Edinburgh 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Itinerary for Exploring Edinburgh

Day 1: Arrival & City Orientation

Activities:

  • Arrive at Edinburgh Airport (EDI) or Waverley Train Station.
  • Check-in at your preferred accommodation (see below).
  • Grab a traditional Scottish lunch at “The Dining Room at Dean Terrace” or “Walter Scott’s” for a taste of local cuisine.
  • Spend the afternoon exploring the city center, visiting attractions like St. Giles’ Cathedral and the Royal Mile.

Where to Stay:

  • Luxury: The Balmoral Hotel or Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa
  • Mid-Range: Motel One Edinburgh-Royal or ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge
  • Budget: Castle Rock Hostel or Globe Hostel

Day 2: Historic Sites & Hiking

Activities:

  • Morning visit to Edinburgh Castle.
  • Walk down the Royal Mile, stopping at St. Margaret’s Chapel and Holyroodhouse Palace.
  • Afternoon hike up Arthur’s Seat for panoramic views of the city.
  • Enjoy dinner at “The Witchery” or “A Room in the West End.”

Day 3: Museums & Art Galleries

Activities:

  • Morning visit to National Museum of Scotland.
  • Lunch at “Picnic” for a variety of local and international dishes.
  • Afternoon at the Scottish National Gallery or the National Gallery of Modern Art.
  • Evening walk through Princes Street Gardens and along George Street’s vibrant nightlife.

Day 4: Day Trip to St. Andrews

Activities:

  • Take a day trip to St. Andrews, home of golf and the University of St. Andrews.
  • Visit the British Golf Museum and St. Andrews Castle.
  • Enjoy lunch at “The Seafood Ristorante” or “Taverna.”
  • Return to Edinburgh for dinner and rest.

Day 5: Royal Yacht Britannia & Scotch Whisky Experience

Activities:

  • Morning visit to the Royal Yacht Britannia in Leith.
  • Lunch at “Ondine” or “The Shore” for fresh seafood dishes.
  • Afternoon at The Scotch Whisky Experience to learn about Scotland’s national drink.
  • Evening stroll through Stockbridge and dinner at “The Scran & Scallie.”

Day 6: Day Trip to the Highlands

Activities:

  • Full-day trip to the Scottish Highlands, exploring Loch Ness, Inverness, and Culloden Battlefield.
  • Pack a picnic lunch or dine at local eateries along the way.
  • Return to Edinburgh for dinner and rest.

Day 7: Shopping & Departure

Activities:

  • Morning shopping on Princes Street for souvenirs, Scottish woolens, and more.
  • Lunch at a traditional Scottish pub like “The Oxford Bar” or “The World’s End.”
  • Afternoon at leisure to explore any missed sights or relax before departure.
  • Depart from Edinburgh Airport (EDI) or Waverley Train Station.

Things to Know:

  • Edinburgh has a temperate oceanic climate, so pack layers for varying temperatures.
  • Hours of operation may vary for attractions and restaurants, so check in advance.
  • Purchase a Ridacard for unlimited travel on Lothian Buses for the duration of your stay.
  • Tipping is customary in Scotland but not as expected as in some other countries.

Enjoy your stay in Edinburgh!