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3 Magical Days Spent in Edinburgh, ScotlandEdinburgh is a city without feeeeeling like a city! My first time visiting Scotland, and I am already plotting to come back. From the rich history and culture, to the amazing coffee/pastry spots, and all the nearby outdoor access, this is a city I loved! Authorskatherinebeard
DestinationsEdinburghItinerary

Day 1: Arrival

The Vennel Viewpoint Edinburgh Castle
Our first stop, the famed Vennel Viewpoint was filled with beautiful pink flowers along the road. It made for some beautiful foreground in the images of the castle. Come in the afternoon or evening for golden lighting.
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Grassmarket
A popular square in the heart of the Old Town area, it’s home to restaurants and shops. In the summertime, there are loads of tables out in the center of the square to enjoy a beverage and soak up the sunshine!
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The Milkman
Tourist favorite, but worth it! I got a delicious croissant, and Eva loved her cardamom bun. There might be a line out the door, I personally wouldn’t wait too long, but thankfully on a Tuesday morning we hopped right inside.
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The Meadows
One of my favorite spots so far in the city! The Meadows is soooo green and lush, a perfect place to relax, take a walk, sit on a bench below a leafy tree, or pack a picnic. Plus, the blossoms on the trees are stunning when they’re in season!
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Victoria Street
Famous for its colorful buildings & shopping, this is a touristy stop… but definitely worth seeing on my first trip to Scotland. The architecture is beautiful & it’s a great photo op.
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National Museum of Scotland
I spent a few hours here on an afternoon taking a deeper dive into Scottish history. It’s home to countless artifacts and spans from the countries indigenous roots to today. Don’t miss the rooftop/terrace with views overlooking the city!
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Thomas Riddell's Grave
Legend says that J.K. Rowling was inspired by this grave for Voldemort’s character of “Tom Riddle.”
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The Red Door Gallery
Amazing spot for postcards right on Victoria St. I paid £1.5 for each, but they were soooo cute!
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Biscuit Clothing (Bruntsfield, Edinburgh)
Super cute womens’ items for summer: sun dresses, light sweaters, collared tops! Would’ve totally gotten something if it weren’t for the size of my suitcase… Note it’s $$$.
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Bruntsfield Links
Took a short afternoon walk through the links, and in May it was absolutely so green and lush. There were loads of people out and about enjoying the nice weather: walking, biking, golfing, etc.
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Arthur's Seat
Such an amazing hike and escape from the busy city center! With the sun going down later (9pm or so) we started up around 5 and did the hike from the base in about an hour. On a clear day, the views over Edinburgh and into the ocean seem endless!
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A Wee Taste
Boards & wine! This was such a cute find in Tollcross area with boards of Scottish cheese and spreads made with local dairies and butter, as well as, a great wine list. It’s a bit “spenny” (pricey) but was a cute find! We enjoyed.
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Malones Edinburgh
Known to have the best Guinness pour in the city, I had to come try it for myself… It was not my favorite (my ultimate fave is featured below) but still did the Guinness justice. Great atmosphere & is super popular during sports events.
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Day 2

Waterstones
Waterstones is the Barnes & Noble of he UK… But this location has a sneaky amazing view of the Castle from its upstairs cafe. Spend a morning, browsing books, sipping on a latte, and just enjoying the view.
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Princes Street Gardens
Just below the Edinburgh Castle, Princes Street Gardens was once a dumping ground, but has been renovated into a set garden to visit year round. Walking through felt like a fairytale! Check the schedule there might even be a concert during your visit.
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Circus Lane
A quaint street in Stockbridge with beautiful homes, flourishing gardens, and views of the steeple/church just behind the path. It’s in a sort of U shape and perfect for photos. Be respectful during your visit as people live here!
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Lannan Bakery
Unfortunately, this top rated spot was sold out by the time we got there (~1:30pm) so I did not get to try it. But someday!
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An Independent Zebra
A lovely independent store in Stockbridge with home and paper goods. Everything they sell is made or designed in Scotland/the UK. I fell in love with these paper chains designed here but made in India — the craftsmanship was delicate & incredible. It would be a great spot for a unique souvenir or card!
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The Write Stuff
Super cute stationary shop with all sorts of pens, journals, papers, & post cards! Loved the animal shaped pens by the front register.
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Edinburgh Waverley
Popular & beautiful train station in the city. Stopped here to pick up a friend coming in from Glasgow.
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Brunswick Book Club
Just up the street from Mirin, our dinner spot, Brunswick Book Club was a super cute literary themed pub. Definitely upscale. Their Guinness pour even had a shamrock in the foam on top (and was probably my favorite in the city…)!
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MIRIN
A delicious Asian-Scottish fusion restaurant, I’d come back to MIRIN in a heartbeat. We delighted in the potato dish, mushrooms, meat and vegetarian noodles, monkfish, and more! It was all so amazing and the space itself can host no more than 10-15 people… So the experience is intimate and the staff takes care of you!
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Waverley Bridge
After dinner, this was a beautiful sunset spot for photos. If it’s clear, the buildings will light up in gold.
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The Caley Picture House - JD Wetherspoon
For a nightcap, we went to the iconic “Spoons” chain, which many students love for its affordable pricing. I totally expected a dingy, dark bar, but to my surprise each chain is inside of old, beautifully restored historic buildings. Of course, I got a Guinness here as well.
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Day 3: Departure

La Barantine
A take & go cafe! La Barantine’s pastries were not as delicious as Milkman IMO but were great in a pinch. Their latte was spot on!
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Swanston Farm
The closest home to Edinburgh of the Highland Cows! They have a small pen you can always spot a few of the cows feeding at and hanging out for visitors. It’s free!
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Pentland Hills Military Path
It’s said that if you hike beyond the farm area, Highland Cows roam the hills. Unfortunately, when we went up, there were no cows in the hills… But the path itself is lovely for a hike and the green hills just seem to call you higher and higher. You also get an expansive view over the city! With or without cows, would definitely recommend this hike.
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Sainsbury's Local
My favorite hack in the UK is the meal deal at Sainsbury’s! It’s usually £4 or so & you get a snack, sandwich, and drink — perfect to bring with you on your flight.
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Edinburgh Airport
Take the 100 bus to and from the city easily for just ~$10 roundtrip! The airport itself is full of restaurants & shops if you forgot anything Scottish to bring home or need something for the next leg of your trip. I personally had an easy time coming in and out of security/customs — they seemed dialed.
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