Published: March 11, 2025
To get a flavor for the rich, medieval history of Scotland and to understand the hope that this country has for the future, you won't want to miss the opportunity to take a 3-day Edinburgh trip. Known as Scotland's capital city and famous for the looming castle that overlooks the historic community, Edinburgh is a city that is perfect for seasoned travelers and adventure-seekers alike.
Considering a 3-day Edinburgh trip? This is the itinerary that you need to follow, complete with all of the top things to do in Edinburgh.
Before you can begin experiencing the sights and sounds of Edinburgh, you will want to get to your hotel in order to get settled in. If you prefer the modernity of New Town, then you may want to consider The Spires Edinburgh, a luxury hotel with a contemporary vibe as well as Tartan touches throughout. For quick access to the Royal Mile, you may want to stay at the Radisson Collection Hotel Royal Mile, which is located in the heart of Old Town.
After you have checked into your room or dropped off your bags, you can begin exploring the city. With only three days in Scotland's historic capital city, you will want to get out and about as soon as possible.
For your first day, your best bet is to focus on Old Town Edinburgh. This section of the city dates back to the 7th century and many of the buildings along The Royal Mile were constructed during Medieval times. The first attraction that you should visit during your Edinburgh weekend trip is Edinburgh Castle, which towers over the city atop Castle Rock, making it impossible to miss. The castle defines the city's skyline and upon first glance, you will feel as if you have been transported back to a time of knights and kings. It's best to book your tickets to enter the castle in advance, as this will give you the ability to secure the time slot that you want.
After you have finished your tour of Edinburgh Castle, you should continue exploring The Royal Mile. The Royal Mile stretches from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood House and it encompasses a collection of streets that include historic buildings, cathedrals, shops and restaurants. If you want to add a dose of spooky fun to your Royal Mile tour, consider a Haunted Histories Walking Tour.
Finish your first day in Edinburgh off with a taste of Scotland at Angels with Bagpipes, one of the most famous fine dining establishments on The Royal Mile. This restaurant, which describes itself as a modern Scottish kitchen, features flavorful meals that showcase the culture of the region. Reservations are recommended in advance.
When you wake up feeling refreshed and energized on your second day in Edinburgh, you will be ready for a full day of touring the city. With so much to do in Edinburgh, we recommend getting an early start on your only full day of the trip.
Begin your day with a peaceful excursion at the Royal Botanic Gardens. This garden was established in 1670, making it one of the oldest botanic gardens in Europe. It currently boasts one of the largest plant collections on the planet, making it a favorite destination among those who love being surrounded by natural beauty. If you opt to walk around the main trail, you can expect to spend about 90 minutes in the gardens, but if you prefer to enjoy a more extensive tour, plan for at least two or three hours at this stop.
After your morning in the gardens, you will find that you are close to both Princes and George streets, where some of the most elite and exclusive galleries are located in Edinburgh. This is where you will get to experience the more modern and cosmopolitan side of the city and it's the perfect place to break for lunch. Twenty Princes Street is a favorite among both locals and visitors alike.
Continuing your grand tour of the city, your next stop should be a visit to the Edinburgh Zoo. Owned by the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland, this zoo houses more than 2,500 animals and is a favorite among families who are traveling throughout Scotland. During your afternoon at the zoo, you might see the capybaras going for a swim, or you may be able to get up close and personal with Haggis, the adorable pygmy hippo who was born recently at the zoo.
No trip to Edinburgh would be complete without Scottish whisky, so be sure to unwind after your long day of touring at the Scotch Whisky Experience in Edinburgh. This tourist attraction is located on The Royal Mile and allows you to sample some of the finest whisky in Scotland while enjoying a storytelling experience about the history of the drink and its role in Scottish culture.
Before you depart Edinburgh, you will want to experience the best view in the city. When you wake up on your third day, be sure to put on your best pair of sneakers, as you are about to climb to the peak of Arthur's Seat. Situated in the heart of Holyrood Park, Arthur's Seat is one of the most famous spots in Edinburgh. It's known for its spectacular views of the city and is a favorite place for locals and travelers alike to rest, relax and soak up the atmosphere of this regal and rustic city.
Arthur's Seat is open year-round, but it's important to make sure that you are up for the challenge. This peak rests atop an ancient volcano and the climb is arduous at times. Generally speaking, climbing to the top of Arthur's Seat and coming back down will take about two hours round trip, but the length of time that you spend may vary based on how long you want to stay at the top and enjoy the views.
Once you are there, take a moment to soak up the panoramic views of Edinburgh and reflect on your time in one of Europe's most historic cities. This is a trip that you won't soon forget.
Before you leave the city, be sure to refuel with a meal at The Brasserie at the Scholar. This restaurant is located just outside Holyrood Park and near the University of Edinburgh campus. It offers classic British cuisine in a comfortable, contemporary setting and its extensive menu ensures that everyone can find something that appeals to them. Known for its laid-back atmosphere, this restaurant is the perfect place to cap off your Edinburgh weekend trip.
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