Arthur's Seat - It's not every day you get to climb an extinct volcano. Reach the top and an information plinth tells you all that is laid out so magnificently before you.

Museum of Childhood - It doesn't take long for everyone's past fond memories to end up in here. A great free trip down memory lane! www.cac.org.uk

Royal Botanic Garden - Where Edinburgh goes to get away from it all amidst manicured lawns and floral bursts of colour. www.rbge.org.uk

Greyfriars' Bobby - the loyal terrier who guarded his master's grave has inspired movies and books. Visit the graveyard and stop for a photo-opp at the doggy statue.

Fringe Sunday - if 1,000 festival shows a day every August is a bit too much to get your head round, this is the place to check out what's hot and what's not. www.edfringe.com·

Scottish Parliament - if you've ever wondered what £450 million gets you these days, check out Scotland's new powerhouse at the foot of the Royal Mile. www.scottish.parliament.uk

Window-shopping - Harvey Nichols and Jenners vie for shoppers' attention with frequently-updated window displays. Costs nothing to look! www.jenners.com www.harveynichols.com