A Perfect Scottish Adventure: Edinburgh & Glasgow

Edinburgh

• You can’t visit Edinburgh without stopping at the Edinburgh Castle. It’s not just a tourist attraction; it’s a whole experience. The castle sits on a volcanic rock, giving you spectacular views over the city. Inside, there’s so much history — did you know the Crown Jewels of Scotland are kept here? It’s impossible not to feel like you’re walking through centuries of Scottish history. And, if you time it right, you can catch the One O’Clock Gun, fired daily.

• After touring the castle, take a stroll down the Royal Mile. It’s the heart of Edinburgh — historical, bustling and full of life. This is where you’ll find St Giles' Cathedral and all sorts of little shops, cozy pubs and charming cafés. If you’re in the mood for a snack, grab a fresh scone (or two) with a cup of tea. I recommend walking slowly here because every turn has something new to discover, whether it’s a hidden alley or a local artisan shop.

• Speaking of artisan shops near the castle: check out Calzeat for some of the most beautiful handmade scarfs, wraps, throws and other accessories. The perfect gift to bring home from your trip.

• One of my absolute favorite streets in Edinburgh has to be Victoria Street. It’s colorful, quirky and the most photogenic street in the city. The curved street lined with pastel-colored buildings feels like something straight out of a storybook. And here’s the fun part: it’s also said to have inspired Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter series.

• Now, if you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle, Dean Street is your spot. It’s quiet, peaceful and one of those places where you feel like you’ve stumbled onto a secret side of the city. My favorite part? Dean Village. It’s like walking into a fairytale with its picturesque stone houses and the peaceful sound of the Water of Leith. Take a leisurely stroll here, and you’ll feel like you’re in your own little world.

• Calton Hill is a must for anyone wanting to experience Edinburgh’s beauty from above. It’s a bit of a hike up, but the panoramic views of the city and beyond are totally worth it. From the top, you’ll get to see everything from the Edinburgh Castle to the Arthur’s Seat in the distance. Come here for sunset!

• Leith is one of Edinburgh’s coolest neighborhoods, and it’s a little off the beaten path, which makes it even more special. Once an industrial port area, it’s now a trendy hub with hip cafés, stylish restaurants and art galleries. I absolutely love spending a day here, especially along Leith Walk. Start your exploration with a visit to The Royal Yacht Britannia — the former royal yacht, now a museum, which offers a fascinating glimpse into royal life. After that, grab a bite at one of the many chic cafés or waterfront pubs with views of the harbor. If you’re into food, the Shore area is a must-visit — there are plenty of seafood restaurants with delicious, fresh options. Leith has a totally different vibe from the Old Town, but it’s definitely worth a visit.

Glasgow

While Edinburgh may get all the attention, Glasgow is where the real heart of Scotland lives. Plus it's only an hour train ride away. Don't sleep on Glasgow — trust me!

• One of the coolest spots in Glasgow, in my opinion, is the University of Glasgow. Founded in 1451 (yes, you read that right), this place is rich in history but feels totally alive with its current student buzz. The campus itself is absolutely stunning — think beautiful old buildings, cobblestone paths and lots of green space. Gilmorehill Building, with its grand Victorian architecture, looks just like Hogwarts (seriously, it’s that picturesque). Even if you're not a student, you can wander around and feel the academic energy. It's also located in the West End, so you're close to all the cool spots like cafés, galleries and pubs.

• A short walk from the University of Glasgow is Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, one of the city’s top cultural spots. Seriously, you can’t visit Glasgow and not check this place out. Inside, you’ll find an impressive collection — everything from fine art and ancient artifacts to taxidermy animals and even a full-size dinosaur skeleton. It really does have something for everyone.

• The Necropolis in Glasgow is one of those spots that feels like it’s holding onto a thousand stories. Nestled on a hill right behind the Glasgow Cathedral, it’s a Victorian cemetery that’s more like an open-air museum. With towering monuments, intricate tombs and a sense of quiet history, it’s a fascinating place to explore. The real highlight, though, is the view — you get an incredible panorama of the city below, especially when you reach the top. It’s the perfect mix of eerie, beautiful and strangely peaceful, making it a standout spot in the city.

• Buchanan Street is one of Glasgow’s main shopping streets. Lined with everything from high-street fashion stores to local boutiques, it’s the place to be if you’re in the mood to shop or just take in the buzz of the city. The street is pedestrianized, so it’s great for strolling, people-watching and checking out the cool mix of modern and Victorian architecture. You’ll also find a bunch of cafés and bars tucked away along the street where you can take a break. Whether you're on a shopping spree or just soaking in the vibe, Buchanan Street is the heart of Glasgow's lively city center.

Day trip

If you're short on time but still want to experience the beauty of the Scottish Highlands, a day tour to Loch Ness is a perfect way to get a taste of the region’s stunning landscapes — be on the lookout for Nessie! From Edinburgh or Glasgow, you can easily join a guided tour that will take you through the picturesque Scottish countryside, with plenty of castles, cute villages and pubs a long the way. I would be happy to book you a tour!

Scotland is the place to be if you're into whisky (or even if you're just curious). A whisky tour is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the country’s rich traditions, history and, of course, its iconic drinks.

Scotland's pub culture is one of the country’s most cherished traditions. Pubs here are more than just places to grab a drink — they're the heart of the social scene, where locals and visitors alike gather for good conversation, hearty food and, of course, a dram of whisky.

Edinburgh

• The Scran & Scallie is one of Edinburgh’s best-loved gastropubs, and for good reason. Located in the trendy Stockbridge area, this cozy spot serves up elevated Scottish comfort food in a laid-back setting

• If you're in Leith and craving some top-notch fish and chips, look no further than The Fishmarket on the Water of Leith. This local favorite is known for serving some of the freshest fish in the city, with perfectly crispy batter and chunky chips on the side. It’s a no-fuss, classic fish and chips experience, with a view of the harbor making it even better.

Glasgow

• Ubiquitous Chip in Glasgow's West End is a true institution. This stylish yet unpretentious spot has been serving up fantastic Scottish food for decades and is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the best of local cuisine.

• Ah, The Wee Pub next door to Ubiquitous Chip in Glasgow is a perfect little spot for those looking for a cozy, no-frills place to enjoy a pint in the West End. Stop for a drink before or after dinner!

• Ashton Lane in Glasgow is a vibrant, picturesque little street that’s buzzing with energy, especially in the evenings. Tucked away behind the Ubiquitous Chip, it’s a cobbled alley that’s become one of the city’s most iconic nightlife spots. With its fairy lights, lively atmosphere and mix of cool bars, quirky restaurants and hidden gems, Ashton Lane offers a unique slice of Glasgow’s charm.