A view of Princess Street in Edinburgh. (Shutterstock)

Robert Louis Stevenson once described Edinburgh as 'what Paris ought to be.'

A trip to Edinburgh, Scotland, will allow you to explore turbulent histories, distinctive traditions and extraordinary people. You'll experience a culture that treasures the past and keenly anticipates the future.

Edinburgh's magnificent architecture ranges from narrow alleyways in its medieval Old Town, to the grace and geometric precision of the Georgian New Town. And above it all in its towering splendour, stands the Castle.

Until the late 18th century, Edinburgh consisted almost exclusively, of what is now known as the Old Town. This area is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features Edinburgh Castle, the Palace of Holyrood and Grassmarket.

You cannot visit Edinburgh without stopping to visit the Castle, Scotland's number one attraction. Sitting on its own volcanic rock at the top of the city, the Castle is home to the Scottish Crown Jewels, St. Margaret's Chapel, the Stone of Destiny on which previous Scottish monarchs were crowned, and many other historic buildings.

As you go below the Castle, you will travel what is known as the Royal Mile. This is the thoroughfare of medieval Edinburgh that links the Castle with the Palace Of Holyrood, the Queen's official residence in Scotland.

The Palace is home to centuries of fascinating Scottish history. Visitors can see the royal apartments, the throne room and the great gallery that features 17th century portraits of Scottish monarchs.

Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh's historic Old Town is the Grassmarket area. It is one of the most vibrant, picturesque and convivial areas of the city. A paradise of independent merchants, designers and artisans, Grassmarket is simply bursting with some of the best dining andshopping that Edinburgh has to offer.

If you're headed to Edinburgh in the summer, be sure to take in the Military Tattoo performed at Edinburgh Castle. The Edinburgh Tattoo is the most spectacular show in the world. As part of the 217,000- strong audience over its three-week season, you don't simply watch the show, you become a part of it!

Edinburgh Castle rises magnificently to the occasion of the Tattoo. As the masses of bands march out in hundreds across the drawbridge, the power and majesty of the Castle transforms into a dazzling stage for an amazing show.

Julia Bryan handles communications and public relations for DeNure Tours in Lindsay, Ont.