With 7 days in Edinburgh, you'll have time to experience the city's highlights. Beyond its stone, Edinburgh is a city of stories. It's the birthplace of Harry Potter, where J.
Why Visit Edinburgh
Experience World-Class Festivals: Immerse yourself in the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the world's largest arts festival, each August. The city also hosts the International Festival, the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo on the Castle Esplanade, and the Hogmanay street party, one of the world's best New Year's celebrations.
Discover Dramatic Natural Landscapes: Hike up Arthur's Seat, an ancient volcano in Holyrood Park, for breathtaking 360-degree views of the city and coast. Stroll through the lush Royal Botanic Garden or climb Calton Hill for its iconic Athenian acropolis monuments and sunset vistas.
Delve into Scottish Heritage & Whisky: Tour the Scotch Whisky Experience on the Royal Mile for a sensory journey, then sample single malts in traditional pubs like The Bow Bar. Explore the National Museum of Scotland to trace the nation's story from dinosaurs to Dolly the sheep.
Find cheap transport to Edinburgh
Compare prices for trains, buses, and flights to Edinburgh
Enter your departure city to see prices
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & First Impressions
Start your Edinburgh adventure by getting your bearings and exploring the city's most iconic landmarks. Take time to soak in the atmosphere and discover why this destination captures the hearts of millions.
Edinburgh Castle
Experience Edinburgh Castle, one of Edinburgh's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into United Kingdom's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Day 2: Local Life & Neighborhoods
Experience Edinburgh like a local today. Wander through authentic neighborhoods, discover hidden cafes, and get a taste of everyday life in United Kingdom.
Royal Mile
Experience Royal Mile, one of Edinburgh's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into United Kingdom's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Day 3: Art, History & Discovery
Uncover layers of history that shaped Edinburgh. From ancient remains to modern marvels, today reveals the stories behind the city's evolution.
Arthur's Seat
Experience Arthur's Seat, one of Edinburgh's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into United Kingdom's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Day 4: Off the Beaten Path
Venture beyond the tourist trail to discover Edinburgh's lesser-known treasures. These local favorites offer authentic experiences away from the crowds.
Holyrood Palace
Experience Holyrood Palace, one of Edinburgh's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into United Kingdom's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Day 5: Markets, Food & Exploration
Indulge your senses with Edinburgh's culinary scene. From bustling markets to beloved local spots, today is a feast for both eyes and taste buds.
Scottish National Museum
Experience Scottish National Museum, one of Edinburgh's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into United Kingdom's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Day 6: Culture & Hidden Gems
Dive deeper into Edinburgh's rich cultural heritage. Today is about understanding what makes this city tick, from its artistic legacy to its local traditions.
Calton Hill
Experience Calton Hill, one of Edinburgh's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into United Kingdom's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Day 7: Final Treasures
Make every moment count on your final full day. There's still so much to discover in Edinburgh, and today brings fresh adventures.
Ready to explore Edinburgh?
Travel Tips
- 1Book accommodation in the city center for easy access to attractions. Edinburgh is best explored by combining walking with public transport.
- 2The best time to visit Edinburgh is May to September, August (Festival). Shoulder seasons offer fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
- 3The local currency is British Pound (£). Carry some cash for small vendors and markets.
- 4A few words in English go a long way with locals. Even "please" and "thank you" will earn smiles.
- 5Download offline maps and translation apps before your trip. WiFi can be spotty in historic areas.
- 6With 7 days, consider a day trip outside Edinburgh to experience more of United Kingdom.
Must-Try Food in Edinburgh
💡 For the best free view rivalling Arthur's Seat, walk up Calton Hill. It's a much easier climb and offers iconic postcard views of the castle, Old Town, and the Firth of Forth, especially beautiful at sunset.
Book Activities in Edinburgh
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Neighborhoods to Explore in Edinburgh
Old Town
The historic heart of Edinburgh, defined by the spine of the Royal Mile running from the Castle to Holyrood.
New Town
A masterpiece of Georgian town planning, offering a stark contrast to the Old Town with its elegant, symmetrical streets, grand squares, and neoclassical facades.
Stockbridge
A charming, village-like neighborhood nestled in a valley along the Water of Leith.
Day Trip Ideas
With 7 days in Edinburgh, you have time for a memorable day trip. Here are some great options nearby:
Stirling
The historic gateway to the Scottish Highlands, Stirling is packed with monumental history.
North Berwick & East Lothian Coast
Escape to a charming seaside town known for its beautiful beaches, world-class golf courses, and dramatic island wildlife.
Plan your Edinburgh adventure
Let AI create the perfect itinerary for your trip to Edinburgh. Just describe what you want to experience.
Plan Edinburgh trip