Perched on the Castle Rock site, the castle looks impressive. By turns, fortress, royal residence and military garrison, the castle is an ensemble of buildings built on several levels of a more civil than military appearance and joined by cobbled paths, making it feel like a big village. As well as the esplanade used for the Military Tattoo and the fortifications that afford a superb view of Princes Street, you must see the Scottish crown jewels, housed in the Royal Palace.