5 Epic Days in EdinburghWe went to Edinburgh, Scotland, a few years ago and next time we go, this is how I'd do it! Dig in and explore medieval Old Town over two days and enjoy one full day discovering the neoclassical New Town. I'd reserve one day for Harry Potter sites, and one for a day trip to St. Andrews! Authorskerrieturcic
DestinationsEdinburghItinerary

Day 1: Old Town

Edinburgh Castle
Start with Edinburgh's most famous landmark! The castle could take up to half a day (or more) so plan your footwear accordingly. The wait in line is worth it to see the crown jewels! 👑 Start at the castle then head to the Royal Mile.
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Edinburgh Castle & Royal Mile Walking Tour - Ticket Included
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Royal Mile
The Royal Mile is a hill that begins at the Edinburgh Castle at the top and ends at the Palace of Holyroodhouse. There's a lot to check out on the Royal Mile and it can be crowded and touristy. So pack your walking shoes and your patience. Tip: Save the bottom half of the of the Royal Mile for a different day.
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Edinburgh Farmers' Market
Definitely stop in here if you're in Old Town on a Saturday morning.
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The Vennel Viewpoint Edinburgh Castle
Where to go to get an incredible photo of the castle!
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Grassmarket
This historic marketplace area was once the site of public executions. Today, this is a vibrant area filled with pubs, shops, and hotels. A great spot for breakfast or lunch!
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Cold Town House
This place in the Grassmarket area has rooftop seating and people rave about their cocktails.
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Armchair Books
This really cool used book shop is a dream for photographers.
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Edinburgh - Old Town Stories
A great way to discover hidden gems in Old Town.
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Advocate's Close
Edinburgh has many wynds and closes on the Royal Mile—basically, alleyways. This one is a great spot to get a framed shot of the Scott Monument, which is over in New Town.
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The Real Mary King's Close
This is considered to be one of the best things to see on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh. This close is surrounded by myths and legends.
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The Piper's Rest
This is a popular dinner spot just off the Royal Mile. Try traditional Scottish favorites here like haggis and toffee pudding. They have live music 7 nights a week—usually a mixture of traditional Scottish tunes and upbeat covers. It can get busy here, especially on weekends, so definitely book ahead and make sure you get a table!
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Day 2: New Town

Calton Hill
Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Calton Hill has some of the city's best views (and if you get up early, the best sunrises). Calton Hill is also home to some iconic Scottish monuments and buildings, including the National Monument.
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Regent Road
After sunrise at Calton Hill, head over to Regent Road for more incredible views, including of Arthur's Seat.
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Scott Monument
This is one of Edinburgh's most iconic landmarks. You can pretty much view this monument from anywhere in Edinburgh, but definitely get a tour here so you can climb up to the third-floor viewing platform for an unforgettable view of the city. Buy tickets upon arrival—they don't do advance bookings.
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Princes Street
The main shopping street in New Town.
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Princes Street Gardens
These beautiful and historic gardens separate New and Old Towns. Be sure to stop by the Victorian Gardener's Cottage! (At Christmas, the gardens are transformed into a "Winter Wonderland" with a market, ice rink, and more.)
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Dean Village
Just five minutes away from Princes Street, this old water mill town by the Water of Leith is definitely worth checking out. At the heart of the village is Well Court, the most iconic building in the village. This building was built in the 1880s and housed local workers who worked at the water mills.
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National Galleries of Scotland: National
The world-class art collection here begins from the Renaissance period and goes all the way to the beginning of the 20th century. And it's free!
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National Galleries Scotland: Portrait
This incredible Gothic building holds a huge collection of portaits of the people who shaped Scotland's past, present, and future. Also free to enter.
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Circus Lane
Located in Stockbridge, this is one of Edinburgh's most photographed spots. The lane was once where stable workers and other employees who served rich New Town families lived and the colorful garages on this lane were once stables! There's an incredible view of the clock tower on top of the Balmoral Hotel here.
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Lannan Bakery
This renowned bakery has a weekly changing menu. Go early, there will be a line. Try the iced buns. (Not open Monday-Wednesday.)
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Stockbridge Market
A great market to stop in if you're in New Town's Stockbridge neighborhood on Sundays (open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
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The Spence
Perfect if you are looking to dine in a beautiful setting.
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Duck & Waffle
Or if you prefer a unique setting, try Duck & Waffle. Dining here is more than just a meal, it's an experience.
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Panda & Sons
Looks like a barbership, but it's actually a renowned bar with super inventive cocktails. This speakeasy is a must-visit. Try the Red Panda.
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Day 3: Day Trip

Edinburgh: St Andrews & The Fishing Villages of Fife
Whether you have a car and drive yourself, or you join a tour, St. Andrews is only about 90 minutes from Edinburgh and a beautiful place for a day trip!
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Old Course
You don't have to be a golfer to enjoy the oldest golf course in the world. Be sure to spot the legendary Swilcan Bridge. You can actually play here and they also have a putting area if that's all you want to do.
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St Andrews Cathedral
Explore the grounds for free here. It's an incredible setting!
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Day 4: Pop Culture

Victoria Street
Victoria Street and West Bow are believed to have served as the inspiration for parts of Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter books. Make this your first stop (before 8 a.m.) as it gets extremely crowded later in the day—this is one of Edinburgh's most photographed streets!
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The Elephant House
This is where J.K. Rowling first wrote the Harry Potter books over coffee and cake. Sit and stay a while in this relaxed writer/reader-friendly cafe, and try a butterscotch beer.
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George IV Bridge
Besides Greyfriars Kirkyard, this is a great spot to get a view of George Heriot's School, believed to be the inspiration for Hogwarts.
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Museum Context: Retailer of Harry Potter Merchandise
Head to this quirky shop to pick up some Harry Potter merch. It is designed to look like Ollivander's Wand Shop. There's also a location on Cockburn Street.
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The Enchanted Galaxy
This shop has actual model movie props from Harry Potter throughout the store, including all of the main characters' wands! 🪄
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Greyfriars Kirkyard Cemetery Edinburgh
It's believed J.K. Rowling used some of the names on the tombs here for inspiration for characters in her books. Look for Robert Potter, William McGonagall (a famously bad poet), Elizabeth Moodie, Margaret Louisa Scrymgeour Wedderburn, and of course, Thomas Riddle.
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George Heriot's School
This Gothic school is believed to be what Hogwarts was based on. Since this is an actual working school, you can't really visit, but there's a great view from Greyfriars Kirkyard and the Geroge IV Bridge.
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Greyfriars Bobby Statue
One of the most beloved stories in Edinburgh is of the dog who sat by his owner's grave (in Greyfriars Kirkyard Cemetery) for 14 years. This is the life-size statue of Bobby.
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Greyfriars Bobby's Bar
The pub behind the Greyfriars Bobby statue is a popular spot for lunch and a pint.
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The Writers' Museum
Check out personal objects, portraits and historic works of famous Scottish writers here. (Not the author of the Harry Potter books!) Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson are all celebrated here at this museum tucked away behind Lady Stair's Close.
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Makars' Court
Find a variety of quotes from Scottish writers inscribed on the courtyard flagstones here.
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Makars Mash Bar
Check out this cozy, unique restaurant that specializes in mashed potatoes with meat or vegetarian toppings. It can get crowded, so be prepared to wait up to an hour if you don't make reservations.
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Edinburgh City Chambers
Find J.K. Rowling's handprints in front of this building.
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Bakehouse Close
A must-visit spot for fans of the "Outlander" series.
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Harry Potter Private Tour in Edinburgh
Let someone else show you around!
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Day 5: Old Town Part II

Arthur's Seat
This is about a 2.7-mile loop trail, so hiking Arthur's Seat usually takes about an hour and 30 minutes to complete. Sunrise is the best time to go. It'll take about 45 minutes to an hour to get to the top. (Sunset is great, too.)
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Palace of Holyroodhouse
This is the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland, currently King Charles III. It is open throughout the year—book tickets in advance. (There's a special tour at Christmas!)
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Dunbars Close
This hidden close contains an immaculately kept garden.
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White Horse Close
A 17th-century close that maintains a lot of its old architecture.
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Chessels Court
Find the famous hidden ivy heart wall here.
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St Giles' Cathedral
Located on the Royal Mile, this nearly 1,000-year-old Gothic cathedral is open every day (including Sunday afternoons). Check out the Victorian stained-glass windows, the Rieger organ, an original copy of the Covenant, and the famous Thistle Chapel, home of Scotland's great order of chivalry.
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The Colonnades at the Signet Library
This is one of the best places to experience afternoon tea in Edinburgh. Set in an historic library! People love the food, too. Check the schedule, but afternoon tea here is usually served from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Wednesdays through Sundays. Book in advance to eat here!
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National Museum of Scotland
Free to enter, there is a ton to see here, from dinosaurs to fashion! The atrium of the Grand Gallery is beautiful in and of itself. There's also a really cool rooftop terrace here that offers 360-degree views of Edinbrugh's skyline.
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The Scotch Whisky Experience
There are more than 3,300 bottles of whisky here! (Tip: Check out the basement bar.)
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The Scotch Whisky Experience Guided Whisky Tour - An Introduction to Whisky
A great tour if you want to learn (and taste) more about whisky!
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The Witchery
THE place to go for fine dining in Edinburgh and a perfect place for a final meal in Edinburgh. You must make advanced reservations. You can also stay at the hotel, dubbed the most romantic in Edinburgh, if you're willing to splurge.
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Stays

The Knight Residence by Mansley
If you're staying for a while you may want something that's a little bit more like an apartment. Only a half mile from Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile, and a 5-minute walk from Grassmarket.
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The Balmoral
If you're a lover of Harry Potter, definitely splurge to stay here. It's said that J.K. Rowling completed the final scenes in her last book, "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows," in Room 552. This hotel is also famous for its Gothic clock tower that is almost never on time.
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The Scott
You can stay in this 18th-century Baronial house just outside the city! They also have special packages for autumn and Christmas here.
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Motel One Edinburgh Royal
Right in the middle of Edinburgh between Old and New Towns! Some of the rooms have incredible views, too.
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No11 Brasserie & Boutique Hotel & Intimate Wedding Venue
You can get a full Scottish breakfast at this Georgian townhouse and it has a resident's bar for a quiet drink. Just a 10-minute walk to Edinburgh city center.
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