2 Day Itineray for Edinburgh

Published 13th April 2023

If you have two days to spend in Edinburgh, here is an itinerary that will allow you to see some of the city’s top attractions:

Day 1:

1. Start your day with a visit to Edinburgh Castle. The castle sits atop a hill and offers stunning views of the city. Allow a few hours to explore the castle and learn about its history.
2. After the castle, head down the Royal Mile, a historic street that runs from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyrood house. Along the way, you can stop at St Giles’ Cathedral and other interesting shops and attractions.
3. At the bottom of the Royal Mile, you will find the Palace of Holyrood house. This is the official residence of the Queen in Scotland and offers a glimpse into royal life. Be sure to also visit the adjacent ruins of Holyrood Abbey.
4. End your day with a visit to Arthur’s Seat, a hill that offers panoramic views of the city. You can hike to the top or take a more leisurely walk around the base.

Day 2:

1. Start your day by visiting the National Museum of Scotland, which offers a fascinating look at the country’s history, culture, and natural wonders.
2. From the museum, take a short walk to the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. The gardens cover 70 acres and offer a peaceful escape from the city.
3. In the afternoon, take a tour of the Scottish Parliament building, which is located near Holyrood house. The building is a modern architectural masterpiece and offers insight into Scotland’s political system.
4. End your day by exploring the vibrant neighbourhood of Leith, which is home to some of the city’s best restaurants and bars. Be sure to also visit the Royal Yacht Britannia, which is permanently docked in Leith and was once the Queen’s yacht.

Of course, there are many other things to see and do in Edinburgh, but this itinerary will give you a good overview of the city’s top attractions.

Dining Suggestions

Edinburgh is known for its diverse culinary scene, with options ranging from traditional Scottish cuisine to international flavours. Here are some restaurant recommendations to choose from:

1. The Witchery by the Castle: This restaurant is located just next to Edinburgh Castle and offers a luxurious dining experience in a historic setting. The menu focuses on classic Scottish dishes with a modern twist.
2. Ondine: This seafood restaurant is located in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town and offers a fresh, seasonal menu featuring locally sourced seafood. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list.
3. The Gardener’s Cottage: This restaurant is located in a charming cottage in Royal Terrace Gardens and offers a farm-to-table dining experience with a focus on seasonal ingredients. The menu changes daily and is inspired by Scottish and European cuisine.
4. Ting Thai Caravan: This casual restaurant serves up authentic Thai street food in a fun and lively atmosphere. The menu is affordable and features dishes such as curries, noodles, and stir-fries.
5. Dishoom: This Indian restaurant is located in St Andrew Square and serves up Bombay-style cuisine inspired by the Irani cafes of Mumbai. The restaurant has a vibrant atmosphere and a menu featuring a range of flavourful dishes.
6. The Scran & Scallie: This gastro-pub is located in the Stockbridge neighbourhood and offers a menu featuring classic Scottish dishes with a modern twist. The pub also has an impressive selection of craft beers and whiskies.
7. The Kitchin: This Michelin-starred restaurant is located in the Leith neighbourhood and offers a fine dining experience featuring seasonal Scottish ingredients. The menu is inspired by traditional Scottish cuisine with a modern twist.

These are just a few of the many great restaurants that Edinburgh has to offer. No matter what your taste buds are craving, you are sure to find something to satisfy them in this vibrant city.