5-Day Relaxation and Cultural Immersion Itinerary in Edinburgh on a Budget

Day 1: Cultural Exploration

Edinburgh, Scotland

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Edinburgh Larder

Kick off your day with their delicious Scottish porridge topped with honey and nuts at this locally-sourced café.
Walk to Castle Street from your accommodation.
GBP8, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Edinburgh Castle

After breakfast, head to Edinburgh Castle to explore this historic fortress that dominates the skyline.
From Castle Street, it's a 10-minute walk to the castle.
GBP17, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Oink

Enjoy a hearty hog roast sandwich at the popular Oink, located near the castle for a quick and affordable meal.
Walk down the Royal Mile for about 5 minutes.
GBP6, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore the Royal Mile

Wander along the historic Royal Mile, visiting local shops and historic sites, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Stroll down the Royal Mile at your own pace.
GBP0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Baked Potato Shop

Savour a delicious baked potato filled with your choice of vegan toppings, perfect for a budget-friendly meal.
Walk to the shop located a short distance from the Mile.
GBP5, 1 hour

7:00PM

Catch an Evening Show at The Edinburgh Playhouse

End your day with a budget-friendly local theatre performance at this historic venue.
Take Bus 5 or 7 from the Potatoes Shop to the Playhouse.
GBP10-GBP25, 2 hours
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Day 2: Outdoor Adventures

Edinburgh, Scotland

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Herbivore Kitchen

Fuel up with a hearty vegetarian breakfast that will set you up for a day of outdoor exploration.
Walk to the café from your accommodation.
GBP9, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hike up Arthur's Seat

Embark on a scenic hike to the top of Arthur's Seat, the extinct volcano that offers stunning views of the city.
A short bus ride or a 30-minute walk from the city centre.
GBP0, 3 hours

1:00PM

Picnic Lunch in Holyrood Park

Enjoy packed sandwiches that you prepared in advance while taking in the breathtaking scenery.
Set up your picnic anywhere in the park.
GBP5, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Holyrood Palace

Explore the official residence of the monarch in Scotland, a beautiful site brimming with history.
Walk to the Palace from the park.
GBP15, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Mosque Kitchen

Indulge in an affordable and flavourful curry meal at this well-known eatery, loved by locals and tourists alike.
Catch a bus from Holyrood Palace to the restaurant.
GBP8, 1 hour
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Day 3: Museum and Art Day

Edinburgh, Scotland

8:30AM

Breakfast at The Elephant House

Enjoy breakfast where J.K. Rowling wrote parts of Harry Potter, and savour their extensive range of breakfast options.
Walk to the café from your accommodation.
GBP9, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit the National Museum of Scotland

Explore this vast museum that features Scotland's culture, history, and natural environment.
A short 10-minute walk from The Elephant House.
GBP0, 2-3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Broughton Deli

Grab a delicious wrap or sandwich at this deli that is perfect for a light lunch.
Walk 15 minutes to the deli.
GBP7, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore the Scottish National Gallery

Art lovers will appreciate the impressive collection of Western art housed in this spectacular gallery.
Take a 10-minute walk to the gallery.
GBP0, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Kebabish

Treat yourself to some tasty kebabs at this popular eatery known for its generous portions and great prices.
Walk to Kebabish located a short distance away.
GBP10, 1 hour
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Day 4: Local Experiences

Edinburgh, Scotland

9:00AM

Breakfast at Soba

Savour a delightful breakfast bowl filled with fresh fruits and yoghurt to start your day right.
Walk to Soba from your accommodation.
GBP8, 1 hour

10:30AM

Walk through Princes Street Gardens

Enjoy a peaceful walk in these beautiful gardens, perfect for relaxation and people-watching.
Stroll over to the gardens nearby.
GBP0, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Mary’s Milk Bar

Enjoy unique artisan gelato and milkshakes at this sweet spot in the heart of the city.
Walk to the milk bar located in Grassmarket.
GBP5, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Scottish Storytelling Centre

Discover the rich tradition of storytelling in Scotland through performances and exhibitions.
A short walk from Mary’s Milk Bar.
GBP0-GBP8, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore Grassmarket

Stroll through this vibrant area filled with local shops, restaurants and historical significance.
Wander around Grassmarket; everything is within walking distance.
GBP0, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Kitchin

Indulge in a unique dining experience with reasonably priced seasonal dishes in a bistro setting.
A leisurely walk to the restaurant.
GBP20, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Farewell to Edinburgh

Edinburgh, Scotland

10:00AM

Breakfast at The Water of Leith Café Bistro

Enjoy a lovely breakfast while overlooking the river at this charming café perfect for a leisurely start to your final day.
Walk to the café from your accommodation.
GBP10, 1 hour

11:30AM

Visit the Botanics

Explore the Royal Botanic Garden of Edinburgh, showcasing an impressive collection of plants and stunning landscapes.
Take a bus or walk to the gardens.
GBP0, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Chanterelle

Savour one last lunch at this café known for its homemade soups and wholesome fare.
Take a bus or a 15-minute walk back into the city centre.
GBP8, 1 hour

3:30PM

Relax at Calton Hill

Take a leisurely walk up to Calton Hill for panoramic views of the city and a great spot for a last reflection.
A 20-minute walk from the café.
GBP0, 1 hour

5:00PM

Departure

You will head to Edinburgh Waverley station to catch your onward transport.
Walk or take a bus to the station.
GBP0, Variable
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