3-Day Edinburgh Travel Guide

Historic heart of the Old Town and the fortress on the rock

• Morning: Tour Edinburgh Castle to see the Honours of Scotland (Crown Jewels) and the Stone of Destiny.
• Afternoon: Walk down the Royal Mile, exploring the hidden "closes" and visiting St Giles' Cathedral.
• Evening: Enjoy an immersive tasting at The Johnnie Walker Experience followed by a spooky underground ghost tour.

Georgian elegance and Royal residences

• Morning: Visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the King's official residence in Edinburgh.
• Afternoon: Shop on Princes Street and explore the National Gallery of Scotland on the Mound.
• Evening: Walk through the Georgian New Town and dine in one of the trendy eateries on Rose Street or George Street.

Panoramic views and the Royal Yacht

• Morning: Hike up Arthur's Seat for the most incredible 360-degree views of the city and sea.
• Afternoon: Take a bus to Leith to board the Royal Yacht Britannia, a floating royal residence.
• Evening: Explore the Shore in Leith for some of the city's best seafood and Michelin-starred dining.

• The Witchery by the Castle — thewitchery.com — Gothic romance and decadent fine dining.
• Dishoom Edinburgh — dishoom.com — Iconic Bombay cafe style in St Andrew Square.
• The Kitchin — thekitchin.com — Michelin-starred seasonal Scottish cuisine in Leith.
• Makar's Gourmet Mash Bar — makarsmash.com — Comforting Scottish food specializing in local bangers and mash.
• Oink — oinkhogroast.co.uk — Famous Scottish hog roast rolls on the go.

• The Balmoral — roccofortehotels.com — Landmark luxury at No. 1 Princes Street.
• The Witchery — thewitchery.com — Ultra-theatrical boutique suites.
• Eden Locke — lockeliving.com — Modern, pastel-hued aparthotel in the New Town.
• Apex City of Edinburgh — apexhotels.co.uk — Stylish rooms with Grassmarket views.
• Motel One Edinburgh-Royal — motel-one.com — High-end budget design in a prime location.

• Haggis, Neeps & Tatties: The national dish; often served with a whisky cream sauce.
• Cranachan: A traditional dessert of oats, cream, whisky, and raspberries.
• Afternoon Tea: Enjoy a luxury service at The Dome on George Street.
• Scottish Seafood: Fresh langoustines and mussels from the North Sea.

• The Grassmarket – Historic pubs with outdoor seating and castle views. Map
• George Street – Upscale cocktail bars and chic late-night clubs. Map
• Rose Street – A pedestrian street packed with traditional Scottish pubs. Map
• Broughton Street – Vibrant independent bars and a hub for the LGBTQ+ scene. Map
• Cowgate – The alternative heart of the city's live music and clubbing. Map

• Princes Street – The main high street with stunning castle views. Map
• St James Quarter – Massive, modern indoor shopping and lifestyle hub. Map
• Victoria Street – Colourful, curved street said to inspire Harry Potter's Diagon Alley. Map
• George Street – Home to luxury brands and high-end boutiques. Map
• Multrees Walk – The place for designer labels like Harvey Nichols and Louis Vuitton. Map

• Transport: The city is very walkable, but hilly. Use the excellent Lothian Buses or the tram.
• Festivals: If visiting in August, book everything months in advance for the Fringe Festival.
• Weather: It can change in minutes—always carry a "waterproof" even if it's sunny.
• Booking: Popular attractions like the Castle and restaurants require advance booking.