United Kingdom

Edinburgh

Scotland's compact capital of stone, stories and sudden views.

Local time: UTC+0
Population: 0.5M
Safety

Cost of a day

$$$$$

Very expensive

Food$$$$$About $90 a day: light breakfast, cheap lunch, mid-range dinner
Stay$$$$$3-star hotel about $314 a night for two
Transport$$$$$About $11.8 a day: 4 public transit rides

Exchange rate

🇬🇧 GBP =

Rates from 2026-10-23, refreshed monthly.

Getting in

EDIEdinburgh AirportScotland's main airport, 11 km west of the centre.

How	Cost	Time
Lothian Bus 17/18Leith or south side (not centre)	£2-3	60 min
Standard city fare; not useful for the centre.
Airlink 100 busHaymarket and Waverley Bridge	£6 single, £8.50 return	20-30 min
Runs 24 hours every 10-20 min; contactless accepted.
TramHaymarket, Princes Street, Waverley, Leith	£7.90 single, £9.50 return	40 min
Walk to Ingliston Park & Ride to cut the fare to about £2.40.
TaxiCity centre	£25-35	20-30 min
Rank outside Arrivals; fixed-ish metered fares.
Uber / BoltCity centre	£20-30	20-30 min
Pick-up points are signposted outside the terminal.

Estimates, checked October 2026. Wikivoyage: Edinburgh

Getting around

Walk the centre; use buses and trams for Leith, the airport and longer hops.

Tram ★Trams link the airport, Haymarket, Princes Street, Waverley and Leith. Buy tickets at stop machines.
Bus ★Lothian buses cover the city. Pay with exact cash or contactless; day and multi-day tickets available.
Taxi / ride appsMetered taxis are plentiful. Uber and Bolt also operate in Edinburgh.
Rental carNot worth it in the centre: many streets are closed and parking is scarce and pricey.
WalkingThe centre is very walkable, though hilly with cobbles. Bikes and e-bikes are easy to hire, with some cycle lanes.
Airport busAirlink 100 runs 24 hours to Waverley Bridge, about 20–30 minutes.

Recommended stay★ 2 nights (3 days)

Two nights covers the Castle, Royal Mile and a museum or two, with time for Arthur's Seat or Leith.

Best for

HistoryCastle, Royal Mile and the Old Town closes.
CultureMuseums, galleries and festival shows.

Weather by month

6°2°Jan🌧 14d

7°2°Feb🌧 13d

9°3°Mar🌧 16d

11°4°Apr🌧 12d

14°7°May🌧 13d

17°10°Jun🌧 14d

18°12°Jul🌧 17d

18°12°Aug🌧 15d

16°10°Sep🌧 13d

13°8°Oct🌧 15d

9°5°Nov🌧 14d

7°3°Dec🌧 16d

Average daily high / low (°C), sea temperature and rainy days. Typical figures, not a forecast.

Climate

Cool and changeable: mild summers, cold winters and rain in every month. Rarely very hot or very cold.

Rain any monthExpect rain on roughly 12–17 days each month. Showers pass quickly; carry a light waterproof.
Mild summersJuly and August highs sit near 18°C, lows near 12°C. Rarely hot; layers help.
Cold wintersJanuary highs near 6°C, lows near 2°C. Wind off the sea makes it feel colder; bring a warm coat.
Windy and exposedHills and the coast are breezier. A windproof layer matters more than an umbrella.
Long summer daysJune and July give very long daylight, so late walks are easy. Winter days are short.
What to packWaterproof jacket, layers, comfortable walking shoes for cobbles and hills, and a warm hat in winter.

Landmarks 15

Must-see · 5

1
Edinburgh Castle
The city's defining sight, crowning Castle Rock with the Honours of Scotland and the Stone of Destiny. Book tickets online in advance and arrive at opening time to beat the crowds.
2
Royal Mile
The historic spine of the Old Town, linking the Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse past closes, kirks and street performers. Walk it early in the morning before the tour groups arrive.
3
Palace of Holyroodhouse
The monarch's official Scottish residence, full of royal history and Mary, Queen of Scots' chambers. Check opening days in advance as it closes for royal events.
4
Calton Hill
A short climb rewards you with the classic panorama of the city and the National Monument. Go at sunset for the best light; it is an easy walk from Princes Street.
5
Forth Bridge
A UNESCO-listed engineering icon spanning the Firth of Forth. View it from South Queensferry, reachable by train from Edinburgh in about 20 minutes.

Cultural

Castle 1

Park 2

Bridge 1

Museum 1

Palace 1

Old Town 2

Tower 1

University 1

Natural

Mountain 1

Activities

Festival 1

Zoo 1

Food 1

Painting 1

Day trips from Edinburgh

Glasgow · 43 min by train

★★★★★ · Full day · 74 km from Edinburgh

Best way: Frequent direct trains reach the centre in about 50 minutes, far quicker than the bus.

Frequent direct trains connect Edinburgh Waverley to Glasgow Queen Street in about 50 minutes, putting the city centre within easy walking reach.

Train ★43 min · from €12
Bus1 h 21 · from $11-$22
Car1 h 05 · taxi ≈ £170

What to see

Kelvingrove Art Gallery
Glasgow Cathedral
Necropolis
Riverside Museum

7 landmark quests to check off here

Good to know

Trains run frequently throughout the day
Most sights are walkable from Queen Street station
Book ahead for popular attractions in summer

Stirling · 40 min by train

★★★★☆ · Full day · 58 km from Edinburgh

Best way: Direct trains take under an hour and the castle is a walkable climb from the station.

Direct ScotRail trains from Edinburgh Waverley reach Stirling in under an hour, and the castle is a steep but walkable climb from the station.

Train ★40 min · from €7
Bus1 h 29 · from $10-$19
Car58 min · taxi ≈ £130

What to see

Stirling Castle
Wallace Monument
Old Town
Bannockburn heritage site

1 landmark quest to check off here

Good to know

Book castle tickets ahead in peak season
The climb to the castle is steep—wear comfortable shoes
Trains run frequently from Waverley

Dunfermline · 32 min by train

★★★☆☆ · Half day · 28 km from Edinburgh

Best way: Direct trains take about 30 minutes and the abbey and palace are a short walk away.

Direct ScotRail trains run from Edinburgh to Dunfermline Town in about 30 minutes, with the abbey and palace a short walk away.

Train ★32 min · from $8-$14
Bus44 min · from $6-$9
Car34 min · taxi ≈ £70

What to see

Dunfermline Abbey
Pittencrieff Park
Carnegie Birthplace Museum
Abbey ruins

Good to know

Abbey may have limited opening hours—check before going
A quieter, less touristy day out
Combine with a walk through the old town

Times and prices are typical one-way estimates (train and bus: Omio / Rome2Rio route data; taxi: local tariff × road distance, tolls extra). Exact prices are on the booking page.

Plans

Edinburgh rewards visitors with a walkable Old Town, world-class festivals and wild hills minutes from the centre. Pick how long you have and what you enjoy most. Prices checked October 2026; ≈ marks estimates.

How long?

What do you enjoy most?

Day trip · History

One packed day on the Royal Mile and Castle Hill, all on foot.

Stay: Old Town. Walk to the Castle, Royal Mile and Grassmarket. Lively and central, but hilly and noisy at night.

Tickets & tours: ≈ GBP 52
Taxis: ≈ GBP 26

Day 1

Castle, Royal Mile and Old Town closes

Tickets ≈ GBP 52 pp · taxis ≈ GBP 26

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 834 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ GBP 5
1

09:30–12:00 · ≈ £19.50 adult · under 16 cheaper · book online for a small discount

Edinburgh Castle Landmark quest

Arrive at opening to beat the queues. Buy tickets online.

Open Daily, roughly 09:30–18:00 in summer and to 17:00 in winter · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 1083 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ GBP 6
2

12:15–13:45 · Free to walk

Royal Mile Landmark quest

Walk downhill from the Castle esplanade. Lunch at a pub on the way.

Open Always open · shops and pubs roughly 10:00–late
Taxi · 488 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ GBP 5
3

13:45–14:45 · ≈ £12–18 for a pub plate of haggis, neeps and tatties

Haggis (a dish to try) Landmark quest

Try haggis, neeps and tatties at a Royal Mile pub.

Open Served at most pubs from lunch to late
Taxi · 967 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ GBP 6
4

15:00–17:00 · Free · special exhibitions may charge

National Museum of Scotland

Free entry. Good shelter if it rains.

Open Daily, roughly 10:00–17:00 · Source
Taxi · 422 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ GBP 4
5

19:00–20:15 · ≈ £15–20 per person

Underground vaults tour

Book ahead. Evening tours are atmospheric.

Open Tours run through the day and evening · book ahead

Day trip · Culture

Museums, a palace and a gallery piece, with a walk between them.

Stay: Old Town. Walk to the Castle, Royal Mile and Grassmarket. Lively and central, but hilly and noisy at night.

Tickets & tours: ≈ GBP 32
Taxis: ≈ GBP 38

Day 1

Palace, museum and Old Town culture

Tickets ≈ GBP 32 pp · taxis ≈ GBP 38

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

Taxi from your hotel · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ GBP 7
1

09:45–11:15 · ≈ £18 adult · cheaper for students and seniors · check current price

Palace of Holyroodhouse Landmark quest

Check closure dates first; it shuts for royal use.

Open Closed some days for royal use · usually Thu–Mon 09:30–18:00 in summer · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 1320 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ GBP 6
2

11:30–12:30 · Free to walk

Royal Mile Landmark quest

Walk up from the Palace. Shops open around 10:00.

Open Always open · shops and pubs roughly 10:00–late
Taxi · 488 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ GBP 5
3

12:45–13:45 · ≈ £12–18 for a pub plate of haggis, neeps and tatties

Haggis (a dish to try) Landmark quest

Lunch stop.

Open Served at most pubs from lunch to late
Taxi · 719 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ GBP 5
4

14:00–14:45 · Free entry to the gallery

The Ladies Waldegrave Landmark quest

Short gallery visit. Check opening hours on the day.

Open Daily, roughly 10:00–17:00 · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 790 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ GBP 5
5

15:00–17:00 · Free · special exhibitions may charge

National Museum of Scotland

Free. Allow more time if you like.

Open Daily, roughly 10:00–17:00 · Source
Taxi · 510 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ GBP 5
6

18:00–19:00 · Free to wander · meals roughly £10–20

Grassmarket

Dinner and a drink in the square.

Open Pubs and restaurants from late morning to late
Taxi back to your hotel · 502 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ GBP 5

1 night · History

One packed day on the Royal Mile: castle first, closes and vaults after dark.

Tickets & tours: ≈ GBP 56
Taxis: ≈ GBP 29

Day 1

Castle, Royal Mile and the Old Town closes

Tickets ≈ GBP 56 pp · taxis ≈ GBP 29

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:30–12:00 · ≈ £19.50 adult · under 16 cheaper · book online for a small discount

Edinburgh Castle Landmark quest

Go at opening to beat the queues. Book tickets ahead.

Open Daily, roughly 09:30–18:00 in summer and to 17:00 in winter · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 1083 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ GBP 6
2

12:15–13:45 · Free to walk

Royal Mile Landmark quest

Walk downhill towards Holyrood. Lunch in a pub on the way.

Open Always open · shops and pubs roughly 10:00–late
Taxi · 1320 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ GBP 6
3

14:15–15:45 · ≈ £18 adult · cheaper for students and seniors · check current price

Palace of Holyroodhouse Landmark quest

At the bottom of the Royal Mile. Closed some days for royal use, so check first.

Open Closed some days for royal use · usually Thu–Mon 09:30–18:00 in summer · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ GBP 7
4

16:15–18:15 · Free · special exhibitions may charge

National Museum of Scotland

Free entry. Good shelter if it rains.

Open Daily, roughly 10:00–17:00 · Source
Taxi · 422 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ GBP 4
5

19:30–20:45 · ≈ £15–20 per person

Underground vaults tour

Book ahead. Evening tours are atmospheric.

Open Tours run through the day and evening · book ahead
Taxi · 544 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ GBP 5
6

21:00–22:00 · Free to wander · meals roughly £10–20

Grassmarket

Dinner and a drink below the castle.

Open Pubs and restaurants from late morning to late

1 night · Culture

Museums and galleries by day, vaults and a show or pub night after.

Tickets & tours: ≈ GBP 40
Taxis: ≈ GBP 25

Day 1

Museums, monument and evening culture

Tickets ≈ GBP 40 pp · taxis ≈ GBP 25

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

10:00–12:00 · Free · special exhibitions may charge

National Museum of Scotland

Free. Start here on a wet morning.

Open Daily, roughly 10:00–17:00 · Source
Taxi · 790 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ GBP 5
2

12:30–13:15 · Free entry to the gallery

The Ladies Waldegrave Landmark quest

Short gallery stop. Check opening hours on the day.

Open Daily, roughly 10:00–17:00 · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 719 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ GBP 5
3

13:30–14:30 · ≈ £12–18 for a pub plate of haggis, neeps and tatties

Haggis (a dish to try) Landmark quest

Lunch in a pub. Try haggis, neeps and tatties.

Open Served at most pubs from lunch to late
Taxi · 433 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ GBP 4
4

15:00–15:45 · ≈ £8 adult to climb · check current price

Scott Monument

Climb the steps for a view if the weather is clear.

Open Daily, roughly 10:00–17:00 · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 628 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ GBP 5
5

16:00–16:45 · Free

Princes Street Gardens

Stroll the gardens below the castle.

Open Daily, daytime to early evening
Taxi · 915 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ GBP 6
6

19:00–20:15 · ≈ £15–20 per person

Underground vaults tour

Book ahead. In August, swap in a Fringe show instead.

Open Tours run through the day and evening · book ahead

2 nights · History ★ Recommended length

First-timers who want the castle, the Royal Mile and the Old Town closes at an easy pace.

Tickets & tours: ≈ GBP 70
Taxis: ≈ GBP 42

Day 1

Old Town core: castle and Royal Mile

Tickets ≈ GBP 34 pp · taxis ≈ GBP 21

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:30–12:00 · ≈ £19.50 adult · under 16 cheaper · book online for a small discount

Edinburgh Castle Landmark quest

Go at opening to beat the midday crush. Book tickets ahead in summer.

Open Daily, roughly 09:30–18:00 in summer and to 17:00 in winter · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 1083 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ GBP 6
2

12:15–13:45 · Free to walk

Royal Mile Landmark quest

Walk downhill from the castle. Shops and closes along the way.

Open Always open · shops and pubs roughly 10:00–late
Taxi · 488 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ GBP 5
3

13:45–14:45 · ≈ £12–18 for a pub plate of haggis, neeps and tatties

Haggis (a dish to try) Landmark quest

Lunch in a pub off the Mile. Try it with neeps and tatties.

Open Served at most pubs from lunch to late
Taxi · 967 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ GBP 6
4

15:15–17:15 · Free · special exhibitions may charge

National Museum of Scotland

Free entry. Good cover if it rains. Roughly open 10:00–17:00.

Open Daily, roughly 10:00–17:00 · Source
Taxi · 510 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ GBP 5
5

18:00–19:00 · Free to wander · meals roughly £10–20

Grassmarket

Evening drinks and dinner below the castle.

Open Pubs and restaurants from late morning to late

Day 2

Palace, closes and vaults

Tickets ≈ GBP 36 pp · taxis ≈ GBP 21

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:45–11:15 · ≈ £18 adult · cheaper for students and seniors · check current price

Palace of Holyroodhouse Landmark quest

Check closure dates first; it shuts for royal use. Usually closed some days.

Open Closed some days for royal use · usually Thu–Mon 09:30–18:00 in summer · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 1484 m · ≈ 10 min · ≈ GBP 7
2

11:45–12:15 · Free to walk the Old College quad

University of Edinburgh Landmark quest

Old College quad, short look on the way back up the Mile.

Open Quad usually open daytime · Source
Taxi · 887 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ GBP 5
3

13:00–13:45 · Free entry to the gallery

The Ladies Waldegrave Landmark quest

Indoor gallery stop. Check hours on the day.

Open Daily, roughly 10:00–17:00 · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 504 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ GBP 5
4

15:00–16:15 · ≈ £15–20 per person

Underground vaults tour

Book ahead. Bring a warm layer; the vaults are cool.

Open Tours run through the day and evening · book ahead
Taxi · 243 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ GBP 4
5

17:00–18:00 · Free to walk

Royal Mile Landmark quest

Evening stroll and dinner on the Mile.

Open Always open · shops and pubs roughly 10:00–late

2 nights · Culture ★ Recommended length

Museum lovers and festival-goers who want galleries, closes and a show.

Tickets & tours: ≈ GBP 40
Taxis: ≈ GBP 44

Day 1

Museums and the Mile

Tickets ≈ GBP 14 pp · taxis ≈ GBP 20

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

10:00–12:00 · Free · special exhibitions may charge

National Museum of Scotland

Start at opening. Free. Plenty for a rainy morning.

Open Daily, roughly 10:00–17:00 · Source
Taxi · 790 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ GBP 5
2

12:30–13:15 · Free entry to the gallery

The Ladies Waldegrave Landmark quest

Short gallery visit. Check hours on the day.

Open Daily, roughly 10:00–17:00 · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 719 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ GBP 5
3

13:30–14:30 · ≈ £12–18 for a pub plate of haggis, neeps and tatties

Haggis (a dish to try) Landmark quest

Lunch nearby in the Old Town.

Open Served at most pubs from lunch to late
Taxi · 488 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ GBP 5
4

14:45–16:15 · Free to walk

Royal Mile Landmark quest

Closes, kirks and street performers.

Open Always open · shops and pubs roughly 10:00–late
Taxi · 778 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ GBP 5
5

17:00–18:30 · Free to wander · meals roughly £10–20

Grassmarket

Dinner, then a show if it is August.

Open Pubs and restaurants from late morning to late

Day 2

Palace, monument and views

Tickets ≈ GBP 26 pp · taxis ≈ GBP 24

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:45–11:15 · ≈ £18 adult · cheaper for students and seniors · check current price

Palace of Holyroodhouse Landmark quest

Check closure dates first.

Open Closed some days for royal use · usually Thu–Mon 09:30–18:00 in summer · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ GBP 7
2

12:00–12:45 · ≈ £8 adult to climb · check current price

Scott Monument

Climb the steps for a view if you are steady on your feet.

Open Daily, roughly 10:00–17:00 · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 628 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ GBP 5
3

13:00–13:45 · Free

Princes Street Gardens

Picnic or cafe lunch in the gardens.

Open Daily, daytime to early evening
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ GBP 7
4

14:30–15:15 · Free

Calton Hill Landmark quest

Short climb. Best light late afternoon.

Open Always open
Taxi · 535 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ GBP 5
5

16:00–19:00 · Many free shows · ticketed shows roughly £10–25

Edinburgh Festival Fringe Landmark quest

Only in August. Book shows and beds months ahead.

Open Runs for about three weeks each August · Source

2 nights · Nature ★ Recommended length

Walkers who want hills, water and the coast between the sights.

Tickets & tours: ≈ GBP 34
Taxis: ≈ GBP 134

Day 1

Arthur's Seat and the Old Town

Tickets ≈ GBP 34 pp · taxis ≈ GBP 24

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:00–11:00 · Free

Arthur's Seat

Go early and check the weather. Skip in high wind.

Open Always open
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 13 min · ≈ GBP 9
2

11:30–13:00 · Free to walk

Royal Mile Landmark quest

Walk back down into the Old Town.

Open Always open · shops and pubs roughly 10:00–late
Taxi · 488 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ GBP 5
3

13:00–14:00 · ≈ £12–18 for a pub plate of haggis, neeps and tatties

Haggis (a dish to try) Landmark quest

Lunch stop.

Open Served at most pubs from lunch to late
Taxi · 1203 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ GBP 6
4

14:15–16:45 · ≈ £19.50 adult · under 16 cheaper · book online for a small discount

Edinburgh Castle Landmark quest

Late afternoon is quieter in summer.

Open Daily, roughly 09:30–18:00 in summer and to 17:00 in winter · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 394 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ GBP 4
5

17:15–18:15 · Free to wander · meals roughly £10–20

Grassmarket

Dinner in the Old Town.

Open Pubs and restaurants from late morning to late

Day 2

Water, village and coast

Tickets ≈ GBP 0 pp · taxis ≈ GBP 110

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:30–10:30 · Free

Dean Village walk

Pretty morning walk. Follow the Water of Leith.

Open Always open
Taxi · 1033 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ GBP 6
2

10:45–12:15 · Free

Water of Leith Walkway

Continue the walkway toward Leith.

Open Always open
Taxi · 6 km · ≈ 23 min · ≈ GBP 16
3

13:00–15:00 · Free

Leith Shore walk

Lunch and a shore stroll. Restaurants open from lunch.

Open Always open · restaurants from lunch to late
Taxi · 19 km · ≈ 1 h 7 min · ≈ GBP 45
4

15:30–17:30 · Free to view · boat trips and bridge walks cost extra

Forth Bridge Landmark quest

View the bridges on a clear day. Best late afternoon light.

Open Viewable any time
Taxi · 19 km · ≈ 1 h 7 min · ≈ GBP 44
5

18:00–18:45 · Free

Calton Hill Landmark quest

Sunset view if the sky is clear.

Open Always open

3 nights · History

First-timers who want the castle, the Royal Mile and the Old Town closes at an easy pace.

Tickets & tours: ≈ GBP 78
Taxis: ≈ GBP 94

Day 1

Arrive and walk the Royal Mile

Tickets ≈ GBP 14 pp · taxis ≈ GBP 11

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

14:00–15:30 · Free to walk

Royal Mile Landmark quest

Start at the castle end and walk downhill. Shops and pubs stay open late.

Open Always open · shops and pubs roughly 10:00–late
Taxi · 778 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ GBP 5
2

16:00–17:00 · Free to wander · meals roughly £10–20

Grassmarket

Short walk downhill. Pubs and restaurants from late morning.

Open Pubs and restaurants from late morning to late
Taxi · 1036 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ GBP 6
3

18:00–19:00 · ≈ £12–18 for a pub plate of haggis, neeps and tatties

Haggis (a dish to try) Landmark quest

Try it at a pub here. Lunch to late.

Open Served at most pubs from lunch to late

Day 2

Castle morning, Old Town afternoon

Tickets ≈ GBP 38 pp · taxis ≈ GBP 14

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:30–12:00 · ≈ £19.50 adult · under 16 cheaper · book online for a small discount

Edinburgh Castle Landmark quest

Go at opening to beat midday crowds. Check hours on the day.

Open Daily, roughly 09:30–18:00 in summer and to 17:00 in winter · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 1083 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ GBP 6
2

12:30–13:00 · Free to walk the Old College quad

University of Edinburgh Landmark quest

Quad usually open daytime. Short walk down.

Open Quad usually open daytime · Source
Taxi · 215 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ GBP 4
3

13:30–15:30 · Free · special exhibitions may charge

National Museum of Scotland

Good rain cover. Roughly 10:00–17:00 daily.

Open Daily, roughly 10:00–17:00 · Source
Taxi · 422 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ GBP 4
4

19:00–20:15 · ≈ £15–20 per person

Underground vaults tour

Evening tour. Book ahead.

Open Tours run through the day and evening · book ahead

Day 3

Palace, galleries and New Town

Tickets ≈ GBP 26 pp · taxis ≈ GBP 24

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:30–11:00 · ≈ £18 adult · cheaper for students and seniors · check current price

Palace of Holyroodhouse Landmark quest

Check closure dates first; often closed some days for royal use.

Open Closed some days for royal use · usually Thu–Mon 09:30–18:00 in summer · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 12 min · ≈ GBP 8
2

11:30–12:15 · Free entry to the gallery

The Ladies Waldegrave Landmark quest

Indoor gallery stop. Check hours on the day.

Open Daily, roughly 10:00–17:00 · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 308 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ GBP 4
3

14:00–14:45 · ≈ £8 adult to climb · check current price

Scott Monument

Climb for views on a clear day. Check hours on the day.

Open Daily, roughly 10:00–17:00 · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 628 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ GBP 5
4

15:15–16:00 · Free

Princes Street Gardens

Gardens below the monument. Daytime to early evening.

Open Daily, daytime to early evening
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ GBP 7
5

17:00–17:45 · Free

Calton Hill Landmark quest

Sunset views. Always open.

Open Always open

Day 4

Leith history and departure

Tickets ≈ GBP 0 pp · taxis ≈ GBP 45

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

10:00–12:00 · Free to view · boat trips and bridge walks cost extra

Forth Bridge Landmark quest

Clear day is best. Viewable any time.

Open Viewable any time
Taxi · 19 km · ≈ 1 h 7 min · ≈ GBP 45
2

12:30–14:30 · Free

Leith Shore walk

Shore walk into lunch. Restaurants from lunch to late.

Open Always open · restaurants from lunch to late

3 nights · Culture

Museum and gallery lovers who want the Old Town plus a festival or show if the dates fit.

Tickets & tours: ≈ GBP 78
Taxis: ≈ GBP 47

Day 1

Arrive, Royal Mile and a show

Tickets ≈ GBP 32 pp · taxis ≈ GBP 15

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

14:00–15:30 · Free to walk

Royal Mile Landmark quest

Walk downhill from the castle end.

Open Always open · shops and pubs roughly 10:00–late
Taxi · 716 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ GBP 5
2

16:00–16:45 · Free entry to the gallery

The Ladies Waldegrave Landmark quest

Indoor gallery stop. Check hours on the day.

Open Daily, roughly 10:00–17:00 · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 719 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ GBP 5
3

18:00–19:00 · ≈ £12–18 for a pub plate of haggis, neeps and tatties

Haggis (a dish to try) Landmark quest

Dinner at a pub. Lunch to late.

Open Served at most pubs from lunch to late
Taxi · 561 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ GBP 5
4

19:30–20:45 · ≈ £15–20 per person

Underground vaults tour

Evening tour. Book ahead.

Open Tours run through the day and evening · book ahead

Day 2

Castle and museum day

Tickets ≈ GBP 20 pp · taxis ≈ GBP 10

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:30–12:00 · ≈ £19.50 adult · under 16 cheaper · book online for a small discount

Edinburgh Castle Landmark quest

Go at opening. Check hours on the day.

Open Daily, roughly 09:30–18:00 in summer and to 17:00 in winter · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 903 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ GBP 5
2

13:00–15:00 · Free · special exhibitions may charge

National Museum of Scotland

Roughly 10:00–17:00 daily. Good rain cover.

Open Daily, roughly 10:00–17:00 · Source
Taxi · 510 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ GBP 5
3

16:00–17:00 · Free to wander · meals roughly £10–20

Grassmarket

Pubs and restaurants from late morning.

Open Pubs and restaurants from late morning to late

Day 3

Palace, monument and Fringe

Tickets ≈ GBP 26 pp · taxis ≈ GBP 16

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

09:30–11:00 · ≈ £18 adult · cheaper for students and seniors · check current price

Palace of Holyroodhouse Landmark quest

Check closure dates first.

Open Closed some days for royal use · usually Thu–Mon 09:30–18:00 in summer · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 11 min · ≈ GBP 7
2

12:30–13:15 · ≈ £8 adult to climb · check current price

Scott Monument

Check hours on the day.

Open Daily, roughly 10:00–17:00 · check on the day · Source
Taxi · 433 m · ≈ 6 min · ≈ GBP 4
3

14:00–17:00 · Many free shows · ticketed shows roughly £10–25

Edinburgh Festival Fringe Landmark quest

Only in August. Book accommodation months ahead.

Open Runs for about three weeks each August · Source
Taxi · 535 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ GBP 5
4

18:00–18:45 · Free

Calton Hill Landmark quest

Sunset views. Always open.

Open Always open

Day 4

Stockbridge and departure

Tickets ≈ GBP 0 pp · taxis ≈ GBP 6

Approximate route · map © OpenStreetMap contributors

1

10:00–11:30 · Free to browse · snacks roughly £5–12

Stockbridge area and market

Sunday market usually mornings. Check on the day.

Open Sunday market usually mornings · check on the day
Taxi · 1087 m · ≈ 9 min · ≈ GBP 6
2

12:00–13:00 · Free

Dean Village walk

Short walk from Stockbridge. Always open.

Open Always open

3 nights · Nature

Walkers who want hills, water and coast, with the Old Town as a base.

Tickets & tours: ≈ GBP 14
Taxis: ≈ GBP 90

Day 1

Arrive and Calton Hill

Tickets ≈ GBP 14 pp · taxis ≈ GBP 12

1

14:00–14:45 · Free

Princes Street Gardens

Gardens, daytime to early evening.

Open Daily, daytime to early evening
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 10 min · ≈ GBP 7
2

16:00–16:45 · Free

Calton Hill Landmark quest

Sunset views. Always open.

Open Always open
Taxi · 535 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ GBP 5
3

18:00–19:00 · ≈ £12–18 for a pub plate of haggis, neeps and tatties

Haggis (a dish to try) Landmark quest

Dinner in the Old Town. Lunch to late.

Open Served at most pubs from lunch to late

Day 2

Arthur's Seat and the Old Town

Tickets ≈ GBP 0 pp · taxis ≈ GBP 13

1

09:00–11:00 · Free

Arthur's Seat

Clear morning is best. Avoid high wind.

Open Always open
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 13 min · ≈ GBP 9
2

12:00–13:30 · Free to walk

Royal Mile Landmark quest

Walk back downhill into the Old Town.

Open Always open · shops and pubs roughly 10:00–late
Taxi · 518 m · ≈ 7 min · ≈ GBP 5
3

14:00–16:00 · Free · special exhibitions may charge

National Museum of Scotland

Rain cover if the weather turns. Roughly 10:00–17:00.

Open Daily, roughly 10:00–17:00 · Source

Day 3

Water of Leith and Stockbridge

Tickets ≈ GBP 0 pp · taxis ≈ GBP 20

1

09:30–10:30 · Free

Dean Village walk

Morning light. Always open.

Open Always open
Taxi · 1033 m · ≈ 8 min · ≈ GBP 6
2

11:00–12:30 · Free

Water of Leith Walkway

Walk the path toward Stockbridge.

Open Always open
Taxi · 1434 m · ≈ 10 min · ≈ GBP 7
3

13:00–14:30 · Free to browse · snacks roughly £5–12

Stockbridge area and market

Sunday market usually mornings. Check on the day.

Open Sunday market usually mornings · check on the day
Taxi · 2 km · ≈ 12 min · ≈ GBP 8
4

17:00–18:00 · Free to wander · meals roughly £10–20

Grassmarket

Evening food and drink.

Open Pubs and restaurants from late morning to late

Day 4

Leith and the Forth

Tickets ≈ GBP 0 pp · taxis ≈ GBP 45

1

10:00–12:00 · Free to view · boat trips and bridge walks cost extra

Forth Bridge Landmark quest

Clear day, late afternoon light. Viewable any time.

Open Viewable any time
Taxi · 19 km · ≈ 1 h 7 min · ≈ GBP 45
2

12:30–14:30 · Free

Leith Shore walk

Shore walk into lunch. Restaurants from lunch to late.

Open Always open · restaurants from lunch to late

Swap in instead

Swap a city afternoon for a climb up Arthur's Seat: a rough walk of about 1–1.5 hours up and down; wear grippy shoes.
Take a train or bus to South Queensferry to see the Forth Bridges, or a boat trip to Inchcolm Abbey; check sailings on the day.
History fans can add a day trip to Stirling Castle or Rosslyn Chapel; times and tickets vary, so check on the day.

Getting around

Trams link the airport, Haymarket, Princes Street, Waverley and Leith; buy at stop machines.
Lothian buses cover the city; exact cash or contactless, day and multi-day tickets available.
Airlink 100 runs 24 hours to Waverley Bridge, about 20-30 min.
Taxis are metered and plentiful; Uber and Bolt operate in Edinburgh.
Driving is awkward: many central streets are closed and parking is scarce and pricey.
The centre is very walkable; bikes and e-bikes are easy to hire, with some cycle lanes.

Where to stay

Old Town · ≈ GBP 90–260 a night
Walk to the Castle, Royal Mile and Grassmarket. Lively and central, but hilly and noisy at night.
New Town · ≈ GBP 100–300 a night
Georgian streets, Princes Street shops and gardens. Quieter, flatter and close to Waverley station.
Leith · ≈ GBP 70–200 a night
Waterfront bars and restaurants, cheaper rooms. Trams and buses reach the centre in about 20 minutes.
Haymarket · ≈ GBP 75–210 a night
Near the station, airport tram and bus links. Good value and a short walk to the West End.

Food & drink

Try Scottish classics: haggis, neeps and tatties, Cullen skink soup and a full Scottish breakfast.
Look for a pub lunch in the Old Town or Stockbridge; expect roughly GBP 12–20 for a main.
Seafood is good in Leith: check the day's catch and book ahead for dinner.
Cheap eats: pies, baked potatoes and sandwiches for about GBP 5–9; many museums have cafés.
Book dinner ahead in August, when festival crowds fill central restaurants.

Tips

The Edinburgh Festival (August) makes the city incredibly busy; book accommodation months in advance
Climb Arthur's Seat for an amazing panoramic view of the entire city and coastline
The Old Town's cobblestones are beautiful but hard on the feet—wear sturdy shoes
Scottish whisky tastings are a cultural staple
Always carry a raincoat, as weather changes rapidly

Sources for prices and hours

Taxi costs are estimates from straight-line distance and the metered fare. Map positions are approximate.

Tours & activities

Take this tour to unlock 1 landmark quest

Edinburgh Castle

Explore the castle with a guide and entry ticket
Hear the history of Scotland's most famous fortress
14,577 reviews · 4.7 rating

Entry includedGuided walking

Edinburgh Castle: Guided Walking Tour with Entry Ticket

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.7 (14,577)

$55View tour

Take this tour to unlock 2 landmark quests

Edinburgh Castle

Royal Mile

Walk the Royal Mile from castle to palace
Skip the ticket line at Edinburgh Castle
1,239 reviews · 4.8 rating

Admission includedSmall group

Edinburgh Castle & Royal Mile: Walking Tour with Admission

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.8 (1,239)

$71View tour

Take this tour to unlock 3 landmark quests

Edinburgh Castle

Royal Mile

Palace of Holyroodhouse

See the main sights at your own pace
Live commentary on the city's history
7,933 reviews · 4.6 rating

Hop-on hop-offFlexible

City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.6 (7,933)

$24View tour

Take this tour to unlock 1 landmark quest

Real Mary King's Close

Descend into the underground closes
Hear tales of the old town's darker history
4,401 reviews · 4.4 rating

Evening tourGhost stories

Evening Underground Ghost Tour

GetYourGuide · ★ 4.4 (4,401)

$25View tour

Souvenirs

Single malt whisky

GBP 40–70700ml · estimate

Scotland's most famous spirit, made from malted barley and aged in oak casks. Edinburgh is a natural place to buy it, since the city sits near many Scottish distilleries.

Where: Cadenhead's Whisky Shop, Royal Mile

Pick a region and strength you enjoy. Independent bottlings are also available here and offer unusual flavours.

Shortbread

GBP 5–12150–300g · shop prices

A buttery Scottish biscuit, made in Edinburgh. It is a classic gift that travels well.

Where: Delis that stock Shortbread House of Edinburgh

Check the butter content and the best-before date before you buy.

Harris Tweed wallet

GBP 25–551 small piece · shop prices

A small leather-and-tweed wallet made from Scottish wool. Harris Tweed is a fabric protected by law and tied to the Scottish islands.

Where: Harris Tweed specialist shops, Royal Mile

Look for the Orb certification label to confirm the fabric is genuine.

Flights

Hotels

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Check that your phone supports eSIM and is carrier-unlocked. Data-use estimates are a guide; verify coverage, activation rules and the final price on Airalo.

Luggage storage

Store your bags in EdinburghDrop luggage at nearby shops and hotels · Bounce

Cost of a day

Exchange rate

Getting in

Getting around

Weather by month

Climate

Landmarks 15

Must-see · 5

Edinburgh Castle

Royal Mile

Palace of Holyroodhouse

Calton Hill

Forth Bridge

Cultural

Castle 1

Park 2

Bridge 1

Museum 1

Palace 1

Old Town 2

Tower 1

University 1

Natural

Mountain 1

Activities

Festival 1

Zoo 1

Food 1

Painting 1

Day trips from Edinburgh

Glasgow · 43 min by train

What to see

Good to know

Stirling · 40 min by train

What to see

Good to know

Dunfermline · 32 min by train

What to see

Good to know

Plans

Edinburgh Castle Landmark quest

Royal Mile Landmark quest

Haggis (a dish to try) Landmark quest

National Museum of Scotland

Underground vaults tour

Palace of Holyroodhouse Landmark quest

Royal Mile Landmark quest

Haggis (a dish to try) Landmark quest

The Ladies Waldegrave Landmark quest

National Museum of Scotland

Grassmarket

Arthur's Seat

Haggis (a dish to try) Landmark quest

Princes Street Gardens

Dean Village walk

Calton Hill Landmark quest

Edinburgh Castle Landmark quest

Royal Mile Landmark quest

Palace of Holyroodhouse Landmark quest

National Museum of Scotland

Underground vaults tour

Grassmarket

National Museum of Scotland

The Ladies Waldegrave Landmark quest

Haggis (a dish to try) Landmark quest

Scott Monument

Princes Street Gardens

Underground vaults tour

Arthur's Seat

Haggis (a dish to try) Landmark quest

Water of Leith Walkway

Dean Village walk

Calton Hill Landmark quest

Princes Street Gardens

Edinburgh Castle Landmark quest

Royal Mile Landmark quest

Haggis (a dish to try) Landmark quest

National Museum of Scotland

Grassmarket

Palace of Holyroodhouse Landmark quest