What to do in Markinch

Edinburgh Castle, the oldest building in the city, sits high on a craggy volcanic rock just near the city center. During its history, which spans almost a thousand years, the stronghold has witnessed sieges, served as a military base and provided refuge for Scottish monarchs.

Go for a sightseeing trip along the Royal Mile, a series of streets that forms the main artery of Edinburgh’s Old Town, the oldest part of the city. This ancient cobblestone route stretches from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. It has been used by pedestrians for hundreds of years, and houses some of the city’s most fascinating old buildings.

Explore the campuses of the University of Edinburgh and soak up the academic atmosphere in its museums and galleries. Sights such as the quad of the Georgian Old College and the Gothic towers of New College on the Mound are iconic parts of the cityscape.

Escape to the Edinburgh Zoo for a few hours of animal-based adventures. Spread over an 82-acre (33-hectare) site, the zoo has a collection of more than 1,000 animals representing almost 200 species.

Steeped in tradition, the University of St. Andrews is among the oldest in the English-speaking world. The academic institution is known for its impressive buildings spread around fields and floral displays. Visit its museums to see collections that inspire the students of this venerable university.