48 Hours in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a beautiful and historic city that is full of things to see and do. If you only have 48 hours to spare, here is a suggested itinerary to help you make the most of your trip:

Day 1:

Morning: Start your day with a visit to Edinburgh Castle, which is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. The castle has a long and fascinating history, and it offers stunning views of the city.

Afternoon: Next, take a walk down the Royal Mile, which is a historic street that is lined with shops, restaurants, and pubs. The Royal Mile is a great place to wander and explore, and you're sure to find something to interest you.
Evening: In the evening, enjoy a traditional Scottish meal at one of Edinburgh's many restaurants. There are many great options to choose from, so you're sure to find something to your taste. Check out our food and drink guide here.

Day 2:

Morning: Start your day with a visit to the National Museum of Scotland, which houses a collection of artifacts from around the world. The museum is free to enter, and it's a great place to learn about Scotland's history and culture.
Afternoon: Next, visit the Scottish National Gallery and the Scottish National Portrait Gallery, which both house collections of Scottish art. The Scottish National Gallery is home to a collection of European art, while the Scottish National Portrait Gallery houses a collection of portraits of Scottish people.
Evening: In the evening, enjoy a show at the Edinburgh Playhouse or the Royal Lyceum Theatre, which are both located in the city center. The Edinburgh Playhouse is a large theater that hosts a variety of shows, while the Royal Lyceum Theatre is a smaller theater that specializes in Scottish plays.

Other things to do in Edinburgh:

We may be bias but we think one of the most special things to do in Edinburgh is to take a stroll along the Union Canal, which is a beautiful canal that runs through the city. The canal is a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery, and there are a number of pubs and restaurants along the way where you can stop for a drink or a bite to eat. Or even better, add a cruise to your stay on board The Camillia.

Visit the Scotch Whisky Experience, which is a museum dedicated to whisky. The Scotch Whisky Experience offers a variety of tours and tastings, and it's a great way to learn about Scotland's national drink.
Take a tour of Mary King's Close, which is a network of underground vaults that were built in the 17th century. Mary King's Close is a fascinating place to visit, and it's a great way to learn about the history of Edinburgh.
Hike up Arthur's Seat, which is a hill that offers stunning views of the city. Arthur's Seat is a popular spot for hiking, and it's a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the scenery.
Go shopping on Princes Street, which is a major shopping street in the city. Princes Street is home to a variety of shops, so you're sure to find something to buy.
Visit one of Edinburgh's many pubs and enjoy a pint of Scottish ale. Edinburgh has a great selection of pubs, so you're sure to find a place to relax and enjoy a drink.