There are some cities that I should have visited – because there were many opportunities and reasons to – but I just haven’t. Yet.
I can now cross Edinburgh off that list. Also I can cross Scotland off my “countries to visit” list, which is an embarrassing thing to admit after living in the UK for so long.
We ended up visiting Edinburgh as a friend was getting married there. Despite frighteningly cold temperatures, we spent a few days out and about exploring the city that is a wonderful mix of fairy tale church steeples and castle-like turrets not to the mention the regal rows of beautiful Georgian houses in new town.
Scottish Breakfast
Wake up and start your day as you mean to go on with a hearty Scottish breakfast.
A close relative of the famous grease covered English breakfast, a Scottish breakfast will have bacon, sausage and fried mushrooms, bread and tomatos.
However, you’ll likely also have a portion of haggis and a potato scone in the mix too. Wash it down with a strong cup of tea and you’ll be ready to face what’s up next…
Walk up to Arthur’s Seat
Promising views for miles across the city and out to the Firth of Forth, the impressively wide estuary where the River Firth meets the North Sea, the walk up to Arthur’s Seat is a must-do for all visitors. This is one of the main attractions in Scotland and an essential place to visit on any Edinburgh itinerary.
Climb up the rocky and open edge of the hillside to gaze down at the bottom of the Royal Mile and Scottish Parliament buildings. Take regular breathers to admire the view of Edinburgh Castle and if you fancy challenging your partner to a race to the top you’ll most likely be overtaken by one of the runners who regularly and impressively speed up this route.
We were told that the best views from Arthur’s Seat can be enjoyed at sunrise, but we weren’t romantic or eager enough to set our alarms!
Afternoon tea at the Balmoral Hotel
The Balmoral Hotel is Edinburgh’s go-to hotel for luxury and quintessential charm in a central location on the cusp of both New Town and the Royal Mile.
While you may not be able to afford staying in one of their luxurious rooms (we couldn’t!) you should treat yourself to the more affordable but just as special experience that is having afternoon tea in the hotel’s tea rooms.
With the full trimmings on offer – including champagne – soak up the history of this hotel while also enjoying a little luxury.
Afternoon – Witness the weird and wonderful at Camera Obscura
Arguably Edinburgh’s most famous museum, Camera Obscura offers visitors the opportunity to see the city and themselves in a number of peculiarly different ways thanks to the wide range of interactive illusions and optical trickery. Don’t leave without heading up to the rooftop to enjoy the views of nearby Edinburgh Castle and the city stretching away.
Dinner for two in Stockbridge
Before the sun goes down take a walk to and through the Georgian terraces of New Town. These houses have housed some of Edinbrugh’s most famous authors including Robert Louis Stevenson (look for the blue plaque on Heriot Row) and Alexander McCall Smith.
But don’t walk without a destination, instead head to award-winning The Stockbridge Restaurant in Stockbridge (funnily enough) where you can enjoy expertly crafted meals made from local produce, served in a luxurious but comfortable setting.
It goes without saying that your meal should end with a sip or two of whisky, so ask the waiter for a local whisky house recommendation on their menu.
Nightlife
Edinburgh is famous for its nightlife, and there are so many bars, pubs, and nightclubs to choose from.
Top places to consider which are all located centrally include: Sneaky Pete’s, Cabaret Voltaire, The Bongo Club, La Belle Angele, Liquid Room, The Voodoo Rooms, Frankenstein, The Three Sisters, Ensign Ewart, OX184, Beer & Skittles and Tigerlily.
Where you go really depends on the type of night you are looking for and what type of music you are into do.
Hopefully my itinerary has given you some ideas for what to do in Edinburgh on a quick trip. If you need more ideas view my Edinburgh travel guide.
