How To Make The Most of Edinburgh in 2 Days

For those who’re seeking to take advantage of out of a visit to Edinburgh in 2 days, you’ve landed on the suitable web page!

Edinburgh is my favourite metropolis in Scotland- I liked it a lot after my first go to I moved right here in 2018. Edinburgh has every thing you may ask for in a Scottish city- a medieval Previous City, cosy conventional pubs, huge inexperienced areas and plentiful climbing alternatives, a thriving nightlife, bagpipers enjoying within the streets and an important competition scene!

Edinburgh is a metropolis that may fulfill anybody: solo travellers, {couples}, historical past lovers, artwork lovers, college students and families- it’s an important metropolis to go to to get an all-round cultural expertise of Scotland.

It satisfies each luxurious and funds travellers; you’ll be able to absorb the tradition just by wandering the streets and purchase a pint for lower than £2 in lots of pubs, however there are additionally many upmarket bars and pubs and award-winning delicacies and experiences. You possibly can profit from this metropolis simply and not using a automotive by utilizing public transport or strolling.

Guests usually solely spend 48 hours in Edinburgh earlier than setting off to discover the remainder of Scotland. I’m right here to inform you that with simply 2 days in Edinburgh it’s fully doable to expertise a lot of what town has to supply. So preserving this in thoughts, I’ve designed what I imagine is the right itinerary if in case you have solely two days in Edinburgh.

My two day Edinburgh itinerary is designed for first time guests to town. It contains all of the must-see spots and likewise a few of my private favourites. I’ve additionally given a few of my favorite restaurant, pub and cafe suggestions. I’ve even created a Google map so yow will discover every thing I’ve listed on this article. You could find it on the finish of this text. Now, let me present you methods to profit from Edinburgh in 2 days!

Disclosure: This text could include hyperlinks to merchandise/providers I really like that I could earn a small fee from- at no additional price to you.

I’ve additionally created a printable model of my 2 day Edinburgh itinerary. Merely obtain it and print.

Lodging in Edinburgh

For those who haven’t already booked lodging in Edinburgh, listed below are a couple of lodging selections that I like to recommend:

Motels: The Dunstane Homes are conventional and delightful, or the Ibis Edinburgh Royal Mile if you happen to’d like to remain in Previous City.

Hostels: Citadel Rock Hostel is one among Scotland’s prime hostels (I as soon as lived on this hostel and may verify it’s nice!); if you happen to’re wanting to save lots of your pennies.

Mattress and Breakfast: JustB, positioned on the sting of Edinburgh is hands-down one of the best mattress and breakfast I’ve stayed in! The bus cease for bus 44 that takes you instantly into the centre of Edinburgh is a 2 minute stroll from this B&B.

Luxurious lodging: J.Okay. Rowling wrote the rest of the Harry Potter novels whereas staying on the iconic Balmoral Lodge. I additionally advocate the Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh.

Learn extra: What to pack for a visit to Scotland

SCOTLAND RESOURCES

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✨ Need extra Scotland? Be a part of my unique Scotland neighborhood Secrets and techniques of Scotland to unlock bonus content material

Two Days in Edinburgh Itinerary: Day 1

9AM: Begin your day the Scottish means

One in every of my favorite issues about Scotland is how they do breakfast. A very good Scottish breakfast will maintain you for the remainder of your day- they actually don’t do meals by halves right here! Strive conventional dishes resembling porridge, a bacon roll, or if you happen to’re actually hungry, a full Scottish breakfast. A full Scottish breakfast is the breakfast of kings- bacon and eggs, beans, tattie scones, lorne sausage (sq. sausage), black pudding and typically haggis. It is vitally seemingly that tattie scones had been gifted to Scotland by the Gods. You should definitely douse your tattie scones with lashings of butter, or construct your self a bacon and egg sandwich- both which means, your style buds are about to expertise heaven. Concern not vegans and vegetarians- Scotland does a fab vegan full Scottish breakfast.

Some locations I like to recommend in Edinburgh for breakfast are The Metropolis Cafe, Loudons, and The Huxley.

10AM: Edinburgh Citadel

It’s the highest attraction in Edinburgh, however no go to to the capital is full with out exploring Edinburgh Citadel. You’ll want to arrive right here early when the fort opens to keep away from the crowds. Positioned on the prime of the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Citadel is house to Scotland’s Crown Jewels and the Stone of Future (on which Scotland’s first kings had been topped). It was additionally the place Mary Queen of Scots gave beginning to James VI of Scotland and I of England. Purchase your tickets on-line so you’ll be able to skip the road and stroll proper in [plus- it’s cheaper!]

For those who’re extra keen on off-beat journey, I recommend visiting Craigmillar Citadel as a substitute. It’s a romantic-looking fort break that has an unimaginable historical past. You possibly can learn my different article on visiting Craigmillar Citadel right here.

1PM: Discover the Royal Mile

The Royal Mile connects Edinburgh Citadel to Holyrood Palace, nevertheless it isn’t your commonplace mile, it’s a Scottish mile, an old style type of measurement. A Scottish mile is definitely 1.11 miles. The Royal Mile is the principle avenue in Previous City, which is the oldest a part of Edinburgh and dates again to the twelfth century. You’ll love wandering down this avenue; breathe within the medieval structure, discover the hidden closes, all of the whereas having fun with stay bagpipers that busk on the road. For those who shut your eyes, it’ll really feel as if you’ve been transported again to the center ages. There are many neat touristy outlets alongside the Royal Mile, nevertheless if you’re exploring different elements of Scotland I recommend shopping for any items within the smaller cities and villages. It’s far cheaper, plus you’re serving to out smaller companies.

Learn Extra: 50 Journey Suggestions for Scotland

2.30PM: Grassmarket for lunch, adopted by Harry Potter location recognizing

By now you’ll have burned off most of your scrumptious Scottish breakfast and could also be feeling peckish. You possibly can both dip into one of many many pubs alongside the Royal Mile, or you’ll be able to proceed to the Grassmarket which is simply as good and a bit of quieter. The Grassmarket is the place town’s markets had been as soon as held. Cattle and horses had been pushed down the Cowgate and offered at markets at this very spot. Different attention-grabbing details in regards to the Grassmarket are that it was additionally the location of a bombing throughout World Struggle I, and it was additionally as soon as an execution web site holding over 100 public executions. Now it’s a hub of pubs and eating places, and there’s a small market held there on a Saturday. For lunch I like to recommend Hula Juice Bar which has loads of wholesome choices and scrumptious vegan meals too. There’s a line of pubs that serve meals alongside the Grassmarket promenade- my private favorite is the lately opened Chilly City Home. They serve yummy pizza, prosecco and craft beer. Chilly City Home additionally has a rooftop bar which has a implausible view of Edinburgh Citadel! Afterwards cease by Mary’s Milk Bar for some ice cream, then stroll up the steps subsequent to it to The Vennel for my favorite view of Edinburgh Citadel within the metropolis!

After this it’s time for some Harry Potter location recognizing. You’ll discover the long-lasting avenue Victoria Avenue on the finish of the Grassmarket. This curvy avenue is rumored to be the inspiration behind Diagon Alley in Harry Potter.

Subsequent you’ll stroll to Greyfriars Kirkyard, a graveyard that J.Okay. Rowling sought inspiration for her character’s names. Go to the actual Tom Riddle’s grave, or simply benefit from the historically gothic Scottish graveyard.

Positioned a brief stroll from the Kirkyard on George IV Avenue is Greyfriars Bobby statue- a monument devoted to the loyal wee terrier who spent 14 years guarding his proprietor’s grave till he died. Because of vacationers continually touching Bobby’s nostril for ‘good luck’ it has worn this a part of the statue. Please don’t contact the statue for this reason- however please take as many photographs as you want!

Simply previous Greyfriars Bobby you’ll stroll previous The Elephant Home, a café the place J.Okay. Rowling wrote elements of the Harry Potter collection. Sadly, this constructing was broken by a fireplace and it’s closed, however you’ll be able to nonetheless wander previous and catch a glimpse and picture what it was as soon as like.

Insider tip: You may as well go to a lesser-known restaurant the place J.Okay. Rowling wrote Harry Potter. Take a look at Spoon which is above one among my favorite cafes, Black Drugs. Rowling’s brother-in-law used to personal this café and she or he wrote a number of the first books right here. She moved to The Elephant Home afterwards because it was too laborious to wheel her pram up the steps.

4PM: The Scotch Whisky Expertise 

The Scotch Whisky Expertise is a five-star customer attraction, and among the finest methods to get your whisky repair when visiting Edinburgh. The Scotch Whisky Expertise is house to the world’s largest Scotch whisky assortment, located close to Edinburgh Citadel on the prime of the Royal Mile. Their Tasting Tales, Silver Tour and Gold Tour all have afternoon time slots. The Silver Tour is right for households and first-timers. You’ll be taught all about whisky and the way it’s made, plus get to pattern a couple of of Scotland’s hottest whiskies. You additionally get to take house a crystal tasting glass as a memento!

6PM: Seize some dinner 

My private suggestions for dinner in Edinburgh embrace WHISKI Bar and Restaurant, The Witchery by the Citadel, The Voodoo Rooms and Howies Restaurant. You might need to go for a wee dram earlier than or after dinner, wherein case I like to recommend Chilly City Home, The Bow Bar (wee however conventional), The Black Cat, Panda and Sons (for cocktails) or Stramash (informal however giant sports activities bar).

>> Learn extra: 10 romantic eating places in Edinburgh

9PM: Go on a Haunted Tour

Edinburgh is among the most haunted cities on the earth and an vital a part of its historical past are the unusual tales, myths and unexplained occasions. I personally advocate occurring this haunted tour with Mercat. I went on it on Halloween final yr and it was rather well run. Mercat is the one tour firm that has entry to the haunted underground vaults beneath the South Bridge in Edinburgh. There’s additionally an night tour with whisky for anybody who’s over 18 and a bit of nervous- which will not be a foul concept!

2 Days in Edinburgh Itinerary: Day 2

9AM: Hike Arthur’s Seat

You’ll begin off your day with 360 diploma views of Edinburgh, by climbing up Arthur’s Seat. On a transparent day you’ll be able to spot Fife and the Pentland Hills from the summit. This hike is simple to average, and also you’ll want sturdy sneakers or climbing boots as the trail is rocky in locations and slippery when moist; I like to recommend taking the purple route. Enjoyable reality: Arthur’s Seat is a doable location for the King Arthur’s legendary Camelot fort.

12.00PM: Holyrood Palace

After descending Arthur’s Seat safely, you’ll go to Holyrood Palace- an historic palace and the place the Queen resides throughout summer time when she visits Edinburgh for one week. I don’t need to give an excessive amount of of the historical past away, as there may be an superior audio information tour you’ll be able to go on as you wander by the Palace, however Holyrood has had some very well-known visitors, together with Mary Queen of Scots, Bonnie Prince Charlie and Queen Victoria. There’s a cafe contained in the grounds if you happen to’re hungry.

You possibly can seize your skip the road ticket right here.

3.30PM: Scott Monument

It’s fairly laborious to overlook the Scott Monument if you happen to’re hanging round Waverley Practice Station or New City. This beautiful gothic construction was constructed within the honour of well-known literary determine Sir Walter Scott, and it’s a becoming tribute.

For £8 you’ll be able to even climb to the highest of the monument for beautiful views of town, or you’ll be able to marvel on the construction from afar at no cost.

After you’ll wander down Princes Avenue, the principle purchasing avenue in Edinburgh, and it will result in your subsequent exercise.

4PM: Dean Village

Subsequent you’ll go for a stroll round Dean Village; an idyllic leafy haven and one of many prettiest villages in Scotland.

Nestled near New City, this canal-side village is sort of a distinction to the bustling metropolis centre which is positioned a brief 20 minute stroll away. The nice combination of vibrant flats and nineteenth century buildings on both facet of the Water of Leith canal make for a implausible photograph opportunity- or simply merely benefit from the serenity.Going for a stroll alongside the Water of Leith Walkway to Dean Village is an effective way to spend a sunny afternoon. The milling of water mills as soon as happened in Dean Village, and the stays of this will nonetheless be seen in the present day.

Dean Cemetery on Dean Path is an eerie but stunning cemetery value exploring.

6PM: Dinner and Ceilidh Dancing

You’ll finish a really lively day with dinner and one other activity- if in case you have the vitality! For those who’d like to look at (or participate in) a ceilidh (conventional Scottish dancing and music) I like to recommend testing Ghillie Dhu, a restaurant and bar which is thought for its ceilidhs. Stramash additionally has a free ceilidh on a Wednesday night time, nevertheless they don’t serve meals right here. You may all the time have dinner first and are available right here to watch or participate.

 Learn: My journey information to Perth, Scotland

Quick on time and would favor a tour?

There are a couple of completely different excursions you’ll be able to be part of to profit from your time in Edinburgh. Listed below are a pair I like to recommend:

Purple Bus Bistro

The Purple Bus Bistro is among the quirkier excursions in Edinburgh, the place you go on a bus tour whereas having fun with afternoon tea! Don’t fear, roughly every thing is glued to the desk with movable springs so that you gained’t find yourself having a large meals struggle. Oh, and there’s prosecco!

Learn extra: 10 Should-Sees in Scotland You Can’t Miss

Hop On, Hop Off Bus Tour

The Edinburgh Hop On, Hop Off bus is a superb possibility if you happen to don’t like strolling. It’s reasonably priced too, with grownup tickets ranging from £16 for twenty-four hours or £24 for 48 hours.

There’s additionally a go you should buy that features the Hop On, Hop Off bus, entry to Edinburgh Citadel, Holyrood Palace and the Royal Yacht Britannia.

Edinburgh in 2 Days Location Map

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There you’ve got it- my native information on methods to profit from Edinburgh in 2 days! With this itinerary, you’ve skilled every thing Edinburgh has to supply: yummy meals, native traditions, castles and palaces, historical past, climbing, Scottish dancing and far, far more! You might even fall in love with Edinburgh as I did and think about shifting right here. In that case, I’ve written a information on that too.

I’ve additionally created a printable model of my 2 day Edinburgh itinerary. Merely obtain it and print!

Have you ever tried my Edinburgh in 2 days itinerary? Drop a remark under!

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