2 Days in Edinburgh Itinerary (Complete Guide + Map)

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In this 2-day Edinburgh itinerary, you’ll find all the must-see attractions grouped together, so you can make the most of your 2 days. I’ll tell you exactly when to book Edinburgh Castle tickets and how much time to budget for your visit, as the castle is huge.

You’ll also find all my favourite spots for brunch and dinner, plus where to shop for authentic Scottish wool without falling into the tourist traps. I’ve also included some amazing day trips to Stirling Castle, Loch Ness, and even the Highlands. After all, Edinburgh makes a perfect base for exploring Scotland before heading further north to Inverness and the Isle of Skye. Just set aside an extra day or two for these. After all, no trip to Scotland would be complete without a little adventure!

I first visited Edinburgh years ago and instantly fell in love with it. Maybe it was the medieval charm, or the city’s haunted reputation (I’ve always loved ghost stories and castles), but it quickly became one of my favourite cities in Europe. And I’ve been dreaming of going back ever since. Recently, I finally got the chance to spend a week in Edinburgh again, revisiting some of my favourite spots and discovering a few new hidden gems. I’ve packed all of this into my updated Edinburgh itinerary.

💖 My favourite hotel in Edinburgh: Market Street Hotel
⭐ Rating: 9.3 | 2,660+ reviews
Location: close to all the main sights, just steps from the Royal Mile and Waverley station
What I loved: super comfy beds, a free minibar, a Dyson hairdryer, and a great rooftop bar
Check details & availability: Booking.com | Expedia

But first, there’s one important thing to know. All national museums across the UK are free to enter, including the National Galleries of Scotland and the National Museum of Scotland. Also, some paid attractions are cheaper if you book online in advance rather than on the spot. For example, the Palace of Holyroodhouse is around £4 cheaper when booked ahead.

Edinburgh Tourist Map + PDF

Here’s an interactive tourist map of this 2-day Edinburgh itinerary, complete with attractions, hotels and restaurant links. You can also download a PDF version of the itinerary.

2 Days in Edinburgh Itinerary – Day 1

Morning

Breakfast at The Milkman

Duration: 45 min 🕒 08:30 AM – 09:15 AM

Start your first day in Edinburgh with breakfast at The Milkman. I discovered this speciality coffee shop on my first trip, and it’s been my favourite ever since. Their espresso is fantastic, made with exclusive beans from the local roastery Obadiah Collective. Plus, their pastries are hands down the best in Edinburgh – I even went back twice on my last visit!

The coffee shop’s name is inspired by the owner Mark’s grandfather, who was the last horse-drawn milkman in Huntly, Aberdeenshire. In fact, you can even spot his silhouette in the shop’s logo!

Another fantastic breakfast spot is La Barantine Victoria. This charming little café serves traditional French pastries right in the heart of the Old Town. I especially loved the pistachio-raspberry Paris-Brest and the quiche.

Edinburgh Castle

Duration: 2 h 15 min 🕒 09:30 AM – 11:45 AM

Edinburgh Castle is one of those places you simply can’t miss – both literally and figuratively. For more than nine centuries, it has dominated the city’s skyline. Perched dramatically on Castle Rock, it rests atop the rugged remains of an extinct volcano that erupted some 340 million years ago. Originally an ancient stronghold, the castle later served as a royal residence, military garrison, and prison. Scottish kings and queens lived here, including Mary, Queen of Scots, who gave birth to James VI and I within its walls.

🎟️ Book in advance: timed-entry tickets often sell out (+ online tickets are £2.50 cheaper than on-site)
Best guided tour: Castle Highlights Guided Tour – see the best of the castle and uncover all its fascinating history and secrets with an expert guide (free cancellation)
Entry ticket: Skip-the-line Castle (official website – non-refundable tickets)

Edinburgh Castle is massive, with plenty to explore, so plan to spend at least 2–3 hours or even longer. Some of the highlights you won’t want to miss include:

• Crown Room – home to the Honours of Scotland (the Scottish Crown Jewels) and the Stone of Destiny, used in the coronation of Scottish (and later British) monarchs
• St Margaret’s Chapel – the oldest building in the city, dating back to the 12th century
• Great Hall – featuring a massive wooden roof and walls, lined with historic weapons
• Mons Meg – a massive medieval cannon from the 15th century
• One O’Clock Gun – fired every day (except Sundays) at exactly 1 PM – originally used to help ships in the Firth of Forth set their clocks
• National War Museum – showcasing Scotland’s military history
• the views – from the castle walls, you can enjoy breathtaking vistas over the Royal Mile and the city (on a clear day, you can see all the way to the sea)

If you don’t opt for a guided tour, I highly recommend renting the audio guide (for just a few extra euros) – it’s absolutely worth it. I’d also suggest starting with the Great Hall and the Honours of Scotland, since these spots can get crowded later in the day, often with long queues. If you follow the castle’s suggested map route, you’ll end up here last, right when the crowds are at their peak.

Make sure not to miss the Dog Cemetery – it’s very touching. From the square where you’ll find Mons Meg, just look down, and you can see it from above. Also, St Margaret’s Chapel may be small, but I found the stained glass inside gorgeous.

Lunch at Greenwoods

Duration: 2 h 🕒 12:00 PM – 02:00 PM

For lunch, I’d head over to the New Town – you’ll find way more restaurants and brunch spots there. One of my favourites is Greenwoods. It’s about a 15-minute walk from the castle, but definitely worth it. I came across this gem on my last trip while looking for a proper Scottish breakfast, and it didn’t disappoint.

The place is incredibly popular, especially at lunch or on weekends, so I highly recommend making a booking. I didn’t have one, but arrived about 20 minutes before opening (and there were already people waiting)! Luckily, I managed to grab one of the few tables left. I’d definitely suggest trying the Full Scottish Breakfast – it was hands down the best I’ve had in the city.

On your way back to the Old Town, make sure to stop at Ben’s Cookies. I discovered this gem on my very first trip to the UK (Edinburgh, to be exact). Ever since, I always look out for them whenever I visit. Ben’s Cookies has been around since 1983, perfecting their recipes down to the last detail. My favourites are the Triple Chocolate Chunk, Praline & Milk Chocolate, and Matcha & White Chocolate.

If you’re looking for something closer to the castle, Hula is a great option. Originally a juice bar, it now serves healthy brunches with toasts, lunch bowls, and soups. I’d recommend trying their smoothie bowls (the Maca Mana was delicious) and the Salmon tartare sourdough toast.

Book your tickets in advance (or you won’t get in)

Afternoon

Whisky tasting

Duration: 1 h 45 min 🕒 02:15 PM – 04:00 PM

Whisky is Scotland’s national drink, so trying it in Edinburgh is pretty much a must. It’s actually protected by law, too – only whisky made in Scotland, following strict rules, can be called Scotch.

There are plenty of distilleries where you can do a tasting, but the most popular spot is the Scotch Whisky Experience. You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at how whisky is made, and how things like ingredients and ageing affect its colour and flavour.

One of the highlights is the incredible Diageo Claive Vidiz Scotch Whisky Collection. With over 3,500 bottles, it’s the largest collection of Scotch whisky in the world. You can choose between the Silver or Gold Tour, with the Gold including four extra regional malts to try.

I have to admit, whisky isn’t really my thing, so I went for a gin experience instead. I booked the Classic Gin Tour & Tasting at Edinburgh Gin Distillery, and it was so much fun! You get to learn all about how gin is made, from the distillation process to how different botanicals and flavours are added. I especially loved their elderflower and rhubarb & ginger liqueurs – so good.

For more details, check out my guide to the best gin tastings in Edinburgh.

Dinner at Makars Mash Bar

End your day with dinner at Makars Mash Bar. I stumbled upon this gem on my last trip and loved it so much, I went twice in one week! This Scottish spot is all about gourmet mash paired with hearty mains or mushrooms. The concept is simple – pick a main (slow‑cooked beef or lamb, sausages, or house‑made haggis) and then choose from a variety of mashed potatoes to go with it.

I can recommend the crown of slow‑cooked beef shoulder, the tender lamb shank, or the Lion’s Mane mushroom bites. The Scotch egg starter and sticky toffee pudding were just as incredible. Honestly, I’d return to Edinburgh just to eat here again!

Makars Mash Bar is really popular, so I’d highly suggest making a reservation in advance. They actually have two locations, just a two-minute walk apart. One handles reservations, and the other is for walk-ins, so even if the reserved spot is full, you can still grab a table and enjoy some amazing mash!

Another fantastic dinner option is Frenchie, a cosy wine bar right on Broughton Street in the New Town. I’d definitely recommend the Haggis Bonbons and scallops. And, of course, don’t miss out on their excellent French wines.

Best Edinburgh Tours & Experiences

2 Days in Edinburgh Itinerary – Day 2

Morning

Breakfast at Room Rumours Coffee

Duration: 45 min 🕒 08:30 AM – 09:15 AM

Start your second day with breakfast at Room Rumours Coffee. This small coffee shop serves delicious cinnamon rolls and doughnuts. The coffee here is particularly good, and honestly, their scones are some of the best in the city.

However, don’t be misled by the brunch photos you might see on Google Maps (I made that mistake, too). They actually haven’t served brunch for almost two years, even though those photos still show up in highlights.

Palace of Holyroodhouse

Duration: 2 h 🕒 09:30 AM – 11:30 AM

The Palace of Holyroodhouse, often just called Holyrood Palace, is the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. It is still in use today, especially during Holyrood Week each summer, when the royal family visits for their traditional ceremonies.

The palace started in 1128 as an Augustinian abbey. Legend has it that King David I saw a stag with a cross between its antlers right on this spot, which inspired the abbey’s creation. That’s where the name comes from – Holyrood, which literally means Holy Cross.

By the 16th century, the abbey had become a royal residence. James IV and later Mary, Queen of Scots, made it their Scottish home. However, Holyrood is most famous for its connection to Mary – you can still visit the rooms where she lived. The palace was later rebuilt in the 1670s under King Charles II, giving it the classical, elegant look you see today.

🎟️ Book in advance: tickets are £4 cheaper compared to on-site tickets
Entry ticket: Skip-the-line Holyroodhouse (skip the crowds, with free cancellation)

I recommend booking through GetYourGuide – it’s the same price as the official site but lets you cancel for free. Official tickets, on the other hand, can’t be changed or refunded, so this is a much safer option.

Highlights at Holyroodhouse include the State Apartments, Royal Dining Room, Throne Room and Mary, Queen of Scots’ Chambers. Don’t miss the Great Gallery as well, lined with 95 portraits of Scottish kings, both legendary and real. I’d recommend grabbing the free audio guide, included with your ticket, to get the full history of the palace.

Right next to the palace are the ruins of Holyrood Abbey, surrounded by the gardens. When I visited in May, the flowers were in full bloom and made the whole place feel magical.

St Giles’ Cathedral

Duration: 35 min 🕒 11:50 AM – 12:25 PM

Right on the Royal Mile in the heart of the Old Town, you’ll find St Giles’ Cathedral. Dating back to the 14th century, it’s dedicated to Saint Giles, the patron saint of Edinburgh. Despite the name, it’s not technically a cathedral (there’s no bishop based here). Instead, it’s the High Kirk of the Church of Scotland.

It also has a big place in Scottish history. This is where John Knox preached in the 16th century, sparking the Scottish Reformation and turning the country toward Protestantism.

One of the most beautiful parts of the building is the Thistle Chapel, built in 1911 for the Order of the Thistle. Filled with intricate wood carvings, hidden angels, and symbolic details, it feels like something straight out of a fairytale.

Some other details I found interesting were the gorgeous stained glass, the cathedral’s crown-shaped spire (that’s totally unique), and the Heart of Midlothian. That little heart-shaped mosaic just outside marks where a prison used to stand.

St Giles’ Cathedral is free to visit.

Lunch at Bertie’s Fish & Chips

Duration: 1 h 30 min 🕒 12:30 PM – 02:00 PM

For the best fish and chips in town, head to Bertie’s Fish & Chips. I stumbled upon this gem by chance on my last trip and loved it so much I went back twice. Their fish comes from the icy waters of the North Atlantic, and the potatoes – from Cambridgeshire and Lincolnshire. Try the breaded or battered haddock, and definitely save room for their sticky toffee pudding (the best in Edinburgh).

Another great spot for lunch is Calton View Cafe. They serve tasty avocado toasts and a variety of egg dishes (the Eggs Benedict were delicious).

Afternoon

Victoria Street

Duration: 10 min 🕒 02:00 PM – 02:10 PM

After lunch, make your way to a spot that feels straight out of a storybook, Victoria Street. This is the very street that inspired Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter books. Built in the early 19th century as part of Edinburgh’s New Town expansion, it connects the Grassmarket with the George IV Bridge. The curved street is packed with colourful, quirky shops and cosy cafes, perfect for strolling.

The Vennel Viewpoint of Edinburgh Castle

Duration: 10 min 🕒 02:20 PM – 02:30 PM

The Vennel Viewpoint is one of the city’s best-kept secrets for postcard-perfect views of Edinburgh Castle. I stumbled upon this gem completely by accident on my last trip. Tucked away in the Old Town, the Vennel Viewpoint is a small, hidden lane that offers a dramatic view of the castle perched atop Castle Rock.

Gelato at Mary’s Milk Bar

Duration: 20 min 🕒 02:30 PM – 02:50 PM

While you’re nearby, don’t miss a visit to Mary’s Milk Bar for some gelato. Mary makes her ice cream fresh every morning, with a variety of unique flavours to try. She trained at the famous Carpigiani Gelato University in Bologna, so she really knows her craft!

The flavours are definitely adventurous – think pumpkin cream with caramel or pears with marsala chai tea. Another must-try is the Spaghetti Sundae, which is milk ice cream with amarena cherry “meatballs” and honeyed breadcrumbs. The place is pretty popular, so expect a 20–30 minute wait – but honestly, it’s totally worth it!

Dinner at Solti

I love Indian-Nepalese food, so I never skip the chance to try it when I travel – and Edinburgh was no exception. If you’re anything like me, I’d highly recommend Solti, a fantastic Nepalese spot right in the heart of the Old Town. The butter chicken and korma were absolutely delicious!

Another great dinner option is Fired Dough Pizzas. I’m usually picky about pizzas outside Italy, but this place really impressed me. They serve classic Neapolitan-style pizzas with San Marzano tomatoes grown on the volcanic slopes of Mount Vesuvius and real cow’s milk mozzarella. I tried the Tartufina Suprema and Carne, and both were fantastic.

Where to stay in Edinburgh (My top picks)

If you haven’t booked your stay yet, check out my complete guide to where to stay in Edinburgh (it will help you find the perfect spot).

More things to do in Edinburgh in 2 days

Explore Edinburgh’s closes

Duration: 1 h

As you stroll down the Royal Mile, you can’t help but notice the narrow alleyways branching off the main street. These are the famous closes, often leading to hidden courtyards and winding staircases. Back in the 16th to 18th centuries, they were full of life. Families crammed into tall tenements, sometimes five to seven stories high, with wealthier residents downstairs and workers or artisans above.

Many closes take their names from former residents, trades, or local landmarks. For example, Cowgate Close, near the old cattle market, or Fleshmarket Close, where butchers once worked. By the 19th century, overcrowding had turned many closes into slums, and urban redevelopment gradually emptied or rebuilt them. Today, their names still mark the entrances, and you can wander through the alleys, catching a glimpse of the city’s hidden past.

One of the Royal Mile’s most famous closes is Mary King’s Close. Named after Mary King, a merchant burgess who once lived there, it’s become legendary for its ghost stories and tales of plague victims. Today, you can explore it (only with a guided tour) and get a glimpse of what life was like in 17th-century Edinburgh.

To visit the close, I’d recommend the Real Mary King’s Close Guided Tour. I went on it during my first trip, and it was both fun and full of interesting stories – totally worth it!

Planning to explore the United Kingdom beyond Edinburgh? Check out my London itinerary, packed with practical tips, great brunch spots, and hidden gems.

National Galleries of Scotland

Duration: 2 h

If you love art, the National Galleries of Scotland are a must. It’s actually three galleries packed with everything from classical masterpieces to modern artworks. And the best part is that the entrance is completely free. The National Galleries of Scotland include:

• Scottish National Gallery – packed with European paintings and sculptures from the Renaissance to the 19th century, including Titian, Rembrandt, Turner, and Van Gogh
• Scottish National Portrait Gallery – housed in a gorgeous Gothic Revival building, it tells Scotland’s story through portraits of everyone from Mary Queen of Scots to modern icons
• Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art – full of 20th- and 21st-century art, with names like Picasso, Dalí, and Warhol

Calton Hill

Duration: 1 h

For some of the best views in Edinburgh, head up to Calton Hill. It’s a quick climb, but at the top you get some awesome panoramic views – from Edinburgh Castle to Arthur’s Seat and even the sea. You’ll also find a few monuments here, including the National Monument of Scotland, the Dugald Stewart Monument, and Nelson’s Monument. The National Monument was meant to honour soldiers from the Napoleonic Wars, but it was never actually finished.

It’s also a super popular spot for sunset. On my first trip, my accommodation was near Calton Hill (not the best base for exploring, though), but it meant I could get up there in no time and enjoy some gorgeous sunsets.

Dean Village

Duration: 1 h

Just a short walk from the city centre, you’ll find Dean Village. This tiny, historic village along the Water of Leith was once a milling town dating back to the 12th century. Today, its stone cottages, cobbled streets, and old mill buildings make it one of Edinburgh’s most picturesque spots.

Be sure to take a stroll along the scenic Water of Leith Walkway – it’s absolutely gorgeous. I snapped the photo below from the bridge linking Hawthornbank Lane and Damside Street.

The Georgian House

Duration: 1 h

The Georgian House is one of the city’s hidden gems, I came across on my last trip. This elegant townhouse on Charlotte Square was built in 1796 for John Lamont of Lamont. Inside, the beautifully restored rooms are filled with period furnishings, including furniture, porcelain, and silver. You’ll also find paintings by famous Scottish artists such as Sir Henry Raeburn and Allan Ramsay.

One of the coolest things about visiting is exploring below‑stairs, where the household servants worked long hours. The kitchen, scullery, wine cellar, and servant rooms have been fully recreated with household items. You can even see the bell pulls (like in Downton Abbey) that the family used to summon servants. I also loved the fact that there are staff in every room to explain the details and share stories.

St John’s Episcopal Church

Duration: 20 min

St John’s Episcopal Church is another hidden gem. This 19th-century church is famous for its Victorian stained glass and plaster ceiling, inspired by King’s College Chapel in Cambridge. Definitely worth a quick stop if you’re in the area!

Royal Yacht Britannia

Duration: 2 h

The Royal Yacht Britannia is super popular and definitely worth a visit if you’re into the royal family. Keep in mind, though, that it’s a half-day trip since it’s located outside the city centre, right on the North Sea coast. If you’ve only got two days in Edinburgh, I’d stick to the Old Town sights – unless the yacht is one of your top must-sees.

More than just a ship, the Royal Yacht Britannia was the floating home of the British Royal Family for over 40 years. Launched in 1953 and retired in 1997, it sailed more than a million nautical miles and visited over 600 ports around the world. One of the coolest things is that you can explore the ship like the Royals did. You can check out the State Apartments, the Crew’s Quarters, and even the engine room. Plus, your ticket comes with a free audio guide.

I’d suggest booking your Royal Yacht Britannia tickets in advance since they’re timed-entry and can sell out.

National Museum of Scotland

Duration: 2 h

The National Museum of Scotland is a real treasure trove, packed with everything from Scottish history to science and natural history. You’ll find Egyptian mummies, Asian art, taxidermy, and plenty of interactive exhibits. Quirky highlights include Dolly the Sheep, the world’s first cloned mammal, and the unicorn horn. The latter is actually a narwhal tusk that Scots once believed was magical. For a bit of adrenaline, you can even try the full-sized Formula One car simulator.

And like the National Galleries of Scotland, entry is totally free! Don’t miss the rooftop as well – it offers some of the best views of Edinburgh Castle.

Best views of Edinburgh Castle

If you’re after the best views of the castle, there are a few spots you really shouldn’t miss. I’ve already mentioned the Vennel Viewpoint, but here’s the complete list:

• Vennel Viewpoint – in my opinion, the best view of the castle
• Grassmarket Square – another gorgeous view, just a few steps from the Vennel Viewpoint
• Princes Street Gardens – an iconic spot, especially with the Ross Fountain in the foreground
• National Museum of Scotland – head up to the rooftop for stunning views of both the castle and the city rooftops
• The Parish Church of St Cuthbert (a hidden gem) – the church cemetery offers truly beautiful views, with hardly anyone around

Edinburgh’s Famous Monuments

While exploring the Old Town, you’ll come across some pretty interesting statues. Here are a few that you won’t want to miss:

Greyfriars Bobby – this little bronze dog near Greyfriars Kirkyard is famous for loyally watching over his owner’s grave for 14 years. You can also visit Bobby’s own grave inside the kirkyard, not far from his master’s.

Wojtek “the Soldier Bear” Statue – this bronze bear in Princes Street Gardens celebrates Wojtek. He was a real Syrian bear who helped Polish soldiers carry ammunition during World War II.

Robert Fergusson – you’ll find this statue just outside Canongate Kirk on the Royal Mile. Fergusson was a famous Scottish poet whose verses inspired Robert Burns.

Scott Monument – towering over Princes Street, this Gothic monument celebrates Scotland’s beloved poet, Sir Walter Scott. You can even climb its narrow spiral staircase for panoramic views of the city.

Royal Botanic Garden

Duration: 2 h

If you want to escape the city for a bit, the Royal Botanic Garden is a perfect spot. It’s been around since the 17th century, making it one of the oldest botanic gardens in the UK. Highlights include the Victorian Temperate Palm House, the Chinese Hillside, and the Rock Garden. Plus, the entry is free!

Best day trips from Edinburgh

Loch Ness, Glencoe and the Scottish Highlands

If you only have one day to escape Edinburgh and actually feel Scotland, this is the tour to book. In fact, with over 20,000 great reviews, this Loch Ness, Glencoe and Scottish Highlands Tour is the most popular day trip from the city.

In one day, you’ll see some of the country’s most iconic landscapes. You’ll pass through the dramatic landscapes of Glencoe, spot Highland cows, and hear stories about Scotland’s history along the way. The tour also takes you to the famous Loch Ness, where you’ll have time to explore, take photos, and even join a boat cruise if you like.

It’s a long day (around 12–13 hours), but that’s exactly what makes it worth it. You’ll see a huge part of Scotland that would be impossible to cover on your own in just one day.

If you have a few extra days, I highly recommend this 3-Day Isle of Skye and Highlands Tour. You’ll travel deep into the Highlands, visit dramatic Glencoe and Glenfinnan, and spend a full day exploring the stunning Isle of Skye with its famous rock formations. The legendary Loch Ness is also included, with time to explore and even join a boat cruise if you like. It’s an experience you simply can’t cover on your own in three days – not to mention the planning it would take!

Glasgow

Located just an hour away by train from Edinburgh, Glasgow is Scotland’s biggest city. Its vibe is completely different from Edinburgh’s, but equally unique. The city has more of an industrial feel, packed with street art and stunning Victorian and Gothic buildings. Perfect day trip if you’ve got a few extra days and want to see a different side of Scotland.

How to Get to Glasgow from Edinburgh
Take a train from Edinburgh Waverley to Glasgow Queen Street, which is right in the city centre. The journey takes about 50 minutes.

Stirling Castle

Stirling Castle is one of Scotland’s most impressive castles and makes a perfect day trip from Edinburgh. Perched on a volcanic hill, it’s been a key stronghold in Scottish history for centuries and is often called the Key to the Kingdom. It was home to Scottish kings and queens, including James IV, James V, and Mary, Queen of Scots, who was crowned here as a baby in 1543. The castle also played a role in famous battles, including the Battle of Stirling Bridge led by William Wallace.

Inside, you’ll find the Royal Palace with its colourful painted ceilings and the grand Great Hall where kings once held banquets. Don’t forget to enjoy the views as well – you can see all the way to the Wallace Monument and beyond. And be sure to rent an audio guide (for a few extra pounds) to learn even more about the castle’s history!

I’d recommend booking your Stirling Castle tickets in advance. Not only are they timed-entry and can sell out, but it’s also £2 cheaper to buy online than on-site. Just make sure to leave enough time to get there from Edinburgh so you don’t miss your slot.

If you have some extra time, make sure to check out the Old Town Cemetery right next to the castle. When I visited early in the morning, there were a few wild rabbits hopping around – such a cute surprise!

For lunch, stop by Unorthodox Roasters. It’s a fantastic brunch spot in the heart of Stirling Old Town, serving everything from sourdough toast to sweet French toast.

How to get to Stirling Castle from Edinburgh
Take a train from Edinburgh Waverley to Stirling – it’s about a 50-minute ride. From Stirling Station, the castle is roughly a 20-minute walk.

Linlithgow Palace

On the way back to Edinburgh from Stirling, you’ll pass Linlithgow Palace. I highly recommend stopping for an hour or two to explore one of Scotland’s most atmospheric ruins.

Linlithgow Palace is best known as the birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots (in 1542). Built in the 15th century by James I of Scotland, it wasn’t a defensive castle, but a royal retreat. It was a place where Scottish kings could relax, hunt, and escape the pressures of court life in Edinburgh. Over time, it became one of the Stewart dynasty’s favourite residences. Its decline began in 1603, when James VI and I moved the royal court to London after becoming King of England.

Today, Linlithgow Palace is an atmospheric ruin, where only pigeons play hide and seek in its great halls. It lost its roof after a fire in 1746, shortly after the Jacobite defeat. Unlike castles that were rebuilt, this one was left as-is, letting you wander through open-air halls and imagine what it once looked like.

I’m usually more into proper palaces and castles than ruins, but this one somehow felt magical – especially my first visit when I got caught in a storm there. If you’re interested in Mary, Queen of Scots, it’s a must-see. And don’t forget the audio guide (included with your ticket)!

Just beside Linlithgow Palace, you’ll find St Michael’s Parish Church. It’s worth popping in for a quick look, as the stained glass windows are gorgeous.

How to get to Linlithgow Palace from Edinburgh
Take a train from Edinburgh Waverley to Linlithgow – it’s only about a 30-minute ride. From Linlithgow Station, the palace is less than a 10-minute walk.

In case you’re visiting after Stirling Castle, buy an Anytime ticket for your Stirling–Edinburgh journey. It allows you to hop off at Linlithgow, explore the castle, and then continue to Edinburgh on the same ticket.

Rosslyn Chapel

Rosslyn Chapel, officially the Collegiate Chapel of St Matthew, was founded in 1446 by William Sinclair from the powerful Sinclair family. It was meant to be a place of worship for the family, but it was never completely finished. The chapel is famous for its incredible stone carvings that cover nearly every inch. You’ll find everything from angels and saints to mysterious Green Men and symbolic plants.

I highly recommend booking your Rosslyn Chapel ticket in advance, as there are only 5 time slots per day, with 180 people allowed in each. If you show up and it’s sold out, you could end up waiting hours for the next slot. Your ticket includes a 90-minute self-guided visit with an audio guide. Make sure not to miss the short info talk that starts about 30 minutes into each slot.

If you happen to arrive early, like I did, you can kill some time in the gift shop (which has some really nice items) or grab a coffee in the café. Another option is to explore the mysteries of Rosslyn Chapel in the storytelling hoods in the Visitor Centre.

How to get to Rosslyn Chapel from Edinburgh
Take bus 37 from South Bridge to the Original Rosslyn Hotel – about a 40-minute ride. From there, the chapel is just a short walk away.

Edinburgh gifts and souvenirs

Wool scarfs

Scotland is famous for its high-quality wool and cashmere, making it the perfect souvenir. You’ll spot wool shops everywhere, especially along the Royal Mile. That said, watch out for tourist traps selling low-quality wool products made in China. Just because it’s marketed as Scottish wool doesn’t mean it really is, so always check the label.

Here are the wool shops and brands I recommend:

• Kiltane – founded in Edinburgh, their Made in Scotland collection is actually woven in one of the country’s oldest family-run mills in the Borders
• Lochcarron of Scotland – since 1947, they’ve been known for high-quality tartans and wool scarves
• Johnstons of Elgin – founded in 1797, famous worldwide for luxury cashmere and wool
• Tartan Weaving Mill – a popular, slightly touristy shop, but it still offers quality wool items made in Scotland

I actually bought scarves from Kiltane, Lochcarron of Scotland, and Tartan Weaving Mill, and I’m really pleased with the quality. Just be careful when washing them – they’re either hand-wash only or dry clean. I learned the hard way with the two scarves from my first trip to Edinburgh. I threw them in the washing machine (even on the wool cycle) – and yep, they shrank. Luckily, the four I bought on my most recent trip are still safe (for now).

Second-hand books

If you’re a bookworm like me, there are two spots in Edinburgh you simply can’t miss – Armchair Books and The Gently Mad Book Shop & Bookbinder. Armchair Books, near the Grassmarket, is a popular second-hand shop with shelves piled high with old and used books. It’s perfect if you’re hunting for a specific title. The Gently Mad Book Shop, a tiny, quirky gem near the Botanic Gardens, is packed with vintage books – ideal for a beautifully bound souvenir. I bought a lovely little book here – an 1880 edition of The Poetical World of Robert Bloomfield.

Edinburgh itinerary options for 1 or 3 days

1-Day Edinburgh itinerary

You can actually see a lot of Edinburgh in just one day if that’s all the time you’ve got. That said, I’d pick one must-do experience and plan your day around it. Whether it’s exploring Edinburgh Castle or going for a Scotch whisky experience, try to do it in the morning.

If you’re stuck between the Palace of Holyroodhouse and Edinburgh Castle, I’d go with the castle. It’s way more impressive, and the views from up there are absolutely worth it.

In the afternoon, wander through the Old Town and make a couple of key stops like Victoria Street and St Giles’ Cathedral. But whatever you do, don’t skip St Giles’ Cathedral. It’s a quick visit, but really impressive and well worth it.

3-Day Edinburgh itinerary

For me, 3 days in Edinburgh is the perfect amount of time. It’s enough to explore the city and still get a taste of Scotland’s beautiful nature. Spend the first two days following this itinerary, then use day three for a trip out to Loch Ness and the Highlands.

If castles are more your thing, I’d definitely recommend visiting Stirling Castle, which is less than an hour away by train.

Getting around in Edinburgh

Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns, where most of the main attractions are located, are quite compact. You can easily walk almost everywhere, even as far as Dean Village or the Royal Botanic Garden.

That said, if you do need public transport, the city has an excellent bus system (there’s no metro). You’ll likely use it for places like the Royal Yacht Britannia or Rosslyn Chapel, which are a bit further out and better suited for a half-day trip.

The city is covered by Lothian Buses, which run frequently and cover almost the entire city. You can just tap your card when boarding. Fares are flat, so there’s no need to worry about zones or complicated tickets.

However, if you take the tram from the airport into the city, make sure to tap on and tap off, since fares are zone-based. If you forget to tap off, you may be charged the maximum fare.

How to get to Edinburgh

By air

Edinburgh Airport (EDI) is about 13 km (8 miles) west of the city centre. To get into the city, you have a few options:

• Airlink 100 bus – runs every 10 minutes, seven days a week, and takes about 30 minutes to Waverley Bridge. In my view, it’s the best option, as you’ll have space for luggage
• tram – just as convenient, and prices and travel time are pretty much the same as the bus
• the official airport taxis are Capital Cars, with a rank at the East Terminus. Expect to pay around £40 to get to the city centre

By train

Edinburgh’s main railway station is Waverley Station, right in the heart of the city between the Old and New Towns. It’s the biggest station in the city and one of the busiest in Scotland.

You can check schedules and book your tickets online on the official ScotRail website. However, for shorter trips, like Stirling or Glasgow, there’s usually no need to book in advance. Trains run several times an hour, so you can simply take whichever one is most convenient.

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FAQs about visiting Edinburgh

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