Edinburgh Scotland 4 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Explore Edinburgh’s Royal Mile

  • 9:00 AM: Start your day at Edinburgh Castle (adult admission £17.50), a historic fortress perched atop a dormant volcano.
  • 11:00 AM: Walk down the Royal Mile, the city’s main street lined with shops, restaurants, and historical landmarks like St. Giles’ Cathedral (free admission).
  • 1:00 PM: Grab lunch at The Royal McGregor pub, known for its traditional Scottish cuisine.
  • 2:30 PM: Visit the National Museum of Scotland (free admission), featuring a vast collection of Scottish artifacts and exhibits on science and technology.
  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Mamma’s Pizzeria, serving delicious Italian food in a cozy atmosphere.
  • 8:00 PM: Catch a performance at the Edinburgh Festival Theatre, hosting various shows throughout the year.

Day 2: Discover Edinburgh’s Hidden Gems

  • 9:30 AM: Take a short walk to Arthur’s Seat, an ancient volcano offering panoramic views of the city.
  • 11:00 AM: Visit the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (free admission), featuring over 3,000 plant species and a stunning glasshouse.
  • 1:00 PM: Have lunch at The Pantry, a charming café serving fresh sandwiches and salads.
  • 2:30 PM: Explore the Museum of Childhood (free admission), showcasing interactive exhibits for kids and adults alike.
  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Amarone, an Italian restaurant with a cozy atmosphere.
  • 8:00 PM: Take a leisurely stroll along the Water of Leith, a scenic walkway featuring beautiful gardens and architecture.

Day 3: Visit Edinburgh’s Coastal Attractions

  • 9:00 AM: Take a short bus ride (Route 11 or 33) to Portobello Beach, a charming seaside town with a beautiful beach and promenade.
  • 11:00 AM: Visit the Portobello Baths (free admission), a historic swimming pool turned cultural hub featuring art exhibitions and live performances.
  • 1:00 PM: Grab lunch at The Portobello Café, serving delicious seafood and sandwiches.
  • 2:30 PM: Take a short bus ride (Route 11 or 33) to Ocean Terminal shopping center, featuring a variety of stores and restaurants.
  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at The Ocean Room, offering stunning views of the ocean and a menu of Scottish cuisine.

Day 4: Explore Edinburgh’s Literary and Cultural Scene

  • 9:30 AM: Visit the National Library of Scotland (free admission), featuring an impressive collection of Scottish literature and historical artifacts.
  • 11:00 AM: Take a short walk to George Square, a beautiful park featuring stunning views of the city and a variety of street performers.
  • 1:00 PM: Have lunch at The Café Royal, serving traditional Scottish cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
  • 2:30 PM: Visit the Scottish Storytelling Centre (free admission), showcasing interactive exhibits on Scotland’s rich cultural heritage.
  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at The Stockbridge Tap, offering stunning views of the city and a menu of traditional Scottish cuisine.

Things to Know

  • Weather: Edinburgh’s weather is unpredictable, so be sure to pack layers for your visit.
  • Transportation: The city has an excellent public transportation system, including buses and trams. You can also walk or bike through the city.
  • Currency: The local currency is the Pound Sterling (GBP).
  • Language: English is the primary language spoken in Edinburgh.

Tips

  • Be sure to try some traditional Scottish cuisine during your visit, such as haggis, neeps and tatties, or Cullen skink (a delicious fish soup).
  • Take a stroll through one of Edinburgh’s many parks and gardens, featuring beautiful views and scenic walks.
  • If you’re visiting during the summer months, be sure to catch some live music performances at the city’s various festivals.

Accommodation

  • The Royal McGregor: A charming hotel located in the heart of the city, offering comfortable rooms and traditional Scottish cuisine.
  • The Balmoral Hotel: A luxurious hotel featuring stunning views of the city and a menu of fine dining options.
  • The Premier Inn Edinburgh Central: A budget-friendly hotel offering comfortable rooms and a convenient location.

Getting There

  • Airport: The closest airport is Edinburgh Airport (EDI), located about 8 miles from the city center. You can take a taxi or bus to get to your accommodation.
  • Train Station: The main train station is Waverley Station, located in the heart of the city. You can walk or take public transportation to get to your accommodation.

Final Tips

  • Be sure to try some local Scottish whiskey during your visit, such as Glenfiddich or Glenmorangie.
  • Take a stroll through one of Edinburgh’s many historic neighborhoods, featuring stunning architecture and scenic views.
  • If you’re visiting during the summer months, be sure to catch some live music performances at the city’s various festivals.

I hope this itinerary helps you plan your trip to Edinburgh!