Edinburgh Scotland, UK Travel Guide
A short layover means focusing on Edinburgh's most iconic and central sights. Arrive, store luggage at Waverley Station, then head to Edinburgh Castle.
Walk down the Royal Mile, visit St Giles' Cathedral, then a quick pub lunch. Stroll through Princes Street Gardens. Climb Calton Hill for panoramic views, especially at dusk. Enjoy dinner, then depart.
A two-day trip visit dive into the Old and New Towns.
Reach your destination and check in. Head to Edinburgh Castle for the morning. Afterwards, walk the Royal Mile, visit St Giles' Cathedral, and explore a close like Mary King's Close.
Explore the elegant Georgian New Town, including Princes Street for retail therapy and George A street for boutiques. Visit the National Gallery of Scotland. Hike Arthur's Seat (2-3 hours) or climb Calton Hill for more convenient views.
Take a bus or tram to Leith. Visit the Regal Yacht Britannia and discover the waterfront. Enjoy a coffee. Later, visit the National Museum of Scotland (free entry) or revisit a favorite spot. Collect luggage and depart.
A week allows for thorough city exploration and a taste of the region. Follow the 2-3 day plan, then add days for Stockbridge, Edinburgh Zoo/Dynamic Earth, and a whisky tasting.
For stays longer than two weeks, truly live like a local. Explore different neighborhoods, engage in community events, or attend language classes.
Leisurely explore Edinburgh, adding hidden gems and multi-day excursions to the Highlands, Isle of Skye, or the East Coast.
Live like a local, explore neighborhoods, engage in community events, and extensive regional trips.
Consider Historic Scotland or National Trust for Scotland memberships for ongoing site access.
Tailor your itinerary to your specific passions.
Immerse yourself in Edinburgh's rich past. Day 1 covers Edinburgh Castle, Royal Mile, St Giles' Cathedral, Real Mary King's Close, and Palace of Holyroodhouse.
Savor Scotland's flavors. Day 1: Full Scottish Breakfast, pub lunch (haggis), Scotch whisky tasting, fine dining in Leith.
Explore Edinburgh's natural side. Day 1: Hike Arthur's Seat, climb Calton Hill for city peaks. Day 2: Walk or bike the Water of Leith Walkway. Take a Firth of Forth boat trip from South Queensferry.
Plan fun for all ages. Day 1: Edinburgh Castle (Crown Jewels), Camera Obscura & World of Illusions (interactive fun).
Dive into Edinburgh's artistic and structural beauty. Day 1: National Gallery of Scotland, Scottish National Portrait Gallery, Scottish National Gallery of Contemporary Art (Modern One & Two).
Find peace and reflection in Edinburgh. Day 1: St Giles' Cathedral, Greyfriars Kirk & Kirkyard (peaceful walk), Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh.
Edinburgh experiences for every budget.
Stay in hostels with communal kitchens. Buy groceries for breakfast/lunch; enjoy cheap pub lunches or takeaways.
Stay in well-rated B&Bs, mid-range hotels, or serviced apartments. Mix casual and mid-range restaurants; enjoy pub meals. Try a few local specialties.
Indulge in premium services and comfort. Stay in 5-star hotels or high-end boutique properties. Enjoy fine dining and afternoon tea at high-end hotels.
Make your budget stretch further. Travel during shoulder or low season for lower prices. Book your travel and lodging well in advance.
Edinburgh Festival Fringe, International Festival, Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. Long daylight hours for outdoor activities.
Christmas markets, festive lights, world-famous Hogmanay celebrations. Cozy pubs and fewer crowds (except December).
Focus on indoor attractions like museums. Lower prices for flights and accommodation. A more local Edinburgh without the crowds.
Plan your visit to coincide with Edinburgh's seasonal charms and world-renowned events.
Edinburgh comes alive during its peak seasons, offering unique cultural and festive experiences.
Experience the festive cheer and traditional celebrations that define Edinburgh's winter months.
Discover Edinburgh with fewer crowds and potentially lower prices by visiting during the off-season.
If being present at a specific festival, planning ahead is for a smooth trip.
Beyond major festivals, each season brings its own unique set of activities and experiences in and around Edinburgh.
During major festivals like Fringe or Hogmanay, reserve all arrangements many months ahead.
Expect higher prices for accommodation and transport during peak festival times.
