You will find plenty to do in Edinburgh, a capital which offers a modern city set alongside a historic town that’s ready to transport you back in time.

The six-and-a-half hour train journey from Cardiff flew by with my phone packed with films and books, making it the perfect alternative to a weekend in London.

A First Great Western train from Cardiff Central to Bristol Parkway, with only one change onto a Cross Country train, means that you can sit back and relax for the journey.

With no sense of direction, I always get a small flutter of panic when arriving in a new place, but the centrally-positioned Ibis Styles in St Andrew Square was easy to locate, despite arriving in thick fog.

The manager of the hotel, Carmine Aiezza, was welcoming and explained that the hotel had been given a quirky design so that guests can get a flavour of the city even indoors.

The hotel is full of character, with the Scottish theme running right the way through it with decor taking you through the Scottish wilderness.

My room was located on the top floor and had its own roof terrace offering great views over the city. It had a stag painted on the wall, traditional Scottish sayings engraved in the woodwork and tartan stockings on the table legs.

Although still a budget hotel, the quirky decor such as a whisky barrel nightstand, and extras including a filled fruit bowl and slippers and robe add a sense of luxury.

In the evening, I took the opportunity to step back in time and explore the old town. It is a labyrinth of cobbled streets, narrow alleyways and hidden courtyards. I spent the evening walking the streets just taking in the array of old buildings and churches, while many visitors chose to take part in one of the walking ghost tours.

For dinner, I went to a vegetarian restaurant, David Bann in St Mary’s Street. I opted for a red pepper risotto, with dishes costing around £11 a dish. I would recommend it for anyone looking to sample simple but great tasting cuisine.

After spending the night climbing the steps running between the streets in the old town getting into the comfy bed in the hotel felt like heaven. The pleasure continued in the morning, with my stay including a continental breakfast, along with fruit, cereals, yogurt and pancakes.

I decided to hit the shops, with the Royal Mile offering a large selection of souvenirs and local produce, and the Grassmarket offering vintage clothes and jewellery.

Right opposite the hotel is the only Harvey Nichols in Scotland, along with brand stores and modern high street favourites.

For dinner that evening I went to independent eatery The Rosehip in Rose Street which offers locally sourced fish from battered haddock to a bowl of mussels, both priced around £11, and cooked to perfection.

Getting in line with the other tourists, I thought a trip to Edinburgh Castle was a must.

Donning my audio guide, the castle is a great day out for all age groups, offering great views over the city.

There are plenty of tales to discover, and you can take a peek at the crown jewels and look inside a prison. Be sure to get there to watch the one o’clock gun being fired.

I also enjoyed a tour of the Real Mary King’s Close, which is buried deep beneath the Royal Mile. The tour takes you into a warren of hidden streets and houses that show what life was like in the 17th century, while the costumed tour guide brings the street to life with funny tales.

There is plenty to do in the city from shopping, discovering its history or simply taking a relaxing stroll in one of the many parks.

Fact file

First Great Western, single standard ticket from Cardiff Central to Bristol Parkway from £8.30.

Cross Country trains single standard ticket from Bristol Parkway to Edinburgh Waverley from £79.60.

Why not travel in style and opt to take a ride in first class with Cross County trains.

Enjoy bigger seats, complimentary wifi, snacks of crisp, biscuits and sandwiches and hot and cold refreshments.

Cheapest first class single from £175.

Ibis Styles Edinburgh, double room with wifi and breakfast from £51.85 per night.

Recommendations:

Lunch at Bobby’s Sandwich Bar in Greyfriars Place.

Cheap lunch spot offering toasted bagels, focaccia and ciabatta crammed with tasty fillings.

Entertain the kids with a trip to National Museum of Scotland, where you can discover the natural world, cultures, art and science all under one roof.

Take a trip to the Scottish Parliament, which is open to visitors Monday to Saturday, free of charge. Inside explore the public areas and take a seat in the Debating Chamber.

Ibis Styles Edinburgh Centre St Andrew Square

• Distance from the hotel to Edinburgh Castle - 1.45km

• Distance from the hotel to the train station - 0.5 km

• Distance from the hotel to the airport - 12.39 km