7-Day Enchanting Christmas Itinerary in Edinburgh, Scotland

Day 1: Arrival in Edinburgh

Edinburgh, Scotland

12:30 PM

Check-in at Claredon Hotel

Settle into your hotel, located conveniently in the heart of the city.
Conveniently located in the city center.
GBP 0, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Lunch at The Broughton

Experience lunch with traditional Scottish dishes, including Cullen Skink and Haggis.
A pleasant 15-minute walk from your hotel.
GBP 20, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Edinburgh Castle

Discover the historic Edinburgh Castle, which overlooks the city and hosts rich Scottish history.
Reach via a 20-minute bus ride.
GBP 20, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Royal Mile Exploration

Take an evening stroll down the Royal Mile, with its charming shops and festive decorations.
A 10-minute walk from the castle.
GBP 0, 1 hour

6:30 PM

Scottish Storytelling Center

Delve into Scotland's rich oral tradition with enchanting stories from local storytellers.
A short walk from the Royal Mile.
GBP 12, 1 hour

8:00 PM

Dinner at The Witchery

Indulge in a memorable dining experience featuring gourmet Scottish cuisine at this historic restaurant.
Situated near the castle, just a short walk away.
GBP 50, 2 hours
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Day 2: Exploring More of Edinburgh

Edinburgh, Scotland

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Edinburgh Larder

Start your day with delicious local breakfast options made from seasonal ingredients.
A short 10-minute walk from your hotel.
GBP 15, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Holyrood Palace

Explore the official residence of the Queen in Scotland, beautifully decorated for Christmas.
A pleasant 30-minute walk from breakfast.
GBP 15, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at The Harvesters

Enjoy a locally sourced meal in a warm atmosphere, perfect for a wintry day.
Walk back toward the city center, about 15 minutes.
GBP 20, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

National Museum of Scotland

Immerse yourself in Scottish culture and history through fascinating exhibits and displays.
A 10-minute stroll from lunch.
GBP 0, 3 hours

4:30 PM

Christmas Market at East Princes Street Gardens

Lose yourself in the festive atmosphere with stalls filled with crafts, food, and holiday treats.
Just 10 minutes' walk from the museum.
GBP 10, 2 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at The Vennel

Unwind with hearty meals in a cozy pub atmosphere, enjoying local beers and Scottish fare.
A short taxi ride from the market.
GBP 30, 2 hours

9:00 PM

Edinburgh Christmas Lights Tour

Experience the breathtaking Christmas lights and festive displays around the city on a guided tour.
Starts at the market.
GBP 15, 1 hour
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Day 3: Festive Adventure in Edinburgh

Edinburgh, Scotland

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Pantry

Enjoy an energizing breakfast with local butcher sausages and baked goodies.
A pleasant 15-minute walk from your hotel.
GBP 15, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Arthur's Seat Hike

Take a morning hike to this extinct volcano with breathtaking views of Edinburgh and beyond.
Catch a local bus or taxi to the hiking area.
GBP 0, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at the Sheep Heid Inn

Delight in traditional pub fare at one of Scotland's oldest pubs in a cozy setting.
A 10-minute taxi ride from the hiking area.
GBP 25, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Royal Botanic Garden

Stroll through the stunning gardens adorned with winter flora, soaking in the serenity.
Take a local bus, around 30 minutes from the pub.
GBP 0, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Scotch Whisky Experience

Explore the fascinating world of Scotch whisky through an educational tour and tasting.
A 10-minute walk from the gardens.
GBP 25, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Apex Waterloo Place Restaurant

Feast on contemporary dishes made with fresh, local ingredients in a sophisticated setting.
A short walk from the whisky experience.
GBP 35, 2 hours

8:00 PM

Ghost Tour of Edinburgh

Join an eerie ghost tour that takes you through the shadowy streets and tales of Edinburgh’s past.
Meet at a central location, easily reachable on foot.
GBP 12, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Cultural Immersion in Edinburgh

Edinburgh, Scotland

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Scran & Scallie

Enjoy a warm start to your day with scrumptious dishes in a welcoming pub.
A 15-minute taxi from your hotel.
GBP 15, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Scottish National Gallery

Admire the impressive art collections and special exhibits housed within this beautiful gallery.
A 15-minute walk from breakfast.
GBP 0, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Amaryllis

Dine on an inventive lunch menu reflecting Scotland's glam cuisine in a chic atmosphere.
Around a 10-minute walk from the gallery.
GBP 40, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Dynamic Earth

Discover the wonders of the planet at this interactive science center.
A short walk from the restaurant.
GBP 16, 2.5 hours

4:00 PM

Holyrood Park

Enjoy a leisurely walk around the park, taking in the natural beauty and hops between hills.
A 10-minute walk from Dynamic Earth.
GBP 0, 1.5 hours

5:30 PM

Christmas Carol Concert at St. Giles’ Cathedral

Delight in a traditional Christmas concert held in the stunning St. Giles’ Cathedral.
A 15-minute walk back to the Royal Mile.
GBP 10, 1.5 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at Café Royal

Experience fine dining in a Victorian-style pub with a menu featuring the best of Scottish cuisine.
Short walk from the concert location.
GBP 45, 2 hours
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Day 5: Christmas Celebration Day

Edinburgh, Scotland

8:00 AM

Christmas Breakfast at The Elephant House

Enjoy a festive breakfast at the café renowned for its cozy atmosphere, perfect for the holiday spirit.
A 15-minute walk from your hotel.
GBP 15, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit the Christmas Market at East Princes Street Gardens

Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with beautiful stalls, crafts, and yummy treats.
A short walk from breakfast.
GBP 0, 2 hours

11:30 AM

Christmas Day Parade

Join in or watch the festive parade featuring colorful floats and performers celebrating Christmas.
Streets near the market, easily accessible.
GBP 0, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Festive Lunch at The Kitchin

Savor a Michelin-starred Christmas lunch prepared with local seasonal ingredients.
A short taxi ride or a 20-minute walk.
GBP 50, 2 hours

2:30 PM

Ice Skating at St. Andrew Square

Experience the fun of ice skating surrounded by twinkling lights and festive decorations.
A quick taxi ride from the restaurant.
GBP 15, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Attend a Christmas Service at St. Giles’ Cathedral

Participate in a beautiful Christmas service at this iconic cathedral, a true holiday tradition.
Return to the Royal Mile, around a 15-minute walk.
GBP 0, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at The Honours

Delight in a festive dinner that showcases the best of Scottish cuisine, perfect to round off the day.
Located nearby in the city center.
GBP 30, 2 hours
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Day 6: Last Day in Edinburgh

Edinburgh, Scotland

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Cornelia Street Café

Enjoy a delightful breakfast featuring local sourdough bread and excellent coffee.
A short 10-minute walk from your hotel.
GBP 15, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Shopping and Souvenir Hunt at the Grassmarket

Explore the unique shops and local crafts, ideal for finding special gifts and keep-sakes.
A 20-minute walk from breakfast.
GBP Varies, 2.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at The Kitchin

Savor a Michelin-starred meal richly prepared from Scottish ingredients, a true culinary treat.
A short walk or taxi ride from the Grassmarket.
GBP 50, 2 hours

2:00 PM

Visit Camera Obscura and World of Illusions

Delight in interactive exhibits and enjoy fascinating views of the city from the rooftop terrace.
A 15-minute walk from the restaurant.
GBP 20, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Explore the Scottish National Portrait Gallery

Discover Scotland's history through evocative portraits and cultural exhibits in this vibrant gallery.
A 10-minute walk from Camera Obscura.
GBP 0, 1.5 hours

5:30 PM

Farewell Dinner at The Dog House

Culminate your journey with a delightful farewell dinner featuring a menu inspired by local produce.
A short taxi or 15-minute walk from the gallery.
GBP 30, 2 hours

8:00 PM

Night Walk at the Royal Mile

Wrap up your adventure with an enchanting nighttime stroll along the historical Royal Mile.
Easily accessible from the restaurant.
GBP 0, 1 hour
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Day 7: Departure Day

Edinburgh, Scotland

8:00 AM

Breakfast at a nearby café

Enjoy your last breakfast while reflecting on your memorable time in Scotland.
N/A
GBP 10, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Last-minute Shopping

Wander through local shops for souvenirs and gifts before heading home.
Walking distance from your hotel.
GBP Varies, 1.5 hours

10:30 AM

Check-out and Travel to the Airport

Check out of your hotel and take a taxi to the airport for your departure flight.
A taxi ride to the airport takes about 30 minutes.
GBP 30, 1 hour

12:05 PM

Departure

Board your flight home, taking cherished memories of Edinburgh with you.
N/A
GBP 0, N/A
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