Perfect Weekend in Edinburgh

Medieval castle, whisky tastings, and dramatic Scottish landscapes

📍Edinburgh, Scotland⏱️2 Days

Edinburgh is a city of dramatic contrasts where medieval Old Town meets elegant Georgian New Town. This weekend itinerary covers historic castles, whisky experiences, and stunning hilltop views that showcase why Scotland's capital is one of the UK's most beautiful cities. Expect cobblestone closes, literary heritage, and warm Scottish hospitality.

📅Saturday

🌅Morning

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8:30 AM - Edinburgh Castle 🏰 Start early at Scotland's most iconic fortress perched on volcanic rock (book tickets online).

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10:30 AM - Royal Mile 🏛️ Walk down this historic street connecting the castle to Holyrood Palace.

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11:30 AM - St Giles' Cathedral ⛪ Visit this stunning Gothic cathedral with crown-shaped spire.

☀️Afternoon

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1:00 PM - Lunch on Victoria Street 🍴 Colorful curved street (inspired Diagon Alley!) with cozy restaurants.

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2:00 PM - National Museum of Scotland 🏺 Free entry to explore Scottish history, culture, and natural world.

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4:00 PM - Greyfriars Kirkyard 🪦 Historic cemetery with elaborate tombs, inspiration for Harry Potter names.

🌆Evening

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5:30 PM - Grassmarket 🍺 Historic market square now filled with pubs and restaurants.

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7:00 PM - Traditional Scottish Dinner 🥔 Try haggis, neeps and tatties, or Cullen skink soup.

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9:00 PM - Ghost Tour 👻 Edinburgh's underground vaults and closes come alive with spooky stories.

📅Sunday

🌅Morning

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8:00 AM - Arthur's Seat ⛰️ Hike up this extinct volcano for breathtaking 360° views (1-2 hours round trip).

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10:00 AM - Holyrood Palace 👑 Tour the Queen's official Scottish residence (when not in use).

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11:30 AM - Holyrood Park 🌳 Explore the wild parkland surrounding Arthur's Seat.

☀️Afternoon

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1:00 PM - Lunch in Leith 🦞 Edinburgh's port district has excellent seafood restaurants and trendy cafes.

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2:30 PM - Royal Yacht Britannia ⚓ Tour the Queen's former floating palace (book tickets online).

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4:30 PM - Calton Hill 📸 Easy climb for panoramic sunset views and Greek-style monuments.

🌆Evening

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6:00 PM - Princes Street 🛍️ Edinburgh's main shopping street with stunning castle views.

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7:00 PM - Whisky Experience 🥃 Tasting tour on the Royal Mile to learn about and sample Scotch whisky.

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9:00 PM - Farewell Dinner 🍖 Modern Scottish cuisine or cozy pub meal to end your trip.

💡Essential Tips

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Royal Edinburgh Ticket - Combined entry to Castle, Palace, and Britannia (£54, saves money)

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Book Ahead - Edinburgh Castle and popular restaurants need advance booking

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Weather Layers - Scotland's weather changes quickly, dress in layers with waterproof jacket

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Free Museums - National Museum, National Gallery, and Portrait Gallery are all free

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August = Fringe - The world's largest arts festival takes over the city (book accommodations early)

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Cash & Cards - Most places take cards, but small pubs may be cash only

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Tipping - 10-15% in restaurants if service not included

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Walk the Closes - Narrow alleyways off Royal Mile hide great stories and photo ops

💰Budget Guide

Budget Breakdown: Expect £300-450 per person for the weekend (excluding accommodation). Accommodation: £80-150/night. Food: £45-65/day (pub lunch £12-15, dinner £25-35). Transport: £10/day (very walkable city). Attractions: £40-60/day. Edinburgh is pricey but manageable with free museums.

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