Edinburgh

Edinburgh is such a charming city with a perfect blend of history, culture, and stunning green spaces. Here’s a delightful 3-day itinerary that will let you soak in the beauty of the city while enjoying its parks and gardens. Let’s get started!

Day 1: Exploring the Old Town and Parks

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.
• Edinburgh Castle: After breakfast, head to the iconic Edinburgh Castle. Explore the historic fortress and enjoy breathtaking views of the city from the castle walls.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at Grassmarket: Stroll down to the Grassmarket area, where you can find plenty of pubs and eateries. Try The Last Drop for a traditional meal.
• Holyrood Park: After lunch, take a leisurely walk to Holyrood Park. This expansive park is perfect for a scenic stroll. Don’t miss the chance to hike up Arthur’s Seat, an ancient volcano that offers panoramic views of the city. It’s a bit of a climb, but totally worth it!

Evening:

• Dinner in the Old Town: Head back to the Old Town for dinner. The Witchery by the Castle is a fantastic choice for a special meal, or you can opt for something more casual at Oink for some delicious pulled pork.
• Evening Stroll: After dinner, take a stroll along the Royal Mile, soaking in the atmosphere and perhaps stopping by a pub for a nightcap.

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Day 2: New Town and Gardens

Morning:

• Breakfast at The Pantry: Start your day in Stockbridge at The Pantry, known for its delicious brunch options.
• Royal Botanic Garden: After breakfast, make your way to the Royal Botanic Garden. Spend a couple of hours wandering through the beautiful gardens, greenhouses, and enjoying the tranquility.

Afternoon:

• Lunch in Stockbridge: Head back to Stockbridge for lunch. The Scran & Scallie is a lovely gastropub with a great atmosphere.
• Dean Village: Post-lunch, take a short walk to Dean Village, a picturesque area with charming architecture and the Water of Leith. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll and some lovely photos.

Evening:

• Dinner at a New Town Restaurant: For dinner, try Dishoom for some fantastic Indian cuisine in a vibrant setting.
• Evening Walk at Calton Hill: After dinner, take a walk up Calton Hill. The views of the city at sunset are simply magical, and you can see the National Monument and the Nelson Monument while you’re there.

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Day 3: Culture and More Green Spaces

Morning:

• Breakfast at The Elephant House: This café is famous for being one of J.K. Rowling’s writing spots. Enjoy a lovely breakfast and maybe even a cup of their famous hot chocolate.
• National Museum of Scotland: After breakfast, head to the National Museum of Scotland. It’s a fantastic place to learn about Scottish history, culture, and natural history.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at the Museum Café: Grab a bite at the museum café or head to Mamma’s Pizza nearby for a quick and tasty meal.
• Inverleith Park: After lunch, make your way to Inverleith Park, which is right next to the Botanic Garden. It’s a lovely spot for a walk, and you can enjoy views of the gardens and the city skyline.

Evening:

• Dinner at a Local Pub: For your last dinner in Edinburgh, consider The Sheep Heid Inn, one of the oldest pubs in Scotland, located in Duddingston. It’s a bit of a trek but worth it for the atmosphere and food.
• Final Stroll: If you have the energy, take a final evening stroll around Duddingston Loch, a serene spot to reflect on your trip.

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And there you have it! A delightful 3-day itinerary that balances the rich history of Edinburgh with its beautiful parks and green spaces. Enjoy your adventure in this enchanting city! If you have any questions or need more recommendations, feel free to ask!