Start your trip off by exploring Edinburgh's most iconic and historical landmark, Edinburgh Castle. Located atop Castle Rock, this fortress dates back to the 12th century and offers stunning views of the city.
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city by spending the day wandering around the 70 acres of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. With over 13,000 plant species, this garden offers a peaceful and relaxing retreat for any nature lover.
Step back in time and explore the hidden history of Edinburgh with a guided tour of The Real Mary King's Close. This underground labyrinth was once a bustling marketplace and offers visitors a unique perspective of Edinburgh's past.
Spend the day exploring the various galleries and exhibitions of the National Museum of Scotland. From ancient artifacts to modern technology, this museum offers something for everyone.
Hike up to the peak of Arthur's Seat and experience panoramic views of Edinburgh. This extinct volcano is the highest point in Edinburgh and offers a challenging but rewarding outdoor adventure.
Edinburgh is a relatively small and walkable city, so walking or cycling is an excellent way to get around at little or no cost. Alternatively, there are several affordable bus, tram or train options to get around the city.
The cost of these options varies, with single bus tickets starting at £1.70, a day ticket for unlimited bus travel costs £4.50 or £5.00 depending on the type of concession pass.
If you have extra time, consider taking a day trip to the Scottish Highlands for a taste of Scotland's stunning natural beauty. If you only have a few days, you could prioritize and skip some of the activities on the list, but we highly recommend that first-timers visit the Edinburgh Castle for a must-see Edinburgh experience.
Edinburgh Airport (EDI) is the main airport serving Edinburgh City. It is located about 8 miles west of the city center and there are several transport options to get to and from the airport, including bus, tram or taxi. Taxi fares start at around £22, and Edinburgh Trams take approximately 30 minutes to get from the airport to the city center and costs £6 for a single ticket.