveled at the Crown Jewels of Scotland and the Stone of Destiny, ancient symbols of Scottish sovereignty. From the castle’s ramparts, I looked out over the city below, with views stretching to the waters of the Firth of Forth in the distance.In contrast to the Old Town’s medieval charm, New Town offered elegant Georgian architecture, wide streets, and beautifully laid-out gardens. I spent an afternoon wandering through the Princes Street Gardens, where the iconic Scott Monument rose up in gothic splendor. Climbing to the top of the monument rewarded me with panoramic views of the city—Edinburgh's mix of old and new, of nature and human creation. 

One of the highlights of my time in Edinburgh was a hike up Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano that towers over the city. The climb was steep in places, but the effort was worth it. From the summit, the view was spectacular. Before leaving Edinburgh, I visited Calton Hill, with its collection of neoclassical monuments and sweeping views of the city and beyond. The National Monument, an unfinished replica of the Parthenon, stood in stark contrast to the modern city below.

My journey through Inverness, Edinburgh, and the Highlands had come to an end, but the memories of Scotland—the quiet lochs, the towering castles, the stories whispered by the wind—would stay with me forever. Scotland is a land where history lives and breathes in every stone, every river, and every hill, a place where the past is always present and the beauty of nature is endless.