3 Days in Edinburgh
Edinburgh is the city that’s surprised us the most! We were truly blown away by its beauty, the buildings, people, history, food and overall charm. I felt like we did most of Edinburgh, yet as soon as we left, we both agreed we couldn’t wait to go back!
Accommodation
3 of us went to Edinburgh so we stayed in a 4 person dorm at St Christopher’s Hostel. We chose a budget friendly accommodation as we were hardly in our room and it was just a place to sleep. In saying that, St Christopher’s is in a very central location (at the bottom of Cockburn Street) and the rooms were great. The hostel was very social and the staff were super helpful willing to provided recommendations. The front desk is open 24/7.
DAY 1
MORNING: Arthur’s Seat
After leaving our bags at St Christopher’s, we walked to the beginning of the Arthur’s Seat walk, about 30 minutes from the old town. There is also a public bus, but we enjoyed walking through the streets and getting a feel for Edinburgh.
The Arthur’s Seat walk isn’t well sign-posted, but it’s so popular you can just follow the line of people. There are a couple of different ridge paths, but you want to take the largest path to the far ridge. It’s a very steep 20-30 minute walk with uneven surfaces - definitely take some water - but the end view is so worth it. Once you get to the top, you’ll enjoy 360 degre360-degree Edinburgh!
Note: The weather can change very quickly, so make sure you have a jacket.
AFTERNOON: National Museum of Scotland
Check out the National Museum of Scotland which has some really interesting exhibitions, but most importantly is home to Dolly the Sheep (the first cloned animal). It’s a great way to spend a couple of hours, particularly if it’s raining. Entry is free and no pre-booking is required.
AFTERNOON: Pubs
It wouldn’t be a trip to Scotland unless you spend some time in a pub and enjoy the live music. Our pick was The Scotsman which is renowned for being one of the best pubs in Edinburgh. It’s a really small and cozy pub on Cockburn Street with live music.
DINNER: The Devil’s Advocate
Edinburgh has an amazing food scene and one of the best restaurants is The Devil’s Advocate. It’s a small cocktail bar/restaurant with amazing food and vibes. I’d recommend ordering the smoked ham and brie croquet, the tomato and spinach chicken and the rosemary braised lamb - delicious! Booking is required - Book here!
DAY 2
BREAKFAST: Edinburgh Larder
Edinburgh Larder has the best Scottish Breakfast going around and is a must-include in your itinerary. You have to book well in advance as they book out quickly and rarely have walk-in availability. If you can’t get a booking, Little Larder is next door which offers the same menu and accepts walk-ins.
MORNING: Walk (everywhere)
There’s lots to see in Edinburgh so spend the day walking! Catch the bus to Dean’s Village. Walk along the river to the Royal Botanic Gardens. Walk through the gardens and get the bus back to town. Check out the Scott Monument, walk through the Princess Street Gardens and hang out by the Ross Fountain (the famous shot of a fountain with Edinburgh Castle behind it). Walk into the old town, along the Royal Mile, down Victoria Street and along Grassmarket. Grassmarket has a great food market to grab some lunch and sit under Edinburgh Castle.
AFTERNOON: Scotch Whisky Experience
It wouldn’t be a trip to Edinburgh without trying some Scotch Whisky. We did the Scotch Whisky Experience which is a bit touristy but a great introduction to Scotch Whisky. You learn about all the areas Scotch Whisky is made, the different flavours and you get to try them. We purchased the Gold Tour so we could try more Whiskies.
Pre-booking is required as it sells out quickly. I’d suggest booking weeks in advance so you’re guaranteed a spot.
NIGHT: Pubs
Wash the Whisky down with some beer and head to the pub. There are so many great pubs with live music to explore which is how we spent our night.
DAY 3
MORNING: Edinburgh Castle
A must-do activity is to visit Edinburgh Castle. There’s lots of interesting history to learn about, but it also has amazing views of Edinburgh and out to sea.
Pre-booking is required and it often sells out weeks in advance. I’d recommend booking as early as possible, particularly during peak season. It’s also worth purchasing the audio guide which you can listen to on your phone (bring headphones) or you can grab a physical audio guide upon entry.
AFTERNOON: Hearts Football Game
If you can plan your trip around a Heart’s football game, that’s a fun experience to include. The fans are really passionate and the games are entertaining.
SUNSET: Festival Village
After the football game, head to Festival Village, a beer garden on top of the train station. This is the perfect afternoon/sunset spot as it has incredible views of old town and you can watch the sun hit the buildings as it sets! Perfect place for a drink after a long weekend!
Make sure you add these locations to your Edinburgh trip:
All of these locations and more recommendations can be found on my Edinburgh Google map. View here
Arthur’s Sea
Cockburn Street
Victoria Street
The Royal Mile
Dean’s Village
Royal Botanical Gardens
Scott Monument
Princess Street Gardens
Ross Fountain
Grassmarket
Edinburgh Castle