9 day itinerary for Edinburgh

Itinerary

Edinburgh is a fantastic city with a rich history, stunning architecture, and plenty of activities to keep you entertained. Here’s a delightful 9-day itinerary that incorporates your interests in horseback riding and royalty. Let’s saddle up and dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival and Royal Welcome

• Morning: Arrive in Edinburgh and check into your hotel. I recommend staying in the Old Town for a charming experience.
• Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll down the Royal Mile. Stop by St. Giles' Cathedral and admire its stunning architecture.
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional Scottish dinner at a local pub. Try haggis if you’re feeling adventurous!

## Day 2: Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Experience

• Morning: Visit the iconic Edinburgh Castle. Explore the Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny—perfect for your royal theme!
• Afternoon: Head to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the monarch in Scotland. Take a guided tour to learn about its royal history.
• Evening: Enjoy a romantic dinner at a restaurant with views of the castle, like The Witchery by the Castle.

## Day 3: Horseback Riding Adventure

• Morning: Take a day trip to the countryside for a horseback riding experience. There are several stables around Edinburgh, such as the Edinburgh Riding School or Pentland Hills.
• Afternoon: Enjoy a picnic lunch in the beautiful Pentland Hills after your ride. The scenery is breathtaking!
• Evening: Return to Edinburgh and relax at your hotel or explore a local bar for some live music.

## Day 4: Arthur’s Seat and Royal Parks

• Morning: Hike up Arthur’s Seat, an ancient volcano that offers stunning views of the city. It’s a great way to start the day!
• Afternoon: After your hike, wander through Holyrood Park and enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby café.
• Evening: Visit the Scottish Parliament for a guided tour, where you can learn about Scotland’s political history.

## Day 5: Day Trip to Stirling

• Morning: Take a train to Stirling (about 30 minutes). Visit Stirling Castle, another royal residence with a rich history.
• Afternoon: Explore the Wallace Monument and learn about the legendary William Wallace. The views from the top are spectacular!
• Evening: Return to Edinburgh and enjoy a cozy dinner at a local restaurant.

## Day 6: Royal Yacht Britannia and Leith

• Morning: Visit the Royal Yacht Britannia, the former floating palace of the Queen. Explore the luxurious rooms and learn about its history.
• Afternoon: Stroll around the Leith area, where you can find charming shops and cafes. Enjoy lunch at a waterfront restaurant.
• Evening: Consider a sunset cruise on the Firth of Forth for a romantic evening.

## Day 7: Cultural Day

• Morning: Visit the National Museum of Scotland. It’s a treasure trove of Scottish history and culture.
• Afternoon: Explore the Grassmarket area, filled with quirky shops and cafes. Grab lunch and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
• Evening: Attend a traditional Scottish ceilidh (dance) for a fun and lively experience!

## Day 8: More Horseback Riding

• Morning: Head out for another horseback riding adventure, perhaps along the beach at Portobello or through the scenic countryside.
• Afternoon: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a seaside café in Portobello, followed by a stroll along the beach.
• Evening: Return to Edinburgh and have a romantic dinner at a fine dining restaurant, such as Number One at Balmoral.

## Day 9: Departure

• Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs on the Royal Mile.
• Afternoon: Depending on your flight time, you might have a chance to visit the Scottish National Gallery to see some incredible art.
• Evening: Head to the airport for your departure, taking with you wonderful memories of your royal adventure in Edinburgh!

I hope this itinerary gives you a perfect blend of royal experiences and horseback riding adventures! Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of photos! 🏰🐴✨