How to spend 2 days in Edinburgh?

Edinburgh, the Scottish capital is an amazing city to explore. Tasting whisky, discovering JK Rowling's Harry Potter spark, and exploring castles – this plan is just right for first-timers.

Itinerary Summary

  • Got 2 days in Edinburgh? That's enough to hit the best spots. While there's more to explore, this'll cover the highlights just right.

  • Thinking of just two days in Edinburgh? I would suggest staying in the city centre for easy access to all attractions. Walk, take buses, or hop on trams – you'll cover every corner hassle-free!

Edinburgh 2-Day Full Itinerary

Day 1

Morning

  • Edinburgh Castle Open 9.30am to 6pm, Last entry is 5pm Admission fee is £19.5
    Kick off your day by exploring Scotland's most stunning and highly visited structure: Edinburgh Castle. From here, you can relish a breath taking panoramic view of the city and its surroundings.
    I will always remember when I first visited Edinburgh, I was stunned by the Castle's dramatic perch on Castle Rock. I fell in love with Edinburgh immediately.
    Edinburgh Castle stands as a historic stronghold in Edinburgh, ranking among Europe's oldest fortified sites. Its extensive history, spanning royal abode, military base, prison, and fortress, is brimming with captivating stories that bring it to life.
    Every August, Edinburgh Castle becomes home to the famous Military Tattoo. If you're around, you'll feel the buzz and energy first hand. Plus, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, a massive celebration of arts and culture, also lights up the city too.
    Tickets for Edinburgh Castle often sell out far in advance, especially over the summer months. Book your tickets online in advance for the best price and to guarantee entry.

Afternoon

  • Royal Mile
    The Royal Mile, though technically longer than a mile, offers a perfect glimpse into the heart of Edinburgh's old town. Stretching from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace, this mile is bursting with shops, cafes, bars, and history. I suggest coming here after visiting Edinburgh Castle to take a break for lunch or relax with a drink at a pub before diving deeper into Edinburgh.

  • St Giles’ Cathedral Open 10am to 6pm Free of charge
    St Giles' Cathedral stands as a significant Scottish church with a stunning interior and captivating stained glass windows. Situated along the iconic Royal Mile, its remarkable architecture and storied past draw visitors worldwide. If you're after a cultural experience in Edinburgh, this free attraction is a definite must-see. While on the Royal Mile, you won't want to pass up the chance to step inside this grand cathedral.

Where to eat on/near Royal Mile?

  • The Devil's Advocate:
    This spot offers fantastic food, including modern takes on classic Scottish dishes. It's a truly distinctive bar with a special setting. With more than 300 whiskeys and scotches available, it's a gem tucked away from the hustle of the Royal Mile. If you're keen on trying their food, booking ahead is smart—even on weekdays. It's a great lunch spot

  • Angels with Bagpipes:
    Craving traditional Scottish fare with a modern twist? Look no further. This spot serves the town's best haggis and offers a convenient location along the Royal Mile. Whether you're seeking a quality dinner or a taste of haggis done right, this is the place to be. Every dish is carefully prepared using top-notch ingredients, ensuring a satisfying dining experience.

Evening

  • The Ghost Bus Tour
    If you're up for exploring Edinburgh after dark, consider hopping on The Ghost Bus Tours. It unveils the city's eerie side. The tour is a blend of intrigue and amusement, thanks to the entertaining bus driver who truly brings the experience to life. Unlike your typical hop-on-hop-off bus, this night tour is a must-try.

  • Alternatively, you can join the City of Edinburgh Tour to experience the world-famous underground ghost tour.

Day 2

Morning

  • Arthur's Seat
    Kickstart your day with a hike up Arthur's Seat. This popular Edinburgh spot offers breath taking city views and picturesque trails. The ascent takes 45 minutes to an hour, but in summer, it can get bustling. Aim for an early start to beat the crowds and enjoy the tranquillity. Once at the top, you'll be rewarded with a 360-degree view of the city.

  • Palace of Holyroodhouse Open 9:30 am to 6 pm Admission fee is £18
    Get ready for an amazing visit to Edinburgh's Holyrood Palace – a truly majestic spot. Dive into stories of how the modern Royals use this place and the interesting events that happen here. Yes, it's still used now and then. Oh, and don't miss the breath taking view of Arthur's Seat from the garden. If history is your thing, this tour is a winner. And guess what? The free audio-visual guide is a real gem, making the whole experience even better.

Afternoon

  • National Museum of Scotland Open 10am to 5pm Free of charge
    This museum is a gem, with plenty to explore and experience, and it's free to enter. You can easily lose yourself there for a whole afternoon. From discovering a world of natural wonders to science and tech, all in a single place, the building itself is also a delight. It offers an enjoyable journey through Scotland's past, unveiling pivotal periods that shaped the nation into what it is today.

Evening

  • Whisky Tasting
    You cannot come to Scotland without tasting some whisky! Scottish whisky is a beloved choice for many. While enjoying it at local pubs is simple, for a deeper understanding of its creation process, the Scotch Whisky Experience is a must. The tour is intriguing, offering insights into what defines 'Scotch' whisky. It's a fantastic way to spend the night in Edinburgh. Plus, children get a taste of Irn-Bru instead of whisky.

where to stay in Edinburgh?

  • In my opinion, choosing to stay in Old Town is like embracing the heart of Edinburgh – an ideal choice for the majority of tourists and those visiting the Scottish capital for the first time. Its central location puts you within easy walking distance of numerous attractions. Plus, you'll find a plethora of restaurants, pubs, and activities to keep you engaged.

For an affordable option with convenient access, my top recommendation is the ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge. Situated right in the heart of the city, it's just a short walk away from the National Museum of Scotland. Multiple bus stops are located right at its doorstep, making it easy to reach any part of town. Offering reasonable rates, it delivers outstanding value for your money. The rooms are spacious and well-maintained aswell. Just remember, there are three Ibis hotels in Edinburgh, so make sure you pick the right one for your stay

Calling all Harry Potter fans in Edinburgh! If you're a big fan of Harry Potter, don't miss out on The Potter Trail. This tour not only caters to your fandom but also lets you explore key spots in town, giving you a double dose of excitement.