Looking for a city break with the usual sights to see and shops to spend your money in but also want somewhere with a lots of history, beautiful cobbled streets and maybe a ghost or two?
Then Edinburgh is for you.
There is so much history to immerse yourself in, lots of unique activities (especially if you’re a Harry Potter lover) to do and some wonderful places to eat and drink. There is so much to do for a day trip, a weekend away and even longer. But don’t worry if you aren’t a history nerd, depending on what you are looking for there really is something for everyone here. Wilderness explorers, tick. Shopaholics, tick. Gin connoisseur, tick. So get yourself to Scotland.
How to get there
There are so many ways to get to Edinburgh, that there really is no excuse not to go.
Drive – With so many motorways heading up and down the country, it can be a really easy drive to get there, as long as you don’t get stuck in traffic! Why not make a road trip out of it and stop at some other great UK destinations on your way there and back. You will just need to check where you are staying offers parking otherwise it can be £20+ for 24hour parking.
Train – Depending on your location this may be a quick way to get to Edinburgh but may be a bit more pricey. If you are lucky enough to not have too many stops then this is a great choice as when you arrive you are slap bang in the centre. However it could take longer with multiple changes if you live far away so make sure you check in advance which is the best option for you.
Fly – Probably one of the most popular ways to get there if you do live further away. The average flight time from Bristol to Edinburgh is only 1 hour 10 minutes and if you book your tickets far enough in advance it could be as little as £40 return pp. Once you arrive at the airport you can either get a taxi or the tram into the centre and start enjoying your holiday.
Where to stay
Edinburgh has a great mix of places to stay whether you are wanting to live in luxury or just simply want a bed for the night.
Blow the budget
- The Witchery by the Castle
- The Scotsman
- Rock House
- Cheval The Edinburgh Grand
- The Balmoral
- Waldorf Astoria
- Kimpton Charlotte Square
Looking after the pennies
- Hotel Indigo
- Apex Waterloo Place
- Eden Locke
- Nira Caledonia
- Also check out Airbnb (use this link to get money off your first booked trip!)
Where to eat and drink
Breakfast
Lunch/Dinner
Cocktails
Treats
Sights to see and things to do
Edinburgh Castle
You can’t come to Edinburgh and not at least visit the outside of the castle. The huge fortress dominates the Edinburgh sky line and can be seen through out the city so it’s well worth a visit. If you are interested to learn more about the history, you can book tickets to go inside the castle and explore further.
Walk the Royal Mile
There is always a buzz around this part of the city with people shopping souvenir’s, busking bagpipers or tourists taking a tour. Running through the Old town, the Royal Mile is a lovely place for a walk as its full of old buildings and lots of history to absorb yourself in.
Get the best views from Calton Hill.
Calton hill is a great place to get the best views of the city without being surrounded by big crowds of tourists. It isn’t a big climb up, so don’t worry, you will be able to make your way up easily using the steps to see the view of the city.
Be royalty at the Palace of Holyrood
This is the Queens official residence for Edinburgh, so as you can imagine it’s pretty nice. You can walk around the outside without paying but if you are interested to see more you are able to pay to go inside the Palace as well.
Climb up Arthur’s seat
Now, I have a confession. When we went to Edinburgh I had made the plan to walk up Arthur’s seat but hadn’t realised that actually it’s a bit of a hike. I had a pinafore dress on and heeled boots which I would not recommend for a walk to the top, however we still made it! People say it can take about 2 hours to walk up and down but depending on your fitness levels (and outfit!!) you may find this takes you more or less time. As you can see it can get pretty windy up there too!
Discover the hidden streets under the city
So if you are scared of the dark, ghosts or just creeped out easily then the Real Mary Kings Close might not be for you. But if you want some incredible local history, then this will be right up your street (or close should i say.) Below the hustle and bustle of the Royal Mile are the original streets of the city were you can explore, learn about the history of these street and maybe see a ghost or two.
Stroll along the river to Leith
Leith is about a 2 mile walk from the city centre but you can follow the river along a footpath to get you there and back. Leith is a vibrant port with many hip restaurants, independent shops and home to the Royal Yacht Britannia.
Escape to Dean Village
This is a sweet village within the city with a tranquil river running through the middle. If you decide to walk to Leith following the river footpath then you can either start or finish here.This is well worth a walk if you want to escape the craziness of the city centre.
Visit the cobbled streets of Victoria street
This is an extremely popular street for photos but also for the colourful shops and restaurants that line the curved street. Pop here for a mooch around and to get that great insta snap. Its also said to be the inspiration for Diagon Alley from the Harry Potter books.
Marvel at the Illusions at Camera Obscura
Not only do they have over 100 illusions for you to discover and many hands on exhibits, they also boast one of the best rooftop views in Edinburgh. This is a fun for all ages attractions and perfectly located next to the Castle.
Rub the nose of Greyfriars Bobby
You can’t come to Edinburgh and not rub the nose of Greyfriars Bobby right? Let me explain as I appreciate that might be a sentence you never thought you would read (I’m not sure i ever thought i would write it either!) Greyfriars Bobby was a Skye Terrier who became well known in the 19th-century for spending 14 years guarding the grave of his owner until he died himself, queue the tears. This is a sweet little statue and tribute to the most loyal dog.
Shop till you drop on Princes and Georges street
You can’t come to a city and not do a bit of shopping. Whether your after designer names, high street favourites or some independent boutiques, these are the streets for you to shop till you drop.
Get a photo at Scott Monument
This is a gothic Victorian Monument and iconic landmark in Edinburgh located in Princes Street Gardens. This is always a favourite photo spot for tourists.
Become a Gin or Whiskey Connoisseur
Scotland is home too many Gin and Whiskey brands, many who offer tours and tasting. Find your favourite and indulge yourself in a glass or two. We did the Edinburgh gin tour and tasting which I can highly recommend!
Take a tour to see learn about the history of the city or spot some ghosts
Edinburgh offer many tours depending on your interests. From learning more of about the history of the city, Ghost hunting tours to Harry Potter tours (keep reading to find out more Harry Potter activities to do.)
Learn in the numerous museums
There are many museums in the city to go to such as the National Museum of Scotland, Scottish National Portrait Gallery and Dynamic Earth. There really is something for all ages and all interests.
Harry Potter fans
If you are a lover of all things Basilisks, Pygmy Puff and Dementors then look no further than Edinburgh. This is where J.K.Rowling spent many years writing the much loved books so where better to do all things Harry Potter.
- Learn more about your favourite wizarding world on a Harry Potter walking tour
- Visit Greyfriar’s Kirkyard Graveyard to see the graves who inspired characters such as Tom Riddle, William McGonagall and Mrs. Elizabeth Moodie (Mad-eye Moody)
- Make cocktails using wands and magic at the Department of Magic
- Stop off at The Elephant House and Spoon Café to be part of where J.K.Rowling wrote many of her books
- See J.K. Rowling’s Handprints at The City Chambers
- Join the dark side and do a escape room – The Dark Lord Resurrection
- Treat yourself to your Hogwart house merchandise in the Diagon House and the Boy Wizard
- Stay in a Gryffindor inspired apartment
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