How To Have The Best 3 Days in Edinburgh
Planning a trip to Edinburgh but unsure how to make the most of your limited time? This 3 days in Edinburgh Itinerary will help you discover the city’s top attractions and hidden gems.
Whether you’re overwhelmed by the volume of information online or struggling to balance popular sites with off-the-beaten-path experiences, this guide addresses all your concerns.
Having lived in Edinburgh for three years and visiting as a tourist, I’ve uncovered the best spots and insider tips to help you experience the city like a seasoned traveller.
Day 1: Exploring the Old Town
Stop 1: Edinburgh Castle
Time: 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM
Start your day at Edinburgh Castle, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. It’s a 15-minute walk from the Old Town.
Located at the top of the Royal Mile, the castle offers stunning views over Edinburgh and a wealth of history to explore.
Key highlights include the Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny, and the Great Hall.
I’ve visited many times and still find something new to explore each visit. The view from the forecourt over Princes Street and the Princes Street Gardens is one of my favourites. Plan to spend about 1.5 hours here.
Directions: From the Old Town, walk west along High Street toward Lawnmarket. Continue straight to the castle entrance.
Stop 2: Walk Down the Royal Mile
Time: 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM
After exploring the castle, take a leisurely walk down the Royal Mile. This historic street is filled with shops, street performers, and significant sites.
It’s a great place to hear a piper play a tune or see some local street performers. Though touristy, it’s popular for a reason. The atmosphere and shopping opportunities make it worth your while.
Directions: Head southeast from Edinburgh Castle along the Royal Mile.
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Stop 3: St. Giles’ Cathedral
Time: 12:00 PM – 12:30 PM
Continue your walk to St. Giles’ Cathedral, a beautiful example of Gothic architecture. Take time to admire the intricate Thistle Chapel inside.
The architecture is truly remarkable and it offers a peaceful break from the bustling Royal Mile.
Directions: Located directly on the Royal Mile, it’s a 5-minute walk from your previous stop.
Stop 4: The Real Mary King’s Close
Time: 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM
Uncover the hidden streets beneath the Royal Mile at The Real Mary King’s Close. Despite how it might seem from the outset, this is a fantastic tour that gives a glimpse into how the poorer citizens of Edinburgh lived. The character-led tour is engaging and educational.
Directions: Continue southeast on the Royal Mile; it’s a 3-minute walk from St. Giles’ Cathedral.
Lunch Break: Deacon’s House Cafe
Time: 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM
For lunch, head to Deacon’s House Cafe. It’s located right on the Royal Mile and offers a delightful selection of Scottish dishes in a charming setting.
Directions: Located just a short walk from The Real Mary King’s Close, continue southeast along the Royal Mile.
Stop 5: Palace of Holyroodhouse
Time: 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
After lunch, visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the monarch’s official residence in Scotland. The palace is beautiful and there is lot to see, and the gardens are worth a stroll. T
Directions: Continue walking southeast on the Royal Mile to reach the palace, which is about a 15-minute walk.
Stop 6: Arthur’s Seat
Time: 3:30 PM – 6:00 PM
End your afternoon with a hike up Arthur’s Seat for breathtaking views of Edinburgh. If you’re not into hiking, walking around the base still offers great and less strenuous views. However, if you can manage it, the view from the top is worth the climb. I often come back here just for the sheer beauty and tranquillity.
Directions: From the Palace of Holyroodhouse, walk southeast towards Holyrood Park and follow the signs to Arthur’s Seat; it’s about a 10-minute walk to the park entrance.
Dinner: The Witchery by the Castle
Time: 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Indulge in fine dining at The Witchery by the Castle. It’s fancy but worth the experience for its historic setting and exceptional food.
Despite its opulence, it has become one of my favourite spots for a special meal in Edinburgh.
Directions: Head back to the Royal Mile and walk northwest; it’s a 20-minute walk back to the top of the Royal Mile near the castle.
Evening Activity: Ghost Tour
Time: 9:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Experience the spooky side of Edinburgh with a guided ghost tour. This is one of the scariest things I’ve done in Edinburgh, but it’s almost a rite of passage. Afterwards, a shot of whisky at a nearby pub can help calm the nerves. Even though I’m not usually a whisky fan, I found it quite comforting after the tour.
Directions: Many tours start near the Royal Mile, making it convenient after dinner.
Day 2: Discovering Royal Connections and the New Town
Stop 1: The Royal Yacht Britannia
Time: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Start your day in Leith by visiting The Royal Yacht Britannia, the Queen’s former floating palace. As someone who loves ships and exploring how “the other half live,” I found this to be a fantastic experience.
The audio guide is a must—it provides a rich understanding of the exhibitions and insights into royal life. Plan to spend about 2 hours here.
Directions: From central Edinburgh, take bus 22 from Princes Street to Ocean Terminal in Leith. The journey takes about 30 minutes.
Stop 2: Lunch at The Shore
Time: 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM
After exploring Britannia, head to The Shore for lunch. This area is beautiful and feels like you’ve left Edinburgh altogether. It’s very laidback, with a variety of waterfront restaurants. I recommend Fishers for fresh seafood or The Ship on the Shore for a more upscale dining experience.
Directions: From Ocean Terminal, it’s a 10-minute walk to The Shore.
Stop 3: Princes Street Gardens
Time: 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM
Make your way back to the city centre and relax in Princes Street Gardens with views of the castle. It’s a perfect spot to unwind and take in the scenery. During the summer, there is a cafe and often pop-up shops where you can purchase food and drinks to enjoy in the gardens.
Directions: Take bus 22 back to Princes Street. The journey takes about 30 minutes.
Stop 4: Scottish National Gallery
Time: 2:30 PM – 4:00 PM
Next, visit the Scottish National Gallery to discover masterpieces from both Scottish and international artists. The gallery is a treasure trove of art and well worth your time.
Directions: From Princes Street Gardens, it’s a 5-minute walk to the gallery.
Stop 5: Shopping on Princes Street and George Street
Time: 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM
Spend the late afternoon exploring the boutiques and high-end stores on Princes Street and George Street.
Whether you’re looking for fashion, souvenirs, or something unique, these streets have plenty to offer.
Princes Street is also home to many well known UK High Street Shops such as H&M, Marks and Spencer and Primark as well as supermarkets.
Directions: The shopping area is directly accessible from the Scottish National Gallery.
Stop 6: The Royal Botanic Garden
Time: 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM
End your afternoon with a visit to The Royal Botanic Garden. Wander through the beautiful landscapes and exotic plants. It’s a tranquil spot, perfect for a relaxing stroll.
In the winter, it will be dark at this time, and you may wish to continue exploring Princes Street and George Street or stop in somewhere for a drink to warm up.
Directions: Take bus 8 from Princes Street to Inverleith Row. The journey takes about 20 minutes.
Dinner: Dishoom
Time: 8:00 PM – 9:30 PM
For dinner, head to Dishoom, where you can enjoy Indian cuisine in a stylish setting. The food is fantastic, and the ambience is inviting, making it a great spot to end your day.
It may not seem like it, but Indian cuisine is one of the most popular in Scotland—actually in the United Kingdom.
Directions: From Charlotte Square, it’s a 10-minute walk to St. Andrew Square where Dishoom is located.
Evening Activity: Live Music at Whiski Rooms
Time: 9:30 PM – 11:00 PM
Experience traditional Scottish music at Whiski Rooms. The lively atmosphere and authentic music make for an enjoyable evening.
Directions: Whiski Rooms is a 15-minute walk from Dishoom, located just off the Royal Mile.
Day 3: Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
Stop 1: Dean Village
Time: 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM
Start your day with a stroll through Dean Village, a picturesque village along the Water of Leith.
Dean Village and the Water of Leith are beautiful places to explore, but be warned—you will struggle to put your camera away.
They are both very different from each other but equally stunning. It’s a lovely way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city without actually leaving Edinburgh. Plan to spend about 1.5 hours here.
Directions: From central Edinburgh, walk northwest for about 20 minutes or take bus 36 to Dean Village.
Stop 2: Lunch at Stockbridge Market
Time: 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM
After exploring Dean Village, head to Stockbridge Market for lunch. This vibrant market offers a variety of local delicacies, from fresh produce to artisan foods. It’s a great spot to sample some local treats and enjoy a leisurely meal.
Directions: From Dean Village, walk southeast along the Water of Leith Walkway for about 15 minutes to reach Stockbridge Market.
Stop 3: Calton Hill
Time: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
After lunch, make your way to Calton Hill. The walk up the hill and some stairs is quite easy, and the panoramic views from the top are stunning.
Explore the National Monument and other historical structures while soaking in the scenic vistas of Edinburgh.
Directions: From Stockbridge, take bus 8 to York Place, then walk east for about 10 minutes to reach Calton Hill.
Stop 4: National Museum of Scotland
Time: 2:30 PM – 4:00 PM
Next, visit the National Museum of Scotland to engage with exhibits on Scottish history and culture. The museum offers a fascinating range of displays, from ancient artifacts to modern innovations. Plan to spend about 1.5 hours here.
Directions: From Calton Hill, it’s a 20-minute walk southwest to the museum.
Stop 5: Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
Time: 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM
Finish your afternoon at the Camera Obscura and World of Illusions. This attraction is cooler than words can express, with interactive exhibits and optical illusions that captivate both adults and children.
It took me a long time to visit, and when I finally did, I wondered why I hadn’t gone earlier. Plan to spend about 1.5 hours here.
Directions: From the National Museum of Scotland, walk northwest for about 10 minutes to reach Camera Obscura.
Dinner: Timberyard
Time: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
End your day with dinner at Timberyard, where you can savor seasonal Scottish dishes in a unique setting. The restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu that highlights fresh, local ingredients.
Directions: From Camera Obscura, it’s a 15-minute walk south to Timberyard.
Edinburgh Travel Tips
Getting Around
Public Transportation
Edinburgh has an excellent public transportation system that includes buses and trams. Lothian Buses operate frequent services that cover the entire city and surrounding areas. You can buy tickets on the bus with exact change or use a contactless card.
The trams run from the airport to York Place in the city centre, with stops at key locations like Princes Street and Haymarket.
For convenience, consider purchasing a day ticket, which offers unlimited travel on both buses and trams for a fixed price.
Walking Tours
To truly immerse yourself in Edinburgh’s history and culture, join a guided walking tour.
Several options are available, from ghost tours to Harry Potter-themed walks. Companies like Sandemans New Europe offer free walking tours on which you can learn about the city’s rich heritage from knowledgeable guides.
Walking tours provide an in-depth experience and allow you to explore hidden gems that you might miss on your own.
Packing and Seasonal Tips
Pack Accordingly
Edinburgh’s weather can be unpredictable, so packing layers is essential. Even in summer, temperatures can vary, and rain is always a possibility.
Bring a waterproof jacket, a warm sweater, and comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestone streets. Don’t forget an umbrella or a compact rain poncho.
Festival Season
Edinburgh is famous for its festivals, with the Edinburgh Festival Fringe being the most renowned.
Held in August, the Fringe transforms the city into a vibrant hub of performances and events.
Other notable festivals include the Edinburgh International Festival, the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, and Hogmanay, the city’s New Year celebrations.
Planning your visit around these festivals can add excitement to your trip, but be sure to book accommodations well in advance, as the city can get very busy.
Where to Stay in Edinburgh
The Balmoral
Located in the heart of the city, The Balmoral offers luxury accommodation with stunning views of Edinburgh Castle and the Old Town. The hotel features elegantly appointed rooms, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and a world-class spa. Staying at The Balmoral places you within walking distance of major attractions, making it a convenient and luxurious choice.
Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh – The Caledonian
This elegant hotel is known for its excellent amenities and prime location at the west end of Princes Street. The Waldorf Astoria offers spacious rooms, a luxurious spa, and fine dining options. Its historic charm and modern comforts make it a top choice for visitors seeking a high-end experience.
The Glasshouse
The Glasshouse is a boutique hotel with unique architectural features, including a stunning two-acre rooftop garden. It offers modern, stylish rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, providing beautiful views of Calton Hill. The hotel’s central location makes it a great base for exploring Edinburgh’s attractions.
Budget-Friendly Options
YHA Edinburgh Central
For budget-conscious travelers, YHA Edinburgh Central is a comfortable and affordable hostel located just off the Royal Mile. It offers a range of accommodations, from private rooms to shared dormitories, all with access to communal facilities. The hostel’s central location makes it easy to explore the city on foot.
Travelodge Edinburgh Central
Travelodge Edinburgh Central offers convenient and budget-friendly accommodation close to Waverley Station. The hotel provides basic but comfortable rooms at a reasonable price, making it an excellent choice for those looking to save money while staying in a central location.
Final Thoughts: 3 Day Edinburgh Itinerary
Spending 3 days in Edinburgh offers a perfect blend of iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and local favorites, ensuring you experience the very best of this historic city.
This itinerary provides a comprehensive guide to making the most of your visit, from exploring the bustling Royal Mile and the grandeur of Edinburgh Castle to strolling through the tranquil beauty of Dean Village and the vibrant Stockbridge Market.
Navigating Edinburgh can be overwhelming, but with this detailed itinerary, you’ll have a memorable, stress-free trip.
However, if you want to explore the heart of Scotland’s capital more deeply, consider purchasing the Discovering Edinburgh: Insider’s Travel Bundle.
This guide includes expertly curated itineraries for 3, 5, and 7 days, interactive Google Maps highlighting must-see attractions and hidden gems, and insider tips on dining, accommodations, day trips, festivals, and transportation.
Additionally, the bundle features budget templates and seasonal packing lists to ensure you’re well-prepared for your journey.
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