If you’re seeing Edinburgh in 2 days during your trip to Scotland, you’ll be able to enjoy some of the best of what this Scottish capital has to offer.
As I’m half Scottish and have spent loads of time exploring Edinburgh, I’m excited to share my insider tips and recommendations for anyone planning a 2 day Edinburgh itinerary.
Here’s what to do with 48 hours in Edinburgh, Scotland.
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About this Itinerary for Edinburgh in 2 Days
Scotland’s capital is hands down the most beautiful city I’ve ever visited. It’s old, cultural, full of greenery and cobbled streets, and makes for an incredible time – even with just two days in Edinburgh.
To best plan your time, I’ve laid out exactly how to spend your mornings, afternoons, and evenings with multiple recommendations on where to eat – because we all have different tastes and interests!
And if you’re wondering why you should trust me, I’ve lived in Scotland, traveled all around the country, and spent extensive time in Edinburgh throughout MANY years.
Best Places to Stay in Edinburgh
With just 48 hours, my advice is to stay in Old Town or New Town, the two most central neighborhoods. Plus, it’s within these 2 areas of the city that you’ll be doing most of the sightseeing.
So, here’s where to stay in Edinburgh for the best experience:
Gleneagles Townhouses in Edinburgh: Gorgeous and bright 5-star hotel in New Town
Motel One Edinburgh Royal: 3-star, budget-friendly hotel in Edinburgh, right in Old Town
Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh: 5-star hotel on Princes Street with amazing views
CoDE Pod – THE CoURT: Budget-friendly hostel with pod beds on The Royal Mile
House of Gods: Romantic, sexy, and dark-toned hotel on the Royal Mile
Are 2 Days in Edinburgh enough?
The great thing about Scotland’s capital is that it’s quite compact, especially the Old Town and New Town – the main areas you will explore during this Edinburgh itinerary.
With that in mind, 2 days in Edinburgh can certainly be enough if you are wanting to initially explore the city and enjoy the main attractions and experiences.
From there, if you loved Edinburgh, I highly recommend returning for a longer trip that offers a deeper, slow travel experience of the city and its surrounding areas. There is also something going on to keep you entertained.
Besides, Edinburgh is a fantastic base for exploring other cities like Glasgow, Stirling, St. Andrews, and others.
If you have more days in Scotland, see my 4 days in Scotland itinerary.
What to Wear in Edinburgh
What to wear in Edinburgh largely depends on the time of year and weather of the hour; Scottish weather has a mind of its own so it can go from sunny and warm to downright dreary within the same hour/day.
That’s why I always recommend layers and bringing an extra layer while you’re out exploring.
For my absolute best packing tips, see my posts on what to wear in Scotland in summer and Scotland outfits guide for every season for the most relevant information.
Edinburgh in 2 Days: Day 1
Explore around Old Town, visit the castle, and enjoy an unforgettable first day in Scotland’s capital. Here’s what’s on your itinerary.
PS I also have a 1 day Edinburgh itinerary that works similar to a self-guided walking tour. Check it out if you’re on a shorter trip.
Princes Street Gardens & Ross Fountain
Right by the Edinburgh Waverley Station, the main train station in the city, you’ll find a charming garden where locals come to sit and relax.
There’s also the historic Ross Fountain that is one of my favorite photo spots in Edinburgh. Behind it, you’ll have a killer backdrop of the Edinburgh Castle.
So, I recommend that you first take a little walk through the gardens when seeing Edinburgh in 2 days. You can also pass by the Scott Monument that is dedicated to the Scottish writer Sir Walter Scott. It’s right on Princes Street.
Coffee at The Milkman
The Milkman on Cockburn Street (yes, really) is my favorite place to have coffee in Edinburgh. It’s set on a beautiful street that leads right up to the Royal Mile, part of today’s 2 day Edinburgh itinerary.
The Milkman makes Italian-style pastries and coffee in a cozy setting. Indoor seating is limited but there are 2 big tables outside that look out onto the pretty cobbled street.
People usually share them, so if a couple of people are sitting on one of the tables, feel free to sit on the other end.
Royal Mile & Edinburgh Castle
You’ll then be right back the Royal Mile, one of the oldest cobbled streets in Edinburgh that runs through the heart of the city.
The street starts down at Holyrood Palace and shoots up to Edinburgh Castle at the top of the hill.
Along the street, you can visit the stunning St. Giles’ Cathedral with its blue vaulted ceilings. Also, stop into one of the numerous closes (small squares down narrow passageways off the Royal Mile) like Lady Stair’s Close and Mary King’s Close (this unique tour of Mary’s King Close is worth incorporating to your 2 days in Edinburgh and it costs £24 lasting about 1 hour.)
To get to know the area in a short time, I definitely recommend booking a guided Royal Mile Walking Tour. You’ll be able to discover more hidden gems, see Parliament Square, and all the best places along the Royal Mile as you make your way up to the main event – Edinburgh Castle.
Hidden gem! Right at the bottom of the hill before you ascend to Edinburgh Castle, there’s a tiny spot known as The Witches Well.
It’s a small cast iron fountain plaque that honors the Scots who were burned at the stake between the 15th and 18th centuries.
This hidden gem is easy to miss but it usually has potted flowers on it, so keep your eyes out. It’s right on the corner of the Tartan Weaving and Mill Exhibition.
And if you want tickets to the Edinburgh Castle, you can get them here with a guided tour and below you can check for availability.
Grassmarket & Lunch
Located at the foot of Edinburgh Castle, Grassmarket historically had two main roles – it was a bustling marketplace and site of public executions. Luckily, there hasn’t been a public hanging there since, well, 1954… Sort of shocking, right? Here’s more on Edinburgh’s last hanging.
Well anyway! Now Grassmarket is a lively square with shops, events, restaurants, and a weekly market. If your one day in Edinburgh is a Saturday, you’ll be able to see the market in action with locally made items, homemade food, artisan goods, and more.
You can visit the Grassmarket Market every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
While there, you’ll have lots of international food options, so I recommend stopping for lunch here. Don’t worry, we’re focusing on Scottish cuisine for dinner, so you can still get your haggis (or whatever it may be) fix.
Check out O’Oliviero (££) for Italian cuisine or Petit Paris (££-£££) for a French bistro lunch during your 2 days in Edinburgh.
Vennel Viewpoint
The Vennel Viewpoint is one of the most famous photo points in Edinburgh. It’s a sandstone staircase just outside of Grassmarket. There are buildings on either side and a historic street lamp in the middle, and it is indeed quite picturesque.
The spot offers a postcard-worthy view of Edinburgh with the castle perched perfectly in near distance.
Greyfriars Kirkland & Victoria Street
After lunch, next on this 2 day Edinburgh itinerary is a visit to one of the spookiest (yet most lovely) spots in Edinburgh Old Town.
Head there down through Victoria Street (the really famous colorful street in Edinburgh) instead of cutting through Cowgatehead to see another one of the most postcard-worthy spots in the city.
From there, walk through the gates that lead into Greyfriars Kirkland (kirkland means churchyard). This is one of Edinburgh’s oldest graveyards and a fantastic historic pace to visit during your itinerary.
There are nearly 600 headstones here, many of which are notable residents and Scottish figures. Many of which, apparently, inspired the names for JK Rowling’s Harry Potter.
Scotland’s most famous dog is also buried at Greyfriars Kirkyard. His name was Bobby and he spent 14 years standing next to his owner’s grave. You won’t forget, as there’s now a statue of the dog outside the grave gates.
There are also walking tours available that give you more insight into the burial sites and history of this Scottish graveyard.
National Museum of Scotland
The National Museum of Scotland is one of history, culture, and archaeology. There’s science exhibits, dinosaur bones, history of Scottish clans and tartans, a geology section, sculptures, and so much more.
It’s a little bit of everything, including a charming cafe that overlooks the center of the museum, and that’s why I recommend it for first time visitors to Scotland.
Plus, it’s a public museum so it’s a great free thing to do in Edinburgh and right by the Kirkland, so it’s convenient with 2 days in Edinburgh.
Whisky at Sandy Bell’s
If you’re curious about whisky (please don’t call it Scotch in Scotland), I suggest heading over to the traditional Scottish pub Sandy Bell’s to have a whisky experience.
If you like a peaty/smoky flavor, try a Caol Ila 12 year, a Laphroaig 10 year, or an Ardbeg 10 year. However, if you’re not really into whisky but still want to try it in Scotland, something lighter you can try Glenmorangie 10-Year-Old or Monkey Shoulder. Either way, chat with the bartender – they’ll know best!
Sandy Bell’s also has local Scottish ales if you prefer to have a beer, and since this is a traditional pub, there’s live folk music most days.
Sandy Bell’s is open from 12 p.m. to 12 a.m.
Dinner at The Piper’s Rest
Your first day in Edinburgh isn’t yet over. After your tasting or pint, head to dinner at The Piper’s Rest. It’s a really lovely, traditional Scottish restaurant with classic pub dishes like Haggis neeps n’ tatties (haggis with mashed potatoes and swede). They also have veggie haggis!
However, you’ll also be able to find different sorts of savory pies, beef and veggie burgers, and Scottish seafood dishes.
Pair your meal with craft beer, excellent cocktails, or Scottish whisky and enjoy live folk music while you eat and drink merrily. The perfect way to end day 1 in Edinburgh!
Stand-Up Comedy at The Stand
If you’re not tired yet, keep the night going by seeing a comedy show at The Stand. They have major touring acts and local comics performing daily and it’s a great way to experience local culture, hear some Scottish humor, and enjoy your first night out with 2 days in Edinburgh.
Edinburgh in 2 Days: Day 2
On your 2nd day in the Scottish capital, you’ll see more of Old Town as well as New Town with some cute neighborhoods and city views along the way.
Dean Village
Grab a coffee or brunch at a cozy spot near your accommodation. Edinburgh is full of cafes and brunch spots so you’ll have no trouble finding something.
Afterward, make your way to the picture-perfect Dean Village located along the Water of Leith canal.
The Village is just a few minutes from Princes Street and it’s known for its 19th-century Bucolic buildings nestled between the water with gardens and a museum available.
It’s a nice area to walk around. Fortitude Coffee Stockbridge is located nearby for a quick coffee fix.
Circus Lane
Another spot to not miss with 2 days in Edinburgh is Circus Lane, a lovely cobbled street in a residential area full of flower-covered terraces. The street itself curls into a lovely U shape and you’ve probably seen photos of it online.
Lunch Break
If you’re getting hungry, you can stop for lunch at The Pantry. They serve all-day brunch (French toast, eggs benedict, etc) and lunch (soups, savory tarts, halloumi dishes, etc) and are open until 4 p.m. most days.
They also have boozy slushies, wine, cocktails and other drinks and it has a cute vibe so it’s great stop during your itinerary.
Walk Along George Street & Hanover Street
George Street is a cute street with lots of architectural gems as well as shops, both boutique and big name. Enjoy a casual walk stopping in to find souvenirs or just enjoying a slow travel moment.
I also love Hanover Street that crosses with George Street. It actually offers views of the sea so it’s well worth checking out.
Pint at The Wally Dug
If you’re looking to visit more traditional Scottish pubs when exploring Edinburgh in 2 days, then I recommend The Wally Dug in New Town. They have a great drinks selection and a cozy, locals-only type of atmosphere.
They sometimes have live music and it’s just a jolly place to experience when doing a 2 day Edinburgh itinerary.
National Galleries of Scotland: Portrait or National
Since you went to a science and history museum yesterday, today I recommend checking out the National or Portrait Gallery.
The Scottish National Gallery is located at the edge of Princes Street Gardens and the Portrait Gallery on Queen Street.
Both are beautiful if you like to look at painting, but I personally vibe with the Portrait more. The building is really beautiful with an old-world mural and is full of portraits of Scots.
Both museums are completely free to visit and are open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.
Topping & Company Bookshop
If you are anything like me, visiting a bookstore in a new destination is a no-brainer. I love Topping & Company located near Calton Hill, around the popular shopping streets.
It’s a beautiful 2-story bookstore with an AMAZING selection of books as well as a Scottish selection if you’re looking for a more cultural souvenir.
One of the many great things about the UK is that books are basically half the cost compared to the US. So, stock up on the cheap!
Dinner in Edinburgh
Enjoy your final dinner in Edinburgh before you embark on the rest of your trip or return home.
In relation to your next stop, Monteiths is a nice spot for upscale Scottish cuisine, Ka Pao Edinburgh is an amazing Thai restaurant, and Berties Proper Fish & Chips is one of the best places to have a cheap dinner and classic fish & chips – they even have a vegan fish and chips!
Calton Hill for Sunset
Your 2 days in Edinburgh aren’t complete without visiting Calton Hill, particularly nearing Golden Hour and sunset.
And if you’re wondering why this is AFTER dinner, it’s because the sun doesn’t set in Edinburgh until well past 9 p.m. during the summer months. Of course, if you’re visiting in the shoulder season or winter, you’ll want to switch dinner and Calton Hill around.
Anywho, Calton Hill offers some of the best views of Edinburgh and the surrounding landscapes. It’s been a focal point of Edinburgh’s landscape for centuries.
In the 19th century, Edinburgh was dreamed to be the ‘Athens of the North’. As a result, Calton Hill was considered Edinburgh’s version of the Athenian Acropolis, which you’ll quickly be able to see with its classical revival architecture.
As you explore Calton Hill, you’ll also encounter the City Observatory, once a center for astronomical research and now a fascinating museum with insights into Edinburgh’s scientific heritage.
You can come up here and bring a bottle of wine and take in the 360-degree views with an evening picnic, or simply enjoy a walk around the monuments and setting sun.
And if you’re confused, Edinburgh allows drinking in public areas – unlike in Glasgow.
How to Get From Edinburgh Airport to City Centre
Plan your time efficiently by knowing how to get to the city centre in advance.
My personal favorite way is by tram. The tram ride is beautiful and you’ll get a pleasant introduction to Edinburgh and its outskirts. You’ll even pass sheep! The tram is around £6.50.
The other best way is by bus using the Airlink 100 (average journey time of 30 minutes) or the Airport Express (average journey time of 25-30 minutes). These cost around £5 for a single ticket.
See this guide on getting from the Edinburgh airport to the city centre.
Edinburgh Itinerary FAQ
Here are some common questions you might need to know before spending 2 days in Edinburgh.
What should you NOT miss in Edinburgh?
I’ve covered everything you shouldn’t miss with one day in Edinburgh. However, if I were to make a list of the top 5, I would include the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, Victoria Street, Princes Street Gardens, and Calton Hill.
Is Edinburgh safe at night?
Yes, in general, it is. Edinburgh is considered a very safe city, but be cautious at night in the same way you would be at home. Keep a good head on your shoulders and you shouldn’t have any problems wandering around Edinburgh at night.
Is Edinburgh expensive?
People’s idea of “expensive” is subjective, but Edinburgh is typically more expensive than Glasgow in terms of accommodation and dining.
However, it does have the reputation of being on the most expensive cities in the UK, so keep this in mind when budgeting for your 2 days in Edinburgh.
