3 days in Edinburgh: Where Medieval Magic Meets Modern Scotland

Walking the cobblestone streets of Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, where centuries-old stonework reaches skyward and whispers of history echo through narrow closes, you’ll understand why Scotland’s capital has enchanted visitors for generations. This UNESCO World Heritage site, crowned by its imposing castle and embraced by dramatic hills and sea, masterfully weaves together a thousand years of history with a vibrant contemporary spirit.

Known affectionately as “Auld Reekie” by locals, Edinburgh presents a spellbinding mix of medieval grandeur and modern innovation. Here, Gothic spires share the skyline with cutting-edge architecture, traditional whisky taverns sit alongside world-class restaurants, and ancient traditions thrive alongside a dynamic arts scene.

Whether you’re tracing the footsteps of literary giants through atmospheric alleyways, discovering hidden gardens tucked behind historic facades, or experiencing the world’s largest arts festival, Edinburgh promises adventures that resonate long after you’ve returned home.

From my recent trip exploring this magnificent city on my Northumberland road trip to Scotland road trip, I’ve created this comprehensive three day guide to help you discover both Edinburgh’s iconic landmarks and its lesser-known treasures. Let’s explore the very best of Scotland’s historic heart.

Beyond the well-trodden paths, Edinburgh is also a treasure trove of hidden gems, from tucked-away cafes and secret gardens to lesser-known historical sites waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re drawn to its rich history, vibrant culture, or scenic beauty, Edinburgh promises an unforgettable adventure at every turn.

Essential Costs (2025 rates):

Edinburgh Castle: £18 online, £21 at gate

Real Mary King’s Close: £19.95 adult tickets

Royal Botanic Gardens: £7.50 (gardens only), £7.95 (with glasshouses)

Hop-on-Hop-off Bus: I do love a hop on hop off bus they allow you to see most historic spots and are great for those with mobility issues. £18 for 24-hour ticket.

Average pub meal: £12-20

Mid-range restaurant dinner: £25-40 per person

Budget hotel: £60-100/night

Luxury accommodation: £200+/night

Essential Information

Perfect 3-Day Edinburgh Itinerary

Make the most of your time in Edinburgh with this carefully planned itinerary that balances iconic landmarks with hidden gems.

Day 1: Royal Mile & Old Town

Morning: Edinburgh Castle (2-3 hours, arrive early to avoid crowds)

Lunch: Traditional pub in Grassmarket

Afternoon: Royal Mile highlights including St. Giles Cathedral and Real Mary King’s Close

Evening: Whisky tasting at Johnnie Walker Experience or local pub

Day 2: Culture & Gardens

Morning: National Museum of Scotland (2 hours)

Lunch: Victoria Street cafes

Afternoon: Royal Botanic Gardens or Princes Street Gardens

Evening: Dinner in New Town, followed by ghost tour or literary pub crawl

Day 3: Views & Hidden Gems

Morning: Arthur’s Seat hike (2-3 hours round trip)

Lunch: Leith waterfront

Afternoon: Royal Yacht Britannia or Dean Village exploration

Evening: Sunset at Calton Hill, followed by dinner in Old Town

Time-Saving Tips:

Book Edinburgh Castle and Royal Yacht Britannia tickets online

Use the Hop-On-Hop-Off bus between distant attractions

Consider the Edinburgh City Pass for multiple attractions

Plan indoor activities for afternoon when rain is common

This itinerary can be adjusted based on weather, energy levels, and personal interests. Each day’s activities are geographically grouped to minimize transit time.

Accessibility & Getting Around Edinburgh

Edinburgh’s historic character means careful planning is essential for visitors with mobility considerations. Here’s your guide to navigating the city comfortably:

Transportation Options:

• Hop-On Hop-Off buses: Accessible transport between major sites, audio guides available
• New Town: Flat, wheelchair-friendly streets and wide pavements
• Free mobility scooters: Available at key locations (book ahead)
• Accessible taxis: On-call service throughout the city

Accessible Attractions:

• Edinburgh Castle: Mobility vehicle from esplanade
• Museums & Galleries: Step-free access, elevators
• Royal Mile: Rest stops available along steep sections
• Holyrood Palace: Full accessibility with advance notice

Smart Planning Tips:

• Stay in New Town for easier terrain
• Download Edinburgh’s accessible route maps
• Book morning visits to popular sites
• Use accessible entrances at historic buildings
• Visit off-peak for quieter experiences

Note: Contact individual attractions in advance to arrange specific accessibility accommodations.

Weather & What to Pack

Edinburgh experiences mild summers (65°F/18°C max) and cool winters, with frequent rain year-round. Pack layers, waterproof gear, and comfortable walking shoes. August is warmest and busiest during the Fringe Festival.

Getting to Edinburgh

• Direct flights to Edinburgh Airport (or cheaper via London/Dublin)
• Train: London to Edinburgh – 4.5 hours
• Bus/driving: 7+ hours from London
• Budget tip: Book transport well in advance

Getting Around Edinburgh

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus (£18/day): Covers all major sites

Walking: Best for Old Town exploration

Local buses & taxis: Available for longer distances

Tip: Stay in charming local inns rather than chain hotels

Travel Costs & Budget Planning

Like many major European cities, Edinburgh’s costs vary significantly based on travel style and season. While luxury accommodations and high-end experiences can be costly, careful planning can make Edinburgh surprisingly affordable. Consider these budget-optimization strategies:

• Visit during shoulder season (April-May or September-October)
• Mix paid attractions with Edinburgh’s many free museums and gardens
• Choose hostels or self-catering apartments over hotels
• Use public transport and walking to explore
• Take advantage of early-bird restaurant specials and lunch menus.

A visit to beautiful Edinburgh is perfect for travellers looking for a low-key, historic, culture-filled city. You also can’t go wrong finding amazing Harry Potter sites to visit when in Edinburgh, visiting the Fringe Festival or the many historical sites in the City. This is my compilation of all the best things to do in Edinburgh.

Want to travel to both Ireland and Scotland? This itinerary could be helpful

Must-See Attractions in Edinburgh

Now that you’re equipped with essential information about costs and weather, let’s explore Edinburgh’s iconic landmarks. The city offers countless historic and cultural experiences, each telling a unique part of Scotland’s story.

Royal Mile & Castle Hill

The Royal Mile, Edinburgh’s historic heart, stretches 1.8 km from Holyrood Palace to Edinburgh Castle. This processional route, used by royalty for 500 years, offers Edinburgh’s densest concentration of attractions.

Edinburgh Castle (£18 online, £21 at gate)

Scotland’s most visited landmark, Edinburgh Castle houses the nation’s Crown Jewels and the fascinating National War Museum. For the best experience, arrive early when the castle opens at 9:30am to avoid peak crowds. Book tickets online to both save money and skip the entrance queues.

You are allowed to take photos inside the castle. Plan to spend 2-3 hours exploring the castle complex to fully appreciate its rich history and stunning city views. The Crown Jewels exhibition is particularly popular, so head there first after entry.

St Giles’ Cathedral (Free entry, £7 donation suggested)

St Giles’ Cathedral, Edinburgh’s most important church since the 12th century, stands as a Gothic masterpiece in the heart of the Royal Mile. The cathedral’s distinctive crown spire has defined Edinburgh’s skyline for centuries. Inside, don’t miss the exquisite Thistle Chapel, an intimate space adorned with intricate wooden carvings, or the stunning Robert Burns memorial window.

While entry is free, a small donation helps maintain this historic building. For spectacular city views, book a tower tour in advance through the cathedral website. Don’t miss: Robert Burns’s memorial window.

The Real Mary King’s Close (£19.95)

Step back in time at The Real Mary King’s Close, a remarkably preserved 17th-century street buried beneath Edinburgh’s Royal Mile. This atmospheric underground time capsule offers guided tours through the warren of closes where residents lived during the plague years. Expert guides bring Edinburgh’s dark history to life with tales of the families who once called these narrow alleys home.

Book tickets well in advance, especially during summer months, as tours frequently sell out. The last tour departs one hour before closing, and while photography is restricted in some areas, the experience is unforgettable. For the most atmospheric experience, opt for one of the first morning tours when the closes are quietest.

Palace of Holyroodhouse (£17.50 online)

The Palace of Holyroodhouse, the British monarch’s official royal residence stands in dramatic contrast to Edinburgh Castle at the opposite end of the Royal Mile. This working royal palace showcases opulent state apartments and the historic chambers of Mary Queen of Scots, offering visitors a glimpse into both contemporary royal life and Scottish history.

The haunting ruins of the 12th-century Holyrood Abbey add to the palace’s atmospheric appeal. Your admission includes an informative audio tour and access to regular special exhibitions. Book the first morning entry to explore the palace at its quietest and enjoy unobstructed photos of the grand state rooms.

Holyrood Park & Dynamic Earth (Park: free, Dynamic Earth: £15.95)

Holyrood Park, a 640-acre royal hunting ground turned public park, offers scenic walking trails around Salisbury Crags and excellent city viewpoints along Queen’s Drive. Look for Highland cattle grazing the slopes. The adjacent Dynamic Earth science center provides interactive exhibits perfect for families. Book morning visits to avoid school groups.

Scottish Parliament (Free)

The Scottish Parliament, housed in a striking contemporary building designed by Enric Miralles, offers free guided tours showcasing Scotland’s modern democracy. Book ahead to visit public galleries during parliamentary sessions or join architecture tours highlighting the building’s innovative design. The on-site exhibition space and café make this a worthwhile stop between Holyrood Palace and Arthur’s Seat.

Combine Holyrood Palace visit with Arthur’s Seat hike for perfect half-day itinerary

Royal Mile Hidden Gems

Along the Royal Mile’s winding closes (alleyways), discover Dunbar’s Close Garden, a peaceful 17th-century style refuge, and the Victorian-era Camera Obscura with its classic optical illusions.

Literary enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the Writers’ Museum, while photographers should seek out Advocate’s Close for unmatched castle views. End your exploration at The World’s End pub, marking the old city boundaries.

Grassmarket & Victoria Street

Victoria Street, often called Edinburgh’s most photographed location, curves gracefully down to the historic Grassmarket. Its colorful shop fronts and Harry Potter connections (said to inspire Diagon Alley) make it a photographer’s dream, especially from the George IV Bridge viewpoint. The street’s independent boutiques and vintage shops offer unique shopping experiences.

The Grassmarket, a market place since 1477, hosts weekly Saturday markets (10am-5pm) beneath stunning castle views. History enthusiasts will appreciate the area’s preserved heritage, from the Last Drop pub (named for final pre-execution drinks) to the White Hart Inn (Edinburgh’s oldest pub, dating from 1516). Don’t miss Maggie Dickson’s pub, named for the famous “half-hang it” survivor of a botched execution.

Local Favorites: The atmospheric Greyfriars Kirkyard offers literary connections (spot some familiar Harry Potter names), while the nearby Greyfriars Bobby statue commemorates Edinburgh’s most loyal dog. For refreshments, try the authentic whisky selection at The Bow Bar, browse Armchair Books’ cramped aisles, or enjoy artisanal gelato at Mary’s Milk Bar with castle views.

Local tip: Visit early morning for photos without crowds, or evening for lively pub atmosphere

New Town & Princes Street

Edinburgh’s elegant New Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a striking contrast to the medieval Old Town. Princes Street, the city’s premier shopping destination, provides stunning castle views across its public gardens, which host everything from summer concerts at Ross Bandstand to the winter Christmas Market.

The iconic Scott Monument (£8) rises 200 feet above Princes Street Gardens. Climb its 287 steps for spectacular city views, or visit the museum room showcasing Sir Walter Scott’s legacy. Early morning visits offer the best photo opportunities.

Parallel George Street showcases the New Town’s Georgian grandeur, with luxury boutiques and restaurants housed in neoclassical buildings. Don’t miss The Dome’s famous Christmas lights or the historic Assembly Rooms. For local character, explore the traditional pubs along Rose Street or discover hidden gems like Instagram-worthy Circus Lane and the Victorian splendor of the Café Royal.

Hang out with Paddington in St. Andrew’s Square where all summer you can picnic and enjoy great events like open air film nights.

Local tip: Shops here close earlier than Old Town (5:30-6pm), so plan afternoon shopping accordingly.

Leith & the Shore

Once Edinburgh’s bustling port, Leith has evolved into a vibrant cultural quarter where maritime heritage meets contemporary Scottish life. The area’s crown jewel is the Royal Yacht Britannia (£18), the former royal vessel moored at Ocean Terminal. Tour five decks of state apartments and naval areas with an award-winning audio guide (available in 30 languages), then enjoy afternoon tea in the Royal Deck Tea Room. Book ahead and allow 2-3 hours for your visit.

The Shore district blends historic architecture with Edinburgh’s best dining scene, including several Michelin-starred restaurants. Explore the free Trinity House Maritime Museum, browse the Leith Farmers Market (Saturdays), or enjoy harbor views from traditional pubs like The King’s Wark and Teuchters Landing.

Ocean Terminal offers modern shopping, dining, and the Britannia Visitor Centre, with free parking and regular bus connections from the city center.

Local tip: Follow the Water of Leith Walkway from Dean Village to combine your visit with lunch at The Shore.

Water of Leith & Dean Village

The Water of Leith offers Edinburgh’s most picturesque walking trail, stretching 12 miles from Balerno to Leith. The most scenic section winds through Dean Village, a preserved medieval grain milling community that feels frozen in time. This free attraction showcases remarkable Victorian architecture, including the restored Well Court workers’ housing and historic mill buildings.

Take the popular walking route from Dean Village to Stockbridge (30 minutes) or continue to Leith (additional hour), passing landmarks like St Bernard’s Well and the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art. Wildlife enthusiasts might spot herons, kingfishers, and even otters along the peaceful riverside path.

Photography highlights include the Dean Bridge views, Well Court courtyard, and the historic water wheel. The Hawthornbank Path offers particularly dramatic vistas, especially in morning light.

Local tip: history walks are available through the Water of Leith Conservation Trust.

Parks & Natural Viewpoints

Arthur’s Seat, Edinburgh’s ancient volcano, rises 251m above sea level at the heart of Holyrood Park. This free attraction offers Edinburgh’s most dramatic views and several hiking options. The Queen’s Drive circuit (1 hour) provides an easy introduction, while the Salisbury Crags path (45 minutes) offers dramatic cliff views. For the full experience, tackle the Summit path (90 minutes) for panoramic views – best at sunrise. Free maps mark the best photo spots.

Calton Hill, just a 5-minute walk from Princes Street, offers Edinburgh’s most accessible viewpoint. Known as ‘Edinburgh’s Acropolis’ for its collection of monuments, it’s particularly stunning at sunset. The National Monument and Nelson’s Monument frame perfect city views, while the renovated Observatory now houses a restaurant.

The Royal Botanic Garden (£7.50 for glasshouses, gardens free) offers 70 acres of tranquility just north of the city center. The Victorian glasshouses house exotic plants from around the world, while outdoor highlights include the serene Chinese Hillside garden and the renowned Rock Garden. The gardens are particularly spectacular during spring blooms and autumn colors. The on-site café and shop make this a perfect half-day retreat.

Edinburgh’s lesser-known green spaces offer peaceful alternatives to the main attractions. Hidden behind the Royal Mile, Dunbar’s Close Garden recreates a formal 17th-century retreat. Dr Neil’s Garden beside Duddingston Loch provides a tranquil sanctuary with Arthur’s Seat views. For a coastal escape, follow the Cramond Beach and River Walk, or venture to Jupiter Artland’s sculpture park for art amid nature.

Local tip: Visit these green havens early morning or near sunset for the best light and fewest visitors. The Botanic Garden’s glasshouses are warmest and most pleasant on cool or rainy days.

Edinburgh’s Cultural Heritage

As UNESCO’s first City of Literature and home to the world’s largest arts festival, Edinburgh’s cultural scene is as rich as its history. The National Museum of Scotland (free entry) showcases everything from natural history to Scottish innovation in a stunning Victorian building, complete with a rooftop terrace offering panoramic city views. Nearby, the Museum of Edinburgh chronicles the city’s story, while the unique People’s Story Museum captures everyday life through the centuries.

Art enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the Scottish National Gallery (free), housing European masterpieces alongside Scottish treasures in William Henry Playfair’s neoclassical building. The Modern Art Galleries, split between two striking venues, showcase contemporary works in sculpture-dotted grounds. For photography and contemporary craft, visit the Stills Gallery and Dovecot Studios.

Literary Edinburgh

Edinburgh’s literary heritage runs deep through its streets. Follow the footsteps of literary giants on the Edinburgh Literary Pub Tour (£14), where expert guides blend storytelling with a traditional pub crawl. Visit the Poetry Library at the Scottish Storytelling Centre for contemporary voices, or seek out Inspector Rebus’s favorite haunt, the Oxford Bar. Harry Potter fans shouldn’t miss The Elephant House café, where J.K. Rowling wrote early chapters, while Makars’ Court honors Scotland’s greatest writers in stone.

Festival City

Edinburgh truly comes alive during its festival season. The legendary Edinburgh Festival Fringe (August) transforms the city into the world’s largest arts festival, with thousands of performances daily across 300+ venues. Alongside runs the prestigious Edinburgh International Festival and the beloved Book Festival, creating an unmatched cultural atmosphere. Year-round festivals include April’s Science Festival, June’s Film Festival, and the spectacular Hogmanay celebrations welcoming the New Year.

Living Culture

Experience Edinburgh’s living traditions at the Scottish Storytelling Centre, where ancient tales come alive through skilled performers, or immerse yourself in Highland heritage at the National Piping Centre. For contemporary Scottish culture, catch a performance at Dance Base, or enjoy traditional folk music at the legendary Sandy Bell’s pub. The Royal Scottish Academy regularly hosts events showcasing Scotland’s current artistic talents.

Fringe Festival

Edinburgh’s festival season peaks in August with the Edinburgh Fringe, the world’s largest arts festival. Over 300 venues host thousands of daily performances spanning comedy, theater, dance, and experimental art. The Royal Mile transforms into an open-air stage with continuous street performances. Book accommodation months ahead and consider early-August preview shows for better value.

Hidden Gems in Edinburgh only the locals know

Dunbars Close Garden

Tucked away near the Royal Mile, Dunbars Close Garden is a serene Renaissance-style retreat. This secret garden, with its manicured hedges and fragrant flowers, feels like a hidden oasis. It’s the perfect place to unwind with a book or enjoy a quiet moment away from the crowds.

The Sheep Heid Inn

History lovers shouldn’t miss The Sheep Heid Inn, Scotland’s oldest pub, dating back to 1360. Located in the quaint village of Duddingston, this cozy spot still has its original skittles alley historic bowling game. With its low ceilings, crackling fireplaces, and hearty Scottish fare, it’s a true local haunt.

Dr. Neils Garden

Another tranquil hideaway is Dr. Neils Garden, often called the “Secret Garden of Edinburgh.” Situated beside Duddingston Kirk, this lush sanctuary is ideal for a meditative stroll among blooming flowers and reflective ponds.

The Vennel Steps

If you’re after the best free view of Edinburgh Castle, head to The Vennel Steps in Grassmarket. This steep staircase offers a stunning, unobstructed panorama of the castle photographers dream that most tourists never find.

The Last Drop Pub

 The Last Drop Pub in Grassmarket has a macabre namesake it references the hangings that once took place nearby. The pubs dark history and excellent whisky selection make it a fascinating stop.

Circus Lane

Meanwhile, Circus Lane in Stockbridge is arguably Edinburgh’s most charming street. With its cobbled path, ivy-clad houses, and village-like atmosphere, it’s a romantic spot for a leisurely walk.

Oxford Bar

And for literary fans, The Oxford Bar is a must. This unassuming pub is famed as Inspector Rebus favourite watering hole in Ian Rankin’s novels. No frills, no tourists just authentic Scottish pub culture.

These hidden gems offer a chance to see Edinburgh beyond the postcard sights. Whether you’re seeking history, tranquility, or simply a break from the crowds, these spots deliver an unforgettable local experience.

Food & Drink in Edinburgh

Edinburgh’s culinary scene ranges from traditional Scottish fare to Michelin-starred dining. Sample haggis (traditional or vegetarian) with neeps and tatties at local institutions like Mums Great Comfort Food. Leith hosts acclaimed restaurants including The Kitchin and Restaurant Martin Wishart.

For whisky tasting, skip tourist traps and head to authentic pubs like The Bow Bar or Kay’s Bar, where knowledgeable staff guide you through Scotland’s national drink. The Scotch Whisky Experience offers structured tastings, though local pubs provide more authentic experiences.

Pro tips: Book festival events months ahead, especially during August when museum hours extend. Catch free lunchtime music at St Giles’ Cathedral, or take advantage of gallery late nights on Thursday and Friday. Many festival events offer free admission—check listings early to secure spots.

Edinburgh’s Culinary Scene: Where to Eat & Drink

Edinburgh’s vibrant food scene masterfully blends centuries-old Scottish traditions with contemporary innovation. This is where Chicken Tikka Masala was invented. At Makars Gourmet Mash Bar, traditional haggis pairs with creative variations of Scotland’s beloved mashed potatoes, while the historic Sheep Heid Inn (established 1360) serves excellent Scottish cuisine in Britain’s oldest pub setting.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by See-ming Lee (SML) (@seeminglee)

For special occasions, Restaurant Martin Wishart in Leith offers Michelin-starred Scottish-French fusion, while The Kitchin celebrates local ingredients with contemporary flair. The elegant Number One at The Balmoral provides a refined dining experience that showcases Scotland’s finest produce.

For more casual meals, Timberyard serves modern Scottish cuisine in an atmospheric converted warehouse, while The Dogs offers unpretentious Scottish-European fare. Mother India’s Cafe reinvents traditional dishes with Scottish-Indian fusion tapas, and Salt Horse pairs craft beers with gourmet burgers. These neighborhood favorites provide authentic experiences without the formality of fine dining.

Edinburgh’s tea culture thrives in historic settings like The Colonnades at the Signet Library, where Georgian elegance meets afternoon tradition. Clarinda’s Tea Room on the Royal Mile offers a cozy, traditional experience, while Eteaket brings a modern approach to the time-honored ritual. For the best experience, book afternoon tea between 2-4pm when these establishments are fully prepared for service.

The city’s coffee scene is equally impressive, with specialty roasters like Fortitude Coffee in New Town and Brew Lab’s scientific approach to brewing. The Milkman serves modern coffee in a characterful historic setting, and many cafes open early serving traditional Scottish breakfasts.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by The ShopKeepers (@the_shopkeepers)

Food markets provide a lively alternative to restaurant dining. Edinburgh Farmers’ Market transforms Castle Terrace every Saturday, while Stockbridge Market brings local producers together on Sundays. The monthly Food + Flea Market at Leith Walk showcases emerging culinary talent alongside vintage finds.

Budget-conscious travelers can enjoy authentic Scottish flavors at Oink, famous for pulled pork sandwiches, or sample traditional pies at Piemaker. Union of Genius, Edinburgh’s first soup cafe, offers warming comfort food, while The Mosque Kitchen serves excellent curry at student-friendly prices.

Smart diners take advantage of pre-theatre menus between 5-6:30pm and early bird specials. Sunday roasts remain a Scottish institution worthy of advance booking, and during August’s festival season, reservations become essential at most establishments. Your best strategy is to mix advance bookings at popular spots with spontaneous visits to local favorites, especially during quieter shoulder seasons.

Local Tip: Avoid the Bonnie and Wild food court. It’s touted as one of Britain’s best foodhalls it’s not. It is over-hyped, way over-priced for truly mediocre food and not a great selection of food either.

Edinburgh’s Essential Whisky Experiences

For an authentic Scottish whisky experience, here are the top spots:

Scotch Malt Whisky Society (Queen Street & The Vaults, Leith) – Membership club that opens to public for tastings. Expert-led sessions in historic buildings with rare single cask whiskies.

Holyrood Distillery – Edinburgh’s first single malt distillery in 100 years. Tours show modern distilling process, plus gin making. Excellent tasting room with city views.

Johnnie Walker Experience (Princes Street) – Eight-floor immersive attraction covering history, production, and tasting. Book “Journey of Flavour” tour for personalized whisky profile.

Cadenhead’s Whisky Shop (Canongate) – Scotland’s oldest independent bottler. Knowledgeable staff offer informal tastings of unusual whiskies. Great for bottles to take home.

If you are looking for that perfect cafe in Edinburgh, look no further than this article on the Best Cafes in Edinburgh. You can drink coffee and people-watch to your heart’s content.

Local tip: Skip touristy Royal Mile tastings. Visit traditional pubs like The Bow Bar or Kay’s Bar for authentic whisky experience with locals. Staff are usually happy to guide your choices.

Where to stay in Edinburgh

Looking for something a little different, off the wall perhaps? You can find it in Edinburgh.

What about a Castle stay? Historic Liberton Tower, built-in 1453, with its breathtaking panoramic views of Edinburgh, is situated just 2.5 miles from the city centre. The Tower has been painstakingly restored to a high modern standard whilst still maintaining the historic, rustic feel of a 15th-century castle. It comprises three floors and a cellar.

A first for Scotland, The Four Sisters Boatel is a luxury, four-star, self-catering, canal barge, accommodation located in the very heart of Edinburgh city centre and has been awarded 4 stars by the Scottish Tourist Board. 

The Witchery by the Castle offers a range of opulent suites in Edinburgh, each one unique with its own special features. Lavishly furnished suites display gothic touches, with large oak beds and 4-posters, velvet-lined walls and flamboyant red and gold decor indicative of the style. There are separate seating areas and large bathrooms with free-standing silver baths.

I booked a reservation at The Witchery Restaurant and was sadly very disappointed. We found the staff to be incredibly pretentious and essentially the place was over-priced and it undelivered. The food was okay but nothing special at all given the prices and the servings were tiny. My Seafood Bisque was very nice but cost £34, my tiny little seafood pie with 2 chewy pieces of lobster was £40, my husbands Halibut was £39 absolutely ridiculous prices for what you get as you can see from the photos above.

Look no further for a great budget option the Kick-Ass Greyfriars is an 18+ hostel in Edinburgh that provides adults-only accommodation with a bar, a shared lounge and a terrace. With free WiFi, this 4-star hostel offers a tour desk. The accommodation features evening entertainment and a 24-hour front desk.

There’s also the Kick-Ass Grassmarket which is similar to Greyfriars.

Enjoy your visit to Edinburgh

Edinburgh is perfect for travelers looking for a low-key, historic, culture-filled city. Whether you come to Edinburgh to visit the museums, practice golf, or hike up ancient volcanoes, you will be sure to enjoy yourself. Edinburgh was one of those cities that made me obsessed with travelling.

Edinburgh is a city with a rich history and culture that offers visitors a wide range of attractions to explore. From the iconic Edinburgh Castle to the charming Royal Botanic Garden, there is something for everyone in this vibrant Scottish capital. Whether you’re interested in art, and history, or simply enjoying the stunning natural scenery, Edinburgh has it all. So if you’re planning a trip to Scotland anytime soon, be sure not to miss out on these top attractions and experience everything this beautiful city has to offer!

While Edinburgh makes a great stop for a weekend if you want to travel around Scotland for a real chance to see the country you need at least a week.  Marty and Michelle from That Texas Couple have written a great Scotland 7 day itinerary and it includes staying in some fabulous castles.

Have you been to Edinburgh? Let us know in the comments below. I’d love to hear from you.

Explore more of the region with guides to England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, or the full United Kingdom Travel Guide.