How many days do you need in edinburgh?

This itinerary covers 7 days in edinburgh, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for edinburgh?

Plan your perfect 7 days trip to edinburgh. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

7-Day Relaxation and City Experience Itinerary in Edinburgh

Day 1: Arrival and Intro

Edinburgh, Scotland

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Pantry

Start your trip on a delightful note with a hearty breakfast at The Pantry, known for its delicious Scottish options and hearty portions.

GBP15, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Visit Edinburgh Castle

Explore the iconic Edinburgh Castle perched atop Castle Rock, featuring breathtaking views and centuries of history.

GBP20, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Witchery

Enjoy a unique, opulent culinary experience at The Witchery, located by the castle, featuring locally sourced ingredients.

GBP30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Stroll down the Royal Mile

Take a leisurely walk along the Royal Mile, exploring shops, street performances, and historic sites.

Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Relaxing Afternoon at Princes Street Gardens

Unwind in the beautiful Princes Street Gardens while enjoying the picturesque view of the castle.

Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Kitchin

Indulge in Michelin-starred cuisine at The Kitchin, renowned for their seasonal British dishes with a Scottish twist.

GBP60, 2 hours

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Day 2: Art and Culture

Edinburgh, Scotland

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Milkman

Recharge with a scrumptious breakfast at The Milkman, renowned for its artisan coffee and baked goods.

GBP12, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Scottish National Gallery

Immerse yourself in the arts with a visit to the Scottish National Gallery, hosting an impressive collection of European paintings.

Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Cafe Royal

Enjoy lunch at Cafe Royal, a Victorian bar, offering a variety of seafood and traditional pub dishes.

GBP20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore the Museum of Edinburgh

Discover the city’s history at the Museum of Edinburgh, located in a historic building in the Old Town.

Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Chill at The Water of Leith

Take a peaceful walk along The Water of Leith pathway, enjoying nature and tranquility.

Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Outsider

Finish your day with a relaxed dinner at The Outsider, which offers a varied menu with beautiful views of the castle.

GBP45, 1.5 hours

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Day 3: Day trip to South Queensferry

Edinburgh, Scotland

8:30AM

Breakfast at The Baked Potato Shop

Enjoy a quick and filling breakfast at The Baked Potato Shop, specializing in delicious baked potatoes.

GBP8, 1 hour

10:00AM

Scenic excursion to South Queensferry

Take the train from Edinburgh to South Queensferry, a charming village with stunning views of the Forth Bridges.

GBP5, 1 hour including travel

11:30AM

Visit the Forth Bridge

Marvel at the breathtaking Forth Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Rail Bridge Bistro

Indulge in lunch at The Rail Bridge Bistro, with fantastic views of the Forth Rail Bridge.

GBP25, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Walk around South Queensferry

Wander around the quaint village streets and enjoy the local shops and scenery.

Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Return to Edinburgh

Catch the train back to Edinburgh, reflecting on the lovely sights and moments of the day.

GBP5, 1 hour including travel

7:30PM

Dinner at The Dog House

Enjoy a cozy meal at The Dog House, known for its warm atmosphere and hearty burgers.

GBP20, 1.5 hours

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Day 4: Nature and Viewpoints

Edinburgh, Scotland

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Elephant House

Enjoy breakfast at The Elephant House, famously known as the birthplace of Harry Potter.

GBP12, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Hike up Arthur's Seat

Challenge yourself with a hike to Arthur’s Seat, an ancient volcano offering panoramic views of the city.

Free, 2.5 hours

1:00PM

Picnic Lunch at Holyrood Park

Pack or purchase some takeout for a scenic picnic at Holyrood Park, soaking in the beauty around you.

GBP10, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Holyrood Palace

Explore the stunning Holyrood Palace, the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland.

GBP15, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Dynamic Earth

Visit the interactive exhibition at Dynamic Earth, which offers a unique insight into the planet's science.

GBP14, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Scran and Scallie

Enjoy your meal at The Scran and Scallie, a gastropub known for its seasonal Scottish dishes.

GBP40, 1.5 hours

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Day 5: Historical Insights

Edinburgh, Scotland

8:30AM

Breakfast at The cafe at the Scottish National Gallery

Begin your day at the café within the Scottish National Gallery for a light breakfast with artistic inspiration.

GBP10, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore the Royal Yacht Britannia

Board the Royal Yacht Britannia and discover the life of the British royal family on this elegant vessel.

GBP16, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Shore

Dine at The Shore, a lovely waterfront restaurant, and savor their fresh seafood offerings.

GBP30, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit the National Museum of Scotland

Uncover Scottish history and culture at the National Museum of Scotland with its diverse exhibits.

Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Tea and Relaxation at Clarinda's Tea Room

Enjoy a delightful afternoon tea at Clarinda's Tea Room, perfect for a relaxing break.

GBP15, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Kanpai Sushi

Experience something different at Kanpai Sushi, known for their fresh sushi and friendly atmosphere.

GBP35, 1.5 hours

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Day 6: Shopping and Leisure

Edinburgh, Scotland

9:00AM

Breakfast at The City Café

Kick off your day with a delicious breakfast at The City Café, known for its retro vibes and classic dishes.

GBP12, 1 hour

10:30AM

Shopping on Princes Street

Spend the morning indulging in retail therapy on the famous Princes Street, with shops for every taste.

Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Brighton

Refuel at The Brighton, known for its amazing brunch menus and cozy ambiance.

GBP20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit St. Giles' Cathedral

Explore the stunning architecture and history of St. Giles' Cathedral located on the Royal Mile.

Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Treat Yourself at the Chocolatier

Indulge your sweet tooth with artisan chocolates from a local chocolatier in the Old Town.

GBP10, 1 hour

5:00PM

Explore George Street

Take a stroll down George Street, known for boutique stores and trendy cafes.

Free, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Dishoom

Savor Indian cuisine at Dishoom, renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious plates.

GBP35, 1.5 hours

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Day 7: Departure and Reflection

Edinburgh, Scotland

9:30AM

Leisurely Breakfast at Artisan Roast

Wrap up your trip with a leisurely breakfast at Artisan Roast, famous for its locally roasted coffee and pastries.

GBP10, 1 hour

11:00AM

Final Stroll at Calton Hill

Take a reflective stroll at Calton Hill, capturing the beautiful city skyline one last time.

Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Bow Bar

Enjoy a pint and some traditional pub fare at The Bow Bar, a local favorite.

GBP15, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Pack and Depart

Head back to your accommodation, pack up, and depart for your next adventure!

N/A, 1 hour

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Step 1 Outline Preview:

7-Day Relaxation and City Experience Itinerary in Edinburgh

Day 1: Arrival and Intro

9:00AM

10:30AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

5:30PM

7:00PM

Day 2: Art and Culture

9:00AM

10:30AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

5:00PM

7:30PM

Day 3: Day trip to South Queensferry

8:30AM

10:00AM

11:30AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

7:30PM

Day 4: Nature and Viewpoints

9:00AM

10:30AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

5:00PM

7:30PM

Day 5: Historical Insights

8:30AM

10:00AM

12:30PM

2:30PM

5:00PM

7:00PM

Day 6: Shopping and Leisure

9:00AM

10:30AM

12:30PM

2:00PM

3:30PM

5:00PM

7:30PM

Day 7: Departure and Reflection

9:30AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

2:30PM

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