Edinburgh is undoubtedly one of the best weekend getaways in the UK, and a 3-day Edinburgh itinerary gives you an amazing perspective on this incredible capital city.
It was my first-ever solo adventure, and with just three days in Edinburgh, I could get a taste of everything that makes this city so special—its medieval charm, dramatic landscapes, and buzzing cultural scene.
This 3-day Edinburgh itinerary is created entirely from my personal experience—the places I loved, the unexpected surprises, and the moments that made my trip truly unforgettable.
Day 1 of Edinburgh Itinerary: The Old Town
Royal Mile
The Royal Mile is a sequence of streets that make up the main road of the Old Town of Edinburgh, running between Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace. The Royal Mile is the busiest tourist street in the Old Town, with many attractions.
There were old stone buildings, small souvenir shops, and cafés where I could take a break and just enjoy the surroundings. It was lively, with street performers and visitors strolling around, but at the same time, it didn’t feel overwhelming.
Milkman Cafe
After strolling through the Royal Mile, take a well-deserved break at Milkman Café, a charming little spot tucked away in the heart of Edinburgh.
As soon as I stepped inside, I loved the warm and inviting atmosphere. The café has exposed brick walls, large windows, and a minimalist design, making it a great spot to sit back and enjoy a slow morning.
The Milkman is known for its specialty coffee, so I ordered a flat white, which was smooth and well-balanced. For breakfast, they offer a selection of pastries and cakes, so I went with a fresh croissant and a slice of their banana bread—both delicious!
Edinburgh Castle
At the top of the Royal Mile stands Edinburgh Castle, one of Scotland’s most famous landmarks. It’s hard to miss—perched on an ancient volcanic rock, it overlooks the city and offers some of the best views in Edinburgh.
I arrived early to avoid the crowds and was glad I did. The entrance leads up to a large open area, where you can take in the impressive stone walls and get a full view of the city below. Once inside, there’s a lot to see, from old military buildings to museums that showcase Scotland’s past.
Here is a quick link for the tours to visit Edinburgh Castle.
Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
Are you looking to have fun in your Edinburgh itinerary? Then, make sure you won’t miss the opportunity to visit Camera Obscura & World of Illusions.
The building has five floors filled with optical illusions, interactive exhibits, and mind-bending visual tricks. It’s the kind of place where you can take funny photos, play around with light and mirrors, and see Edinburgh in a completely different way.
You can also enjoy guided demonstrations of the Camera Obscura, but it is weather-dependent as it works in daylight. To book your tickets click here.
Victoria Street
Victoria Street is known for its colourful shopfronts and unique architecture, making it a favourite spot for your photos and postcards. I was fascinated by the similarities this street has with Diagon Alley from the Harry Potter series.
This street is pedestrian-friendly, which makes it easy to explore many independent shops, restaurants, and bars that line the street. Even though I wasn’t planning to buy anything, it was fun to look around and soak in the atmosphere.
For photographers, Victoria Street is one of the most appealing locations in Edinburgh, and it’s not hard to see why, with its colourful buildings and magnificent architecture.
Ghost Tour
Edinburgh is known for its rich history and haunted sites and without a doubt is a popular destination for ghost tours.
Taking a ghost tour will be an unbelievable experience for you and will give you a different perspective of the city.
You can discover the chambers beneath Edinburgh Street at the Edinburgh Vaults and hear true tales of murder and witchcraft on a spooky ghost tour of Old Town.
I booked my tickets at the GetYourGuide website, and it was an incredible experience.
Day 2 of Edinburgh Itinerary: Cultural Exploration
Palace of Holyroodhouse
The Palace of Holyroodhouse is the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. The palace is much quieter and less fortress-like than Edinburgh Castle. Instead, it has a more elegant and refined feel, with beautiful architecture, grand rooms, and lush gardens.
Just outside the palace, the remains of Holyrood Abbey are a peaceful and beautiful sight. The abbey dates back to the 12th century, and even though only parts of it still stand, it has a quiet charm.
Arthur’s Seat
Arthur’s Seat is an ancient volcano and the main peak of the group of hills in Edinburgh. It is the highest point of this extinct volcano and is 251 meters above sea level, offering you fantastic views of Edinburgh.
I took one of the moderate paths, which took about 40–50 minutes to climb. The incline wasn’t too steep at first, but it gradually became rockier towards the top. I’d recommend comfortable shoes, as some sections can be a bit uneven.
Check out my detailed guide to Arthur’s Seat for more information.
Princes Street Gardens
Nestled between Princes Street and Edinburgh Castle, these gardens offer a peaceful break from the city’s busy streets.
As I walked in, I immediately noticed how well-kept the gardens were, with lush green lawns, colorful flower beds, and plenty of benches to sit and take in the views.
The gardens are also home to several attractions, such as the Scott Monument, the National War Museum, and the Edinburgh Eye, a 33-meter-high Ferris wheel.
Scott Monument
Standing tall near Princes Street, this Gothic-style monument is dedicated to Sir Walter Scott, one of Scotland’s most famous writers. Even if you’re not familiar with his works, the monument itself is a fascinating piece of architecture and hard to miss!
The best part? You can actually climb it! There are 287 narrow spiral steps leading to the top, offering one of the best panoramic views of Edinburgh. The staircases are quite tight, but the effort is worth it once you reach the top and take in the view of Princes Street, Edinburgh Castle, and even Arthur’s Seat in the distance.
You can book your ticket here.
Ross Fountain
This ornate Victorian fountain, set against the backdrop of Edinburgh Castle, is one of the most photogenic spots in the city.
It was officially opened in 1872, one year after Ross’s death, and was sculpted by artist Jean-Baptiste Jules Klagmann. The fountain is made from cast iron.
I spent some time just sitting near the fountain, enjoying the peaceful surroundings. Since I had been walking a lot, it was a great place to pause, take in the views, and people-watch. If you visit in the summer, you’ll likely see the fountain flowing, adding to the charm of the area.
National Museum of Scotland
Located in the Old Town, this museum is one of the best free attractions in the city and an absolute must-visit if you enjoy history, science, and art.
The National Museum of Scotland is a museum of Scottish history and culture which covers international antiquities, natural history, science, art, design, nature, and technology.
It’s the kind of place where you can spend hours wandering through the beautifully designed galleries, but since I had a full itinerary, I focused on a few highlights, including Dolly the Sheep, The Grand Gallery, Scottish History Exhibits, and The Roof Terrace.
Day 3 of Edinburgh Itinerary: Scenic Edinburgh
Calton Hill
After a relaxing breakfast at The Milkman Café, I made my way to Calton Hill, one of the best places to get a panoramic view of Edinburgh. Located just a short walk from Princes Street, this hill is home to several iconic monuments and offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of the city.
The walk up Calton Hill is short and easy, taking just about 5–10 minutes from the entrance. Although Calton Hill is beautiful at any time of day, it’s especially stunning at sunrise or sunset. Since I visited in the morning, the soft sunlight over the city made for a peaceful and memorable experience.
National Monument of Scotland
After soaking in the panoramic views from Calton Hill, head towards the National Monument of Scotland, one of Edinburgh’s most striking landmarks.
Inspired by the Parthenon in Athens, this monument was intended to honor Scottish soldiers who died in the Napoleonic Wars, but it was never completed due to funding issues.
It’s also a great place for photography, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Nelson Monument
A short walk from the National Monument leads you to the Nelson Monument, built to commemorate Admiral Lord Nelson’s victory at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. The tower, shaped like an upturned telescope, offers an observation platform with breathtaking views over Edinburgh and beyond.
If you’re up for climbing the 143 steps to the top, you’ll be rewarded with one of the best 360-degree views of the city. It’s a fantastic way to take in Edinburgh’s skyline before continuing your Day 3 itinerary.
Dean Village
To wrap up my three-day Edinburgh itinerary, I took a leisurely walk to Dean Village, one of the most peaceful and picturesque spots in the city. Located just a 10-minute walk from Princes Street, this hidden gem feels like a world away from the hustle and bustle of Edinburgh’s busy streets.
One of the most photographed spots in Dean Village is Well Court, a beautiful red-bricked building with turrets and arched windows. Originally built in the 1880s to house mill workers, it’s now a stunning residential complex.
Edinburgh Hotels
Edinburgh Hostels
Edinburgh Restaurants
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many days do you need to explore Edinburgh?
The ideal length of your Edinburgh itinerary depends on how much you want to see and do. However, 3 days in Edinburgh is perfect for covering the city’s top attractions, historical landmarks, green spaces, and hidden gems without feeling rushed.
What are 3 interesting facts about Edinburgh?
Here are three fascinating facts about the city that make it even more special:
- Edinburgh is built on an extinct volcano – The iconic Edinburgh Castle sits on Castle Rock, which was formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago.
- It’s home to the world’s first fire brigade – Edinburgh established the world’s first municipal fire service in 1824, led by James Braidwood.
- J.K. Rowling wrote Harry Potter here – Edinburgh played a huge role in the creation of Harry Potter. J.K. Rowling wrote parts of the series in local cafés like The Elephant House, and places like Victoria Street are believed to have inspired Diagon Alley.
Which part of Edinburgh is best to stay?
Choosing the right area for your stay can make a huge difference in your Edinburgh itinerary. Here are some of the best areas to stay:
- Old Town – Best for First-Time Visitors (Hotels: Radisson Blu, The Witchery by the Castle [luxury], Ibis South Bridge [budget]).
- New Town – Best for Shopping & Georgian Charm (Hotels: The Balmoral [luxury], Market Street Hotel [mid-range], Travelodge Princes Street [budget]).
- Stockbridge – Best for a Quiet & Local Experience (Hotels: The Raeburn [boutique hotel], Nira Caledonia [luxury]).
Conclusion
Edinburgh is a city full of history, charm, and breathtaking views. This Edinburgh itinerary ensures you experience the best of this incredible destination.
Hope you enjoyed reading this guide. If you have any more questions, please comment below and also share your experience with me if you’ve visited any of these places in Edinburgh. Have fun and be safe!
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