Edinburgh is unarguably one of the unmissable places to visit in Scotland. With countless historical sights, numerous buildings with spellbinding medieval architecture, and the intricate web of cobbled streets, discovering the best things to do in Edinburgh can be a little overwhelming.
So, whether you’re looking for history, picturesque streets, or just some gorgeous views, this city has something for everyone.
The hardest part about planning a trip to Edinburgh is choosing between attractions. Which viewpoints to visit, Calton Hill or Arthur’s Seat? Which museums and art galleries to explore?
This city has been our home for many years now. We have used our own experiences to write this curated itinerary for Edinburgh. With the famous touristy places, we have also added some off-the-beaten-path attractions.
Is 2 Days in Edinburgh Enough?
Edinburgh is one of the most amazing cities in Scotland. There are so many iconic places to visit here and it is hard to know where to start, especially if you are a first-time visitor.
This two-day itinerary will help you make the most of your stay. Honestly, two days may not be enough to see everything Edinburgh has to offer, but it will provide you with a great flavour of this vibrant city.
We have put together this itinerary with the aim of showing you as much of this city as possible in a limited amount of time. However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace, you may want to skip some of the attractions and instead spend more time in the places you like.
Also, there are plenty of exciting day trip destinations from Edinburgh that are also worth visiting. So, we would commend adding a couple of extra days to venture outside the city to see a few of them.
2 Days in Edinburgh Itinerary: Day 1
Welcome to Edinburgh! As you step out to explore this magical Scottish city, it’s a good idea to start your day with a hearty breakfast.
In case your hotel booking doesn’t include breakfast, there are plenty of great cafes near the Old Town.
The Milkman in Cockburn Street would be a great choice to indulge in some mouthwatering pastries and a hot cup of coffee to kick-start your day.
For a delicious full Scottish breakfast, we suggest you check out Urban Angel Cafe, The Edinburgh Larder, or Southern Cross Cafe.
All of them are located within walking distance from Edinburgh Castle, your first destination of the day.
1. Discover the Fascinating Past of Edinburgh Castle
Visit time: 2 hour
Suggested start time: 9.30 AM
Start your two-day itinerary with a visit to one of the most famous attractions in the city, Edinburgh Castle. Perched over an extinct volcanic rock, this magnificent fortress was once the home of Scottish monarchs.
It has a very riveting history. From serving as a royal abode to a military stronghold to a prison – Edinburgh Castle has played a crucial part in Scotland’s history. Today, it is one of the must-visit castles in Scotland.
This fortress has also seen its fair share of wars and sieges. The English and the Scottish forces fought numerous times over its ownership.
Give yourself at least two hours to explore the historic buildings and museums around the castle complex without rushing too much.
Edinburgh Castle houses the famous royal regalia known as the Honours of Scotland, which includes The Crown of Scotland, the Sceptre and the Sword of State. You can find them in the Crown Room of the Royal Palace.
Next to the Royal Palace lies the Great Hall, where lavish royal ceremonies and social events took place once. Today, it showcases an array of armouries and weapons and is decorated with wooden panels and paintings.
History buffs would love to discover the captivating military history of Scotland at the National War Museum.
Plus, don’t forget to visit St. Margaret’s Chapel, the oldest building in Edinburgh. Also, the popular One O’clock Gun ceremony takes place here every day at 1 pm except Sundays, Good Friday and Christmas Day. We have written a detailed guide on what to see in Edinburgh Castle.
Also, thanks to its elevated position, you will get a jaw-dropping view over the city rooftops. Along with several famous city landmarks, you can even see the Firth of Forth and the Fife Coastline.
Top Tips: Try to get to the castle at 9:30 am when it opens to avoid the queue, as this is one of the busiest attractions in Edinburgh. Online tickets are much cheaper than buying at the counter. Also, tickets are often completely sold out in peak summer months. So, buy your tickets well in advance.
Opening Hours: 9.30 am until 6.00 pm, between 1st April to 30th September. From 1st October until 31st March, the hours are 09.30 am to 5 pm. Ticket: Adult £19.50, Child £11.40
2. Lose Yourself in Victoria Street & Grassmarket
3 minutes walk from the castle
Suggested visit time: 30 minutes
After soaking in all the gripping tales of Edinburgh Castle, walk a few yards to explore one of the most photographed locations of this city.
The elegantly curved Victoria Street bursts with a kaleidoscope of colours and is a hotspot for photographers and tourists alike.
This charming cobbled street is rumoured to be the inspiration behind the fictional Diagon Alley of the famous Harry Potter books. You would find various inviting cafes, busy restaurants and a few Harry Potter-themed shops.
Climb up a few steps to get a level above Victoria Street. It is a great vantage point to admire an elevated view over this street and the nearby George Heriot’s School.
Follow Victoria Street to reach the bustling Grassmarket, one of the oldest parts of Edinburgh, which is infamous for hosting public executions in past centuries.
Today, this marketplace is filled with many traditional pubs, boutique shops, and restaurants. During Edinburgh Fringe, you can catch some street performances here.
Also, if you are visiting Grassmarket on a Saturday, you can browse through the weekly farmers market, selling everything from antiques and vintage clothes to Spanish paella and sausage rolls.
Local Tips: If you are interested in diving into Edinburgh’s lively nightlife, you might want to check out The Last Drop, Biddy Mulligans, and The White Hart Inn later. With a great selection of real ales and local beers, they also host live music.
3. Marvel at the View from The Vennel
Suggested visit time: 10-15 minutes
From Grassmarket, follow the staircase on an unassuming alleyway to discover one of the finest views of Edinburgh.
We love visiting Vennel in the morning or evening when the soft light makes this view more romantic and atmospheric.
From the top of the Vennel, you can admire the magnificent view of Edinburgh Castle sitting over the dramatic Castle Rock. It looks like something out of a period drama.
After taking a zillion photos, retrace back to Grassmarket to visit the next destination in your Edinburgh itinerary.
Tips: At the entrance of the Vennel, you will find Mary’s Milk Bar. Pop inside if you fancy some delicious homemade ice cream.
4. Pay a Visit to Greyfriars Bobby and Kirkyard
7 min walk from Grassmarket
Suggested visit time: 20-30 minutes
You will find the adorable statue of Bobby near the entrance of Greyfriars Kirkyard. Bobby was a Skye terrier who guarded his master’s grave for fourteen years after he had passed away. His story of great devotion and loyalty is depicted in several books and movies.
Greyfriars Kirkyard is a historic site and the final resting place of many notable Edinburgh locals. At the centre of the graveyard is a small church, which was founded in the 17th century.
This city has inspired eminent author J.K. Rowling to create one of the world’s most beloved literary characters, Harry Potter. You can take a self-guided walking tour of the Harry Potter sites in Edinburgh.
Greyfriars Kirkyard is particularly popular with Harry Potter fans. Visitors flock here to see the tombstones that have inspired the names of some of the famous characters of the Harry Potter book series.
Stroll around the atmospheric graveyard. Look out for the engraved names of William McGonagall, Elizabeth Moodie and Thomas Riddell, “He who must not be named” himself.
Lunch
You can’t travel to Edinburgh and not try the national dish of Scotland, haggis. Stop by Makars Mash Bar on Bank Street. It is a great place to get some traditional haggis, neeps, and tatties.
For some belly-warming traditional British food, visit MUMS Great Comfort Food at Forest Road.
If you are a fan of Thai cuisine, Ting Thai at Teviot Place is a must-visit. Their mouthwatering pad Thai is one of our personal favourites.
If you are looking for a quick lunch, then grab some delicious hog roast sandwich from Oink at Victoria Street.
5. Explore the National Museum of Scotland
Suggested visit time: 1-2 hours
Just a few yards away from Greyfriars Kirkyard, the National Museum of Scotland showcases an extensive collection on a variety of subjects.
From ancient Egyptian artefacts to ceramics, Scotland’s history to ancient civilisations – you can find plenty of exhibitions in this museum.
Start your visit from the Grand Gallery, a beautiful space which houses a dynamic range of objects from all around the world – from the huge skull Moby the whale to an old lighthouse lens.
Don’t forget to take a look inside the Kingdom of the Scots section of the museum.
Some of the famous highlights of this museum include Dolly the Sheep, the first cloned mammal; Millennium Clock Tower, which chimes hourly with various figures and dancing lights; and Lewis Chess Pieces, medieval chess pieces found on the Isle of Lewis.
Before you leave, head up to the roof terrace for a stunning view of the Edinburgh skyline.
6. Uncover St Giles Cathedral’s Past
5 minutes walk from the National Museum of Scotland
Steeped in almost 900 years of history, St Giles Cathedral is one of the unmissable tourist attractions in Edinburgh.
Located at the heart of the Old Town, it was founded in 1124 by King David I. Before going inside to explore the interior of this cathedral, admire the magnificent Gothic architecture of this building.
This medieval church played an important role in Scotland’s religious history. Once here, visitors can learn about its turbulent past. John Knox, a pioneer of the Scottish Reformation, served as a minister of St Giles Cathedral for many years.
Don’t forget to visit the stunning Thistle Chapel. It is gorgeously ornate with many stone and wood carvings. Also, look out for the angel playing the bagpipes.
7. See History Come Alive at The Royal Mile
After visiting St Giles Cathedral, stroll along the historic Royal Mile and walk towards the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
Royal Mile is one of the oldest thoroughfares in the city and runs from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Interestingly, the street is longer than a mile.
The historic street is lined with several souvenir shops, traditional pubs, historic attractions, and busy restaurants. It is the tourist hotspot of the city.
Usually, you will find street performers entertaining the audience here. It gets very busy during the Edinburgh Fringe festival.
Along the main street, you will find several alleyways branching off. These narrow access paths date back to medieval times and are known as closes. We would recommend checking out Advocates Close, Dunbar’s Close and White Horse Close.
Other than the attractions mentioned in this article, if you have time, you can visit the Scottish Storytelling Centre, the Museum of Edinburgh and the Scottish Parliament on the Royal Mile.
8. Uncover history and heritage at the Palace of Holyrood House
Located at the end of the Royal Mile, the Palace of Holyrood House is the royal residence of the British monarch in Scotland.
This is a great place for history lovers. You get a glimpse of Royal life and learn about the riveting tales of the kings and queens who lived here. It was the home of Mary Queen of Scots from 1561 to 1567. Take a tour of the palace to visit her bed chambers and the supper room.
Another famous historical personality who lived here is the Bonnie Prince Charlie. He set up court in this palace for six weeks.
Visitors can also explore the grand State Apartments, Throne Room and the Privy Chambers.
Ramble around the beautiful palace garden. Plus, don’t forget to explore the ruins of Holyrood Abbey, which was founded in 1128.
Opening Hours: April – October 09:30-18:00, November – March 09:30-16:30 Ticket: Adult £18 and child £10
9. View Edinburgh from Above from the Iconic Arthur’s Seat
It is hard to miss the imposing peak of Arthur’s Seat and the dramatic rocky stretch of Salisbury Crags. Located right next to the palace, Holyrood Park is a great place to enjoy the outdoors. There are many walking trails for different abilities.
Created by volcanic activity millions of years ago, Arthur’s Seat is one of the favourite places for locals and tourists alike, to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views over Edinburgh. We love climbing it at sunset.
Arthur’s Seat is only 251 metres high, and it usually takes 30-45 minutes to reach the summit. Follow our guide on the best possible route to tackle Arthur’s Seat.
Honestly, your first day in Edinburgh was quite a busy one. So, it is okay if you are not up for a long hike.
In that case, we would recommend walking up to Salisbury Crags. Although the trail is steep in a few places, the walk is short and the sweeping birds-eye view over Edinburgh is well worth the effort.
Tips: Before heading out to climb Arthur’s Seat, check the weather forecast. We would not recommend trying this hike in rainy and windy weather. Also, the summit can get very windy. So, for some extra warmth, bring a jacket.
Dinner
Edinburgh has a diverse food scene. For those craving some Indian curry, pop inside Mother India’s Cafe and Rustom.
For a luxurious fine dining experience, we suggest checking out The Kitchin, Restaurant Martin Wishart, Wedgwood the Restaurant, and The Pompadour. These places offer exceptional food and service and are perfect for special celebrations.
If you are looking for a more laid-back dining experience, we would suggest checking out some of our personal favourites, such as Nok’s Kitchen, BABA, Howies, The Scran and Scallie, Mamma Roma, Pizzeria 1926 and Ship on the Shore. These places offer delicious food at a moderate price range.
2 Days In Edinburgh Itinerary: Day 2
Start your second day with a delicious breakfast in The Pantry, one of our favourite breakfast places in Edinburgh. It gets very busy on weekends. So, get there early to avoid the queue.
There are some great cafes and restaurants in Stockbridge. Pop inside Soderberg Stockbridge, Twelve Triangles, The Pastry Section and Artisan Roast Stockbridge.
1. Explore the Vibrant Stockbridge and Circus Lane
10-15 minutes walk from Princes Street
Stockbridge is one of the most vibrant and cool neighbourhoods in Edinburgh. Located only a short walking distance from the city centre, Stockbridge gives a charming bohemian vibe.
The streets are lined with various independent galleries, trendy bars, cosy cafes, and boutique shops.
Stockbridge is named after an old wooden bridge on the Water of Leith. Back then, this bustling neighbourhood was only a wee village. Later, many affluent residents of Edinburgh moved here. Stockbridge became home to various artists, architects and poets.
No visit to Stockbridge would be complete without taking a stroll around the cobbled street of Circus Lane, one of the most photographed spots in Edinburgh.
This alluring street is famous for its romantic setting – the imposing St Stephen’s church in the backdrop, vibrant display of seasonal flowers and charming mews houses.
If you are visiting Stockbridge on a Sunday morning, pop inside Stockbridge Farmer’s Market. Local vendors sell everything from delicious street foods to a wide range of artisan products.
When it is time to say goodbye to Stockbridge, follow the path along the Water of Leith to explore the next stop of your itinerary, Dean Village.
Tips: On your way to Dean Village, watch out for St Bernards Well. It is over 230 years old now. You will find a statue of the Greek goddess Hygieia at the centre.
2. Be Captivated by the Charming Dean Village
10-15 minutes walk from Stockbridge
Suggested visit time: 20-30 minutes
Tucked away in a steep-sided valley on the bank of the Water of Leith, the picturesque Dean Village is a tranquil oasis away from all the hubbubs of Edinburgh.
Exploring this sleepy hamlet will make you feel like you have stepped inside a period drama where time is frozen.
Dean Village was once famous for its grain milling industry, which lasted over eight hundred years. Even today, you can find mill stones and stone plaques with engraved signs of baked bread and pies.
The colourful half-timbered houses, hidden alleys and courts, lush greenery and a rushing river paint a dreamy picture of Dean Village. If you are wondering what to see here, we have written a guide on the places in Dean Village you need to explore.
Stroll leisurely around the photogenic cobbled streets. Admire the views from the single-arched stone bridge. As you walk towards the steep Hawthornbank Lane, the iconic clock tower of Well Court comes into view. Walk up to the small metal bridge for one of the most iconic views of Edinburgh.
Tips: There is a beautiful weir just a few steps away from the centre of Dean Village. Follow the Water of Leith path towards the Gallery of Modern Art to find it.
3. Enjoy Strolls on the Princes Street Gardens
12 minutes walk from Dean Village
This city has no shortage of open green spaces. But Princes Street Garden is surely a special one. It runs along the busy Princes Street and is one of the must-visit places in Edinburgh. The garden is divided into two parts – east and west.
During the hot summer days, you will find locals and tourists sunbathing and relaxing here. From the West Princes Street Garden, you will get a dramatic view of the towering Edinburgh Castle. Ramble around the beautifully ornate Ross Fountain.
There are many statues of historical figures, sculptures, monuments and memorials around the garden. Look out for Wojtek the Soldier Bear Memorial, the Scottish American Memorial and the Floral Clock, which is the oldest of its kind in the world.
Don’t forget to check out the beautiful Gardener’s Cottage, which was built in 1868. This Victorian house looks super cute and photogenic.
4. Explore the National Gallery of Scotland
Suggested visit time: 1-1.5 hours
For art aficionados and culture lovers, the National Gallery of Scotland is one of the best places to visit in Edinburgh.
Sitting at the base of The Mound, this beautiful Neoclassical historic building houses an impressive collection of priceless paintings and sculptures by renowned European and Scottish artists.
The gallery features several paintings from Italian Renaissance masterpieces and French Impressionist works.
Among its extensive collection, visitors will find famous paintings, such as Botticelli’s “Virgin Adoring the Sleeping Christ Child’, Rembrandt’s “Self-Portrait”, and Titian’s “Diana and Callisto”.
Also, expect to find masterpieces of Constable, Monet, Paul Gauguin, Degas, van Gogh and Turner, along with the works of renowned Scottish artists, including Raeburn, Traquair, Mackintosh and the Glasgow Boys.
Watch out for the famous paintings “The Monarch of the Glen” by Edwin Landseer and “The Skating Minister” by Henry Rayburn.
Opening Hours: Daily, 10 am – 5 pm.
Lunch – There are an array of shops and restaurants on Princes Street. For a quick bite, we would suggest visiting Victor Hugo Deli on George Street. This cafe has a great selection of sandwiches, cakes and coffee.
5. Climb the Scott Monument for Views over Edinburgh
Standing proudly at the edge of West Princes Street Gardens, Scott Monument is one of the unmissable historic landmarks of Edinburgh. It commemorates the legendary Scottish author, Sir Walter Scott.
The stunning Gothic masterpiece is the second-largest monument in the world dedicated to a writer.
The exterior of the tower is decorated with carved figures of several famous Scottish writers and various characters from Scott’s novels. At the base of the monument, you would find a marble statue of the bard with his beloved dog.
If you are not afraid of heights and do not suffer from claustrophobia, you can easily climb to the top of Scott Monument. From the observation platforms, you will get breathtaking views of the city.
6. Option 1 – Go Ghost Hunting in the Real Mary Kings Close
7 minutes walk from Scott Monument
Hidden underneath the busy Royal Mile, the Real Mary King’s Close is a labyrinth of preserved 17th-century streets in Edinburgh. The only way to access this tourist attraction is by a guided tour.
The historic close is named after Mary King, a prominent businesswoman who used to live here during the 17th century.
During the tour, you will learn gripping tales about the colourful lives of the residents who used to live here. Tours usually last for about an hour.
It is rumoured to be one of the haunted places in Edinburgh. Real Mary King’s Close has been at the centre of several urban myths and legends.
Ticket: Adult £22.50, child £16.
Option 2 – Be Royalty for a Day at Royal Yacht Britannia
Hop on a tram from Princes Street towards Newhaven and get down at the Ocean Terminal stop.
Located in the Port of Leith, a bit away from the city centre, the Royal Yacht Britannia is one of the best kid-friendly visitor attractions in Edinburgh.
This historic ship has carried the British Royal Family all around the globe for over forty years. Also, in its heyday, it hosted several prominent world leaders, including Nelson Mandela and Winston Churchill.
This former Royal residence was built at the shipyard in Clydebank, Scotland. It was launched by Queen Elizabeth II on 16 April 1953.
Explore the five decks of this former royal ship. You can visit the Queen’s bedroom, the state dining and drawing room, the Crew Quarters and the Engine Room.
Ticket: £19.50 adult and child £9.25.
7. See Edinburgh’s Finest View from Calton Hill
And, of course, you can’t leave Edinburgh without admiring the breathtaking panoramic view from Calton Hill. It is a popular spot to watch the sunset.
Don’t let the word ‘hill’ fool you. Calton Hill is not very high. It sits at an elevation of only 103 metres, and the walk to the top does not require much effort. There is a well-maintained and easy-to-follow path.
From the top, you will get a unique perspective of several city landmarks, including Edinburgh Castle, Arthur’s Seat, Scott Monument, and the Old Town.
Also, Calton Hill is home to several classical Greek-style monuments and historical landmarks.
It is hard to miss the iconic National Monument of Scotland, modelled after the Parthenon in Athens. Next to the National Monument, you will find the Nelson Monument. For an even more elevated view, you can climb to the top of it.
Also, visit the Dugald Stewart Monument, Old Calton Burial Ground, the Collective and the Burns Monument.
Afternoon Tea
Afternoon tea is a quintessentially British tradition that has been enjoyed for centuries. There are quite a few places in Edinburgh to enjoy a decadent afternoon tea experience.
Located near St Giles’ Cathedral, The Colonnades at the Signet Library is our personal favourite. This historic building is home to one of the city’s most beautiful libraries and provides an elegant setting. The menu includes all the traditional favourites along with an extensive tea selection.
Another iconic place to indulge in afternoon tea in Edinburgh is Palm Court, housed inside the Balmoral Hotel. It is a stunning location with its high ceilings, ornate pillars, and elegant decor.
Drinks & Nibbles – If you are looking for a place to grab a drink and some nibbles, you would be spoilt for choice. We recommend checking out The Dome, Pickles, The Voodoo Rooms, and Panda & Sons.
If You Have More Than 2 Days In Edinburgh?
If you have more than two days, there’s still plenty to do and see in this city.
You can add Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, the Scotch Whisky Experience, the Scottish National Portrait Gallery and Lauriston Castle to your itinerary.
Also, we would highly recommend taking a day trip from Edinburgh on your extra days. There are plenty of amazing places only a short distance away from this city.
For all history lovers, Stirling is a must-visit. The city offers many historical attractions, including the magnificent Stirling Castle and the iconic National Wallace Monument.
For a dose of culture, take a day trip to the largest city of Scotland, Glasgow. Some of the highlights of your visit will include the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, Riverside Museum and the Burrell Collection. Also, this city features various colourful street art. You can follow the Glasgow Mural Trail to discover them.
Nature and adventure lovers should add a trip to the incredibly beautiful Loch Lomond to their Edinburgh itinerary.
If you are a golf-lover, you have to visit St Andrews. This pretty university town is renowned as the birthplace of golf.
Not too far from St Andrews, Dundee is perfect for a day trip from Edinburgh for all culture lovers. You can visit the V&A Dundee, Discovery Point and the Dundee Law.
Map of Two Days in Edinburgh Itinerary
Here is a Google Map showing all the must-visit tourist attractions mentioned in this travel guide. And to make your trip even better, we’ve also included some of the best cafés, restaurants, and pubs in the city. Don’t forget to save the map for future use.
Best Time to Visit Edinburgh
This city is truly an all-year-round destination. So, the answer to that question really depends on what you’re looking for.
Summer – This is the peak tourist season. During the summer months, Edinburgh experiences warm weather and longer days, providing ample time to explore. However, be prepared for larger crowds and higher hotel prices.
In August, the city hosts the world-renowned Festival Fringe, the largest arts festival in the world, along with the Edinburgh International Festival and the Royal Military Tattoo.
Spring and Autumn – If you’re looking for a quieter and more affordable time to visit, consider visiting Edinburgh in the shoulder months of April and May or September and October.
During this time, there are fewer tourists around. Although the temperature is moderate, you will get some rain. Often, it gets very windy too. Scottish weather is famous for being unpredictable. You may experience all four seasons in one day.
Winter – Edinburgh hosts one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in the UK. The whole city shines bright during the holiday season. If you’re planning to visit this city in winter, make sure to pack enough warm clothes. If you are lucky, you might even see some fresh coat of snow.
How to Reach Edinburgh
This place is well connected to other big cities around the world. Getting here shouldn’t be hard, no matter where you’re starting from.
By Air: Edinburgh Airport welcomes flights from various major cities of the world. Also, there are frequent domestic flights from London, Birmingham and Bristol.
The airport is a 20-minute taxi ride or a 30-minute tram ride away from the city centre. Also, you can catch Airlink 100 to St Andrew Square.
By Train: Edinburgh Waverley railway station is the main train station. There are regular train services to various cities in England and Scotland.
By Bus: The main bus station is located on St Andrew Square in the city centre. You can take the overnight bus from London to Edinburgh, which takes around 9 hours.
How to Get Around Edinburgh
The Edinburgh city centre is quite compact and is easy to navigate on foot. Make sure to have comfortable footwear and a jacket to protect you from rain. Except for the Royal Yacht Britannia, all the tourist attractions mentioned in this article can be explored on foot.
That said, if you are keen on exploring the outskirts of Edinburgh, you can easily catch a local bus or tram. The city’s public transport network is extensive and efficient. We would recommend getting a day ticket if you are making multiple journeys.
With its stunning architecture, fascinating history, and welcoming locals, we hope that Edinburgh has captured your heart. It is truly one of the most unique cities in Europe. No doubt, you will create many unforgettable memories during your visit. We would be glad if this itinerary was helpful in planning your trip.
Love, Moumita & Sankha