Edinburgh Scotland 5 Day Itinerary

July 26, 2024

Here is a 5-day itinerary for traveling in Edinburgh, Scotland:

Edinburgh Castle: Start your day with a visit to this historic fortress perched atop a dormant volcano. The castle offers stunning views of the city and has been the residence of many Scottish kings and queens.
National Museum of Scotland: After exploring the castle, head down the Royal Mile to the National Museum of Scotland. This museum is housed in a beautiful Georgian building and features an impressive collection of Scottish, British, and international artifacts.
Royal Yacht Britannia: Spend your afternoon visiting the former royal yacht, which served as Queen Elizabeth II’s official vessel from 1954 to 1997.

Start your day with breakfast at The Pantry or Fhior, both of which serve delicious local food.
For lunch, try some traditional Scottish cuisine like fish and chips or a full Scottish breakfast at The Royal McGregor or Mamma’s Pizzeria.
In the evening, head to The Cumberland Bar for a cozy dinner in an atmospheric setting.

Consider staying in the city center, close to the Royal Mile. The Hotel du Vin Edinburgh and Apex Grassmarket Hotel are both highly rated options.

Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh: Spend your day exploring one of Scotland’s most important cultural institutions. With a collection that spans over 70,000 different species of plants, it’s a haven for nature lovers.
The Georgian House: This museum is housed in an actual Georgian house and offers a unique look at life during the 18th century.

For breakfast, try some local delicacies like smoked haddock or Scottish porridge at The Pantry.
Lunch can be enjoyed at Fhior, which serves seasonal Scottish cuisine.
Dinner options include Mamma’s Pizzeria, offering traditional Italian dishes in a cozy setting.

The same hotels recommended for the first day are still available, or consider the Novotel Edinburgh Centre for another convenient option.

Arthur’s Seat: This ancient volcano is part of Holyrood Park and offers stunning views over Edinburgh.
The Palace of Holyroodhouse: Although it’s closed to the public during royal visits, you can still visit the beautiful gardens.

Start your day with breakfast at a local café or bakery.
Lunch could be enjoyed in one of Edinburgh’s many parks, such as the Meadows, which offers picnic areas and cafes.
Dinner options include The Cumberland Bar for traditional Scottish cuisine.

Edinburgh Vaults: Explore the hidden underground streets that were once part of the city’s Old Town.
National Gallery of Scotland: This is Scotland’s oldest public gallery, showcasing a collection of fine art from around Europe and beyond.

Breakfast options remain as previously suggested.
Lunch could be taken at a local café or bakery.
Dinner options include trying some traditional Scottish cuisine in one of Edinburgh’s many restaurants.

Leith: Spend your last day in Edinburgh exploring this vibrant waterfront district. It’s known for its street art, independent shops, and great places to eat.
The Royal McGregor: Try some traditional Scottish cuisine on your final night.

Transportation: Getting around Edinburgh is easy with buses and the tram system connecting all parts of the city. Consider purchasing a day ticket for unlimited travel.
Weather: Scotland’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s always a good idea to pack layers for your visit.
Tips: Remember to tip in line with Scottish customs if you receive exceptional service.

This itinerary is just a suggestion, and you may choose to customize it based on your interests. Enjoy your trip to Edinburgh!