If you're arriving at Waverley Station with heavy luggage, avoid the steep Warriston's Steps. Instead, turn left and walk up Cockburn Street. This route will get you to the Royal Mile, near Parliament Square, much more easily.

Yes, Parliament Square is centrally located on the Royal Mile and is easily walkable from many key attractions like Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace.

For a short visit, an itinerary focused on walking distance attractions like Parliament Square, the Royal Mile, and Edinburgh Castle is ideal. You can see many sights in just a few hours without needing public transport.

While many central areas are walkable, Edinburgh has trams and buses. Be aware of ticket collectors on trams.

The Old Town, where Parliament Square is located, offers historic charm and proximity to attractions. New Town is also a good option, slightly further but still accessible.

No, Parliament Square itself is a public space and can be visited for free.

While St. Giles' Cathedral is free to enter, donations are appreciated to help with its upkeep. Some special areas or services may have associated costs.

Yes, you can visit the Scottish Parliament building, which is located within Parliament Square. Entry is generally free, but it's advisable to check their official website for opening hours and any tour availability.

Parliament Square is an open public space and is accessible at all times. However, individual buildings within the square, like St. Giles' Cathedral, will have their own specific opening hours.

Parliament Square can host various events, especially during festivals. It's best to check local listings or the Scottish Parliament's website for any scheduled activities.

Parliament Square offers numerous picturesque angles, especially with St. Giles' Cathedral as a backdrop. The Unicorn statue and the surrounding historic architecture are also great subjects. Early mornings provide beautiful light and fewer people. +1

Photography is generally permitted inside St. Giles' Cathedral for personal use, but it's always respectful to check for any specific restrictions or areas where photography is not allowed.

Early mornings offer the best light and the fewest crowds, creating a serene atmosphere for photography.

Look out for the national animal of Scotland, the Unicorn, which has a statue in Parliament Square. Also, explore the nearby closes and wynds off the Royal Mile for charming, historic shots.

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both the grandeur of St. Giles' Cathedral and the details of the architecture. A wide-angle lens can be great for the square itself.

Parliament Square is a historic heart of Edinburgh, once a graveyard and the site of the old Parliament House. It's surrounded by significant buildings like St. Giles' Cathedral and the former Parliament. +1

The Unicorn is Scotland's national animal and has been for over 500 years. Its presence in Parliament Square symbolizes the country's rich heritage and folklore.

Yes, Parliament Square and its surrounding historic architecture, including St. Giles' Cathedral, are often cited as having a strong 'dark academia' vibe due to their gothic and scholarly atmosphere.

Historically, Parliament Square was a hub of legal and civic life. It has also been associated with darker histories, including being a former graveyard and near sites of execution.

The square is adjacent to the historic Parliament House, which was the seat of the Supreme Courts of Scotland. Visiting the area provides insight into Scotland's legal and political history.