Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a fantastic city with so much to offer, and two days is just enough to get a taste of its charm, history, and stunning landscapes. Let’s dive into an ideal itinerary that keeps you in popular spaces and minimizes transportation.

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 on the Royal Mile. Try “The Baked Potato Shop” for a delicious and filling option.
• Edinburgh Castle: After breakfast, head up to Edinburgh Castle. It’s a must-see! Explore the historic fortress, enjoy the stunning views of the city, and don’t miss the Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny.

Midday:

• Stroll Down the Royal Mile: After your castle visit, take a leisurely walk down the Royal Mile. Pop into the various shops, and don’t forget to check out St Giles' Cathedral with its stunning architecture.
• Lunch at a Pub: Stop for lunch at a traditional Scottish pub like “The Royal McGregor” for some haggis or a classic fish and chips.

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.
• Explore the Grassmarket: Head over to the Grassmarket area, known for its vibrant atmosphere and historic significance. You can grab a coffee at one of the many cafés and enjoy the view of the castle.

Evening:

• Dinner at a Local Restaurant: For dinner, try “The Witchery by the Castle” for a truly magical dining experience. The ambiance is enchanting, and the food is exquisite.
• Ghost Tour: If you’re up for it, finish your day with a ghost tour. Edinburgh is known for its spooky history, and a night-time stroll through the Old Town can be thrilling!

Day 2: New Town and Arthur’s Seat

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Bakery: Start your day with pastries and coffee at “Patisserie Valerie” or “Mimi’s Bakehouse” in the New Town.
• Scottish National Gallery: After breakfast, visit the Scottish National Gallery. It’s free and houses an impressive collection of art, including works by Van Gogh and Monet.

Midday:

• Stroll through Princes Street Gardens: Take a leisurely walk through the beautiful Princes Street Gardens. Enjoy the views of the castle and the Scott Monument.
• Lunch at a Café: Grab a light lunch at “The Edinburgh Larder” for some locally sourced dishes.

Afternoon:

• Arthur’s Seat: After lunch, 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.

Evening:

• Dinner in Leith: Head to the Leith area for dinner. “The Kitchin” is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for fine dining, or you can opt for something more casual at “The Shore” for some fresh seafood.
• Evening Walk along the Water: After dinner, take a stroll along the Water of Leith. It’s a lovely way to end your day, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.

Tips:

• Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking!
• Keep an eye on the weather; Edinburgh can be quite changeable, so a light jacket or umbrella might come in handy.
• Don’t forget to take lots of photos; the city is incredibly picturesque!

There you have it! A delightful two-day itinerary that captures the essence of Edinburgh while keeping you in popular spaces. Enjoy your trip!