Though mainly a scientific institution, the Royal Botanic Gardens in Edinburgh is also among the most appealing tourist attractions of the city. Founded in year 1670, the garden was originally used for growing medicinal plants. Today, the Edinburgh garden plays an important role for the biodiversity in the world and more than 35 000 plants are now growing there from 17 000 different species. The Botanics, as the local people know it, is a fantastic place for a walk, especially for the young families and the entry is free.