City Guide | 3 Days in Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh was the first stop on our six-week trip, and we absolutely loved it. In less than three days, I almost lost my credit card and snorted Guinness right out my nose, while fighting jet lag (cue stress tears) and still left hoping to return soon. This guide is packed with our favourites, as well as all the ones we have our eye on for when we make it back.
Start planning your visit to a city with a dark history, haunting stories and rugged beauty that should not be missed!
Where to Eat
Dishoom *veggie/vegan options available
A UK beloved Indian comfort food spot with other locations in London. It’s not cheap, but the food is tasty and the atmosphere is warm and welcoming.Ting Thai Caravan
Delicious, affordable, filling. We grabbed noodle bowls – the pad see-ew was amazing – but they also have soups, curries and rice dishes. Everything smelled amazing and we left with leftovers in tow.Makars Mash Bar *veggie/vegan options available
Super popular, worth the hype. Book ahead or arrive before they open, they fill up fast. Pick your mash, your protein, and enjoy! Our favourites were the lamb shank with the smoked applewood cheese mash, that said, every bite was delicious and the beers were amazing too.Oink
Simple and delicious. Pulled pork is always a yes for me. This place offers sandwiches and bowls (hog in a box). Pick your size, haggis or stuffing, and a sauce. Grab a seat or take it to go while you walk up the Royal Mile.MUMS*veggie/vegan options available
Scottish comfort food, with diner vibes. This place was packed and served some classic Scottish dishes. Our server was lovely and we loved the sausage and mash selection.
The Royal Mile
Edinburgh Castle
Book ahead, get the audio guide, go at your own pace and walk through the beautifully maintained castle. If you can, plan your visit around the cannon fire at 1:00 pm (every day except Sundays, Christmas and Good Friday).
Holyrood House*
The historic home of Mary, Queen of Scots, where she lived following the death of her husband, King Francis. The palace is located at the opposite end of the Royal Mile from Edinburgh Castle.
Scotch Whisky Experience*
Whisky tasting a stone’s throw from Edinburgh Castle? Yes please. Learn all about Scotland’s whisky history and taste some of what Scotland has to offer.
Hume’s Toe
The bronze statue of David Hume is a three-minute walk from the gates of Edinburgh Castle. It’s said that rubbing his toe will bring luck and knowledge – a popular stop for the students of Edinburgh University.
Near the Royal Mile
Greyfriars Kirkyard
A very well-known graveyard, made famous amongst tourists by the tale of Greyfriars Bobby and ties to the Harry Potter books. Across the street from the entrance of the cemetery is a small bronze statue of a terrier – Greyfriars Bobby – the loyal dog who refused to leave his owner even after his death. The site is the final resting place of many souls, and the start of many ghost stories too.
Arthur’s Seat
A once active volcano, extinct for millions of years, now sits in the middle of Edinburgh. This hill overlooks the city, providing brilliant views for anyone who makes the hike up. Think: moderate difficulty, short distance and high reward.
Victoria Street
This colourful street is eye-catching, full of history and rumoured to be the inspiration for Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley. The cobbled road is lined with beautiful shops and pubs.
Grass Market
At the bottom of Victoria Street is the Grass Market. A popular spot for students, tourists and locals to grab a bite or a pint while enjoying the crisp Scottish air.
Scott Monument
Known for its stunning Gothic design, the monument is dedicated to the Scottish Author, Sir Walter Scott.
Outside of Old Town
Dean Village
A quaint village with cobbled roads, a lazy river and a seemingly slower pace nestles into the heart of Edinburgh. Incredibly idyllic and picturesque, it’s worth the 25-minute walk from the Royal Mile.
Circus Lane*
Often referred to as the most beautiful street in Edinburgh, it can get busy, so if you’re hoping for a picture, arrive early in the day to avoid the crowds. Only a 20-minute walk from either Dean Village or the Royal Mile.
Cramond Beach
Hop on a bus and get out of the busy heart of the city. Cramond Beach is about an hour by bus from the Castle and is worth visiting. The beach is quiet and beautiful, and I recommend walking along the path along the River Almond. A nice, peaceful way to spend an afternoon.
Free Walking Tours
Potter Trail Tour 1.5 hours | sign-up here
Explore Edinburgh through the eyes of a Potterhead. Learn about people and places that inspired the beloved wizarding world. From the Cafe where the first pages were written, to the familiar names of characters written on headstones in Edinburgh’s most well-known graveyard, you’ll see it all.
Ghost Tour 1.5 hours | sign-up here
Edinburgh has a dark and gruesome past. If you’re looking for a tour that will have you looking over your shoulder as you walk through the city at night, this is the one for you. Learn about one of the most haunted cities in Europe’s dark history, gruesome murders, chilling ghost stories, and brutal witch trials.
City Explorers 2.5 hours | sign-up here
A combination of history, architecture and can’t-miss sights. Get a guided tour through the heart of Edinburgh; the perfect way to make sure you will see all the highlights if you’re not sure where to start.
