Our four-day school trip to Edinburgh was an amazing experience that I will remember for a long time. It was both enjoyable and educational, giving us the opportunity to explore the city’s history, visit important landmarks, and experience its unique atmosphere as a group. Throughout the trip, our guide Mariana played an important role by helping us understand not only the places we visited but also the history and background connected to them. Her explanations added context and made each location more meaningful.

We arrived on Monday and began exploring the city immediately. Our first walk took us through Edinburgh’s New Town and into Princes Street Gardens, where we had a view of some of the city’s best-known landmarks. Later, we visited the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. Learning about its historical importance gave us a better understanding of Scotland’s royal past. Then we continued along the Royal Mile, one of the city’s most well-known streets, surrounded by historic buildings and a unique atmosphere.

Tuesday did not go exactly as planned because poor weather prevented us from climbing Arthur’s Seat. However, the schedule was adjusted and the day turned out great. We visited Greyfriars Kirkyard, known for its mysterious character and long history, before walking through Victoria Street with its colourful buildings and lively setting. Later, we spent time at the National Museum of Scotland, where we learned more about Scottish history, inventions, and culture in a really engaging way.

Wednesday was one of the busiest days of the trip. We began by visiting Dean Bridge and Dean Village, an area that offered a quieter contrast to the city centre. Afterwards, we explored Edinburgh Castle, one of Scotland’s most recognisable landmarks. Learning about its historical significance helped us understand its importance in the country’s past. We later visited the Scottish National Gallery, where seeing famous works of art in person gave many of us a different perspective on art. To end the day, we travelled by double-decker bus to Queensferry and enjoyed views of the waterfront and surrounding area.

On Friday, our final day, we were divided into two groups. Some students spent time shopping, while others took the opportunity to climb Arthur’s Seat after the weather had improved. Although the climb required some effort, the view from the top extended across the city and surrounding landscape. Before leaving Edinburgh, we also had some free time to explore independently.

Overall, the trip was a great mix of learning, sightseeing, and spending time together. Thanks to Mariana, we didn’t just see Edinburgh, but really understood its history and atmosphere. It made the whole experience much more meaningful and unforgettable.