Edinburgh

Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is a city rich in history and culture. Known for its striking medieval and Georgian architecture, the city is home to iconic landmarks such as Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile. It has a vibrant cultural scene, most famously hosting the Edinburgh Festival and Fringe, the world’s largest arts festival. Edinburgh also boasts a rich intellectual heritage, having been a center of the Enlightenment in the 18th century. I absolutely loved the liveliness of the city and will definitely be returing!

Highlights

Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh Castle, perched on Castle Rock, is a historic fortress central to Scotland's heritage and history. It served as a royal residence and the crown jewels can be found here. Definitely book your tour beforehand as tickets sell fast on the day!

Royal Mile

The Royal Mile is a historic street that stretches from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, lined with iconic landmarks, shops, and cultural attractions. You'll definitely find live music and entertainment here.

Monuments

The National Monument on Calton Hill and the Scott Monument, each commemorate significant figures and events in Scotland’s history. I wish I had more time to experience them up-close because I always enjoy a good hike.

Dean Village

Dean Village, located along the Water of Leith in Edinburgh, is a picturesque and historic area known for its quaint charm, cobbled streets, and well-preserved mill buildings. If you're a picture person this is a must-do!

Itinerary

Personally I was only able to visit the city of a day, but I wanted to showcase a 2 day itinerary because I think that's the amount of time you need to see all the main attractions. I also want to mention upfront that Edinburgh is the only city that I've had a bad experience with the hop-on hop-off buses, mainly because of protests and weather the day that I was there. Though I usually love these buses, I think it's totally possible to see the main attractions on foot and take a taxi for one or two further attractions you'd like to see.

Where to stay / duration: the Radisson Blu (Royal Mile) was in an amazing location, though any Hyatt, Hilton, or Marriott property should be a safe bet; I would stay for 2 nights

Transportation: on foot / hop-on hop-off bus, occasional taxi

Day 1

Arriving at Waverly Station in the heart of the city, I ran to get breakfast at the Low-Down Cafe, it's a very popular simple coffee and avocado toast breakfast that will leave you super satisfied. On the way make sure to take a picture with the Scott Monument and enjoy the street performance in the park nearby. After breakfast / brunch make you way over to Edinburgh Castle for your tour slot. I would recommend booking in advance as tickets sell out fast, though I found a life hack... if you purchase a hop-on hop-off bus pass sometimes the guide will be able to offer you a slot for the Edinburgh Castle if they are sold out for that day.

Once you've seen the crown jewels, apartments, and gift shop make your way down the Royal Mile where you'll find street performers, Scottish shops, and a bunch more. The walk ends at Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the British monarch of Scotland. After snapping pictures you can take a short hike up to Burns monument and the National Monument of Scotland on Calton Hill. These commemorate the soldiers and sailors who died fighting in the Napoleonic Wars. If you make it in time, you'll be able to enjoy a lovely sunset and stunning views over the city.

You can end the day with a nice dinner or whiskey tour, the Jonnie Walker one is quite popular!

Day 2

The second day you have a bunch of choices. Though start with a popular breakfast pastry or match from The Milkman. Although I wasn't able to personally visit the reviews are amazing. Here are some recommendations for your second day.

Attractions:

Dean Village: filled with medieval stone buildings and Tudor style houses, this is arguably the most picturesque spot in Edinburgh.
Royal Botanic Garden: a great family activity and has great reviews
The Royal Britannia: the Queen's floating residence that was once part of major controversy is now docked in Edinburgh and you're allowed to step-in to experience it for yourself.
Museums: Scottish National Gallery, Surgeons Hall Museums, National Museum of Scotland, Scottish National Portrait Gallery
Festivals & Markets: Fringe Festival (if it's on), The Neighborhood Market, Leith Market, Treen (vintage shop)
Hikes: Arthur's Seat