Curator’s statement
Edinburgh is special to me because it has a lot of history and a beautiful mix of medieval and Georgian buildings. Walking through its cobblestone streets, exploring the beautiful Edinburgh Castle on Castle Rock, and learning about its lively history, from royal traditions to literary heritage, gives you a strong sense of connection to Scotland's past. The city's dramatic landscapes, including Arthur's Seat and the Royal Mile, offer stunning views that underscore its timeless allure and enduring charm.
The Fora Difference
Book with Vidhi to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.
Killer perks
Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you
Personalized recs
Customized travel planning for your style
Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay
Unlock perks by contacting Vidhi to book your trip.
Day 1: Explore Edinburgh's historic heart
Morning: Edinburgh Castle
Start your day at Edinburgh Castle, Scotland's most iconic landmark. Explore its ancient halls, see the Crown Jewels, and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Arrive early to beat the crowds and witness the daily One o'clock Gun firing.
Lunch: The Witchery by the Castle
Indulge in a memorable lunch at The Witchery by the Castle, renowned for its historic ambiance and Scottish cuisine. Located near Edinburgh Castle, it's an ideal spot to experience local flavors.
Afternoon: The Royal Mile
Walk down the historic Royal Mile, connecting Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Explore St. Giles' Cathedral, visit the Real Mary King's Close for a glimpse into Edinburgh's past, and browse shops for souvenirs.
Evening: Calton Hill
End your day with a climb up Calton Hill for panoramic views of Edinburgh at sunset. Admire monuments like the National Monument and Nelson's Monument, offering stunning views of the city.
Insider Tips:
Purchase Edinburgh Castle tickets online in advance to skip lines.
Reserve a table at The Witchery by the Castle well ahead due to popularity.
Visit Calton Hill in the evening for beautiful sunset views with fewer crowds.
Day 2: Old Town and Holyroodhouse
Morning: Palace of Holyroodhouse
Start with a visit to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Queen's official residence in Scotland. Explore the palace and its gardens, and learn about its royal history.
Lunch: The Scotch Whisky Experience
Enjoy lunch at The Scotch Whisky Experience, where you can sample Scotland's finest whiskies and learn about their production. Book a whisky tasting tour for a deeper understanding.
Afternoon: Dynamic Earth
Visit Dynamic Earth for an interactive journey through Scotland's natural history and geology. Explore exhibitions on volcanoes, glaciers and the planet's past.
Evening: Dinner and Ghost Tour
Dine at a local restaurant in Old Town, followed by a ghost tour to discover Edinburgh's haunted history and eerie tales.
Insider Tips:
Combine a visit to Holyroodhouse with Arthur's Seat for a scenic hike.
Book The Scotch Whisky Experience tour in advance to secure your spot.
Dynamic Earth is family-friendly, with interactive exhibits suitable for all ages
Day 3: New Town and art galleries
Morning: National Museum of Scotland
Explore the National Museum of Scotland, housing exhibits on Scottish history, culture and natural sciences. Highlights include the Dolly the Sheep exhibit and the Grand Gallery.
Lunch: The Gardener's Cottage
Enjoy a farm-to-table lunch at The Gardener's Cottage, known for its seasonal menu and rustic charm in a converted cottage setting.
Afternoon: Scottish National Gallery
Visit the Scottish National Gallery, home to Scotland's national collection of fine art. Explore works by Scottish and international artists, including Titian, Rembrandt and Van Gogh.
Evening: Georgian House
Tour the Georgian House, showcasing Edinburgh's 18th-century architecture and lifestyle. Experience life in Georgian Edinburgh through its elegant rooms and historical artifacts.
Insider Tips:
The National Museum of Scotland offers free admission, but special exhibitions may require tickets.
Reserve a table at The Gardener's Cottage for a unique dining experience in a historic setting.
Combine a visit to the Scottish National Gallery with a walk through Princes Street Gardens.
Day 4: Arthur's Seat and Royal Yacht Britannia
Morning: Arthur's Seat
Hike up Arthur's Seat, an extinct volcano offering panoramic views of Edinburgh. Choose from several trails based on your hiking experience.
Lunch: The Shore
Head to The Shore in Leith for lunch, a vibrant area known for its seafood restaurants and waterside views. Try local dishes like Cullen skink or fish and chips.
Afternoon: Royal Yacht Britannia
Tour the Royal Yacht Britannia, the former royal yacht of Queen Elizabeth II. Explore the yacht's luxurious interiors, including the State Apartments and Royal Deck Tea Room.
Evening: Leith Walk
Stroll along Leith Walk, lined with shops, cafes and bars. Enjoy dinner at a seafood restaurant or sample international cuisine in this diverse neighborhood.
Insider Tips:
Wear sturdy shoes for hiking Arthur's Seat, and check weather conditions before heading out.
The Shore is best known for its seafood— make reservations for popular restaurants.
Visit the Royal Yacht Britannia early to avoid crowds, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Day 5: Day trip to Stirling Castle and Falkirk
Morning: Stirling Castle
Take a day trip to Stirling Castle, one of Scotland's grandest castles with a rich history of royal intrigue. Explore its grand halls, gardens, and learn about key moments in Scottish history.
Lunch: Falkirk Wheel
Enjoy lunch at the Falkirk Wheel, a unique rotating boat lift connecting the Forth and Clyde Canal with the Union Canal. Dine at the visitor center overlooking this engineering marvel.
Afternoon: The Kelpies
Visit The Kelpies, towering horse-head sculptures that symbolize Scotland's industrial past. Learn about their construction and enjoy a guided tour.
Evening: Return to Edinburgh
Return to Edinburgh in the evening, thinking about your day trip and eating a last dinner at one of Edinburgh's fancy restaurants.
Insider Tips:
Stirling Castle offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside— plan for photography opportunities.
The Falkirk Wheel and The Kelpies are family-friendly attractions suitable for all ages.
Check tour schedules for guided tours of Stirling Castle and The Kelpies to enhance your experience.
Travel Advisor
Vidhi Chowdhari
Get in touch with Vidhi
Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.
You can normally expect a response from Vidhi within a business day or so. You’ll also be subscribed to our travel newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).
This itinerary is part of our ongoing series on travel to Edinburgh. For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Yaroslava Andrijauskas’ itinerary, Foodie's Trip to Edinburgh, Scotland.