Experience Edinburgh's Vibrant Culture in 5 Days

Discover the historic charm of Edinburgh, where culture meets modernity.

22 April 2023

As a tourist visiting Edinburgh, you will be enchanted by the charming medieval architecture and magnificent Edinburgh Castle, perched atop a hill. Stroll along the elegant streets of the Old Town and New Town, taking in the city's history and culture. Enjoy sampling the delicious Scottish cuisine and experiencing lively pubs with friendly locals.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Edinburgh for Beginners

  • Check in at The Balmoral Hotel 4.6 , a grand Victorian landmark.
  • Stroll through The Royal Mile , the heart of the old town, and admire the medieval architecture.
  • Visit Edinburgh Castle 4.6 to learn about Scottish history and enjoy stunning views of the city.
  • Stop for lunch at The Witchery 4.4 , a gothic-style restaurant with decadent Scottish cuisine.
  • Take a ghost tour in the evening to learn about Edinburgh's dark and spooky past.
Day 2

Green Edinburgh

  • Have breakfast at The Elephant House 3.9 , where JK Rowling wrote the first Harry Potter book.
  • Walk through Princes Street Gardens 4.6 , a tranquil oasis in the middle of the city, and see the famous floral clock.
  • Visit the Royal Botanic Gardens 4.7 to see rare plants and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
  • Take a hike up Arthur's Seat 4.8 , an extinct volcano with panoramic views of Edinburgh.
  • Enjoy dinner at The Gardener's Cottage 4.2 , a farm-to-table restaurant with a communal dining experience.
Day 3

Whisky and Culture

  • Start with a hearty Scottish breakfast at Urban Angel 4.5 .
  • Head to the Scottish National Gallery 4.6 to see iconic works of art by Scottish and international artists.
  • Take a whisky tour at The Scotch Whisky Experience 4.6 and learn about the history and process of Scotland's national drink.
  • Visit the National Museum of Scotland 4.8 to gain insight into Scottish culture and heritage.
  • Head to the Whiski Rooms 4.5 for dinner and a whisky tasting session.
Day 4

Exploring Beyond the City

  • Have breakfast at Lovecrumbs 4.5 , a stylish café with artisanal cakes and pastries.
  • Take a day trip to Rosslyn Chapel 4.7 , a 15th-century chapel with intricate carvings and mysterious legends.
  • Visit the coastal village of North Berwick and take a walk to the ruins of Tantallon Castle 4.7 .
  • Enjoy fresh seafood at The Lobster Shack 4.5 , a cozy seafood restaurant in the picturesque village of Crail .
  • Return to Edinburgh and have a nightcap at the secretive Panda & Sons 4.7 bar.
Day 5

Farewell, Edinburgh

  • Have a leisurely breakfast at Hula Juice Bar 4.4 .
  • Shop for souvenirs at the quirky independent stores on Victoria Street.
  • Take a scenic walk along the Water of Leith 4.6 , a river that cuts through Edinburgh.
  • Visit the Edinburgh Dungeon to learn about Edinburgh's gruesome and hilarious history.
  • End the day with a traditional Scottish meal at The Outsider 4.3 , a restaurant with stunning views of the city skyline.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Edinburgh by plane is to fly into Edinburgh Airport, which is located approximately 8 miles from the city center, with many major airlines such as British Airways, EasyJet, and Ryanair offering direct flights from a range of cities around the world.

Car

Driving to Edinburgh is a great option for those who prefer to travel at their own pace or are traveling with a lot of luggage. You can reach Edinburgh by taking the M8 motorway, which connects the city to Glasgow and other major cities in the region.

Train

The most convenient way to travel to Edinburgh by train is to catch a train to Edinburgh Waverley station, which is located in the heart of the city center and is well connected to the rest of the UK. Trains are available from a range of cities including London, Manchester, and Birmingham.

Boat

If you're traveling from Europe, taking a ferry to Rosyth in Fife is a great option. From there, you can easily reach Edinburgh by car, bus, or train. DFDS Seaways operates a direct ferry service from Zeebrugge, Belgium to Rosyth.

Bus

The best way to get to Edinburgh by bus is to take a coach from Edinburgh Bus Station, which is located just a short walk from the city center. A variety of coach companies, including National Express and Scottish Citylink, provide direct services from various cities across the UK.

More travel plans

Weekend Wanderlust: Edinburgh in 3 Days.

Edinburgh is a city that's steeped in history, architecture, and culture. Visitors can take in the panoramic views of the city from the top of Arthur's Seat or Edinburgh Castle. You can also explore a variety of art galleries and museums, sample traditional Scottish fare, or simply stroll along the charming streets of Old Town and New Town.

Edinburgh Adventures: A 4-Day Family-Friendly Journey

A family friendly trip to Edinburgh, United Kingdom promises an exciting blend of history, culture, and outdoor activities. Explore the iconic Edinburgh Castle, stroll along the historic Royal Mile, and visit the engaging exhibits at the interactive Museum of Edinburgh. With stunning landscapes and parks like Arthur's Seat and Holyrood Park, there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures that kids and parents will enjoy.

One Day of Romance in Edinburgh

A romantic trip to Edinburgh, United Kingdom would be an enchanting experience. From exploring the city's historical landmarks such as Edinburgh Castle and Royal Mile to admiring the breathtaking views from Arthur's Seat, Edinburgh offers the perfect destination for a romantic getaway. The city's cozy pubs and lively nightlife make it an ideal choice for couples looking to indulge in delicious food and drinks while enjoying each other's company.

Experience Edinburgh's Vibrant Culture in 5 Days

As a tourist visiting Edinburgh, you will be enchanted by the charming medieval architecture and magnificent Edinburgh Castle, perched atop a hill. Stroll along the elegant streets of the Old Town and New Town, taking in the city's history and culture. Enjoy sampling the delicious Scottish cuisine and experiencing lively pubs with friendly locals.