Edinburgh, Scotland-2-day-itinerary

August 8, 2024

Day 1: Saturday

9:00 AM: Start your day at The Royal Mile, the main street of Edinburgh’s Old Town. This historic street is lined with shops, restaurants, and attractions.
10:00 AM: Visit Edinburgh Castle, a fortress that sits atop an extinct volcano. The castle has played a significant role in Scotland’s history, including serving as a royal residence and a military stronghold.

12:30 PM: Grab lunch at The Royal McGregor pub, located on the Royal Mile. Try their traditional Scottish cuisine and wash it down with a pint of local beer.

2:00 PM: Take a stroll through Princes Street Gardens, a beautiful park in the heart of the city. Visit the Scottish National Gallery, which features an impressive collection of art from around the world, including works by Monet and Constable.
4:00 PM: Explore The Royal Yacht Britannia, a historic yacht that served as the Queen’s private vessel for over 40 years. The yacht is now a museum and offers a fascinating glimpse into royal history.

7:30 PM: Enjoy dinner at The Witchery, a luxurious restaurant with stunning views of Edinburgh Castle. Try their contemporary Scottish cuisine, which features fresh local ingredients.
9:00 PM: End your night with a visit to The Royal Mile’s nightlife, which includes everything from traditional pubs to trendy bars and clubs.

Day 2: Sunday

10:00 AM: Visit the National Museum of Scotland, which features a vast collection of Scottish history, culture, and science. The museum is located in a stunning Victorian building and offers something for everyone.
12:30 PM: Take a break from sightseeing and grab lunch at The Pantry Cafe, a cozy spot with delicious sandwiches and salads.

2:00 PM: Explore the charming neighborhood of Stockbridge, which features unique shops, galleries, and restaurants. Visit the Water of Leith Walkway, a scenic path that follows the course of the Water of Leith stream.
4:00 PM: Visit the Camera Obscura, an 18th-century tourist attraction that offers stunning views of the city.

7:30 PM: Enjoy dinner at The Kitchin, a Michelin-starred restaurant with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients. Try their tasting menu for a culinary adventure.
9:00 PM: End your night with a visit to The Stockbridge neighborhood’s nightlife, which includes everything from traditional pubs to trendy bars and clubs.

The Balmoral Hotel: A luxurious hotel located in the heart of the city, with stunning views of Edinburgh Castle.
The Grassmarket Inn: A cozy boutique hotel with a unique atmosphere and comfortable rooms.

Edinburgh Airport (EDI): Located about 8 miles west of the city center. Take the Airlink bus or a taxi to get into town.
Public Transport: Edinburgh has an excellent public transportation system, including buses and trams. Buy a day pass for unlimited travel on all buses and trams.

Weather: Scotland’s weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers and waterproof gear.
Tipping: Tipping is not required in Scotland, but it’s appreciated for good service.
Language: English is the primary language spoken in Scotland, but you may also hear Scottish Gaelic and other languages.

Scottish Culture: Scotland has a rich cultural heritage, including traditional music, dance, and art. Be sure to experience some of these during your visit.
History: Edinburgh’s history is steeped in conflict and drama, from the Wars of Independence to the Jacobite Risings. Learn about these events at one of the many museums or historical sites.

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo: If you’re visiting Edinburgh in August, be sure to catch a performance of the famous military tattoo. This spectacular show features music, dance, and military precision drills set against the stunning backdrop of Edinburgh Castle.