5-day itinerary
The Perfect 5 Days in Edinburgh
A balanced 5-day plan for Edinburgh, built around its top-rated sights so each day flows without backtracking — plus a bite to eat along the way. Like it? Make it your own in a couple of taps.
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Customize it free →Day 1 — The Big Highlights
Morning
The Scottish Parliament
Scotland's striking parliament building blends bold modernist design with the drama of ancient Holyrood Park.
Afternoon
Palace of Holyroodhouse
The King's official Scottish residence, steeped in centuries of dramatic royal history and Highland grandeur.
Evening
Holyrood Abbey
Hauntingly beautiful abbey ruins beside a royal palace, steeped in centuries of Scottish royal history.
Where to eat: The Witchery — A well-loved local spot.
Day 2 — Culture & Icons
Morning
Nelson Monument
Climb this Napoleonic Wars monument on Calton Hill for sweeping panoramic views over Edinburgh's iconic skyline.
Afternoon
Calton Hill
Climb this iconic hill for sweeping Edinburgh skyline views and fascinating neoclassical monuments at every turn.
Evening
Scott Monument
Soar up a 61-metre Victorian spire honouring Sir Walter Scott with sweeping Edinburgh views.
Where to eat: The Dome Bar and Grill — A well-loved local spot.
Day 3 — Culture & Icons
Morning
National Gallery
Scotland's finest art collection, from Raphael to Rembrandt, completely free on Edinburgh's grand Mound.
Afternoon
Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
Mind-bending illusions and a rooftop camera with sweeping panoramic views over historic Edinburgh.
Evening
Mons Meg
Marvel at this colossal 15th-century siege cannon, one of the largest ever built, perched atop Edinburgh Castle.
Where to eat: £2 Pizza Slice — Pizza — a well-loved local spot.
Day 4 — Culture & Icons
Morning
Edinburgh Castle
A dramatic hilltop fortress commanding sweeping views over Edinburgh, packed with Scottish royal history.
Afternoon
Filmhouse
Edinburgh's beloved independent cinema screening cult classics, world cinema, and thought-provoking films in a welcoming setting.
Evening
St Mary's Episcopal Cathedral
A soaring Victorian Gothic masterpiece with stunning spires that dominate Edinburgh's skyline.
Where to eat: 10 To 10 In Delhi — Indian — a well-loved local spot.
Day 5 — Culture & Icons
Morning
St Giles' Cathedral
A medieval masterpiece on the Royal Mile, steeped in Scottish history and stunning Gothic architecture.
Afternoon
National Museum of Scotland
Scotland's greatest museum spans five centuries of history, science, and culture—and admission is free.
Evening
HMY Britannia
Step aboard the Queen's legendary floating palace and uncover royal secrets on the open seas.
Where to eat: Abduls — Indian — a well-loved local spot.
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Build my Edinburgh itinerary →Built from Edinburgh's top-rated attractions. Opening hours, prices, and whether a spot still delivers can change — double-check anything time-sensitive before you go.