Here is the ultimate itinerary for spending one day in Edinburgh, if you want to see the city’s top tourist attractions and try the local cuisine!
As Scotland’s capital city, Edinburgh has a lot to offer and it’s a city I love. It’s surprisingly compact and is well-connected by public transport, making it a great destination for those who are short of time.
In this guide, I’m going to cover the best way to spend a day in Edinburgh. That includes where to visit, how to get around, and some fantastic dining options based on my time there!
One Day In Edinburgh
Here is what my perfect day in Edinburgh would look like:
- Have Breakfast in the Old Town
- Visit Edinburgh Castle
- Walk Around Princes Street Gardens
- Have Lunch
- Explore Edinburgh Old Town
- Visit The National Museum of Scotland
- Watch the Sunset at Calton Hill
- Have Dinner at a Traditional Pub
- Enjoy a drink in Edinburgh
Now, I’m going to take you through the perfect way to spend a day in Edinburgh. This itinerary has a bit of everything, including historical buildings, local cuisine, and epic views, so there’s something for everyone.
You can’t see all of the city if you only have 24 hours in Edinburgh, so if something below doesn’t take your fancy, you can easily swap it out for something else.
To make the most of your time in this amazing city, I highly recommend starting your day early, to cram in as much as possible.
One Day Edinburgh Itinerary
As with all-day trips and one-day itineraries, the earlier you get to Edinburgh or get out of your hotel and start the day, the better so you can spend a full there!
Morning – Have Breakfast in the Old Town
You won’t be short of breakfast options in Edinburgh, especially in the Old Town. There are quaint cafes and bakeries found all throughout this area, serving everything from a traditional Scottish breakfast to sweet treats.
I’d suggest checking out the Edinburgh Larder, which is known for its delicious all-day breakfast menu. It includes kilted eggs, waffles, a Scottish breakfast, and more!
Alternatively, you could head to The City Cafe which offers various breakfast classics including french toast, eggs benedict, pancakes, and breakfast baps. Don’t forget about Southern Cross Cafe either, which offers delicious sweet treats and hearty breakfasts.
Although I personally can’t skip breakfast, there are a few charming coffee shops in the Old Town too if you’d prefer to just grab some caffeine first.
Morning – Visit Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle is typically open from 9:30 am, making it the first stop on this itinerary. This iconic Scottish landmark has a complex history and is one of Europe’s oldest fortified places, with parts of the castle dating back to the 12th century.
Highlights of this landmark include the Great Hall, Fight for the Castle, and the Stone of Destiny, along with several museums. These include the National War Museum and Regimental Museums. The Scottish National War Memorial is worth a visit too.
To learn all about Edinburgh Castle, why not book this guided tour? It lasts for 1.5 hours and includes your entrance ticket. You’ll also have an expert guide, who will teach you about the castle’s history.
Midday – Walk Around Princes Street Gardens
After spending a few hours in the castle, it’s time to head to Princes Street Gardens. These gardens have been around since 1820 after the North Loch was drained, and they separate Edinburgh’s Old Town and New Town.
Princes Street Gardens are beautiful at any time of year, especially as you’ll get a breathtaking view of Edinburgh Castle from here. However, if you’re visiting during the festive season, the Christmas Market often takes place in these gardens too.
In my opinion, these gardens are a great place to escape city life, but you won’t need lots of time here. Just make sure you head to Ross Fountain and snap some photographs of the castle before heading for lunch.
Don’t fancy seeing Edinburgh by yourself? Check out one of the many guided tours on offer:
Lunch Option – The Royal Mile
The Royal Mile runs through the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town and connects Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. In this area, you’ll find some fantastic restaurants, so I’d recommend having lunch after exploring the gardens.
If you’re looking for traditional Scottish cuisine, then check out Howies on Victoria Street. This place has a fantastic lunch menu, full of local classics including Scottish game tagine, traditional/vegetarian haggis, and cullen skink (a type of chowder).
Gordon’s Trattoria is another popular option, offering authentic Italian dishes or there’s Filling Station, which offers American classics with some Scottish twists thrown in there.
Whether you fancy trying something local or you’re after international fare, there’s something for everyone along the Royal Mile.
Lunch Option – Grassmarket
Alternatively, you could head to the Grassmarket area of Edinburgh and have lunch there – the decision is yours! I would look at the different options first to see if somewhere takes your fancy before deciding.
In Grassmarket, there are tons of charming eateries on offer:
Cold Town House is a popular option and it’s not hard to see why! Boasting epic views of Edinburgh Castle from the rooftop, an excellent selection of local craft beers, and delicious food (especially the pizzas), this place has a lot to offer.
The Mussel and Steak Bar is another great choice and focuses on locally sourced seafood and steaks. Otherwise, you can opt for Hula which is a healthy eatery and juice bar – perfect for those on a health kick!
Early Afternoon – Explore Edinburgh Old Town
After indulging (or over-indulging), it’s time to explore more of the Old Town. With over 1,000 years of history, breathtaking architecture, and rich heritage, this area of Edinburgh is not to be missed.
There’s plenty to see in the Old Town but there are a few places that I would prioritise. If you’ve not already, take some time to wander along the Royal Mile, where you’ll get to see the imposing St Giles’ Cathedral.
There’s also The Real Mary King’s Close (guided tours take an hour), the Scott Monument, Greyfriars Bobby, and the Palace of Holyroodhouse among others.
Now, you won’t have time to visit everywhere in the Old Town, so this is where you’ll need to prioritise what you’d like to see.
Mid-Afternoon – Visit The National Museum of Scotland
If you have time after exploring the Old Town then I’d suggest heading to The National Museum of Scotland. It’s one of the top attractions in the United Kingdom and is free to visit – perfect for those on a budget.
Here, you’ll learn all about Scottish history, scientific breakthroughs, the natural world, and world cultures among others, as there are several galleries at the museum to explore. Throughout the year, temporary exhibitions also take place.
The National Museum of Scotland is only open until 5 pm, and you’ll want at least 2 hours for your visit so this will depend on how much time you have left in the day.
Late Afternoon – Watch the Sunset at Calton Hill
Calton Hill is a volcanic hill that’s home to some of Edinburgh’s most iconic monuments, including the National Monument, the Nelson Monument, the City Observatory and the Dugald Stewart Monument.
From the top, you’ll also be treated to panoramic views over the city, so make sure you bring your camera along to snap some photographs. It’s also a great spot to people watch and take in the local culture, as you watch people living their everyday lives.
Depending on the time of year, you may have some time to kill before watching the sunset. However, I’d head to Calton Hill straight away as this will give you a chance to relax and admire the views before the sun goes down.
Just keep in mind that this spot can get pretty busy!
Evening – Have Dinner at a Traditional Pub
No Edinburgh itinerary is complete without dining at a traditional pub. Luckily, you’ll have plenty to choose from in the Old Town.
Greyfriars Bobby’s Bar is a popular spot, named after the most loyal dog in Edinburgh. There’s a variety of dishes to choose from at this pub including traditional pies, burgers, and haggis, neeps & tatties, a Scottish classic.
Here are some other awesome pubs in Edinburgh Old Town:
- The Piper’s Rest – Known for its traditional Scottish food and craft beers.
- The World’s End – Offers a welcoming atmosphere and tasty pub food.
- The White Hart – Considered to be the most haunted pub in Edinburgh!
- The Last Drop – Located next to an old execution site so is very historic.
- The Three Sisters – A lively pub with a charming courtyard.
Late Evening – Enjoy a drink in Edinburgh
There’s no better way to end your 24 hours in Edinburgh than by heading to one of the city’s many bars. You’ll have so many to choose from but Frankenstein’s Edinburgh is certainly up there with the best!
This quirky-themed bar focuses on Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein and is known for its spooky decor, monster show, and cocktails. They also do an awesome horror pub quiz which takes place on Tuesdays.
Here are some other funky bars in Edinburgh:
- The Devil’s Advocate – Boasts a cosy atmosphere and over 300 whiskies.
- Panda & Sons – A speakeasy-inspired bar known for its inventive cocktails.
- The Cauldron – Offers awesome immersive cocktail ‘potion’ classes.
- The Voodoo Rooms – Boasts a gorgeous setting and extensive drinks menu.
- The Cocktail Geeks – Another great place for unique cocktails!
Native Edinburgh is a popular option that’s located along Queen Street. They offer fully serviced apartments that sleep 2-3 people and are kitted out with everything you need. This includes a private kitchen, bathroom, and free WiFi.
You’ll be close to several major attractions if you stay at Native Edinburgh and there’s also a speakeasy-style area here, where you can try out local produce, listen to live music and grab a cocktail or two.
Other city centre hotels in Edinburgh I recommend include:
Getting Around Edinburgh
Edinburgh is surprisingly compact with many popular tourist attractions being found in and around the Old Town, so you can certainly get around on foot while in the city centre. If exploring further afield, the public buses and trams are very efficient.
Edinburgh Sightseeing Bus
If you’re short of time or have mobility issues, then I’d highly recommend booking this sightseeing hop-on hop-off bus tour.
There are 14 stops on this bus tour and you can enjoy onboard commentary as you go along. This way, you can really make the most of your trip!
Getting to Edinburgh
Edinburgh is well-connected by road, air, and public transport.
Driving to Edinburgh
Edinburgh is easy to reach by car as several motorways and A roads connect to the Edinburgh City Bypass (A720). Depending on where you stay, you can drive along this ring road until you reach the areas of Leith and Portobello or you’ll head into the city centre.
You won’t be short of car parks in Edinburgh but NCP and Q Park are two of the best options, offering various parking locations throughout the city.
Catching the Train to Edinburgh
For those in the United Kingdom, various train routes service Edinburgh. Direct services run from Glasgow, Preston, Manchester, and Newcastle among others, and you’ll likely arrive at Edinburgh Waverley Station.
Non-direct routes are also available from other cities. Just be mindful that tickets can be expensive at peak times.
Taking the Bus to Edinburgh
As well as local routes for those already in Scotland (such as from North Berwick), several coach companies offer services to Edinburgh. These tend to run from major cities such as Liverpool, Manchester, and Newcastle.
National Express, Megabus, and Flixbus are the most popular coach companies.
Flying into Edinburgh
Edinburgh Airport is the busiest airport in Scotland, serving over 12 million people every year. You can fly directly from the United States (New York and Chicago), Canada (Toronto), and various cities in Europe, making Scotland’s capital easily accessible.
From the airport, you can travel into Edinburgh by tram, train, bus or taxi. Alternatively, you can hire a car if you’re planning to explore the Scottish Highlands afterwards.
Search for cheap flights to Scotland on Skyscanner here!
One Day in Edinburgh FAQ
Here are some answers to frequently answered questions about visiting Edinburgh:
Is 1 Day Enough for Edinburgh?
I’d recommend spending at least a weekend in Edinburgh if you can, but if you’ve only got one day, then you can still see the city’s highlights.
For the best experience, I’d suggest basing yourself in the Old Town, where many of Edinburgh’s most popular tourist attractions are located.
How Can I Spend 24 Hours in Edinburgh?
If you only have one day in Edinburgh, then prioritise the city’s main attractions, including Edinburgh Castle, the Old Town, and The National Museum of Scotland.
I’d suggest allowing for some downtime too, as there are some fantastic restaurants and bars in Scotland’s capital, where you can try the local dishes and grab a cocktail or two.
What Should You Not Miss in Edinburgh?
I’d recommend spending the majority of your time in the Old Town, so you can visit Edinburgh Castle, Victoria Street, the Royal Mile, and St Gile’s Cathedral.
If you love a good museum like me, don’t miss out on The National Museum of Scotland either, as you’ll learn so much about this beautiful country (and its capital).
What is the Number One Attraction in Edinburgh?
The most-visited attraction in Edinburgh is Edinburgh Castle, with over a million people heading here every year. This makes it a must-visit!
I hope this guide to one day in Edinburgh helps you out!
- For more of my posts see:
- 14 Day Trips from Edinburgh with something for everyone!
- 5 Day Scotland Itinerary with Scotlands Highlights!
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