Escape To: 2-Days in Edinburgh
Everyone knows someone that has studied abroad and still can't shut up about it more than a decade later. If you don’t - now you do! Hi, I’m Jess and I studied abroad in Edinburgh. This city stole a piece of my heart and I’m eager to share my love for it with anyone willing to listen.
My latest travels back to Edinburgh look a lot different now than they did when I was 20, but my appreciation has only deepened over time. If I only had 2 days to spend in Edinburgh, these are the spots I wouldn’t miss.
Day 1: Explore Old Town
The main city center of Edinburgh is divided into “Old Town” and “New Town” - divided by the Princes Street Gardens, sitting at the base of Edinburgh Castle. Spend day one in Old Town, known for its Reformation-era architecture.
Start your day with a stroll down the Royal Mile, grab a coffee from The Milkman on Cockburn Street then head up High Street (literally, up the hill) to the esplanade of Edinburgh Castle. The views from here are absolutely stunning. Self-guided as well as guided tours are available if you’d like to explore inside the castle walls. Some of the highlights include Scotland’s crown jewels and the 1’oclock gun.
As you head back down the Royal Mile, make a stop in at St. Giles Cathedral then make your way to Victoria Street. This instagrammable street of mult-colored shops curves it’s way down to the Grassmarket - a great place to grab lunch at Castle Rock chippie.
Pro tip: the “Edinburgh way” to order chips is with ‘salt & brown sauce.’
After lunch, make your way to Arthur’s Seat, a prominent hill created by an extinct volcano. Hike to the top via the trail head near Holyrood Palace for panoramic views of the city and surrounding areas.
Enjoy dinner with a view at The Outsider. This cozy spot has a laid back vibe with a fresh, seasonal menu. For a night cap, head to one of the Royal Mile pubs such as The Scotsman or Pipers Rest for a pint paired with live music.
Instagrammable Spots in Old Town:
Advocate’s Close
Writers Museum courtyard
The Vennel
Victoria Street
Armchair Books
Day 2: Explore New Town
New Town, known for its neo-classical and Georgian period architecture, offers a totally different vibe for day two.
Start your morning at Grow Urban, part coffee shop, part plant shop - this is a dreamy spot to enjoy your morning latte. From there, make your way to Dean Village via the Water of Leith walkway. Formerly a milling village, you will feel like you have been transported to Shakespearian times as you wander along the waterway.
From here, make your way to Prince’s Street. If shopping is your thing, this is the place to find all of the “high street” shops and designer stores. The M&S food hall is the perfect spot to grab lunch to-go, specifically their meal deal of a sandwich, crisps (chips) and a drink, for a picnic at the Princes Street Gardens just across the street.
As you continue making your way down Princes Street through the gardens, you’ll pass the Sir Walter Scott Monument, Waverly Station and the Balmoral Hotel. Head up Calton Hill for another panoramic view of the city.
For a casual dinner, Edinburgh Street Food is a great option. This food hall features a variety of cuisines. Try ordering from a few spots like a chicken sando from Chix, and Pork Belly from The Peruvian. For something a bit more traditional, Howies serves up traditional Scottish fare, including haggis if you’re feeling adventurous!
Instagrammable Spots in New Town:
Dean Village
Cicus Lane
Ross Fountain, Princes Street Gardens
Prince’s Street Waterstones 2nd floor windows
With wonderful public transportation and abundant taxis, it's possible to cover a lot of ground with two days in Edinburgh.
Whether your trip to Scotland is to play a round at the infamous Old Course in St. Andrews, tour popular filming locations for Harry Potter and Outlander, or simply take in the beauty of the Scottish Highlands, Edinburgh is the perfect place to start or end your Scottish adventure.
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