Edinburgh, Scotland 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Edinburgh

Morning:

  • Start your day with a hearty Scottish breakfast at The Dining Room, located in the historic Royal Mile.
  • Visit the Scottish National Museum to get an overview of Scotland’s rich history and culture. It’s free to enter!
  • Explore the famous Royal Mile, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, filled with historical landmarks, shops, and cafes.

Afternoon:

  • Climb Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano offering panoramic views of Edinburgh. It’s a moderately challenging hike but the view is worth it!
  • Visit the Holyrood Palace, the Queen’s official residence in Scotland. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance.
  • Stroll through the beautiful Holyrood Park and take a moment to appreciate the stunning cityscape.

Evening:

  • Dine at The Witchery by the Castle, a luxurious restaurant located next to Edinburgh Castle, offering Scottish fine dining in a gothic setting.
  • End your day with a show at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the world’s largest arts festival (if it’s not during the off-season).

Day 2: Discovering the Urban and Rural Edinburgh

Morning:

  • Grab a quick breakfast at Brew Lab, known for its specialty coffee and brunch options.
  • Take a bus or tram to Leith, Edinburgh’s trendy port area, and explore the vibrant shops, cafes, and galleries. Don’t miss the Ocean Terminal for shopping and restaurants.

Afternoon:

  • Head to Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, a tranquil oasis in the city, home to over 13,000 different plant species.
  • Visit the Scott Monument for stunning views of the city and learn about Sir Walter Scott’s life and works.

Evening:

  • Dine at Timberyard, a restaurant focusing on locally sourced ingredients, located in the Grassmarket area.
  • Take a night tour of the city with Auld Reekie Tours to learn about Edinburgh’s darker history.

Things to Know:

  • Edinburgh is hilly, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some uphill walks.
  • Loo tickets are required for most public toilets in Edinburgh, available at tourist information centers or local shops.
  • The Scottish weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers and a waterproof jacket.

Transportation:

  • Edinburgh has an extensive bus and tram network. You can also use the City Sightseeing Bus Tour for hop-on-hop-off travel around the city.
  • Taxis and Uber are available, but prices can be high during peak hours.

Tips:

  • Try traditional Scottish dishes like haggis, neeps (turnips) and tatties (potatoes), fish & chips, and cranachan.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, such as not walking on grass in some public parks and gardens.
  • Enjoy your trip to Edinburgh!