Edinburgh

Edinburgh is such a charming city, rich in history and culture, and two days is a perfect amount of time to soak in its essence at a relaxed pace. Let’s dive into your itinerary!

Day 1: The Royal Mile and Old Town

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your day with a hearty Scottish breakfast at a cozy café. Try “The Baked Potato Shop” for a delicious baked potato or “The Edinburgh Larder” for a more traditional breakfast.

• Edinburgh Castle: After breakfast, head to the iconic Edinburgh Castle. It’s a must-see! Take your time exploring the Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny. The views from the castle are breathtaking, so don’t forget your camera!

Midday:

• Stroll Down the Royal Mile: After your castle visit, wander down the Royal Mile. This historic street is lined with shops, street performers, and quaint little pubs. Pop into St Giles' Cathedral to admire its stunning architecture and beautiful stained glass windows.

• Lunch at a Pub: Stop for lunch at “The Royal McGregor” or “The Last Drop,” where you can enjoy some traditional Scottish fare like haggis or Cullen skink.

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.

• Explore the Grassmarket: After your tour, head to the Grassmarket area. It’s a vibrant spot with lots of history, and you can enjoy a leisurely walk around the cobbled streets. There are plenty of shops and cafés to explore.

Evening:

• Dinner at a Local Restaurant: For dinner, consider “The Witchery by the Castle” for a truly magical dining experience or “Howies” for a more casual vibe with delicious local dishes.

• Ghost Tour: If you’re up for it, end your day with a ghost tour! Edinburgh is known for its spooky history, and a guided tour can be a fun way to learn about the city’s darker past.

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Day 2: Arthur’s Seat and New Town

Morning:

• Breakfast at Your Accommodation or a Local Café: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast. If you’re feeling adventurous, try “The Pantry” in Stockbridge for a delightful start to your day.

• Arthur’s Seat: After breakfast, make your way to Holyrood Park and hike up Arthur’s Seat. It’s a bit of a climb, but the panoramic views of the city are absolutely worth it! Take your time and enjoy the scenery.

Midday:

• Lunch at Holyrood Palace Café: After your hike, you can grab a light lunch at the café near the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

• Visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse: After lunch, take a tour of the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the monarch in Scotland. The State Apartments and the beautiful gardens are a treat!

Afternoon:

• Scottish Parliament: Just a short walk from the palace, you can visit the Scottish Parliament. The architecture is modern and striking, and you can take a guided tour to learn about Scotland’s political history.

• Leisurely Stroll in the Meadows: After your visit, take a leisurely stroll through the Meadows, a lovely park where you can relax and enjoy the greenery. It’s a great spot to unwind and people-watch.

Evening:

• Dinner in New Town: For your final dinner, head to the New Town area. “The Kitchin” is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a fine dining experience, or “Dishoom” for some delicious Indian cuisine in a vibrant setting.

• Evening Walk: If you have the energy, take a stroll along George Street or through the beautiful streets of New Town, soaking in the evening atmosphere.

And there you have it! A delightful two-day itinerary that allows you to explore the historic charm of Edinburgh at a relaxed pace. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of photos!