Edinburgh is a city that has something for everyone. If you’re looking for a short trip that is packed with activities, look no further! In this blog post, we will outline an itinerary for 2 days in Edinburgh. This includes tips on where to stay and eat, as well as what to do during your time in the city. Whether you’re a history buff or want to get to know all the highlights in the medieval old town, Edinburgh is the place to travel to for you!
We visited Edinburgh as part of a road trip through Scotland but Edinburgh can also be visited as a city trip. Enjoy reading.
Why do you need 2 days for a city trip to Edinburgh?
One day is simply not enough to explore all the important sights. The city center of Edinburgh is relatively small, but there are many historical buildings and museums to see. With 2 days you can take your time to wander around the city, explore the highlights and get a better feel for it. Furthermore, if you have 3 days, this also allows for a perfect opportunity to do a day trip from Edinburgh, to explore the stunning Scottish countryside.
Things to do in Edinburgh in 2 days?
Edinburgh is a city where you can see many buildings from the Middle Ages. This Edinburgh itinerary is designed so that you have different experiences every part of the day. The activities are divided over the days so that travel time is minimized.
Tip: you can see a map of all the activities, places to stay, restaurants, and metro stations below. We have also made a separate map for each day, which will make it easier for you to orient yourself. Click on the top right corner of the map to enlarge it. If you click on the star symbol next to the title, you can save this map in your Google Maps account. In the folder, you can show or hide different categories. You can then use this map to navigate when you are in Edinburgh.
2 Days in Edinburgh itinerary | day 1
On the first day, you will discover the Old Town of Edinburgh and visit Calton Hill. At the end of this day, go for a ghost tour in Edinburgh and experience its dark past as you hear many stories. After breakfast, you can start exploring Edinburgh Castle. We recommended you start around 09:30 am.
When breakfast is not included at the accommodation where you stay you can have breakfast at Bite Me or Scotts Kitchen. Bite Me is a great place to order a sandwich and Scotts Kitchen offers traditional Scottish breakfast with veggie options. Bite Me costs on average between £8 ($9.70) and Scotts Kitchen £12 ($14.50).
Edinburgh Castle
It is situated on the hill of Castle Rock and dominates the skyline of Edinburgh. The castle is one of the most visited sites in Scotland and it’s well worth visiting. Edinburgh Castle has a long and turbulent history. It has been in use since the Iron Age, and it was at the center of many of Scotland’s most important political events. It is home to some of the oldest buildings in Edinburgh, including St Margaret’s Chapel (the oldest building in Edinburgh), as well as an impressive war museum and armory. Visitors can explore these galleries, which include artifacts from all periods of Scottish history. The castle also offers stunning views over Edinburgh city, making it a great place to visit on your 2 days in Edinburgh trip!
It is not possible to buy tickets at the entrance you need to do this via Edinburgh Castle official site. A regular ticket is £18 ($21.80) per person. If you prefer to follow a tour of Edinburgh Castle this is also possible.
Victoria Street
Victoria Street is another great destination to visit on 2 days in Edinburgh. This cobbled street runs between the Royal Mile and Grassmarket, and it is filled with vibrant independent shops, cafes, and bars. It is a great place to explore Edinburgh’s culture and history, as many of the buildings here date back to the 18th century. Victoria Street also has some interesting historical sights; there are several monuments dedicated to famous Scotsmen, including Sir Walter Scott and Robert Burns. You can also find St John’s Church at the top of Victoria Street; this is one of the oldest churches in Edinburgh and it offers stunning views over the city.
Grassmarket
The Grassmarket is a vibrant market square at the foot of Edinburgh Castle. It was once the site of public hangings, but today it’s a bustling hub of activity. During 2 days in Edinburgh trip, you can find many pubs, bars, and restaurants around the square, as well as small independent shops selling everything from traditional Scottish crafts to modern fashion items. Cold Town House is undoubtedly our favorite building to explore at the Grassmarket, due to its ornate architecture and design. The many restaurants are good to have a drink like The Last Drop but to order some food there are way better places to go.
On Saturdays, there is also a market where you can buy fresh produce and handmade goods. Visiting this area is a great way to experience Edinburgh’s lively atmosphere.
Where to stay in Edinburgh
Option 1 our personal favorite: Point A Hotel Edinburgh Haymarket
Point A Hotel Edinburgh Haymarket is located in the West End, the hotel is a super location from which to explore Edinburgh. It offers comfortable rooms at good prices. The breakfast is very generous and delicious which is included in the price. Rooms are neat, clean, and equipped with all basic amenities. The value for money is excellent for this hotel.
Check actual prices and availability for Point A Hotel Edinburgh Haymarket here.
Option 2 great location & facilities: Yotel Edinburgh
YOTEL Edinburgh is a great place to stay in New Town. Rooms are modern, functional, and affordable. The hotel has 24-hour reception & check-in service and offers a free shuttle service from the nearby airport. YOTEL Edinburgh is a great choice for those looking for an affordable and stylish place to stay in Edinburgh.
Check actual prices and availability for Yotel Edinburgh here.
Lunch at Pirlous
Pirlous is a great place to have lunch when you are in Edinburgh. They specialize in modern Scottish cuisine, with seasonal ingredients and an emphasis on local produce. The menu changes regularly but it usually is a mix of Scottish and Arabic dishes. We recommended ordering the soup of the day with a sandwich. The Persian chicken and Lebanese wrap are great sandwiches to try. On average a dish including a coffee cost between £9-11 ($10.90-13.30) per person.
Pirlous is located at the Grassmarket but it is not as crowded as the other restaurants because it is on the other side of the street.
Harry Potter in Edinburgh
When you going to travel to Edinburgh you defiantly will see some things about Harry Potter. If you are a fan then following a Harry Potter tour is recommended to do so. We recommend this tour because you explore some iconic sites and find out more about J.K. Rowling’s beloved series while discovering all that Scotland’s capital city has to offer.
Besides the tour itself, you can also visit some shops. We enjoyed visiting Museum Context which is a retailer of Harry Potter merchandise. It has everything from clothes and mugs to figurines, books, and art prints. There are also collectibles available such as exclusive editions of books or hand-painted figures and props from the films.
If you are planning to do a road trip through Scotland and like to see scenes of Harry Potter the Jacobite Steam Train, which runs between Fort William and Mallaig is awesome to see. Check out our article on how to plan this activity.
Did you know that the Elephant House cafe in Edinburgh was one of J.K. Rowling’s favorite inspirations when writing Harry Potter? Unfortunately, due to a fire, this celebrated spot is now closed.
Royal Mile
The Royal Mile is a part of the Old Town of Edinburgh and its history dates back to the Middle Ages. The Royal Mile is an important landmark of Scottish culture, with numerous attractions along its path. These include St Giles’ Cathedral, Parliament House (where many royal decrees were made), John Knox’s House (an important figure in Scottish Reformation), and the Palace of Holyroodhouse (the official residence of the British monarchy in Scotland).
The Royal Mile is also home to some of Edinburgh’s best pubs, shops, and restaurants. It’s worth exploring the alleyways off the main street here too; they often reveal interesting stories from the city’s past. Visiting the Royal Mile is a great way to experience Scottish culture at its best.
We advise you to walk from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse so that you see all of the highlights on the Royal Mile.
St Giles’ Cathedral
The St Giles’ Cathedral is a beautiful Gothic cathedral located in the center of Edinburgh. It is one of the oldest buildings in Edinburgh and was founded in 1124. The cathedral has been renovated many times over the centuries, but it still retains its original architecture. Inside, you can find some stunning stained glass windows and altars, as well as a large pipe organ and a number of paintings depicting religious scenes. The St Giles’ Cathedral also plays an important role in the cultural life of Scotland; it hosts regular concerts and special events throughout the year, such as Christmas carol services. Visiting this cathedral is a great way to explore Edinburgh’s rich history and culture.
You can visit St Giles’ Cathedral daily from 10 am – 6 pm and is free to visit.
Greyfriars Kirkyard
Greyfriars Kirkyard is a historic graveyard located in the city center of Edinburgh. It has been around since the 16th century and is home to some of Scotland’s most famous historical figures. The cemetery itself is well-preserved and still retains its original architecture. Inside you can find stunning stained glass windows and altars, as well as a large pipe organ and various religious paintings.
Interestingly, when you make your way to the graveyard’s main entrance, a statue of Bobby the Dog greets you. Greyfriars Kirkyard is famous for being the final resting place of Bobby; an Airedale terrier owned by John Gray who faithfully stayed by his owner’s grave for 14 years until his death. There is a life-size bronze statue of the dog at the graveyard honoring his loyalty and commitment.
Tip: J.K. Rowling drew her inspiration for Godric’s Hollow from the legendary Greyfriars Kirkyard. Here you can find different statues with names that are used in the books.
Calton Hill
Calton Hill is one of the most iconic landmarks in Edinburgh and it offers some of the best views in the city. Located just east of the Royal Mile, Calton Hill stands out as a prominent feature with its distinctive neoclassical architecture. From this hilltop viewpoint, you can see stunning panoramic views over Edinburgh Castle, Arthur’s Seat, and beyond. We thought it was the best view of the city because it is close to 10 minute’s walk.
Calton Hill is also home to many monuments such as Nelson’s Monument, Dugald Stewart Monument, and more. These monuments are dedicated to famous Scotsmen and often have intricate carvings which make them worth visiting alone. The National Monument is also located here along with St John’s Church at the top of Victoria Street; this is one of the oldest churches in Edinburgh.
Tip: use the map to help you find your way to Calton Hill. Some people on our walking tour had trouble finding it because there are so many streets.
Dinner at Makars Mash Bar Edinburgh
Makars Mash Bar Edinburgh is a popular restaurant located in the heart of Edinburgh. The restaurant serves classic British dishes, as well as some Scottish delicacies such as haggis and whisky-marinated steak. The atmosphere here is warm and inviting, with friendly staff and a cozy ambiance. The average cost per person at Makars Mash Bar Edinburgh is around £20–30 ($24-36) depending on what you order. There is something for everyone – from light snacks to hearty mains, plus an extensive list of beers and wines to choose from.
We recommend ordering the grilled chicken and as dessert the sticky toffee pudding or the brownie.
Tip: due to its popularity, Makars Mash Bar gets quite busy during dinner time so we recommend making a reservation ahead of time or walking by during the day to make a reservation.
Nighttime Ghost Tour
Edinburgh is a city full of dark and mysterious history, so it’s no surprise that the Nighttime Ghost Tour is one of its most popular attractions. Located in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile, this nighttime tour takes you on an adventure through some of Scotland’s spookiest sights. You will be guided by your hosts as they take you to explore the hidden depths of Edinburgh’s underground tunnels and chambers.
Along the way, they will tell tales of torture, hauntings, and other chilling stories from Edinburgh’s past. The Nighttime Ghost Tour also includes stops at various locations including The Vaults (an old storage area beneath the city), a stone circle vault (which was once used as a prison), and a torture exhibition (where you can find a variety of medieval instruments).
Tip: Book a spot for the Nighttime Ghost Tour if you are brave enough :).
Do you want to book a nice tour?
Check the widget below for the best tours in Edinburgh
2 Days in Edinburgh itinerary | day 2
On the second day, you will follow a walking tour of Edinburgh with a guide. You will visit the National Museum of Scotland, the old village Dean, and many more places.
When breakfast is not included at the accommodation where you stay you can have breakfast at Bite Me, Scotts Kitchen, or Luscious. Bite Me is a great place to order a sandwich, Scotts Kitchen offers traditional Scottish breakfast with veggie options and at Luscious you can order the traditional English breakfast with sausage and beans. Bite Me costs on average between £8 ($9.70), Scotts Kitchen £12 ($14.50), and Luscious £10 ($12.10).
Walking tour of Edinburgh
Exploring the Old Town on foot is an enjoyable activity, especially if you follow a walking tour and get to uncover all its details. During a walking tour, you will learn many interesting stories about what used to happen in old days. You will see the narrow and winding streets, where you can find an abundance of historical sites such as Edinburgh Castle, St Giles’ Cathedral, St Andrew’s Square, and more. The walking tour also takes you through some of the city’s hidden gems like the Royal Botanic Garden – one of the world’s leading gardens – and the alleys of Auld Reekie.
The walking tour of Old Town is the ideal opportunity to learn about its fascinating history. Explore prices and availability for the walking tour so you don’t miss out.
National Museum of Scotland
The National Museum of Scotland is one of the best attractions in Edinburgh for 2 days. Located near the Old Town, it showcases a vast collection of artifacts and objects from Scotland’s history, from the Stone Age to modern times. You can find everything from archeological relics to contemporary art pieces here. There’s also a science hall full of interactive displays where you can learn all about natural history and scientific discoveries.
For us, it was one of the best museums we visited in Europe. We personally loved the area with all the animals that can be seen.
On top of that, visitors can take part in workshops and educational activities at the museum, as well as explore its two rooftop terraces with stunning views over Edinburgh’s skyline. The museum is open daily from 10 am-6 pm and admission is free, so don’t miss out on this unique experience.
Tip: plan +/- 3 hours for the museum. Check the weather in advance. If the 2nd day has good weather and the 1st day has bad weather, then switch the museum visit to the afternoon program of the first day.
Tip: all museums are free to visit so if you like to visit museums you can also visit the National Historical Museum, Scottish National Gallery, Scottish National War Memorial, and John Knox House.
Lunch Scotts Kitchen
For lunch, you can have a great meal at Scotts Kitchen. Located in the heart of the city, this place serves up delicious traditional Scottish dishes such as haggis, neeps, and tatties. The prices are reasonable too with most main courses costing around £15 ($18.15) per person including a drink.
Tip: if Scotts Kitchen is too crowded you can have lunch at Pirlous, we ourselves visited this place twice because we loved it so much.
Dean Village
Many visitors of Edinburgh skip visiting Dean Village but it is just a few minutes away from the city center which is one of Edinburgh’s oldest neighborhoods. Dating back to the 12th century, this area was originally used as a grain mill before becoming an affluent neighborhood in the 19th century. Nowadays, Dean Village is known for its romantic cobbled streets and buildings with beautiful gardens and stunning views over the Water of Leith river.
Often people recommend following a tour to Dean Village, we did it ourselves and found it perfect. Our tip is very simple, just walk through the streets and look around. Don’t forget to make a stop at St Bernard’s Well – an 18th-century neo-classical structure where visitors can enjoy beautiful views over the river.
Tip: you need +/- 2 hours to explore Dean Village.
Princes Street Gardens
Princes Street Gardens is the ideal place to visit for 2 days in Edinburgh. Located between Edinburgh Castle and the Old Town, this beautiful park is full of lush green spaces, grand monuments, and stunning views. The gardens were established in 1820 as part of a larger urban development project and since then they have become one of the most popular parks in Edinburgh.
When visiting Princes Street Gardens you can wander through its multiple paths, enjoy its beautiful flowers or explore its many sculptures. Visitors can also admire the National Monument – Scotland’s tribute to those who died during Napoleonic Wars – and have a picnic at any of its designated spots. Furthermore, make sure to take some time off to appreciate all the views over the city skyline that Princes Street Gardens has to offer.
Tip: buy some snacks from a local shop on the Royal Mile and sit on one of the benches to enjoy your free time.
Scotch Whisky Experience Tour/ Arthur’s Seat / Palace of Holyroodhouse
The last thing you can do is choose to go to the Scotch Whisky Experience Tour, Arthur’s Seat, or the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Maybe when you have more time you can do more than one thing.
Scotch Whisky Experience Tour: this 1-hour tour will take you through Scotland’s famous whisky production and its many distilleries. You will learn all about the history of Scotch Whisky and taste different whiskies. If you are not a whisky enthusiast, this tour can be a great introduction to the world of whisky and learn more about the culture of Scotland.
Tip: it is recommended to buy tickets for Scotch Whisky Experience Tour in advance to make sure that you have a spot.
Arthur’s Seat: located in the heart of Holyrood Park, Arthur’s Seat is an ancient volcanic hill with spectacular views over Edinburgh. The hike to Arthur’s Seat can take 2-3 hours, depending on the route you follow, and it is highly recommended if you want to appreciate Edinburgh’s beauty from high above.
The Palace of Holyroodhouse is the official residence of the British monarchy in Scotland, and it has been used by monarchs since 1671. Visitors can explore its State Apartments – where they can view furniture pieces belonging to previous kings and queens – as well as take a tour around its beautiful gardens.
Tip: book your tickets for the Palace of Holyroodhouse 2 days in advance to make sure you get access.
Dinner at Element
At the end of 2 days in Edinburgh, you can finish your trip with a wonderful dinner at Element. This modern restaurant/pub serves locally-sourced dishes from Scotland’s best producers and chefs. Its menu includes fresh seafood, delicious meats, seasonal vegetables, and unique desserts. The average cost per person is £45 ($54.50).
Element’s best dish is its signature ‘Cullen Skink’ – a traditional Scottish soup made with haddock, potatoes, and onions – and it is definitely worth trying.
Tip: when £45 is too expensive you can also go to Burgers and Beers Grillhouse, average prices are £15 ($18.15) per person.
Day trip from Edinburgh
If you have more than 2 days in Edinburgh, it is recommended to take a day trip from the city. There are many exciting destinations that can be reached within a few hours. We recommend the following day trips from Edinburgh. You can read more information about the day trip via the link.
- Loch Ness, Glencoe & the Scottish Highlands: This is a great day trip from Edinburgh that takes you to some of Scotland’s most stunning scenery. Follow the winding road through the mountains and be surrounded by pure nature. Along the way, you will visit Loch Ness, Glencoe, and other attractions in the Scottish Highlands. This is the best day trip you can do from Edinburgh!
- Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle & Kelpies: Loch Lomond is the largest inland stretch of water in Great Britain Stirling Castle has been the site of many battles, making it an important part of the country’s history.
- West Highland Lochs & Castles: Enjoy a taste of all things Scottish on a fascinating adventure through the Highlands. Experience scenic lochs, impressive mountains, and historic castles, and explore the Lochside town of Inveraray.
- 3-Day Isle of Skye and The Highlands: When you have 3 days extra in Edinburgh you can follow this three-day guided tour of the Scottish Highlands and visit highlights, including Loch Ness and the Isle of Skye.
Where to stay in Edinburgh
Edinburgh has a wide range of accommodations, from budget hotels to luxury suites. It is best to stay in the city center so that you can explore all the attractions on foot. We recommend staying in the New Town or West End. We do not recommend staying in the Old Town because it is very crowded and prices are way higher. If you stay just outside the Old Town prices drop with 50%.
We stayed in Point A Hotel Edinburgh Haymarket and loved it. A big benefit is that the prices are reasonable but still in 15 minutes you are in the historic center.
We recommend the two accommodations below because they are a good value. For both accommodations, you should not wait too long to make a reservation because they fill up quickly. You can make a reservation easily via the link below.
Budget & Breakfast
Point A Hotel Edinburgh Haymarket
Point A Hotel Edinburgh Haymarket is located in the West End, the hotel is a super location from which to explore Edinburgh. It offers comfortable rooms at good prices. The breakfast is very generous and delicious which is included in the price. Rooms are neat, clean, and equipped with all basic amenities. The value for money is excellent for this hotel.
Great location & modern
YOTEL Edinburgh
YOTEL Edinburgh is a great place to stay in the New Town. Rooms are modern, functional, and affordable. The hotel has 24-hour reception & check-in service and offers a free shuttle service from the nearby airport. YOTEL Edinburgh is a great choice for those looking for an affordable and stylish place to stay in Edinburgh.
Where to eat in Edinburgh
Edinburgh has some excellent restaurants that serve up traditional Scottish dishes as well as international cuisine. In our Edinburgh itinerary, we recommend restaurants for each day. You can find all the tips in the overview below. You can see where these restaurants are located on the map at the beginning of the article.
| Day 1 | Day 2 | |
| Breakfast | Bite Me or Scotts Kitchen | Luscious |
| Lunch | Pirlous | Scotts Kitchen |
| Dinner | Makars Mash Bar Edinburgh | Element or Burgers and Beers Grillhouse |
Transportation in Edinburgh
The best way to get around Edinburgh is by foot or by public transport. We walked everywhere but if you want to use public transportation in Edinburgh, it is a good way to get around. The public transportation in Edinburgh consists of buses, trams, and trains. You can buy tickets at bus stops and tram stations. It is also possible to purchase a day pass (which can be bought at stations) which gives you unlimited access for 24 hours. Another option is the hop-on en hop-off busses, which are a great way to explore the city and its attractions. The cost of transportation in Edinburgh is on average £2-3 ($2.40-3.60) per journey.
How to get to Edinburgh
The most common way to get to Edinburgh is by plane. There are direct flights from major cities in Europe and North America. The nearest international airport to Edinburgh is Edinburgh Airport (EDI). From there, you can take the Airlink 100 bus direct to the city center which cost £4.50 ($5.45), or a taxi which will cost around £25 ($30). On the map, you can see where some of the bus stops are.
Alternatively, you can also arrive by train. The main railway station in Edinburgh is Waverley Station and it has regular connections from cities across the UK.
If you’re traveling through Scotland or England, you can also get there by car. The drive takes about 6-7 hours from London. There are also ferries from Newcastle to Edinburgh, which take around 6-7 hours.
If you’re planning a road trip in Scotland’s countryside and need to know how long it will take to get from the most popular places into Edinburgh, look no further! Here are your estimated distances and travel times:
- Cairngorms National Park to Edinburgh: 2 hours and 30 minutes | 200 km / 125 miles
- Inverness to Edinburgh: 3 hours | 240 km / 150 miles
- The Trossachs National Park to Edinburgh: 1 hour and 30 minutes | 100 km / 65 miles
- Fort William to Edinburgh: 3 hours and 10 minutes | 225 km / 140 miles
If you travel to Scotland by plane and you are looking for a car to rent, you can rent it through Rentalcars. We use Rentalcars when we want to travel by car to discover new destinations. They’re easy to use and book with.
Best time to visit Edinburgh
The best time to visit Edinburgh is between late April and early October. During this period, the temperatures are mild and range from 8°C (46.4°F) to 17°C (62.6°F). The busiest months in Edinburgh are July and August when the city hosts its famous festivals such as the Fringe Festival and the International Festival. During this time, prices for hotels can be higher, so it is best to book your accommodation and transportation well in advance. If you would like to visit Edinburgh on a budget, April, May, June, September, and October are good months as prices tend to be lower during these periods.
Is it safe to travel to Edinburgh, Scotland?
Yes, it is safe to travel to Edinburgh. The crime rate in Scotland is low compared to other European countries and the United Kingdom overall. It’s important to take safety precautions when traveling, as with any destination. It is also recommended that you purchase a travel insurance policy before traveling so that you are covered if anything unexpected happens. We recommend WorldNomand which offers comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, trip interruption and delays, lost or stolen baggage and personal items, and more. With WorldNomads you can purchase the policy online and extend it while traveling. It is a great way to have peace of mind knowing that you are covered in case of any emergency.
2 Days in Edinburgh FAQ
1. What is the nightlife like in Edinburgh?
The nightlife in Edinburgh is vibrant and diverse! Whether you are looking for a traditional pub experience or the latest club scene, there is something for everyone. There are also plenty of festivals taking place throughout the year, so you will never be short of live entertainment.
2. Is it possible to visit Scotland on a budget?
It is possible to visit Scotland on a budget if you plan ahead and research the best deals. You can find accommodation and flights at discounted prices if you book in advance, and there are also plenty of free activities to enjoy such as hiking in the countryside or visiting one of Edinburgh’s many museums. Additionally, you can use public transport or rent a car to get around at a lower cost than other forms of transportation.
Do you want to see more of Scotland?
We highly recommend checking out our detailed 3 week Scotland itinerary for an amazing adventure. This road trip takes you to some of the most iconic places in Scotland, including the Cairngorms National Park, Isle of Skye, NC500, and beyond. It’s a great way to explore the country and make sure you see all the must-see attractions. Plus, you will have the freedom to explore at your own pace and make detours to hidden gems that you wouldn’t have seen otherwise. With this itinerary, there’s no need to worry about planning every detail – we’ve got it all covered! Enjoy Scotland with all the adventure it has to offer!
What do you think of Edinburgh? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Disclaimer: the prices mentioned in this article may differ from the current situation. We regularly update our articles. Would you like to help us to provide to best possible insights to help other travelers leave a comment with the latest information. Thanks!
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