Weekend in Edinburgh: What to Do in 3 Days

A weekend in Edinburgh That's all it takes to fall under the spell of the Scottish capital: a castle perched atop a volcano, medieval alleyways, cozy pubs, and a spectacular view from Arthur's Seat. In three days, you can discover the city's highlights, and you can even take a side trip to the Highlands.

In short: To visit Edinburgh in 3 days, dedicate the first day to the Old Town (castle, Royal Mile), the second to the New Town, Calton Hill and Arthur's Seat, and the third to a day trip to the Highlands or to Leith and Dean Village. The city center is easily explored on foot, without a car.

Day 1: The old town and the castle

Start with Edinburgh Castle, ideally right when it opens to avoid the crowds. There you'll see the Scottish Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny. Then walk down the Royal Mile, the main street of the Old Town, exploring its closes, those narrow alleyways that hide secret courtyards.

UP TO YOU

What kind of traveler are you for? Weekend in Edinburgh: what to do in 3 days? "?

5 quick questions to see what suits you best.

Question 1 of 5

In the city, you enjoy exploring…

On foot, neighborhood by neighborhoodMajor sites first

Question 2 of 5

Need a break?

A local cafe or pubA museum or a monument

Question 3 of 5

What appeals to you most?

The atmosphere of the streets and marketsHistory and architecture

Question 4 of 5

In the evening, you would rather choose…

A good restaurant and a lively neighborhoodA show or a visit

Question 5 of 5

With a few free hours?

You let yourself be carried awayYou add an essential

In the afternoon, visit St. Giles' Cathedral, then head to the Grassmarket and Victoria Street, the colorful street that is said to have inspired Diagon Alley. In the evening, treat yourself to a Scottish dinner and a drink in one of the traditional pubs of Edinburgh.

Day 2: Calton Hill, Arthur's Seat and the new town

In the morning, climb Arthur's Seat, the ancient volcano overlooking the city. Allow about an hour for the ascent and a 360-degree view. Afterwards, visit Holyrood Palace, the official residence of the King in Scotland.

In the afternoon, explore the Georgian New Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with the Old Town. Stroll along Princes Street and through the gardens, then head up Calton Hill for sunset, arguably the most beautiful view in Edinburgh.

Day 3: Excursion or Secret Quarters

Option 1: The Highlands in one day

Embark on a trip to the Highlands: Loch Ness, the valley of Glencoe or Stirling Castle. It's a long day, but it offers a first glimpse of the Scottish landscape. For a closer alternative, discover Stirling, in less than an hour.

Option 2: Dean Village and Leith

Prefer to stay in town? Stroll along the Water of Leith to Dean Village, a charming and photogenic former millers' village. Then head to Leith Harbour for its seafood restaurants and the Royal Yacht Britannia.

Our tips for a weekend in Edinburgh

• Walking: the centre is compact, but sloping. Wear good shoes.
• Book the castle online to avoid queues.
• Bring a waterproof jacket, as the weather changes quickly.
• Try the haggis, the cullen skink and, of course, a whisky.
• In August, book very early: the city hosts the’Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

When is the best time to go for a weekend in Edinburgh?

May, June, and September offer a good balance between weather and crowds. August is very lively but expensive. In winter, the city shines thanks to its Christmas market and the famous Hogmanay, the Scottish New Year.

What budget is needed for 3 days in Edinburgh?

Expect to pay between €450 and €900 per person, excluding flights, based on two travelers, depending on the hotel and the season. Prices rise significantly in August and around New Year's. For more information, see our guide to... budget for Scotland.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are three days enough to visit Edinburgh?

Yes, to see the essentials of the city. With a fourth day, you can add a trip to the Highlands at a leisurely pace.

Do I need a car?

No, the city center can be visited on foot and by bus. However, to explore the rest of the country afterwards, a car becomes useful.

How to extend the stay?

Head towards the Highlands and the’Isle of Skye with our road trip in Scotland, Or combine Edinburgh with London using our itinerary London and Scotland.

Plan your stay with Brightside Travel

Our team is based in Edinburgh. We'll recommend the best places in the city, then we'll plan the rest of your trip to Scotland, at your own pace. Discover our tailor-made holidays in Scotland, and for more information, the official website VisitScotland.

BRIGHTSIDE TRAVEL

Do you want to experience this trip?

Our local team creates your tailor-made itinerary in the UK and Ireland.

Create my trip