Welcome to Scotland’s Capital City! Home to Edinburgh Castle, Scotland’s Crown Jewels, and The Stone of Destiny. Edinburgh is made up of the medieval Old Town, and Georgian New Town. Both areas have tons to offer in terms of architecture and history. This highly walkable city is easy to get around. And is packed with delicious food and Scottish hospitality. Founded before the 7th century, Edinburgh is home to historical houses, museums, castles, and monuments. You won’t run out of things to explore, so let’s get into it!
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Day 1
Grab breakfast with a view:
The Kilted Donut makes beautifully crafted donuts. These donuts are works of art with so many unique designs. Their staff is highly skilled at creating new flavors to try out on customers. The Kilted Donut is located right outside of a lovely square, with benches where you can eat your breakfast, and a remarkable view of Edinburgh Castle! You have to stop by for breakfast before heading up the hill for a tour of the castle.
Visit one of the most famous castles in the world:
Edinburgh Castle was built in 1103 and stands on Castle Rock with a dazzling view of Edinburgh. You can tour the grounds around the castle, as well as the interior, for breathtaking views and an extensive history of Scotland, and it’s protectors. From Edinburgh Castle’s website: “Edinburgh Castle is one of the oldest fortified places in Europe. With a long rich history as a royal residence, military garrison, prison and fortress, it is alive with many exciting tales. When you climb Castle Hill, you will walk in the footsteps of soldiers, kings and queens – and even the odd pirate or two.”
At one o’clock everyday except Sundays, Christmas Day, and Good Friday, the castle practices the Firing of the Gun. You can view this tradition while visiting the castle, and you will surely hear it at that time from anywhere throughout the city. Tickets into the castle can sell out, so book them online in advance.
Visit the Diagon Alley of Edinburgh:
Victoria Street is said to have been the inspiration for Harry Potter’s memorable Diagon Alley. With it’s cobblestone street, and colorful quirky shops, there’s no wonder as to why. Built between 1829 and 1834, this street in Old Town has some charming architecture. There are two Wizarding World inspired shops on Victoria Street selling Harry Potter merchandise. As well as antique shops, bookstores, cheesemongers, whisky shops, clothing stores, and many more. This is a picturesque street is great for finding souvenirs.
Learn about Scotland’s most influential writers:
The Writers’ Museum is tucked away in ‘Lady Stair’s Close’ and Makars’ Court along the Royal Mile. This is one underrated museum that should not be looked over. It is located in one of the most gorgeous houses in Edinburgh. Here you can learn about the lives and work of Robert Burns, Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson. This museum houses some rare items from these great writers lives, including books, portraits, and personal items. Entry is free and donations are appreciated. Last entry is at 4:30pm.
Don’t “boop the snoot!”
Visit Greyfriars Bobby Statue and Greyfriars kirkyard. John Gray was a night watchmen in 1850 who was accompanied by his dog named Bobby. When John Gray died in 1858, Bobby refused to leave his grave in Greyfriars Kirkyard. The people of Edinburgh took care of Bobby. And in 1867 when it became law that all dogs in the city needed to be licensed, Sir William Chambers (The Lord Provost of Edinburgh) paid for Bobby’s license and collar. Bobby stayed by his masters side for 14 years until his death in 1872. The statue was erected in 1873 outside of Greyfriars Kirkyard. The statue has become a popular tourist attraction over the years, with tourists touching Bobby’s nose for good luck. The nose has become shiny, from people’s hands, and is said to be getting more and more damaged because of this. Weather you “boop the snoot” or not, be sure to keep this in mind.
Dine in Scotland:
Here are a few restaurants suggestions, serving Traditional Scottish cuisine:
For a list of Plant-Based places to eat read: 20 of the Most Delicious Places to Find Vegan Food in Edinburgh, Scotland.
Get Spooked:
Book a ghost tour with City of the Dead Tours. Choose from their terrifying Underground City of the Dead Tour, Haunted Graveyard Tour, or Double Dead Tour. Travel underground to Edinburgh’s South Bridge Vaults, and through Covenanter’s Prison in Greyfriars’ Graveyard. This is a fun and spooky ghost tour with tons of history packed into one night! Rain or shine (and usually rain), you will get your money’s worth of terrifying history. Book online and use your best personal judgment for joining these walks – they aren’t for everyone.
Day 2
Enjoy a peaceful stroll through a quaint picturesque village:
Take a walk through the idealic Dean Village. This is a residential area so make sure to be respectful and stay off of private property. This tourist attraction is known for it’s scenic streets and glimpses of Edinburgh’s past. Dean Village has some incredibly colorful architecture that feels like stepping into another country altogether. You can see hints of Edinburgh’s flour milling industry dating back to the 12th century. Walk the cobblestone streets passed charming small houses along the Water of Leith; Edinburgh’s largest river.
Stop to smell the roses:
Visit the celebrated Royal Botanical Garden Edinburgh. Garden access is free to this 17th century founded plant extravaganza. Located one mile north of Edinburgh’s city center, this collection of plants is over 70 acres. The Glasshouses are currently closed while a restoration project is underway. The Botanics features a rock garden, pond, woodland garden, Rhododendron collection, Chinese Hillside, Arboretum, Azalea lawn, the Scottish Native Plants Collection, and more! They have 3 different places inside for food including a café and a coffee house. You could very easily spend the entire day here!
Take a hike:
Located in Holyrood Park; Arthur’s seat is the highest point at 823 feet above sea level. It gives a 360 view of Edinburgh. Arthur’s Seat is an ancient volcano and is one of four hill forts dating back 2,000 years. You can also visit St. Anthony’s Chapel, a 15th century medieval ruin, and Duddingston Loch, a fresh water loch.
Visit a palace:
Journey out to The Palace of Holyrood House, the official residence of the British Monarch in Scotland. At the end of the Royal Mile, Holyrood Palace is open all year to visitors. Learn about Mary, Queen of Scots, Bonnie Prince Charlie, and their involvement in the Holyrood House’s history. Learn about the Palace Abbey, Palace Gardens, the founding and construction of the Palace, it’s many historical visitors, and it’s importance in today’s society. See how The Palace is utilized by The Royal Family while carrying out official engagements. Book tickets online, in advance, to get a better price than if purchasing day-of tickets.
Try an Italian dinner in Scotland:
You may be surprised to learn that Edinburgh has some of the best Italian food around. Novapizza is a fully Italian and vegan restaurant in Edinburgh. They use local ingredients as much as possible for their fabulous selections of appetizers and main courses. They also offer an array of gluten free options. The atmosphere is classy and intimate, making it perfect for an elegant and affordable evening. They update their menu regularly and have a decent wine selection. The Burrata is a decadent, cheesy, and creamy option for an appetizer. And you can’t go wrong with any of their pizzas! They will certainly succeed in making your time spent with them special, with their cuisine and atmosphere. This is a great place to try whether you’re vegan or not!
Check out the Pub Scene:
Here is a list of some of the oldest Pubs in Edinburgh:
- The White Hart Inn (said to be the oldest and most haunted pub in Edinburgh. Established in 1516 with traditional meals and award winning haggis)
- The Sheep Heid Inn (also debated as Edinburgh’s oldest pub, established in 1360. Serving classic Scottish dishes)
- The Beehive Inn (dating back to the 15th century, serving Scottish cuisine, with an original fireplace)
Day 3
See the many monuments of Colton Hill:
Colton Hill is a volcanic hill situated just east of Edinburgh city center, and is home to some iconic neoclassical Scottish monuments that you can view in a peaceful open air gallery. The National Monument, Dugald Stewart, The Nelson Monument, Playfaire Monument, and The City Observatory are some of the significant structures that you can see and learn about while there. Colton Hill offers impressive panoramic views. If you get up there early enough, you can see some of the most magnificent sunrises.
Set foot in one of the Royal Family’s favorite places:
The Royal Yacht Britannia was the royal yacht of the British Monarchy for over 40 years. According to the website: “The Royal Yacht Britannia sailed over 1,000,000 nautical miles on 968 state visits with the Royal Family where they entertained prime ministers and presidents.” Explore the yachts five decks, and discover what life was like aboard Queen Elizabeth II’s former floating palace. See Queen Elizabeth II’s favorite room, and eat at the Royal Deck Tearoom. Buy tickets online and in advance. Britannia will be closed June 25th-28th due to construction at Ocean Terminal Shopping Centre.
Travel back in time through Scotland’s history:
Tour the National Museum of Scotland with it’s impressive main room, diverse collections, and exhibits. Learn more about the history of Scotland, nature, art, science, technology, and world cultures. The museum is free and open daily from 10:00AM to 5:00PM.
Discover Castle ruins:
Take a bus or drive out to Craigmillar Castle, 3 miles from the center of Edinburgh. This medieval castle ruin has a rich history and links to Mary Queen of Scots who famously used the castle as a safe haven in 1566. The owner of the castle, Sir Simon Preston was a supporter of Mary, who appointed him Provost of Edinburgh. After Mary was captured in 1567, he ironically became her jailer on her first night as a prisoner. This is one of the best-preserved castles in Scotland.
Take a stroll through town:
Walk along Princes Street in Edinburgh. It is the main shopping street in the capital. There are many shops, bars, and restaurants along this road. Princes Street runs right through New Town of Edinburgh and offers outstanding views of Edinburgh Castle and Scott Monument. There is also easy access to Princes Street Gardens. Enjoy this walk for shopping, eating, or just enjoying the view of Edinburgh New Town’s Georgian and Victorian architecture.
Have a traditional Scottish dinner:
Before you leave, you have to have one last taste of Scotland. Here are some more dining recomendations:
Save this article to help you plan your trip to Edinburgh, Scotland! This renowned city has so much to offer everyone. It is well worth the visit to take in the breathtaking landscapes, timeless architecture, famed museums, and legendary food. Thank you for reading!
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