Edinburgh, Scotland-3-day-itinerary

Edinburgh, Scotland 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: History and Culture

Morning

  • Start at ** Edinburgh Castle**, a historic fortress that sits atop the Royal Mile (tickets: £17.50 adult, £11.50 concession)
  • Explore the castle’s grand halls, see the Scottish Crown Jewels, and enjoy stunning views of the city

Afternoon

  • Walk down the Royal Mile, lined with shops, restaurants, and historical landmarks
  • Visit St. Giles’ Cathedral, a beautiful Gothic church with impressive stained-glass windows (free admission)
  • Stop by the National Museum of Scotland, which features a vast collection of Scottish artifacts and exhibits (free admission)

Evening

  • Enjoy traditional Scottish cuisine at The Witchery, a cozy restaurant with a spooky atmosphere
  • Head to Grassmarket for a lively nightlife scene, with bars and clubs to suit all tastes

Accommodation

  • Stay at Ibis Edinburgh Royal Mile, a comfortable hotel with easy access to the city centre (from £60 per night)
  • Alternatively, try Airbnb options in the Old Town area, such as a cozy flat on the Royal Mile (from £40 per night)

Tips and Essentials

  • Buy a Royal Edinburgh Ticket, which grants admission to Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Yacht Britannia, and the Palace of Holyroodhouse (£55 adult, £30 concession)
  • Be prepared for unpredictable Scottish weather with waterproof gear and layers
  • Download the Edinburgh Bus App for convenient travel around the city

Day 2: Nature and Literature

Morning

  • Take a stroll through Princes Street Gardens, a beautiful public park in the heart of the city
  • Visit The Scott Monument, a Victorian Gothic monument with panoramic views of Edinburgh (tickets: £5 adult, £3 concession)

Afternoon

  • Explore the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, a tranquil oasis with diverse plant species (tickets: £6.50 adult, £5.50 concession)
  • Walk to The Elephant House, a charming cafe where J.K. Rowling wrote some of her Harry Potter books

Evening

  • Dine at The Printing Press Bar & Kitchen, which serves modern Scottish cuisine in a historic setting
  • Catch a show or concert at The Usher Hall, a renowned venue for music and performance (tickets vary)

Day 3: Royal Connections**

Morning

  • Visit The Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland (tickets: £15.50 adult, £9.50 concession)
  • Take a stroll through Holyrood Park, a scenic green space with picturesque views of Arthur’s Seat

Afternoon

  • Explore The Royal Yacht Britannia, which served as the royal family’s floating residence for over 40 years (tickets: £15.50 adult, £9.50 concession)
  • Walk to Ocean Terminal, a shopping centre with great views of the Firth of Forth

Evening

  • Enjoy a farewell dinner at The Kitchin, a Michelin-starred restaurant serving innovative Scottish cuisine
  • End your trip with a scenic walk along the Water of Leith, a picturesque river that flows through the heart of Edinburgh

Additional Tips and Essentials

  • Buy a Lothian Bus Day Ticket for unlimited travel on buses and trams (£4.50 adult, £2.20 concession)
  • Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas and tourist hotspots
  • Don’t forget to try some traditional Scottish delicacies, such as haggis, neeps and tatties, and Cullen skink!