Begin your trip by exploring the picturesque Old Town of Edinburgh, the historic heart of the city. Stroll along the Royal Mile, a street lined with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Edinburgh Castle, a centuries-old fortress perched on an extinct volcano with stunning views of the city.
Start your day with a hike up to Arthur's Seat, an extinct volcano overlooking the city. The climb is steep but worth it for the panoramic views of the city. After descending, head to the National Museum of Scotland, where you can learn about the country's rich history, from the Vikings to the present day.
Explore the elegant Georgian streets of the New Town and go shopping on Princes Street, Edinburgh's premier shopping street. Shop for designer brands, jewelry, souvenirs, and more. Take a break from shopping and visit the Scottish National Gallery, home to some of the world's finest art collections.
Take a day trip to the surrounding countryside and visit the Loch Ness, Glencoe, and the Scottish Highlands. Stop for a scenic drive through the countryside and visit the charming towns and villages. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning natural beauty of the Highlands.
Edinburgh is a compact city, and most of the major sights are within walking distance. However, there are several public transport options, including buses and trams, to take you to other parts of the city. The best way to get around is by purchasing an Unlimited Travel Pass (£4 a day), which gives you unlimited travel on Lothian buses and trams.
For the Edinburgh Day Tour, you can either rent a car or join a tour company, which will take you to all the major sights.
If you have more time, consider visiting the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, home to a stunning collection of plants and flowers from around the world. You can also take a guided tour of the city's underground tunnels and vaults.
If you have less time, skip the shopping in New Town and spend more time exploring the historic Old Town.
The main airport serving Edinburgh is Edinburgh Airport (EDI), which is located about 9 miles west of the city center. You can take a taxi, bus, or tram to reach the city center. The journey takes around 30 minutes by taxi and up to an hour by bus or tram.