72 hours in Edinburgh, Scotland – Must-See Sights + Top Tips

Edinburgh is not only the capital of Scotland but also one of the most visited cities in Europe. With its volcanic hills, centuries of history, and an elegant new town, Edinburgh offers something for everyone.

The capital is a hive of activity offering charm, culture and character. It also hosts many world-famous festivals – the Edinburgh Tattoo and the Fringe Festival – a vibrant art scene, and more museums than anyone can visit during one trip. In 2004, it was also named a UNESCO City of Literature, so book lovers will always find something going on.

The History of Edinburgh

Edinburgh’s history can be seen in every winding alley and towering spire, making it a dream destination for history buffs and culture lovers alike.

Once a medieval stronghold, the city later became the centre of the Scottish Enlightenment during the 18^th century, where great advancements were made in both science and thinking, making it a notable hub for intellectuals, great thinkers and storytellers.

Some of the most notable residents include the philosopher David Hume and the economist Adam Smith.  Writers calling Edinburgh home includes Sir Walter Scott, Robert Louis Stevenson, Muriel Spark, and Irvine Welsh. Even J.K. Rowling famously wrote in one of Edinburgh’s cafés.

The city’s star power doesn’t stop with the page however, as actors like Sir Sean Connery, the original James Bond, and Trainspotting star Ewen Bremner also hail from Edinburgh.

72 Hours in Edinburgh Itinerary

Edinburgh is a city like no other—where centuries of history meet a vibrant, creative energy drawing visitors from around the world.

Even before you reach the centre, visitors are drawn to the dramatic skyline, where you will see multiple medieval spires and centuries-old buildings rise above cobbled streets, as well as the iconic Edinburgh Castle perched atop Castle Rock.

Visitors tend to flock towards the old town, where the narrow cobbled lanes ooze history, but don’t forget the new town, known more for its elegant streets and neoclassical facades.

But it’s not just the architecture that causes people to visit, foodies can also sample everything from traditional Scottish dishes to cutting-edge cuisine in award-winning restaurants. While for outdoor enthusiasts, Arthur’s Seat will be calling before perhaps a trip to Princes Street Gardens.

Whether you’re chasing history, art, or nature, Edinburgh offers an experience that’s rich, inspiring, and completely unforgettable.

Day 1 Edinburgh Itinerary

Start your day with breakfast at Urban Angel

This café has become a bit of an institution in Edinburgh and therefore Urban Angel is the perfect place to stay your city break. With sustainably sourced ingredients, this independent eatery offers a wide-range of seasonal dishes including vegan and gluten-free options.

Address: 121 Hanover Street, Edinburgh, EH2 1DJ

Head to Princes Street Gardens and the Walter Scott Monument

As one of the most iconic monuments in the city, it seems fitting to start your exploring here, with the monument itself being one of the largest in the world dedicated to a writer.

Perhaps best known for Ivanhoe and his Waverley Series, Sir Walter Scott is one of Edinburgh’s most famous residents and since his death in 1832 he has been immortalised not only by his written word but also this very impressive memorial.

Inside the monument’s museum room, visitors will learn more about Walter Scott and his legacy as well as the story behind the monument itself. There are also four large stained-glass windows to admire, before climbing to the 3^rd floors for your first viewpoint across the city.

Even if you decide not to venture inside, make sure to stop and take in the carving of Scott himself that sits at the base on the monument.

Address: E. Princes St Gardens, Edinburgh EH2 2EJ

Cost: £9 adult/£7 child (open from 10 am-3:30 pm)

Explore the Royal Mile

Once one of the most densely populated area in the world, the Royal Mile is an architectural masterpiece, with many of the buildings standing since medieval times.

Stretching from Edinburgh Castle down to Holyrood Palace, this is the most unforgettable part of the city and home to centuries of stories. It is where you will find a mix of street performers, traditional shops, hidden courtyards, and historic landmarks that bring the city’s rich heritage to life; it is where the past and present comes together making this part of the city truly memorable.

 Take a tour around Edinburgh Castle

No trip to Edinburgh would be complete without visiting one of the most famous castles in Scotland. During its time, this castle has been a royal residence, a military stronghold and a prison. 

As you wander around this impressive fortress, you will be able to wander through the Great Hall where banquets would have once taken place, explore the Royal apartments where Mary, Queen of Scots once resided, and head to the Crown Room where the Honours of Scotland are housed.

Also allow time to roam around the military defences before heading through the Portcullis Gate towards the far end of the Argyle Battery to experience the One O’clock Gun, which goes off every day except a Sunday; a tradition that has been going since 1861.

Address: Castlehill, Edinburgh, EH1 2NG

Cost: £21.50 adult/£13 child (open from 9:30 am – 5 pm/6 pm in the summer months)

Enjoy a quick lunch at Deacon’s House Café

After a morning exploring the historical area of Edinburgh pop into the traditional decorated, Deacon’s House Café, named after the William Deacon Brodie. He was a furniture maker and member of the Edinburgh Town Council, who lead a double life as a thief, and said to be the inspiration for the Jekyll and Hyde character created by R.L. Stevenson.

Here you can enjoy a sandwich, scone or one of the many daily cake options in one of the oldest café settings in the city before heading back out to continue sightseeing.

Address: 304 Lawnmarket, 3 Brodie’s Close, Edinburgh EH1 2PS.

Take in the optical illusions at the Camera Obscura

Walking through the doors, you would not think that this is one of Edinburgh’s oldest attractions, dating back to 1853.

Spread across five floors, with over 100 interactive exhibits, your brain will certainly be tested with all of the mind-bending illusions. However, the main attraction is the camera obscura itself on the top floor which provides you with a full panoramic of the city.

Address: 549 Castlehill, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, EH1 2ND

Cost: £23.95 adult/ £17.95 child (open from 8 am – 10 pm – times are seasonal so do vary)

Visit St Giles’ Cathedral

The 900 year old St Giles’ Cathedral along the Royal Mile, is often referred to as the High Kirk of Edinburgh. With its distinctive crown-shaped spire reaching into the skyline, the cathedral is as beautiful on the inside as it is iconic on the outside.

Wander inside and you will be drawn to the striking stained glass windows and intricate stonework. While the Thistle Chapel, designed by Robert Lorimer, contains stalls for the 16 knights, two Royal stalls and a Sovereign stall and is where the honours of the Order of the Thistle, Scotland’s highest order of chivalry, are appointed.

Whether you are religious or not, this building really is something special.

Address: High St, Edinburgh, EH1 1RE

Cost: Donations welcome (open between 9 am – 6 pm, although times vary at the weekend)

Head for dinner at Vittoria on the Bridge

While Italian may be a strange suggestion for your first night in Scotland, the food here is authentic, plentiful and caters for all dietary needs. The Raviolone with King Prawns and Scallops and the Penne Dello Chef in particular are very good dishes.

Address: George IV Bridge, Edinburgh,  EH1 1EN

Head for a drink at The Last Drop on Grassmarket

Aptly named due to its location next to the old gallows site, and rumour has it that prisoners would have been given their last meal and a drink before they were executed. Of course, the current drinking establishment is only about 150 years old, but the building itself stands on tenements dating back to the 17^th century. 

Today, this small pub has a cosy feeling, with its dark beams and wooden panelled walls. Plus, time it right, and you will walk in to the sound of live music provided by an impromptu gathering of talented individuals.

Address: 74-78 Grassmarket, Edinburgh EH1 2JR

Finish your Evening with a Literary Pub Tour

Starting at the Beehive, close to The Last Drop on Grassmarket, this is an entertaining way to spend an evening learning about the history of literature in Edinburgh.

This tour, served with a generous helping of comic wit,  offers a unique insight into the city’s rich literary heritage. As you move from pub to pub, following actors who play Scottish literary greats like Robert Burns or Sir Walter Scott, you’re treated to tales of Scotland’s iconic writers and the actual haunts where they once drank, debated, and wrote.

It is equal parts history, theatre, and bar-hop, with anecdotes and performances that bring the words of past centuries to life.

Each pub you visit exudes its own charm—from cosy, fire-lit corners to raucous wood-panelled rooms steeped in centuries of storytelling. Whether you’re a literature buff or simply along for the pints and performance, the Literary Pub Tour captures the soul of Edinburgh.

Address: 18-20 Grassmarket, Edinburgh EH1 2JU

Cost: £20 pp (tour lasts around 2 hours)

Day 2 Edinburgh Itinerary

After a day spent in the older part of the city yesterday, today is about exploring slightly further afield and enjoying the uniqueness of of Edinburgh in comparison to many other city breaks – the great outdoors.

Start the day with breakfast at Room Rumours Coffee

Located in The Arches, Room Rumours Coffee is the place to go to pick up a delicious pastry ahead of the busy day ahead. Whether you opt for one of their cinnamon buns, a artfully designed doughnut, or something more substantial like eggs and avocado on toast make sure to pair it with a mug of their delicious coffee.

Address:  Arch 13, 25 E Market St, Edinburgh EH8 8FS

Wander up to the Burns Monument

The first stop on our walking tour is the Burns Monument, one of the most photographed in the city and commemorates Scotland’s National Poet. This large, circular structure once contained a life-size sculpture of the man himself but should you wish to see that you will need to head into the National Portrait Gallery.

Address: 1759 Regent Rd, Edinburgh EH8 8DR

Visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse

Situated at the end of Edinburgh’s iconic Royal Mile, the Palace of Holyroodhouse is a working royal residence and, therefore, isn’t there just to remind us of the past. From the moment you enter the grand courtyard, you’re immersed in centuries of drama and opulence.

At one time, Mary, Queen of Scots, called this palace home, and her chambers still echo with the tension of plots and political upheaval, particularly the chilling tale of her secretary David Rizzio’s murder, which unfolded within these very walls.

The State Apartments are a must-see, filled with lavish tapestries, ornate plasterwork, and royal portraits of monarchs both past and present and don’t miss the ruins of Holyrood Abbey behind the palace with its weathered arches and open roof.

Address: Canongate, Edinburgh EH8 8DX

Cost: £20-£25 adult/ £13.50-£16.50 young person/ £10.50/£12.50 child

Hike up Arthur’s Seat or walk around to one of the oldest pubs in Scotland

Not everyone likes to hike uphill and therefore the suggestion of taking a walk up extinct volcano might not appeal to you. There are various routes depending on fitness levels or time available – the blue route taking up to 2 hours, while the green route takes only 30 minutes but isn’t for the faint-hearted. Of course, anyone that does hike up to the top will be rewarded with the most spectacular views out over Edinburgh, down to Leith and further afield.

For others, or after you have completed your hike, continue around the base of Arthurs Seat and along the pathway towards Duddingston. This walk itself is extremely picturesque, the views constantly changing – cityscapes to villages, hills to sea – but it’s the end location that you will be looking forward to.

The Sheep Heid in Duddingston which opened its doors in 1360 is considered to be the oldest surviving pub not only in Edinburgh, but Scotland. Outside remains unassuming, while inside the wood panelling, wonky beams and skittle alley offer an insight in to yesterday-year.

Once you have made it this far, it is time to enjoy a tipple – perhaps a locally produce beer or a refreshing cider along with either a bar snack or, if you are feeling peckish, consider their lunchtime offer menu which will certainly fill you up until tea time.

Address:  43-45 The Causeway, Edinburgh EH15 3QA

Walk back to the city via the Distillery

Anyone visiting the city will soon realise that there are plenty of breweries and distilleries to try, but the Holyrood Distillery is one of the best.

Opened in 2019, it’s the first single malt distillery to fire up copper stills in the city in almost 100 years and is housed in a converted railway goods shed.

So, what makes this place stand out? After all, there are several distillery options, some much closer to the centre of the city. The difference here is that you don’t have to be a whisky lover because, alongside their whisky production, they also create their own gin, vodka and rum brands.

If you decide to take a tour, you will get a look into their processes, standing at eye level with the gleaming copper stills and hearing how science meets tradition in every batch. The experience It’s with a guided tasting in their light-filled bar overlooking Holyrood Park.

And, if you don’t fancy a tour, they have plenty of tasters available at their ‘Sample Station’, or you could simply head straight for the bar to try one of their many different cocktail concoctions.

Address: 19 St Leonard’s Lane, Edinburgh EH8 9SH

Head to Badger and Co for dinner

Located in the newer part of town, Badger and Co is a must for any fan of The Wind in the Willows. Not only can you see the iconic characters of Toad, Badger, Mole and Ratty everywhere, it is the former home of Kenneth Grahame, author of this loveable tale.

Start with a themed cocktail – Rattie’s Rum for example – before diving into the menu. The haggis sausage roll was particularly memorable as was the Beetroot and Wild Mushroom Wellington.

Address: 32 Castle St, Edinburgh EH2 3HT

Head to a speakeasy for a night cap

Not far from your dining option you will find Panda and Sons, a prohibition speakeasy-style bar with a vintage barber’s shop front and a bookcase you will have to wander through. Voted one of the best bars in the world, it is not surprise that it is busy, and if travelling as a group, it is highly advisable to book in advance.

On the menu you will find everything from freeze-dried cocktails to exquisite whiskies and everything in between. The décor is eclectic, and the furniture doesn’t match but it all adds to the atmosphere of this bar, described as one of the most memorable in the city.

Address: 79 Queen St, Edinburgh EH2 4NF

Day 3 Edinburgh Itinerary

Enjoy breakfast on Calton Hill

Pick up a breakfast to go this morning and head up Calton Hill to enjoy the early morning views back over the city.

Calton Hill, an UNESCO World Heritage Site, can be found at the end of Princes Street and offers 360 degrees views which means you can enjoy your croissant while looking out over the castle, the palace or out towards Leith and the Royal Britannia.

Once used for public gatherings and even executions, today, it’s home to a collection of iconic monuments, including the National Monument—an unfinished replica of the Parthenon, often referred to as “Scotland’s Disgrace”, as well as the Nelson Monument and the Dugald Stewart Monument.

With sweeping views over the city skyline, Arthur’s Seat, and the Firth of Forth, Calton Hill offers a perfect mix of history, architecture, and panoramic beauty, all just a short climb from Edinburgh’s bustling centre.

Wander across to Greyfriars Kirkyard

Greyfriars Kirkyard, located on the other side of Edinburgh’s Old Town, is one of the city’s most atmospheric spots. It is a graveyard where the moss-covered headstones and family tombs that have seen better days stand next to the well-tended grave of Bobby, a loyal dog who guarded his master’s grave.

Dating back to the 16th century, and beyond the heartwarming tale of Bobby, the dog, the kirkyard is steeped in darker moments, including its role in the signing of the National Covenant in 1638 and its grim connection to the Covenanters’ Prison, an area many believe to be one of the most haunted places in the world.

Today, many visit because of its connection to Harry Potter as many of the gravestones inspired character names in the wizardry series, and it is where the Harry Potter Walking Tour also begins, should you be interested in learning more about the inspiration behind the world’s most famous wizard.

Address: Greyfriars Kirk, Greyfriars Place, Edinburgh, EH1 2QQ

Head towards the street that inspired Diagon Alley

The colourful, cobbled stoned Victoria Street that arches around from Lawnmarket towards Grassmarket has often been created with the accolade of inspired the now very famous Diagon Alley that features in the Harry Potter series.

Here you will find high-standing townhouses of various striking colours – pink, blue, green and orange – all with quirky shop fronts crying out for your attention. Whether you are looking to find the prefer wizardry souvenir, candles, skincare, or some artisan delights this street is the perfect place to shop.

At the same time, there are plenty of bar and restaurants should you feel the need to refuel. The Bow Bar is one such establishment that offers a traditional pint and pie offering, while Scott’s Kitchen, sitting just above Victoria Street is the perfect place for people-watching when the sun is out.

Find out more about the writers of Scotland

After a spot of retail therapy, head back up to the Royal Mile and The Writers Museum where you will be able to learn more about Scotland’s most influential authors, with permanent exhibitions on Robert Burns, Robert Louis Stevenson and Sir Walter Scott. The collections include manuscripts and books owned by the famous writers along with other more personal items, including Burn’s childhood rocking horse.

While here, make sure to take in the quotes that feature on the walkway just outside before heading around the corner to Edinburgh City Chambers where you will find the handprints of several authors marked in the concrete and covered in gold, including Ian Rankin, J.K. Rowling, and Alexander McCall Smith.

Address: Lawnmarket, Lady Stair’s Close, Edinburgh EH1 2PA

Cost: Free (open 10 am – 5 pm daily)

Head for a quirky afternoon drink at The Cocktail Geeks

Located in the Edinburgh Arches, this unique bar changes themes every four months with inspiration coming from well-known shows, movies and games like Game of Thrones, Jurassic Park and Super Mario, so even if you have been before, chances are you will get a completely different experience if you return.

Expect staff to be dressed according the theme, the décor to have changed, and the cocktails to also be linked to the current experience.  Its popular so if you are travelling in a group, it might be one to book.

Address:  Arch 14, 27 E Market St, Edinburgh EH8 8FS

Head to The Real Mary King Close to find out more about the history of the city

As dusk settles in head to The Real Mary King’s Close, an ancient alleyway under the Royal Mile which is one of the most popular attractions in Edinburgh. It was once where families would have lived, worked, and interacted in cramped, dark conditions.

Dating back to the 16th century, the close was sealed off in the 19th century during the city’s expansion, preserving much of its eerie atmosphere. Today, you can take a guided tour where you will hear stories of plague, poverty, and ghostly legends, earning it a reputation as one of Edinburgh’s most haunted locations.

Address: 2 Warriston’s Close, Edinburgh EH1 1PG

Cost: £24 standard/£27 flexi adult, £17 standard/£20 flexi child. Special tours vary in price

Head for dinner at Makars Mash

Makars Mash offers a refreshingly authentic take on traditional Scottish comfort food using humble ingredients to create hearty, gourmet experiences. What sets this eatery apart is its devotion to the art of mashed potatoes—serving a variety of creatively flavoured mashes as the centrepiece rather than the side.

Found on the Mound with views over Princes Street Gardens, the restaurant celebrates locally sourced produce and slow-cooked meats while maintaining a cosy, unpretentious atmosphere.

Whether you’re sampling their haggis with whisky sauce or indulging in a vegetarian lentil stew, Makars Mash blends home-style cooking with inventive flair.

Address: 9-12 Bank St, Edinburgh EH1 2LN

Finish the evening at Brewhemia

Considered Scotland’s only Brew Palace, Brewhemia is set within the old Scotsman newspaper printworks just off Waverley Station. It is a place that reimagines the grandeur of Central European beer halls while adding a distinctly Scottish twist. The vast venue has various areas offering different atmospheres and experiences, including the Beer Palace, a cosy Bothy, and an elegant Boudoir.

Unique to Brewhemia are the towering copper beer tanks, filled with unpasteurised Czech beer, which can be enjoyed while listening to live music, cabaret, and immersive events, making it the perfect location to finish your tour of Edinburgh.

Address: 1A Market St, Edinburgh EH1 1DE

Final Thoughts   

Not only is Edinburgh the capital of Scotland, but it is also a perfect walkable city crammed full of historical buildings and eye-catching facades. Whether you are a fan of Harry Potter, Scottish poets, a bookshop nerd or a history buff, this city packs a punch and will leave a lasting memory.

Recommended Tours

If you have enough time, head out towards Leith and explore the Royal Britannia.

Take one of the many Whisky Tours available both in Edinburgh and around the city.

Take a Harry Potter Walking Tour around the city.

If Whisky isn’t for you, head for a Gin Distillery instead.

Football fans can head for a stadium tour around either the Hearts or the Hibernian grounds. Alternatively, you could tour Murrayfield, the home of Scottish Rugby.

Market lovers should head out to Stockbridge market on a Sunday, or Leith Market on a Saturday, where, on the first Saturday of the month, they have a Vegan quarter.

Head out on a Haunted Vaults Tour, exploring the streets and learn more about some of Edinburgh’s most notorious criminals.

If you have time to visit further afield:

Just outside the city centre, you will find Lauriston Castle, where the grounds are free to explore.

Enjoy a day trip to Stirling Castle and the Kelpies.

Visit Loch Lomond and take a boat across the loch.

Take a day trip to Loch Ness in search of the famous monster.

How to get to Edinburgh

Reaching Edinburgh is convenient thanks to its well-connected transport network. For those arriving by train, Edinburgh Waverley Station sits in the heart of the city and offers direct services from major UK cities such as London, Glasgow, Manchester, and Newcastle.

Bus travellers can access the city via the Edinburgh Bus Station on Elder Street, which is served by long-distance operators like National Express and Megabus.

If you’re flying, Edinburgh Airport is located just eight miles west of the city centre and is easily accessible via the Airlink 100 express bus, trams, or taxis.

For drivers, several park-and-ride facilities on the outskirts—like Ingliston, Sheriffhall, Ferrytoll, and Hermiston—allow you to park for free and take a bus or tram into the city, as on-street parking in central Edinburgh is limited and often expensive. Plus, there is now a congestion charge to consider.

Travelling By Motorhome to Edinburgh

• Edinburgh Coach and Bus Park (200 Sir Harry Lauder Rd, Portobello, Edinburgh EH15 2QA). This is not necessarily a pretty park up, but it does offer a sense of security along with toilets, showers and EHU if needed. For around £25 per night this is a popular stop as it is just 20/25 minutes from the city.
• The Old Colliery (Dalkeith, Midlothian, Scotland, United Kingdom, EH22 1FD). From this pub stop you can reach the city in just 25 minutes on bus number 33. The parking is on a slight slope but works on a park-and-pay-for-using the pub basis.
• Newcraighall Park and Ride (Newcraighall, Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom, EH21 8RB). This park and ride facility costs just 50p for 24 hours, and then it is a short train trip into the city. Ideal if you are looking for day parking close to Edinburgh, although some have opted to stay overnight also.

Where to stay in Edinburgh

Tucked behind Princes Street and close to Calton Hill and the train station, you will find Parliament House, a luxury boutique hotel. With a welcoming reception/bar area complete with fireplace for the cooler months, and large rooms traditionally decorated with tartan and offering a range of features like baths and window seats, this is the perfect location to return to after a day of sightseeing and ideally located to visit both the new and old sides of the city.

Alternatively, if you want to stay directly on the Royal Mile, The Witchery by the Castle is housed in a beautiful, historic building dating back centuries. It takes its name from all the witches burnt at the stake on Castlehill during the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries and has retained many of the medieval features even today, making it one of the most romantic places to stay while in the city.

For those wanting to follow in the footsteps of the many writers who have spent time in the city, The Balmoral Hotel is extremely popular and luxurious for those seeking out something special, while The Scotsman Hotel was once the headquarters of the national newspaper but now offers a selection of rooms and suites named after jobs within the publishing world – Reporter Rooms, Director Rooms, The Headline Suite and The Publishers Suite.

Motorhome Campsite options

While Edinburgh has many hotels, B&Bs, and self-catering options, motorhome travel is still an option for those wanting to explore Scotland more extensively.

Just 4 miles from the city centre, you will find Mortonhall Caravan and Camping Park, a campsite in the middle of a country estate offering camping pitches, glamping pods, shepherd’s huts, and holiday homes. A bar and restaurant are on-site, along with a small shop and modern facilities.

Finally, if you are a Caravan and Motorhome Club member, there is a site slightly further out of town and sits right on the Firth of Forth, giving you yet another option to visit the city.

Have you visited Edinburgh? What would you recommend others visit when in the area?

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