Categories > Guides and Tips
How to Spend 3 Days in Edinburgh Without Feeling Lost
- Time Zone
- Best Time to Go
- Things to Know
- How to Get Around
- Where to Stay in Edinburgh
- Novotel Edinburgh Centre
- Ten Hill Place Hotel
- Edinburgh Castle Apartments & Suites
- Day Edinburgh Itinerary
- Day 1. Edinburgh's Historic Heart
- Morning
- Check out the Edinburgh Castle
- Walk down the Royal Mile road
- Set foot in the stunning St. Giles' Cathedral
- Afternoon
- Tour around the Holyrood Palace & Abbey
- Hike up to Arthur’s Seat
- Evening
- Grab a traditional Scottish dinner at The Auld Hundred
- Experience Edinburgh’s spooky history with a ghost tour (City Of The Dead Tours)
- Day 2. Culture, Museums, and Local Stops in Edinburgh
- Morning
- Dive into Scotland's past at the National Museum of Scotland
- Stroll along Grassmarket & Victoria Street
- Afternoon
- Discover the stunning Dean Village
- View magnificent art at the Scottish National Gallery
- Evening
- Dine in Leith at The Ship on the Shore
- Try the whisky experience at The Bow Bar
- Day 3. Hidden Gems and Day Trips in Edinburgh
- Morning
- Climb up Calton Hill for amazing views
- Grab some food at the Stockbridge Market
- Afternoon
- Wander though the Royal Botanic Garden
- Go for a day trip to Rosslyn Chapel
- Evening
- Enjoy live music at Sandy Bell’s
- Where to Eat in Edinburgh
- The Dome
- Dulse Edinburgh
- Lazeez Street Food
- Apps to Download for a Trip for Edinburgh
Planning a DIY trip gives you the freedom to do things your way—but let’s be honest, it also comes with its fair share of headaches. Just thinking about the back-and-forth of “Where should we go?” and “What should we do?” is already exhausting.
And with a city like Edinburgh, where there’s so much to see (and not nearly enough time), it can get overwhelmingly fast. If you’ve only got a few days, you’ll want to make every stop count and really get a feel for the place.
So, to help you out, here’s everything you need to know in this easy, no-stress 3-day Edinburgh itinerary.
Time Zone
UK (GMT+1)
Best Time to Go
Late spring to early summer—say, May through June—is a solid bet to visit Edinburgh. Days are long, the weather’s generally pleasant (think light jacket, not full rain gear), and the city’s in bloom.
September’s a good call if you’d rather skip the crowds and still catch a decent stretch of weather. It’s cooler but not freezing and perfect for wandering the Old Town without dodging tour groups every few steps.
Try to avoid August unless you’re there for the festivals. It’s wild and packed, and hotel prices shoot up.
Things to Know
Currency: British pound sterling (£)
(Check the current exchange rate)
Language: English (Scottish English)
Calling Code: +44
How to Get Around
- Walking – Edinburgh is compact, especially the city centre. Many places are best on foot, with cobbled streets, hidden closes, and steep hills.
- Buses – Lothian Buses run all over the city, and they’re reliable and easy to use. A single ticket is about £2.20 (exact change or contactless), or grab a day ticket if you’re hopping on and off.
- Trams – Black cabs are everywhere in the centre and can be hailed or found at taxi ranks. They’re metered, but not cheap.
- Bike and e-bike – There are short-term bike and e-bike rentals around town. Edinburgh has some bike lanes, but it’s a hilly city with a lot of traffic, so it’s better suited for confident riders.
Where to Stay in Edinburgh
Novotel Edinburgh Centre
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Address: 80 Lauriston Pl
Contact details: +44 131 656 3500
Check in: 3 PM
Check out: 12 PM
Pricing: ££
Novotel Edinburgh Centre sits at a central location in Old Town. A 10-15 minute stroll can take you to Edinburgh Castle, Grassmarket, the Meadows and the University of Edinburgh—tram stops are conveniently nearby, too.
It’s a good base if you have a packed day and want to go back to a clean, modern, and generally spacious hotel to get a good rest. Speaking of rest, they have a pool, sauna, and fitness centre if you want to wind down or squeeze in a workout.
Ten Hill Place Hotel
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Address: 10 Hill Pl
Contact details: +44 131 662 2080
Check in: 3 PM
Check out: 12 PM
Pricing: ££
Tucked away from all the hustle and bustle, Ten Hill Place Hotel is a 5-7 minute walk to the Royal Mile, the University of Edinburgh, and Waverley Station. This is a solid choice if you want something calmer between your outings.
We’re impressed with their amenities: all rooms include hypoallergenic bedding, free Wi-Fi, USB ports, a safety deposit, and even Scottish wildflower seed packets. Their compact gym, concierge, business and dry-cleaning services are also nice additions that make the stay better.
Edinburgh Castle Apartments & Suites
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Address: 28 Castle St
Contact details: +44 131 225 6964
Check in: 2 PM
Check out: 10 AM
Pricing: ££
Edinburgh Castle Apartments & Suites is another convenient and accessible accommodation. It’s within walking distance of Princess Street, George Street, Edinburgh Castle, and Princess Street Gardens—perfect for some fast-paced sightseeing or casual strolling.
A big plus is they offer spacious apartments. Units range from studios to two bedrooms, each featuring a kitchenette, and some even offer private garden access.
3-Day Edinburgh Itinerary
Day 1. Edinburgh’s Historic Heart
Morning
Check out the Edinburgh Castle
Media from edinburghcastle
Address: Castlehill
Contact details: +44 131 225 9846
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 9:30 AM – 6 PM
What better way to start your trip than by checking out Edinburgh Castle? This iconic hilltop fortress is perched on Castle Rock, giving you panoramic views over the city and is packed with history, from royal residences to military strongholds.
You’ll literally get to see the Honours of Scotland, given that it’s home to the Scottish Crown Jewels and Stone of Destiny, which played a key role in the coronation of Scottish (and now British) monarchs.
Walk down the Royal Mile road
Address: Edinburgh EH1 1QS
Contact details: N/A
Opening hours: 24/7
The Royal Mile connects Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace, which is perfect for getting to multiple places without having to go too far. This long stretch is lined with buildings, quirky closes, street performers, and centuries of stories around every corner.
You can sneak down narrow lanes like Mary King’s Close to uncover Edinburgh’s darker, secretive past through guided tours or unique shops. And the entire mile just makes for a great photoshoot location.
Set foot in the stunning St. Giles’ Cathedral
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Address: High St
Contact details: +44 131 226 0674
Opening hours:
- Monday to Friday: 10 AM – 6 PM
- Saturday: 9 AM – 5 PM
- Sunday: 1 PM – 5 PM
St. Giles’ Cathedral has a history dating back to the 12th century and a distinctive crown-shaped spire from 1495. This building combines medieval bones with Victorian flourishes and eye-catching stained glass.
The cathedral holds services daily, such as evening concerts and midday organ recitals in spring or autumn. They also host regular guided tours, rooftop visits, and candlelit concerts.
Afternoon
Tour around the Holyrood Palace & Abbey
Media from myinstascotland
Address: Canongate
Contact details: +44 303 123 7306
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 9:30 AM – 6 PM
Holyrood Palace & Abbey is the official home of the British Monarch in Scotland and sits at the foot of the Royal Mile. You’ll explore Grand State Apartments, the impressive Throne Room, and Mary, Queen of Scots’ (not the show) personal chambers.
One of our favourite areas here is the Ruins of Holyrood Abbey, a dramatic Gothic ruin that dates back around 1128. And get your camera ready since you’ll spot vaulted arches and the Royal Vaults and can sometimes join brief warden-led talks in the Abbey.
Hike up to Arthur’s Seat
Media from theoceanaut
Address: Edinburgh EH15 3PY, United Kingdom
Contact details: N/A
Opening hours: 24/7
Now, don’t get spooked, but Arthur’s Seat is an extinct volcano rising 251 meters above sea level, giving you one of the best views of Edinburgh—especially once you reach the summit. Some believe it’s the legendary location of Camelot.
You don’t have to be super fit since there are several routes to the top, ranging from gentle inclines to steeper climbs. The red route from Dunsapie Loch is the easiest, while the direct route from the Palace is shorter but steeper.
Evening
Grab a traditional Scottish dinner at The Auld Hundred
Media from auldhundred
Address: 100 Rose St
Contact details: +44 131 225 1809
Opening hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 12 PM – 12 AM
- Friday to Saturday: 11 AM – 1 AM
- Sunday: 11 AM – 12 AM
The Auld Hundred is a good spot to get a taste of traditional Scottish dinner. This cosy spot on Rose Street is packed with stone walls, snug seating, and a welcoming, old-world feel.
So, expect haggis, neeps and tatties, fish and chips, burgers, pies, and soups (p.s. locals rave about their whisky sauce on haggis). That said, they serve quality pints, over 100 whiskies, local Cold Tower beer, Scottish gin, vodka and cider—plus whisky flights and tasting sessions.
Experience Edinburgh’s spooky history with a ghost tour (City Of The Dead Tours)
Media from cityofthedeadtours
Address: Bobby’s Bothy, 26 Candlemaker Row
Contact details: +44 131 225 9044
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 10 AM – 10 PM
To close the night, a good ol’ ghost tour might do the job. You can catch one with City of the Dead Tours—a two-hour tour that takes you into South Bridge vaults and the Covenanters’ Prison, one of the most eerie spots in Edinburgh.
Walking in and out of graveyards and vaults, the guides will also recount chilling accounts of over 900 “attacks,” including knocks, cold touches, and even fainting among visitors.
On that note, the best way to go is by booking the Double Dead Tour in advance, which is a combo of vaults and graveyards.
Day 2. Culture, Museums, and Local Stops in Edinburgh
Morning
Dive into Scotland’s past at the National Museum of Scotland
Media from nationalmuseumsscotland
Address: Chambers St
Contact details: +44 300 123 6789
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 10 AM – 5 PM
As soon as you step into the National Museum of Scotland, you’ll be greeted by towering pillars and a four-storey “Window on the World” installation featuring over 800 diverse objects, from Pacific feast bowls to lighthouse lenses.
Aside from Scotland’s past, you can also see one of the most complete T-rex skeletons, Dolly the sheep (the first cloned mammal), and don’t miss the kinetic Millennium Clock—its hourly five-minute animation is a must-see.
They have dedicated family galleries such as Imagine and Adventure Planet—there’s plenty for kids (and curious adults).
Stroll along Grassmarket & Victoria Street
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Address: Grassmarket; Victoria St
Contact details: N/A
Opening hours: N/A
Around Grassmarket and along Victoria Street, you’ll find quirky gift shops, retro sweets, artisanal cheesemongers, vintage wear, fossil stores, and specialty whiskies. You’ll find all sorts of things that blend old-world charm and modern flair here!
Grassmarket dates back to the 14th century and is now a lively square surrounded by pubs, cafes, and a weekly artisan market. And Victoria Street’s curved, colourful facades and layered terraces make it one of the prettiest streets in Edinburgh—it would be criminal not to take an iconic photo.
Afternoon
Discover the stunning Dean Village
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Address: Dean Path
Contact details: N/A
Opening hours: N/A
Tucked in a deep valley beside the Water of Leith, Dean Village feels like a scene from a period drama with cobbled pathways, lush greenery, and quaint mill cottages that look frozen in time.
You’ll feel a different vibe when you’re here, especially with remnants of its past as a grain-milling hub. As you stroll around and take it all in, you’ll come across old millstones, carved plaques, and the iconic Dean Bridge.
View magnificent art at the Scottish National Gallery
Media from nationalgalleriesscot
Address: The Mound
Contact details: +44 131 624 6200
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 10 AM – 5 PM
You’ll find the Scottish National Gallery just off Princess Street, in a big neoclassical building that looks like it belongs on a postcard. It’s incredibly easy to pop into (admissions are free) while exploring the city—especially if the weather turns.
The place isn’t just about Scottish art. You’ll see works by Van Gogh, Monet, Rembrandt, and Raphael, basically some of the biggest names in European painting.
And if you’re short on time, go straight for The Skating Minister, The Monarch of the Glen, and Raphael’s Bridgewater Madonna. They’re crowd favourites, and for good reason.
Evening
Dine in Leith at The Ship on the Shore
Media from theshipontheshore
Address: 24-26, 24-26 Shore, Leith
Contact details: +44 131 555 0409
Opening hours:
- Monday to Friday: 11 AM – 10 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: 10 AM – 10 PM
The Ship on the Shore is located along the waterfront in Leith, so you can expect that classic nautical look inside—wood, brass, and soft lighting.
We also love their fresh and quality seafood. They serve everything from scallops and mussels to lobster, oysters, and big seafood platters meant for sharing. Their Cullen Skink (a creamy smoked fish soup) is one of the must-tries.
Try the whisky experience at The Bow Bar
Media from the_bow_bar_edinburgh
Address: 80 W Bow
Contact details: +44 131 226 7667
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 12 PM – 12 AM
Another way to experience Edinburgh is to simply head down to a traditional whisky pub. The Bow Bar has been serving whisky since 1987, offering a huge range from budget-friendly “Malt of the Moment” drams to rare expressions aged over 40 years.
Not to mention, there are over 300 whiskies to try—you’ll find something from smooth and easy sips to bold, smoky drams. And if you’re unsure what to get, just tell the staff the kind of flavours you like, and they’ll guide you to the right one.
Day 3. Hidden Gems and Day Trips in Edinburgh
Morning
Climb up Calton Hill for amazing views
Media from david_y_95
Address: Edinburgh EH7 5BN
Contact details: N/A
Opening hours: N/A
Calton Hill is a gentle uphill walk from the east end of Princess Street—an easy climb with a payoff. Once you reach the top, you’ll get to see sweeping views of Edinburgh, including views of the Castle to Arthur’s Seat and even the Firth of Forth on a clear day.
Don’t forget to check out and get a nice picture of the National Monument, that unfinished Parthenon replica often called Edinburgh’s Folly. Nearby, you’ll also see the spiral of the Nelson Monument, the Dugald Stewart Memorial, and the City Observatory.
Grab some food at the Stockbridge Market
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Address: Saunders St
Contact details: +44 131 261 6181
Opening hours: Sunday: 10 AM – 4 PM
Stockbridge Market is a local foodie hub by the Water of Leith. Happening every Sunday, this market is where locals and visitors go for fresh produce, street food, and a genuine community vibe.
There are lots to try out here—paella, samosas, artisanal bread, cheese, smoked salmon, cupcakes, and even dog treats! And aside from food stalls, there are pop-ups selling soaps, jewellery, artwork, and home goods.
Afternoon
Wander though the Royal Botanic Garden
Media from rbgedinburgh
Address: Edinburgh EH3 5NZ
Contact details: +44 131 248 2909
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 10 AM – 5 PM
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, or as the locals say, “The Botanics,” is a 70-acre green escape that sits north of the city and gives you a welcome breather from urban life.
Wander through areas like the Alpine Rock Garden, Chinese Hillside, Health Garden, Woodland Garden and Arboretum. Each gives you a different world of plants, such as giant redwoods, exotic rhododendrons, and native Scottish species.
Go for a day trip to Rosslyn Chapel
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Address: Chapel Loan, Roslin
Contact details: +44 131 440 2159
Opening hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 9 AM – 5 PM
- Sunday: 12 PM – 5 PM
Rosslyn Chapel is a 15th-century chapel in Roslin and is famous for its stone carvings, like over 100 “Green Men,” Apprentice Pillar, and religious symbols that spark wild theories about the Knights Templar and the Holy Grail.
And yes, this is the one from The Da Vinci Code, and you don’t have to be a fan to appreciate it, though. The guides do a great job of separating fact from fiction, and the chapel’s design is fascinating either way.
Evening
Enjoy live music at Sandy Bell’s
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Address: 25 Forrest Rd
Contact details: +44 131 225 2751
Opening hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 12 PM – 1 AM
- Sunday: 12:30 PM – 12 AM
Sandy Bell’s is quite a legend among traditional music fans. Almost every night, musicians show up with fiddles, guitars, and whistles and just start playing around a table. Yes, there’s no stage, no mics, no setlist—it’s totally intimate and informal, and that’s the charm.
They also have drinks to match the mood; they pour a solid pint (usually some local ales on tap), have a good whisky collection, and even have the occasional meat pie. And try to get there before 9 PM to snag a seat, especially if you want to be close to the music.
Where to Eat in Edinburgh
The Dome
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Address: 14 George St
Contact details: +44 131 624 8624
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 10 AM – 12 AM
Pricing: £££
The Dome is housed in a former 1840s bank, featuring marble pillars, ornate ceilings, chandeliers, and that massive glass dome right above the central bar.
The ambience and space are great for celebrations or date nights. And you’ve got three options here: afternoon tea upstairs, a more formal dinner in the Grill Room, cocktails in the Club Room, or just a drink at the main bar.
Despite the posh setting, their two- or three-course menus are actually pretty good value.
Dulse Edinburgh
Media from dulseseafood
Address: 17 Queensferry St
Contact details: +44 7429 415739
Opening hours:
- Monday to Tuesday: 5 PM – 12 AM
- Wednesday to Sunday: 12 PM – 12 AM
Pricing: ££
If you’re up for some fresh, local seafood, Dulse Edinburgh should be on your list. They have a stylish yet comfy space where you can dress up but still feel relaxed for a casual dinner.
They give some of the dishes a creative spin. For instance, cured trout with rhubarb or mussels with seaweed butter—classic ingredients reimagined in a fun and delicious way.
Lazeez Street Food
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Address: 3 Little King St
Contact details: +44 7507 505504
Opening hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 11 AM – 8 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM – 7 PM
Pricing: £
Lazeez Street Food is like a hidden gem, especially if you’re not a local. This Lebanese spot serves casual eats like shish tawook, falafel, kafta, halloumi wraps, and rice boxes. Everything’s quick, tasty, and designed for sharing or a solo bite.
You get to choose your wrap or box and finish it with dressing like garlic, chilli, or pomegranate sauce. Overall, it’s a nice little spot in St. James Quarter.
Travel Tips for the Best Time in Edinburgh
- Pack for all four seasons – Even in summer, you might get sun, wind, and rain all in one afternoon. Always throw a light waterproof jacket in your bag.
- Wear comfortable shoes – Edinburgh’s full of cobblestones, steep hills, and staircases. Stylish boots or sneakers with grip will save your feet.
- Tap your card for everything – Most places take contactless payments, even small cafes and buses. No need to carry much cash around, though it’s handy for odd market stalls or tipping musicians.
- Book big attractions in advance – Spots like Edinburgh Castle, underground ghost tours, and even some restaurants fill up fast.
- Use buses and trams – Easy to navigate, affordable, and reliable.
Apps to Download for a Trip for Edinburgh
- Google Maps – Navigation, real-time traffic, public transit routes, and saved location lists.
- Lothian Buses – Real-time bus tracking, timetables, and service updates for Edinburgh’s main bus network.
- Transport for Edinburgh – Covers both buses and trams with live departures, journey planning, and service alerts.
