48 Hours in Edinburgh
Edinburgh is one of my favorite cities, and quickly stole my heart upon my arrival! From hikes with views to castles and pubs, Edinburgh has it all for the adventurous traveler. Two days is enough to scrape the surface of Edinburgh, but make sure you have your walking shoes on!
Day 1
Edinburgh Castle, Camera Obscura, Lawnmarket, Calton Hill, Greyfriar’s Bobby, The Elephant House, Grassmarket
Today you will explore the Old Town of Edinburgh along with a small hike up Calton Hill in which you will experience gorgeous views of the city! Enjoy all that Edinburgh has to offer in between each stop, as the entire route is less than 3 miles. Take your time, this is a magical place!
Edinburgh Castle
Plan to be at the castle first thing in the morning (it opens at 9:30am), as it can get busy in the afternoon. It is recommended that you allow at least 2 hours to visit the castle. There are many different rooms an attractions within the castle from the crown jewels to the Scottish National War Memorial. Not to mention the views are amazing!
Camera Obscura
Welcome to the world of illusions. This Edinburgh attraction is fun for all ages with unique and interactive attractions. Make sure you head up to the rooftop terrace for some panoramic views of Edinburgh. Budget about 2 hours for visiting Camera Obscura, but you’re welcome to stay longer as it is a self-guided attraction.
Lawnmarket
On your way to Calton Hill, you will walk down Lawnmarket. There are plenty of shops and pubs to explore along this street, but my favorite is the street itself. The buildings and storefronts are picturesque while the street performers immerse you in Edinburgh culture.
Calton Hill
Calton Hill, purchased in 1724, is Edinburgh’s first public park. An easy climb to the top with amazing views! You are also able to explore several monuments such as the: City Observatory, Playfair Monument, Portuguese Cannon, Dugald Stewart Monument, and Nelson Monument.
Greyfriar's Bobby
Bobby was the SkyeTerrier of Edinburgh’s night watchman, John Gray, in 1850. They were great friends and Bobby stuck with John through his long, watchful nights. Years later, John died of tuberculosis and was buried in Greyfriars Kirkyard. Bobby became a local legend by refusing to leave his master’s side, even in treacherous weather conditions. Bobby continued his watch for 14 years until his death in 1872.
Elephant House
The Elephant House is most widely known as the place where J.K. Rowling sat writing the early novels of Harry Potter. It also serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner along with cakes, beer/wine, and coffee. Although the interior is nothing extraordinary, the coziness and history of writer’s is worth the stop and a cup of coffee.
Grassmarket
End your day in the historic Grassmarket in Old Town. Filled with Pubs and restaurants (and a handful of shops) you have plenty of options at your fingertips. From a pub crawl to a traditional Scottish meal, you will have an amazing evening in this charming square!
Day 2
Arthur’s Seat, Palace of Holyrood House, The Royal Mile, Princess Street Gardens, Panda and Sons
Day Two you will start with a morning hike, visit the Queen’s Scotland residence, explore the Royal Mile, and experience a speakeasy. Along the Royal Mile you will have plenty of opportunities for shopping with shops selling traditional Scottish items, to local scotch, and everything in between.
Arthur's Seat
We woke up early to start our day with this beautiful hike. Even despite this, there were still a handful of people conquering the seat, so imagine how busy it can get in mid morning and late afternoon!
Palace of Holyrood
Holyrood is the Queen’s residence in Edinburgh and full of Scottish royal history. The palace is open for tours 362 days a year, typically opening at 9:30 am. The self-guided, or audio-guided, tour takes approximately an hour to complete. Holyrood is also the start of your trip down the Royal Mile today.
The Royal Mile
Clarinda's Tearoom
After your palace tour, make your way down the Royal Mile and make sure you stop into Clarinda’s Tearoom for some tea or coffee and breakfast. The atmosphere is quaint and cozy with lace table cloths and adorable china.
Princess Street Gardens
After you’ve made all your stops along the Royal Mile (shops and pubs galore), head to Princess Street Gardens for some greenery and relaxation. This park, despite being in the middle of the city, takes you into another world.
Panda & Sons
Before dinner, stop by Panda and Sons for an authentic prohibition style speakeasy. The pub is difficult to find unless you are looking for it. Located in a barber shop storefront, you must enter through the secret door. Once inside the craft cocktails are an experience in themselves.
Edinburgh has so much to offer, that two days does not feel like enough. But if you are only here for a brief time, this itinerary will guide you through the heart of Edinburgh and experience the most iconic and picturesque attractions.
For more ideas on things to do in Scotland, check out my blog on What Not to Miss in Scotland.
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Have you been to Edinburgh? Tell me your favorite places!
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