THE Scottish capital has been named the fourth most beautiful city in the world by the Rough Guide.
Edinburgh only came behind Paris, Florence and Rome in the Rough Guide series that was picked by readers.
The "Athens of the North" beat Venice along with a Brazilian hotspot and a picturesque Czech Republic destination in the "Most Beautiful City In The World - As Voted By You" series.
The Rough Guide said: "It's famed for its excellent annual festival, but there is more to Edinburgh than great comedy and arts, and according to our readers, its beauty.
"Head east of the city and make the short walk up Arthur's Seat, an 823ft-high dormant volcano, to take in views of Scotland's capital and you won't need to question why it's been voted the fourth most beautiful city in the world."
The worldwide travel guide continues: "At number one you voted Rome as the most beautiful city in the world. With its thousand-year-old buildings, beautiful piazzas and world-class art - not to mention the stunning Vatican City - it's certainly no surprise. Rome, after all, is the capital of the so-called bel paese, or 'beautiful country'.
"Finishing in third place, France's capital has been long considered the paragon of style and the most glamorous city in Europe, and we can't disagree with our choice to put Paris near the top of this poll. We love its elegant streets and boulevards, the lofty Eiffel Tower and the plethora of incredible art and architecture throughout the city."
Florence was second: "The cathedral dome that dominates the city's skyline is just one of the many attractions that make Florence one of the most beautiful cities in the world.
"The river Arno that cuts through the heart of the city, the Piazza della Signoria and the gorgeous church of San Miniato al Monte are all among Florence's stunning highlights."
London was fifth, Prague sixth, Venice seventh, Brisbane eighth, Kyoto ninth and Rio de Janeiro.
The Rough Guide said: "The floating island of Venice has been voted seventh most beautiful city in the world by our readers, perhaps pipped to the post due to the millions of tourists that pack its streets each year.
"Yet despite mass tourism, Venice will always have charm, with its undeniably romantic setting, classic architecture and wonderful sea views.
"As the centre of Japanese culture for hundreds of years, there's much to be stunned by in Kyoto. Voted the 9th most beautiful city in the world by our readers, it is surrounded by magnificent and easily accessible mountains, and a walk around the east side of the city gives opportunity to see some gorgeous traditional temples.
"A surprising entry in 8th place, Brisbane - Queensland Australia's largest city - has been chosen for its winning combination of high-rise modern architecture, lush green spaces and the enormous Brisbane River that snakes its way through the centre before emptying itself into the azure Moreton Bay."
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