Edimbourg

Edinburgh in November has a unique charm, with the crisp air and the possibility of a sprinkle of early winter magic. Let’s dive into a delightful 2-day itinerary that balances history, culture, and a bit of cozy fun!

Day 1: Exploring the Old Town

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your day with a hearty Scottish breakfast at a cozy café like The Baked Potato Shop or Hula Juice Bar & Café. A warm bowl of porridge or a full Scottish breakfast will set you up nicely for the day!

• Edinburgh Castle: After breakfast, head to the iconic Edinburgh Castle. It’s best to get there early to avoid the crowds. Explore the Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny, and enjoy stunning views of the city from the castle ramparts.

Midday:

• Royal Mile Stroll: After your castle visit, take a leisurely stroll down the Royal Mile. Pop into the various shops, and don’t miss the chance to visit St Giles' Cathedral. The architecture is breathtaking, and it’s a great spot for some photos!

• Lunch at a Pub: Stop for lunch at a traditional pub like The Royal McGregor or The Last Drop. Try some haggis, neeps, and tatties for an authentic taste of Scotland!

Afternoon:

• The Real Mary King’s Close: After lunch, take a guided tour of Mary King’s Close. This underground tour gives you a fascinating glimpse into Edinburgh’s past and the lives of its residents during the 17th century.

• National Museum of Scotland: Spend your afternoon at the National Museum of Scotland. It’s free to enter and has a fantastic collection of Scottish history, culture, and even some natural history exhibits. Don’t forget to check out the rooftop terrace for panoramic views!

Evening:

• Dinner in Grassmarket: Head to the Grassmarket area for dinner. There are plenty of options, but The White Hart Inn is a great choice for traditional fare in a historic setting.

• Ghost Tour: To cap off your first day, why not join a ghost tour? Edinburgh is known for its spooky history, and a guided tour through the Old Town at night can be both thrilling and entertaining!

Day 2: New Town and Beyond

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Bakery: Start your day with a pastry and coffee at Mimi’s Bakehouse in Leith. Their cakes and pastries are to die for!

• Scott Monument: After breakfast, take a stroll to the Scott Monument. If you’re feeling adventurous, climb the 287 steps for a fantastic view of the city!

Midday:

• Princes Street Gardens: Enjoy a leisurely walk through Princes Street Gardens. The gardens are beautiful, especially in November, and you can take in the views of the castle from below.

• Lunch at a Café: Grab a light lunch at The Elephant House, famously known as the place where J.K. Rowling wrote parts of Harry Potter. The atmosphere is cozy, and the food is delightful!

Afternoon:

• Calton Hill: After lunch, make your way to Calton Hill. It’s a bit of a climb, but the views of the city and the iconic monuments are worth it. It’s a great spot for some memorable photos!

• Scottish National Gallery: Spend your afternoon at the Scottish National Gallery. It houses an impressive collection of art, including works by Van Gogh, Monet, and Scottish artists. Plus, it’s free!

Evening:

• Dinner at a Fine Restaurant: For your last evening, treat yourself to dinner at a nice restaurant like The Kitchin or Number One at Balmoral. Make sure to book in advance, as these places can fill up quickly!

• Evening Stroll: After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the Water of Leith or through the cobbled streets of the New Town. The city lights up beautifully at night, and it’s a perfect way to end your Edinburgh adventure.

Tips for November:

• Dress in Layers: The weather can be quite chilly and unpredictable, so be sure to dress in layers and bring a waterproof jacket.
• Check for Events: November often has various events and festivals, so check local listings for anything special happening during your visit.

I hope this itinerary helps you make the most of your two days in Edinburgh! Enjoy every moment of your trip!