2-Day Itinerary & History Guide for Edinburgh Scotland

Planning an adventure to Edinburgh Scotland?

Edinburgh is one of my favorite cities in the whole world. I believe that with the right amount of planning, every visitor will fall in love with this historic city as I have!

Edinburgh is a city where history and culture are woven into the fabric of everyday life, making it a captivating place to explore. The medieval streets of the Old Town, with its winding alleys and ancient buildings, transport you back in time. Edinburgh Castle, perched atop an extinct volcano, offers a breathtaking view and a deep dive into Scotland’s storied past. The Royal Mile, leading from the castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, is steeped in history, lined with historic landmarks, museums, and hidden closes.

Culturally, Edinburgh is also a vibrant hub in Scotland. It’s home to the world-famous Edinburgh Festival Fringe, where creativity and artistic expression flourish. The city’s literary heritage and history is also remarkable, with ties to iconic writers like Sir Walter Scott and Robert Louis Stevenson. Every corner of Edinburgh seems to have a story to tell, from the haunting tales of the underground vaults to the inspiring vistas of Arthur’s Seat.

For history and culture enthusiasts, Edinburgh offers an unparalleled experience, blending the past with the present in a way that few cities can. We hope that your visit to Edinburgh enchants you and inspires you to learn more about Scotland’s history! This guide and itinerary features some of our favorite spots and attractions around the city that we hope you will enjoy as well.

This guide can be expertly used using Thatch’s app on either a smart phone or iPad.

Recommended Lodging

Picking where to stay is always one of the most important parts of planning any trip. Edinburgh has some incredible options for lodging, ranging from luxurious to budget friendly, from conventional to unique, there is something for every traveler.

Luxury Priced Options:

The Scotsman Hotel

@historicwandering

Add to

Details

The Witchery by the Castle

@historicwandering

This stunning hotel and restaurant is one of the most luxurious in the city. For those who love to feel as though they’ve been transported back in time, a visit to either dine or stay at The Witchery is a must! The restaurant’s interiors reflect the drama of this historic building’s past, with opulent, gothic decor, candlelit rooms, and rich, red velvet drapes, creating a setting that feels both luxurious and eerily connected to the city’s history. The Witchery exudes a sense of mystery and old-world grandeur, with its oak-paneled walls and ornate furnishings reminiscent of the darker chapters of Edinburgh’s past. Since its opening in 1979, The Witchery By The Castle has become one of Edinburgh’s most iconic dining and lodging experiences, blending historical intrigue with modern luxury. Visitors are drawn to its enchanting atmosphere, where the ghosts of Edinburgh’s past seem to linger in every corner, adding a touch of magic and mystery to its dining and hospitality.

Add to

Details

Gleneagles Townhouse

@historicwandering

Check Prices

Add to

Details

Medium Priced Options:

Wilde Aparthotels, Edinburgh, Grassmarket

@historicwandering

Check Prices

Add to

Details

Apex Grassmarket Hotel

@historicwandering

Check Prices

Add to

Details

Budget Priced Options:

Moxy Edinburgh Fountainbridge

@historicwandering

Check Prices

Add to

Details

Four Points by Sheraton Edinburgh

@historicwandering

Check Prices

Add to

Details

Edinburgh is one of the most intriguing cities in Scotland and certainly one of the largest. It can take a lifetime to explore every street, mysterious close (what the locals call the narrow alleyways), tasty restaurant, and exciting shop. Sometimes however, a quick 2-day visit is all the time you have. Let me help you maximize your time in what I consider one of the best cities on earth!

Day One

Breakfast & Coffee

It’s your first full morning in Edinburgh and the best way to start off an adventurous day of exploring is with a great cup of coffee!

Here are some of my top recommended places for a tasty treat and cup of coffee. One of my favorite things to do is wander the streets of this medieval city with a warm coffee in hand while I admire all the stunning architecture and history that the city of Edinburgh has to offer.

The Milkman

@historicwandering

This little coffee shop is located in a very picturesque part of the Royal Mile and Old Town area of Edinburgh. The Milkman has become iconic for its beautiful storefront and proximity to many local attractions. Their coffee is great and they have an impressive and delicious selection of homemade bakery and treat items to choose from!

Add to

Details

Thomas J Walls Coffee

@historicwandering

Another great local coffee shop, Thomas J Walls offers a relaxed environment for guests to sit back and enjoy a brunch or light fare during their day in Edinburgh. This coffee shop is in a great location, very close to the National Museum of Scotland and the iconic Greyfriars Kirkyard.

Add to

Details

Morning Activities

Edinburgh Castle

Perched high on a dormant volcanic rock, Edinburgh Castle towering over the city, a timeless sentinel watching over centuries of history and intrique. This ancient fortress, shrouded in mist and legend, has stood for over a thousand years. The origins of Edinburgh Castle are rooted deep in the Iron Age. It was in the 12th century, under the reign of King David I, that the castle’s walls began to rise, sheltering monarchs and warriors alike.

St. Margaret’s Chapel, one of my personal favorite parts of the Edinburgh Castle and the oldest building within the castle walls, offers a quiet sanctuary amidst tales of bloodshed and power struggles. The Wars of Scottish Independence turned the castle into a battleground, with the English and Scots fighting fiercely for its control. Edinburgh Castle’s stone walls have withstood sieges, and its towers have echoed with the footsteps of kings and queens, including the tragic and iconic Mary, Queen of Scots who gave birth to her son and the first monarch of both England and Scotland at Edinburgh Castle.

Through the swirling mists of time, Edinburgh Castle has witnessed the Jacobite risings and played host to Scotland’s Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny. The daily boom of the One O’Clock Gun and cannon reverberates through the city, a reminder that this ancient fortress is still very much alive, a place where history lingers in every shadow and the spirit of Scotland endures.

Edinburgh Castle

@historicwandering

Because Edinburgh Castle is one of, if not the, most popular attraction within Edinburgh, it can become quite crowded. Especially during the summer months, Edinburgh Castle can get long lines and feel congested with people and tours, For this reason, I highly recommend booking your visit for the earliest time slot available. Guests looking to visit Edinburgh Castle must purchase and reserve their tickets ahead of time online at Edinburgh Castle’s website. More often than not entry to the castle will sell out and visitors will not be able to purchase tickets the day of their visit at the castle gate. I recommend purchasing your tickets to Edinburgh Castle as soon as possible to avoid any disappointment for your trip.

Add to

Details

Stroll The Royal Mile

The Royal Mile is the most popular areas of Edinburgh. This exciting street stretches for a literal mile between Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace, the offical Scottish residence of the United Kingdom’s royal family.

The Royal Mile is often the most visited street in Edinburgh and for this reason it can become quite crowded during peak times, such as the summer season. However, I recommend braving the crowds and exploring this street as thoroughly as possible. From local shops, restaurants, attractions, and sights to behold, there is so much do see on the Royal Mile.

Here are some of my favorite stops, shops, and things to see along the Royal Mile to help guide you along your journey:

1. Heart of Midlothian Mosaic

Heart of Midlothian Mosaic

@historicwandering

The Heart of Midlothian Mosaic, set into the cobbled stories and streets of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, lies where the infamous Old Tolbooth once stood, a dark and brooding symbol of the city’s harsh justice against rule breakers. The Tolbooth, a 15th century prison and courthouse, cast a long shadow over Ediburgh’s medieval heart, its foreboding walls witnessing countless trials, imprisonments, and executions. The mosaic’s weathered stones trace the outline of a heart, but it is far from a romantic symbol. This is where the condemned took their final steps, passing through the Tolbooth’s iron gates into the cold grip of justice. Public executions drew crowds to this spot, where justice was swift and brutal. Today, the heart mosaic is a silent reminder of Edinburgh’s darker and historical past, a ghostly echo of the fear and suffering that once clung to this corner of the city. In a tradition that blends superstition and defiance, locals spit upon the heart mosaic, a gesture of disdain for the Old Tolbooth and a not to the turbulent history it represents in Edinburgh. Amidst the bustle of the modern Royal Mile, the Heart of Midlothian Mosaic endures as a symbol of Edinburgh’s layered history, where past and present collide beneath the city’s beautiful skyline. For those looking to discover some of Edinburgh’s medieval and darker history, stopping by the Heart of Midlothian Mosaic is a must-see. Taking a moment to admire this piece of medieval art takes just a moment, and is an easy stop along your stroll down the Royal Mile.

Add to

Details

2. St. Giles Cathedral

St Giles' Cathedral

@historicwandering

St. Giles Cathedral is perhaps one of the most beautiful and striking examples of architecture within Edinburgh. This historical church dates back to the 12th century. St. Giles Cathedral, with its crown-like spire piercing Edinburgh’s skyline, has stood as a witness to the city’s history for nearly a millennium. Founded in the 1100s, this gothic masterpiece is steeped in both grandeur and turmoil, its stone walls echoing with the prayers and protests of centuries past. Once a Catholic Church, St. Giles Cathedral was at the heart of Scotland’s Reformation in the 16th century. The fiery preacher John Knox delivered his sermons here, igniting religious fervor and changing the course of Scottish history forever. The cathedral became a stronghold of Presbyterianism, a place where faith and defiance intertwined. Within its darkened halls, light filters through stained glass, casting colored shadows on ancient stone. St. Giles has seen Kings crowned, reformers challenge authority, and worshippers seeking solace within its hallowed halls. Today St. Giles remains a beacon of Edinburgh’s enduring spirit, where history lingers in every shadow and within every whispered prayer.

Add to

Details

3. The Real Mary King’s Close

The Real Mary King's Close

@historicwandering

On our most recent trip to Edinburgh we had the priveledge to visit The Real Mary King’s Close. This experience was a lot of fun and combined a great amount of historical learning about Edinburgh’s underground past, with light humor and a great tour. The Real Mary King’s Close tells the story of some of the very real residents that used to live in this area of Edinburgh during the reign and timeframe of Mary Queen of Scots. During this point in history the streets that lined the Royal Mile were called closes, and housed hundreds of Edinburgh residents. Merchants and individuals of every social class called these closes home. This historical attraction takes visitors underground to see and experience for themselves exactly what it was like to live in Edinburgh during the 16th and 17th centuries. I highly recommend booking tickets to this attraction ahead of time online, as time slots can sell out during busy times of the year.

Add to

Details

4. Tron Kirk Market

Tron Kirk Market

@historicwandering

If you are someone who likes to pick up some authentic souvenirs from your travels, than I highly recommend stopping by the Tron Kirk Market during your stroll down the Royal Mile. The Royal Mile is full of all sorts of tourist shops and souvenir stores selling the same items made in places around the world that are not authentically Scottish. If you are looking for souvenirs made in Scotland by local artists, Tron Kirk Market is the place for you. Tron Kirk Market is a quaint and beautiful little market housed inside a beautiful old church. Light streams into the building and over the various stalls from the large stained glass windows overhead. Visitors can shop souvenirs such as art, jewelery, items for the home, and so much more in a gorgeous atmosphere. What more could you want from a shopping experience during your visit to Edinburgh?! History and great authentic souvenirs? Yes please!

Add to

Details

5. Scottish Textiles Showcase

Scottish Textiles Showcase

@historicwandering

It may come as no surprise that one of the most popular souvenirs in Scotland to purchase is a scarf. Scarfs and sweaters are a common item to bring home from a visit to Scotland, however, many common tourist shops sell items that are not actually made in Scotland. For a truly authentic selection of Scottish made wool and cashmere items, check out the Scottish Textiles Showcase. Items in this beautiful shop are of the most supreme quality and are truly authentic to Scotland. While souvenirs and items from this shop may be more expensive than many of the common tourist shops, visitors are paying for a high quality item that genuinely supports the artistry of Scotland.

Add to

Details

6. The Royal Mile Gallery

The Royal Mile Gallery

@historicwandering

This may be one of my favorite discoveries on my most recent trip to Edinburgh! I am someone who enjoys bringing back authentic artwork from places that I travel to, and when strolling the Royal Mile I was exceptionally pleased to find the Royal Mile Gallery. This shop holds thousands of pieces of art that feature Edinburgh and various areas and landmarks around Scotland. Visitors can find authentic original pieces of art that date back hundreds of years, as well as faithful reproductions that come at an affordable price. For those who love art and history, it is a great joy to browse everything this beautiful shop has to offer!

Add to

Details

7. Bakehouse Close

Bakehouse Close

@historicwandering

For those who are fans of the show Outlander, a visit to Bakehouse Close is a must! Outlander is a great show that showcases the mystic splendor of Scotland, and it is a common occurrence to watch the show and fall in love with Scotland. For guests who know the show and the books, Bakehouse Close is the real life location where the show filmed Jamie’s printshop. While visitors cannot actually go inside the building, they can walk and sit on the stairs that Claire did. This location is free to visit and will take no more than a few minutes to experience.

Add to

Details

8. Museum of Edinburgh

Museum of Edinburgh

@historicwandering

This fabulous museum is a free attraction in Edinburgh, and I personally think is a must visit! The Museum of Edinburgh gives an overview of the city’s history, and much can be learned from taking even 20 minutes to explore this attraction. While the museum itself is completely free to visit, if visitors would like to make a donation they can do so at the small gift shop on site. This shop also features some great items for those looking for something to bring back for loved ones from their visit to Edinburgh.

Add to

Details

9. Scottish Parlament Building

Scottish Parliament Building

@historicwandering

Curious about where the governing of Scotland is done? Towards the end of the Royal Mile is the Scottish Parlament Building. From outside the building visitors can also glimpse impressive views of Arthur’s Seat, the towering hillside that resides over Edinburgh.

Add to

Details

10. Holyrood Palace

Palace of Holyroodhouse

@historicwandering

At the very bottom of the Royal Mile sits Holyrood Palace. This palace is the offical royal residence of the British royal family when they come to Scotland. The palace can be toured and tickets can be purchased online. Built in the early 16th century, this majestic palace has long been the primary residence of Scottish monarchs, its corridors echoing with centuries of intrique, power, and history. The palace’s shadowy history is perhaps most famously tied to Mary, Queen of Scot, who lived here during some of the most turbulent years of her reign. It was within these walls that her secretary, David Rizzio, was brutally murdered in 1566, his blood said to have stained the floor near Mary’s chambers, an event that would set the course for Mary, Queen of Scots’ downfall. Holyrood’s towering walls have seen regal ceremonies, political maneuverings, and the intimate moments of royal lives, from the Stuart monarchs to modern-day royalty. The palace, with its sweeping views of Arthur’s Seat and its grand yet somber interiors, seems to hold the secrets of Scotland’s past within its stone walls. Today, as the offical residence of the British monarch in Scotland, Holyrood stands as a living monument to the ebb and flow of power and legacy, where history still whispers in every shadowed hallway and time seems to stand still. As with many of the other attractions around Edinburgh, I highly recommend purchasing tickets and booking your visit online prior to arriving in Edinburgh.

Add to

Details

Lunch & Snacks

After exploring many of the attractions and sights along the Royal Mile, it is likely that you will be hungry and looking for something to eat and sustain you for the duration of your afternoon exploring Edinburgh.

Here are some of my recommendations for places to eat for a lunch or quick bite during an afternoon in Edinburgh.

Lannan Bakery

@historicwandering

A new and exciting bakery, this bakery has become a great hit in recent years and features delicious pastries and treats. If you find the line to be too long, try visiting in the early morning right when they open!

Add to

Details

Oink Victoria Street

@historicwandering

While not suitable for vegetarians, for those who enjoy a savory snack and a hearty lunch, Oink is a great and more affordable option. Authentic Scottish barbecue pork fares can be found at this shop.

Add to

Details

The Piper's Rest

@historicwandering

For those looking for a sit down restaurant near the Royal Mile, this is a great option. Featuring local food and fares such as Haggis, fish and chips, and more, The Piper’s Rest is restaurant that emphasizes local dishes.

Add to

Details

Afternoon & Evening Activites

After being refreshed from a treat or afternoon meal, next I recommend that visitors wander away from the Royal Mile and explore other areas of Edinburgh.

Victoria Street

@historicwandering

Victoria Street in Edinburgh is a vibrant, winding curve of cobbled charm that feels like stepping into another era. Lined with colorful, historic buildings, this picturesque street, which descends from George IV Bridge to Grassmarket, is a feast for the senses. Its elegant curve, stacked with shops, cafes, and boutiques, showcase a kaleidoscope of facades in shades of red, yellow, blue, and green, creating a whimsical yet timeless atmosphere. Originally constructed in the 19th century, Victoria Street was designed to link the Old Town with the expanding city. Today, it is one of Edinburgh’s most photographed streets, its blend of Gothic architecture, hidden alleyways, and quirky storefronts creating a sense of wonder and discovery. As you stroll down its cobble, you feel the pulse of Edinburgh’s past and present, with every corner offering a new glimpse into the city’s vibrant spirit.

Add to

Details

Greyfriars Kirkyard Cemetery Edinburgh

@historicwandering

Greyfriar’s Kirkyard, nestled in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town is one of the city’s most atmospheric and storied cemetaries. Established in the late 16th century, this ancient graveyard is a resting place for some of Scotland’s most notable figures, its weathered tombstones and monuments bearing witness to centuries of history. The Kirkyard is perhaps the most famous for its connection to Greyfriar’s Bobby, the loyal Skye Terrier who is said to have guarded his master’s grave for 14 years, a tale that has become a beloved symbol of devotion. But behind the charm lies a darker history. Greyfriar’s Kirkyard is also the site of the signing of the National Covenant in 1638, where Scottish Presbyterians pledged to defend their religious freedoms against the crown, sparking decades of conflict. The Kirkyard’s eerie, moss-covered tombs are also linked to grimmer tales of bodysnachers and restless spirits. The most notorious of these is the ghost of George Mackenzie, known as “Bluidy Machenzie”, whose oppressive spirit is said to haunt the Covenanter’s Prison within the grounds. Wandering through Greyfriar’s Kirkyard feels like stepping back in time, where the past lingers in the mist that swirls around ancient graves and Edinburgh’s history seems to come alive with every whisper of the wind.

Add to

Details

Islander UK Edinburgh Workshop

@historicwandering

On our most recent trip to Edinburgh we did something very fun and unique, we constructed our very own personalized tartan tweed handbags. This experience was so much fun, and a great way to bring back both a handbag and a memory from your Edinburgh explorations. Visitors to the workshop can select from a variety of sizes as well as other items to construct such as a tolierty bag for those who do not want to make a purse. The price ranges from around $60 to $100. Visitors are able to pick out all the various components of their handbag to construct something truly unique. The tweed featured in these bags is made in Scotland under strict regulations. After visitors have selected their pieces and colors, they are guided through the process of building their bag by a skilled shop professional. The entire process takes about 45 minutes to an hour. It is often required to reserve a workshop spot as space is limited.

Add to

Details

Calton Hill

@historicwandering

Looking for a great view of Edinburgh? Carlton Hill is a great place to catch the sunset or sunrise during your visit.

Add to

Details

Dinner

After a wonderful first full day in Edinburgh, it is time for dinner! Below are some of my recommendations for dinner during your first night visiting Scotland’s capital city.

The Outsider Restaurant

@historicwandering

If you are looking for iconic Edinburgh Castle views while you dine, this restaurant is a great option. This restaurant is laid-back in its atmosphere and features fresh, seasonal produce and menu items. This restaurant offers lunch, dinner, and desserts such as specialty puddings.

Add to

Details

Sheep Heid Inn Edinburgh

@historicwandering

For a truly historical meal, I highly recommend the Sheep Heid’s Inn. This is one of my very favorite restaurants in Edinburgh and deserves your attention! The Sheep Heid Inn, nestled in the village of Duddingston on the outskirts of Edinburgh, is one of Scotland’s oldest pubs, with a history stretching back to 1360! This centuries old tavern has served generations of patrons, from humble farmers to monarchs (Queen Elizabeth II even dined here!). The walls of the Sheep Heid Inn are steeped in the stories of Scotland’s past. Legend has it that the inn was named after a gift. A sheep’s head that was bestowed upon the landlord by King James VI, who is said to have frequented the inn for its hospitality and its unique skittles alley, which still exists today. Throughout the centuries, the Sheep Heid Inn has been a gathering place for locals, travelers, and even royalty, offering hearty meals and strong ales to those seeking rest and good company. With its low beamed ceilings, cozy nooks, and roaring fireplaces, the inn retains much of its historic charm. Its longevity has made it an enduring symbol of Edinburgh’s history. The restaurant is open for lunch, dinner, drinks and even has an upstairs room for private events. Guests are encouraged to make reservations.

Add to

Details

After Dinner

After dinner its time for some evening exploration. Perhaps a dram of local whiskey as you wander the streets of Edinburgh and take in this historic city’s nightlife.

The Scotch Whisky Experience

@historicwandering

For an in-depth look into Scotch whiskey, the Scoth Whiskey Experience is the place to be. This shop and experience gives visitors a true look at what it takes to make authentic Scoth whiskey. Additionally, visitors will be able to see the largest whiskey collection in the world, sample some Scottish whiskey, and browse the attached whiskey shop for a bottle to take home. The Scotch Whiskey Experience is open until 6:30pm most nights and reservations can be made in advance on their website.

Add to

Details

Johnnie Walker Princes Street

@historicwandering

For a unique and modern look at Scoth whiskey, try Johnnie Walker. This venue offers tastings as well as views of the iconic Edinburgh Castle. This location is usually open until 9:00pm most evenings.

Add to

Details

Day Two

After a wonderful first day in Edinburgh it is now time to explore more of this enchanting city. After your first two days in Edinburgh, you are sure to be craving a visit back to explore even more of this historic destination.

Breakfast & Coffee

Söderberg Bakery Shop

@historicwandering

This Swedish cafe has options that are sure to delight every visitor. From savory to sweet there are many options to choose from when it comes to their menu and offerings. Visitors can enjoy a quick breakfast and coffee here before heading out for the day to explore more of Edinburgh.

Add to

Details

Kilted Donut

@historicwandering

A truly local experience, the Kilted Doughnut located at the base of Edinburgh Castle in the Grassmarket is a must-visit. Featuring fun and unusual flavors, this truly adorable bakery will not soon be forgotten. Additionally visitors can pick up a delicious cup of coffee while meandering around the Grassmarket in the early morning, taking in the views of Edinburgh Castle.

Add to

Details

Morning Activities

Arthur's Seat

@historicwandering

Are you someone who enjoys a good hike? Even in the middle of a grand Scottish city there is a place to escape to the wilderness. Arthur’s Seat is a grat hilltop that overlooks all of Edinburgh. There are multiple routes and trails that lead to the summit. Some of are easier than others, while some take longer. I personally think that hiking to the top of Arthur’s Seat and watching the sun rise over Edinburgh is an excellent way to begin the day!

Add to

Details

Dean Village

@historicwandering

While Edinburgh is a bustling city, it surprisingly has many secluded corners, quiet neighborhoods, and historic areas to explore. Dean Village is one of the most renowned and picturesque regions of Edinburgh. In this area visitors will find beautiful architecture, running streams, dainty shops, cafes, and more. Dating back to the 12th century, this tranquil village was once a thriving milling community, its history intertwined with the river that powered the mills. The name “Dean” comes from the Old English word for “deep valley”, reflecting the village’s picturesque setting beneath the wooded slopes. In the 20th century Dean Village was revitalized and transformed into one of Edinburgh’s most desirable residential neighborhoods. Today wandering through Dean Village feels like stepping back in time, with its cobbled streets, historic architecture, and the soothing sound of the Water of Leith creating and idealic escape within the heart of the city.

Add to

Details

Golden Hare Books

@historicwandering

Near Dean Village is one of the most charming local bookshops in Edinburgh. Edinburgh was designated as a UNESCO City of Literature in 2004, becoming the first city in the world to receive this distinction. This prestigious title recognizes and celebrates Edinburgh’s rich literary heritage, which includes being the birthplace or homes of renowned writers such as Sir Walter Scott, Robert Louis Stevenson, and J.K. Rowling. The Golden Hare is a local and independent bookshop that features titles by local authors as well as books and texts about Scotland and much more.

Add to

Details

National Galleries of Scotland: Portrait

@historicwandering

Looking to admire stunning portraits and works of Scottish art? Many incredible depictions of notable Scottish figures can be seen here at the National Portrait Gallery. This gallery is free to visit for everyone and also features some incredible architecture.

Add to

Details

Lunch & Snacks

Makars Mash Bar

@historicwandering

This casual, non-fussy restaurant is a great option for an affordable and quick lunch during your day in Edinburgh. Featuring items and local specialties such as Haggis and wild boar sausage, as well as many vegetarian and vegan options, this restaurant has quickly become a local favorite.

Add to

Details

Coro the Chocolate Cafe

@historicwandering

Looking for an impressively large menu of sweet treats? This chocolate cafe features treats such as waffles, crepes, cookie dough, fondue, cakes, liquid chocolate, as well as savory options. No matter your dessert style, you are sure to find something to satisfy your cravings here!

Add to

Details

Aftternoon Activities

The Writers' Museum

@historicwandering

This free museum has quickly made a name for itself due to its impressive architecture and proximity to the Royal Mile. Housed in the historic Lady Stair’s House, a 17th century stone building, the museum is dedicated to three of Scotland’s greatest literary figures: Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson. Stepping inside feels like entering a portal to Scotland’s literary past. The musum’s intimate, winding rooms are filled with rare manuscripts, personal items, and memorabilia, offering a glimpse into the lives and works of these iconic Scottish writers. The surrounding cobbled close and the museum’s quaint, turreted architecture add to its atmosphere, making it a must-visit for literature lovers exploring Edinburgh’s historic heart.

Add to

Details

University of Edinburgh

@historicwandering

Curious about one of Scotland’s oldest and most prestigious universities? Visitors to the University of Edinburgh can explore its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural offerings. Founded in 1582, the University of Edinburgh is one of the oldest in the English-speaking world, and its campus is dotted with impressive landmarks.

Add to

Details

National Museum of Scotland

@historicwandering

Another great and free attraction is the National Museum of Scotland. Located in the heart of the city, the National Musume of Scotland is a grand institution that tells the story of Scotland’s rich history and culture. The museum as it exists today is the result of the merger between the former Museum of Scotland and the Royal Museum. The two buildings, which combine modern and Victorian architecture, opened together under their new title in 2011. The National Museum of Scotland is home to a vast collection, including everything from ancient artifacts like the Lewis Chessman and the Maiden (an early form of the guillotine) to iconic Scottish treasures such as the nation’s first cloned sheep, Dolly. The museum’s exhibitions weave together Scotland’s story, offering glimpses into its prehistoric origins, medival past, and industrial achievements.

Add to

Details

Dinner

After another wonderful day exploring, it is time for a truly memorable dinner to celebrate and commemorate your time spent in Edinburgh.

The Witchery by the Castle

@historicwandering

This stunning hotel and restaurant is one of the most luxurious in the city. For those who love to feel as though they’ve been transported back in time, a visit to either dine or stay at The Witchery is a must! The restaurant’s interiors reflect the drama of this historic building’s past, with opulent, gothic decor, candlelit rooms, and rich, red velvet drapes, creating a setting that feels both luxurious and eerily connected to the city’s history. The Witchery exudes a sense of mystery and old-world grandeur, with its oak-paneled walls and ornate furnishings reminiscent of the darker chapters of Edinburgh’s past. Since its opening in 1979, The Witchery By The Castle has become one of Edinburgh’s most iconic dining and lodging experiences, blending historical intrigue with modern luxury. Visitors are drawn to its enchanting atmosphere, where the ghosts of Edinburgh’s past seem to linger in every corner, adding a touch of magic and mystery to its dining and hospitality.

Add to

Details

After Dinner

Underground Vault Tour

@historicwandering

Why not take a spooky historical tour of Edinburgh at night? Most tours around the city end before sundown, however there are some underground vault tours that occur later at night and give visitors the chance to explore Edinburgh’s darker nighttime history.

Add to

Details

The Queens Arms

@historicwandering

The Queens Arms, nestled in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town, is a traditional Scottish pub with a rich history that echoes the elegance of the Georgian era. Located on Fredrick Street, this classic bar has been a fixture in the city since the mid-19th century, offering a welcoming haven for locals and visitors. The pub’s interior, with ts wood-paneled walls, cozy leather booths, and open fireplaces, harks back to a bygone era, exuding warmth and character. The Queens Arms traditional charm and friendly atmosphere make it a living relic of Edinburgh’s past, where patrons can enjoy a pint while soaking in the history of the New Town, which is in of itself a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning Georgian architecture and rich cultural heritage.

Add to

Details

Bonus Recommendations

Edinburgh is one of the most fascinating cities in the world, and there is so much to explore that it is possible to spend an indefinite amount of time traversing each street, close, and corner discovering everything.

Topping & Company Booksellers of Edinburgh

@historicwandering

Another great bookstore, Toppings & Company features thousands of titles, as well as many books on Scotland and Scottish history. This lovely bookshop features a relaxing atmosphere and also gives complementary tea to patrons.

Add to

Details

Artisan Roast Broughton street

@historicwandering

There are so many great coffee shops to visit in Edinburgh. This is another great option for a quick breakfast or afternoon pick-me-up.

Add to

Details

Princes Street Gardens

@historicwandering

Located at the feet of Edinburgh Castle, Princes Street Gardens offer a green oasis in the middle of Edinburgh city. Created in the 19th century, these picturesque gardens occupy the site of the former Nor’ Loch, a murky lake that was drained to make way for Edinburgh’s New Town and the gardens. The gardens were officially opened to the public in 1810, transforming what was once a grimy and hazardous part of the city into a beautifully landscaped park. Designed by Sir James Craig, who also designed the New Town of Edinburgh, the gardens feature sweeping lawns, winding paths, and an array of floral displays. The gardens are framed by dramatic views of the castle and the surrounding hills, offering a tranquil escape amidst the city’s hustle and bustle. Notable landmarks within the gardens include the Scott Monument, a towering gothic structure dedicated to the writer Sir Walter Scott, and the Rose Fountain, and ornate cast-iron fountain that has been a fixture in the gardens since 1872. The gardens also serve as a venue for various cultural land public events throughout the year. Princes Street Gardens is not only a scenic retreat but also a historic site that reflects the transformation of Edinburgh from a medival city to a vibrant, modern metropolis. Its blend of natural beauty and historical significance makes it a cherished part of Edinburgh’s heritage.

Add to

Details

The Red Door Gallery

@historicwandering

Another great little shop located on Victoria Street is the Red Door Gallery. This shop features lots of modern artwork of Edinburgh and Scotland. This is another great ship that features authentic souvenirs made in Edinburgh and made in Scotland.

Add to

Details

Islander UK Edinburgh Workshop

@historicwandering

On our most recent trip to Edinburgh we did something very fun and unique, we constructed our very own personalized tartan tweed handbags. This experience was so much fun, and a great way to bring back both a handbag and a memory from your Edinburgh explorations. Visitors to the workshop can select from a variety of sizes as well as other items to construct such as a tolierty bag for those who do not want to make a purse. The price ranges from around $60 to $100. Visitors are able to pick out all the various components of their handbag to construct something truly unique. The tweed featured in these bags is made in Scotland under strict regulations. After visitors have selected their pieces and colors, they are guided through the process of building their bag by a skilled shop professional. The entire process takes about 45 minutes to an hour. It is often required to reserve a workshop spot as space is limited.

Add to

Details

Conclusion & Thanks!

Thank you very much for reading and saving our 2-Day Guide to Edinburgh! We sincerely hope that this guide and itinerary helped you to plan your next trip to Edinburgh Scotland. Edinburgh is a beautiful city that has much to explore, and while it can be overwhelming to know exactly what to see and do during your visit, we hope that this guide makes your trip planning easier so that you may focus on the fun of visiting Scotland’s capital city.

When we travel we like to focus on the history and hidden gems that a destination has to offer, and Edinburgh has a plethora of both to explore and discover!