Edinburgh is such an enchanting place! It’s the beautiful capital city of Scotland, blessed with picturesque hills, cobblestone streets, a towering castle, fascinating historical landmarks, and stunning architecture.
The famous Edinburgh castle is just enchanting, sitting atop a volcanic plug and boasting a rich history. Oh, and you absolutely have to check out Calton Hill for breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
It’s no wonder that Edinburgh is one of the most popular destinations in the UK. It even sparked J.K. Rowling’s imagination to write some of the Harry Potter series while she was living in Edinburgh!
With so much fascinating history and unique places to explore, I really think you should consider visiting Edinburgh for a weekend. It’s truly a special place!
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Know Before you Go:
– The currency in Scotland is the pound.
– Edinburgh does not have the same outlets as the US – so pack your Universal Power Adapter.
– Be sure to bring some comfy walking shoes for all the sightseeing you’ll be doing!
– The weather in Scotland can be unpredictable, so it’s always a good idea to bring a raincoat or an umbrella. You can always experience beautiful sunny weather, but it’s best to be prepared for rain.
Best Time to Go:
If you’re searching for warm weather with less rain and longer days, the summer months are perfect.
I personally enjoyed the cozy autumn vibes in Edinburgh. When my family and I visited in October, it was chilly with some rainy days. But if you bring a jacket and an umbrella, you can fully enjoy the crisp days and golden leaves!
Where to Stay:
Central Edinburgh is small and easy to get around, so you’ll be fine staying in New Town or Old Town. We stayed in The Old Town, the historic heart of the city and the main area for tourist attractions. There is a lot to see and do, so I’d recommend staying there for first time visitors.
How to Get Around:
Edinburgh is a very walkable city. If you’re planning to visit all the places listed below, you can easily walk to them. Edinburgh is pretty hilly though, so you could also consider taking public transportation or Uber if needed.
here are some FUN suggestions for your WEEKEND trip to Edinburgh!
Top Things to do in Edinburgh
1. Explore Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle is one of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks. It was built on a volcanic plug that was formed by an exploding volcano in the middle of Edinburgh and can be seen from just about any direction in Edinburgh. You will have no trouble finding it!
Edinburgh Castle has been a military fortress and a residence for many kings and queens for centuries including King James IV, Mary Queen of Scots, and her son King James VI & I. Although some parts of the castle are still run by the army today, it is primarily a tourist attraction with military museums.
Plan to spend at least 2-3 hours exploring the castle at your own pace or with the guidance of a tour.
2. Stroll through The Royal Mile
The Royal Mile is Edinburgh’s most famous street, running from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyrood. Along this route, you’ll find a variety of shops, museums, restaurants, pubs, and historical landmarks. As you stroll down the Royal Mile, you’ll feel the Scottish charm here with the sound of bagpipes filling the air!
3. Go Shopping on Victoria Street
Victoria Street is one of prettiest streets in Edinburgh, along with the Royal Mile. It is renowned for its colorful shop doors and winding street.
This street is rumored to have inspired the fictional Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter movies. Potterheads should visit the Museum Context shop on Victoria Street to find mystical souvenirs!
4. Catch a Sunset on Calton Hill
Calton Hill is a volcanic hill that is home to a few Greek-style monuments worth exploring. It’s a popular spot for panoramic views of the city.
It’s a short hike that takes 5-15 minutes, and you’ll be treated to fantastic city views at the top!
5. Go Underground at The Real Mary King’s Close
The Real Mary King’s Close is a well-known historical landmark on the Royal Mile and is one of the best-preserved in the city. Closes, or alleyways, like Mary King’s was once crowded with people, rodents, and then the plague. The tour was a bit eerie as a guide dressed as a former resident walked us through the dark and cramped spaces and showed us what life would have been like during the time of the plague, but it was also very informative. Although the tour focuses primarily on the history of Edinburgh, it also includes a ghost story!
The tour takes place indoors, making it a great option if you’re looking for something to do on a rainy day in Edinburgh.
6. Take a Harry Potter Walking tour
My family and I booked the Original Harry Potter Locations Tour, a fun 2-hour journey that led us to the grave of Tom Riddle in Greyfriars Kirkyard, J.K. Rowling’s golden handprints set in stone in front of Edinburgh City Chambers, and more.
If you’re a Harry Potter fan, you will have an amazing time walking around the city that inspired J.K. Rowling’s famous Harry Potter books.
7. Walk around the Princes Street Gardens
Princes Street Gardens is a popular park in Edinburgh. When you visit, you’ll love the fantastic view of Edinburgh Castle and it’s the perfect place to take some lovely photos. It’s such a great spot to peacefully wander around, enjoy the beautiful gardens, the charming Ross Fountain, and a few fascinating monuments.
8. See the Scott Monument
Located in Princes Street Gardens, you will find one of the largest monuments in the world dedicated to a writer! Scott Monument is a huge Gothic structure dedicated to Scottish author Sir Walter Scott.
9. Visit Holyrood Palace
Holyrood Palace might not be as famous as Edinburgh Castle, but it’s definitely worth a visit! It’s the King’s official residence when he’s in Scotland. Although open to visitors, it’s still a working palace and is home to King Charles III (King of Scots) when he is in Scotland.
I highly recommend taking the free audio tour to learn about the history and architecture. And don’t forget to explore the beautiful gardens, which are included in the admission fee.
10. Hike up Arthur’s Seat
For a bit of exercise, take a walk up Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano that erupted millions of years ago. The hike will take you approximately 1 1/2 hours to complete, and you will be rewarded with some of the best views of Edinburgh.
11. Visit Greyfriars Kirkyard
Sure, it’s a graveyard – but Greyfriars Kirkyard is a popular tourist destination in Edinburgh. There is a dog statue that pays tribute to Bobby, a faithful terrier who laid at his owner’s grave for 14 years!
Check out the iron caged graves known as mortsafes, that protected bodies from being dug out and sold to medical schools for dissection. Bodysnatching was a huge problem in Edinburgh in the early 19th century! Wealthier families would built the mortsafes to protect the graves of their relatives.
Some people believe that some of the tombs in this graveyard inspired the names of certain Harry Potter characters, although this hasn’t been confirmed by J.K. Rowlings. The gravestones of Robert Potter, Elizabeth Moodie, Sirius Black, and Tom Ridell can be found there.
Where to Eat & Drink
THE MILKMAN – good coffee and pastry selection
THE EDINBURGH LARDER – great place for breakfast, but this place is small so try to make a reservation, if not, be prepared to wait in line, but it’ll be worth it!
GRASSMARKET MARKET – this fantastic outdoor market, filled with food vendors, is held Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
CIVERINOS- easy Italian eats
THE MITRE – nice pub in the city center
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