Edinburgh

Oh, how exciting! Spending Christmas in Edinburgh is like stepping into a festive wonderland! The city is beautifully adorned with lights, and the atmosphere is just magical. Here’s a delightful 3-day itinerary that will help you soak in all the holiday cheer while exploring the best of Edinburgh.

Day 1: Christmas Markets and Historic Sights

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Cozy Café: Start your day with a hearty Scottish breakfast at a local café. Try the Baked Potato Shop or The Edinburgh Larder for some delicious options.
• Edinburgh Castle: After breakfast, head to the iconic Edinburgh Castle. It’s a must-see! The views from the castle are breathtaking, and you can explore the history of Scotland here. Don’t forget to check out the Crown Jewels!

Afternoon:

• Lunch at the Grassmarket: Stroll down to the Grassmarket area for lunch. There are plenty of pubs and eateries where you can enjoy some traditional Scottish fare.
• Christmas Market: After lunch, make your way to the East Princes Street Gardens for the Edinburgh Christmas Market. It’s filled with festive stalls, delicious food, and unique gifts. Don’t miss out on the mulled wine and roasted chestnuts!

Evening:

• Dinner at a Traditional Pub: Enjoy dinner at a traditional Scottish pub like The Last Drop or The Bow Bar. Try some haggis if you’re feeling adventurous!
• Light Show: End your day with a stroll through the gardens to see the stunning light displays. The atmosphere is enchanting, especially with the Christmas lights twinkling.

Day 2: Royal Mile and Festive Fun

Morning:

• Royal Mile Exploration: Start your day by walking down the Royal Mile. Pop into St Giles' Cathedral to admire its beautiful architecture and stained glass windows.
• Breakfast at a Local Bakery: Grab a pastry and coffee from a local bakery like The Patisserie or Manna House.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at a Local Eatery: Enjoy lunch at a spot along the Royal Mile. The Witchery by the Castle is a lovely option if you want something a bit fancy!
• Scottish National Gallery: After lunch, visit the Scottish National Gallery. It’s free and has an impressive collection of art. Plus, it’s a great way to warm up!

Evening:

• Dinner and a Show: Treat yourself to dinner at a restaurant like The Kitchin or The Scran & Scallie. Afterward, check if there are any Christmas-themed performances or concerts happening in the city. The Usher Hall often has festive shows during this time!

Day 3: Arthur’s Seat and New Year’s Eve Preparations

Morning:

• Hike Arthur’s Seat: Start your day with a hike up Arthur’s Seat for stunning panoramic views of the city. It’s a bit of a climb, but the views are absolutely worth it!
• Brunch at a Café: After your hike, reward yourself with brunch at a nearby café like The Holyrood 9A.

Afternoon:

• Palace of Holyroodhouse: Visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the Queen in Scotland. The palace is beautifully decorated for the holidays, and you can learn about its rich history.
• Explore the Royal Botanic Garden: If time allows, take a leisurely stroll through the Royal Botanic Garden. It’s a lovely place to relax and enjoy nature.

Evening:

• New Year’s Eve Celebrations: If you’re in Edinburgh for New Year’s Eve, the city hosts one of the biggest celebrations in the world! Head to the street party on Princes Street, enjoy live music, and soak in the festive atmosphere. Don’t forget to grab some food from the stalls!

Tips:

• Dress Warmly: Edinburgh can be quite chilly in December, so layer up!
• Book in Advance: If you plan to dine at popular restaurants or attend events, make reservations ahead of time.
• Enjoy the Festivities: Take your time to enjoy the festive decorations, street performances, and the overall holiday spirit!

I hope this itinerary helps you have a wonderful Christmas in Edinburgh! Enjoy every moment of your festive adventure! 🎄✨