Do you have just one day in Edinburgh, Scotland? Despite my passion for slow travel, I will admit that you can see most of the Scottish capital in a day. It’s compact, charming, and easy to explore on foot.
Do I recommend just 1 day in Edinburgh? Not necessarily; this is one of the world’s most beautiful cities and there’s certainly a lot to do and see here. But if you’re short on time – no problem! I’ve come up with the perfect one day itinerary that gives you a glimpse into local life as well as history, culture, and unique experiences.
Here are the best things to do in Edinburgh in one day.
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About this 1 Day Edinburgh Itinerary
Scotland’s capital is hands down the most beautiful city I’ve ever visited. The city is incomparable. It’s old, cultural, full of greenery and cobbled streets, and makes for an incredible time – even with just one day in Edinburgh.
To best plan your time, you can think of this itinerary as an Edinburgh self-guided walking tour. Luckily, the city centre is small and perfect for walking.
Following this walking tour of the city, your entire day will be set up for you. There shouldn’t be any time gaps where you’re searching your phone for what else to do. This is all you need. 🙂
Plus, this itinerary is great solo travelers as well as someone traveling with friends or loved ones looking for the best things to do in Edinburgh.
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.
Where to Stay in Edinburgh
With one day in Edinburgh, you’ll want to stay somewhere central to make the most of your limited time. Here are my picks for the best hotels for your trip.
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
Itinerary for One Day in Edinburgh, Scotland
Ok – let’s get into it! Here’s how to spend a day in Edinburgh, Scotland.
Princes Street Gardens
Start your day with a stroll through the picturesque Princes Street Gardens. This beautiful spot is located across from the Edinburgh Waverley Station, the main train station in the city.
The park is centrally located, dividing New Town from Old Town and it’s the perfect place to kick start seeing Edinburgh in a day.
Take the steps down into the park and you’ll quickly be greeted by seasonal flowers, leafy trees, and gorgeous views of Old Town and the hilltop Edinburgh Castle.
Ross Fountain at Princes Street Gardens
Make your way through the paved paths until you reach a large, majestic fountain called Ross Fountain.
This is one of the best photo spots in Edinburgh thanks to the view of the castle in the background.
The fountain, however, is a cast-iron gem installed in 1872. At the bottom, there are sculptures of mermaids, walrus and lion heads, and cherubs. And at the top, you’ll see four female figures representing science, arts, poetry and industry.
There’s a little outdoor cafe and places to sit behind the fountain, but I’ve never gotten anything from there, so I’m not sure it’s any good.
Scott Monument
Next, make your way to the iconic Scott Monument, a Gothic masterpiece that offers panoramic views of Edinburgh’s skyline. It’s located right next to the Gardens and is dedicated to the famous Scottish writer Sir Walter Scott.
If you buy tickets, you ascend its spiral staircase, get a closer look at the intricate carving and architectural details, and soak up iconic views of Edinburgh.
Keep in mind the stairs are steep and slender, and there’s 287 of them. Don’t worry if you don’t go up the monument – you’ll still get plenty of amazing views with this one day in Edinburgh itinerary.
Cockburn Street: Coffee at The Milkman
This isn’t a travel guide by The Spirited Explorer if we don’t mention coffee. Just around the corner from Scott Monument, you’ll find Cockburn Street. Despite its unfortunate name, it’s actually a charming cobblestone lane lined with eclectic shops and cafes.
Stop by The Milkman for a cup of specialty Italian coffee and enjoy the view of the long stairs that lead up to the Royal Mile. They also serve freshly baked croissants and other pastries.
This is my favorite coffee shop in Edinburgh. However, it is quite tiny inside but if you can snag a spot outside, you’re in for a real treat.
The Royal Mile
Speaking of which, venture onto the Royal Mile, Edinburgh’s famed thoroughfare steeped in centuries of history. You can take those hefty stairs or simply continue up Cockburn Street. There are a lot of cute shops worth popping in, anyway.
Now we will get into some of the best things to do in Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.
The Royal Mile is the most touristic spot in the city. You’ll see bagpipe players, tartan shops, souvenir stores, and street performers lining the Royal Mile that leads up to the castle.
Real Mary King’s Close
Real Mary King’s Close is like a time capsule under the City Chambers building on the Royal Mile. It’s a preserved 17th century street underground.
A historically-themed guide (you might get the maid,, merchant, foul clenger, poet, or Mary King’s daughter as your tour guide) will take you through the places where people lived, worked, and died.
If you want an authentic experience that brings history to life, Real Mary’s King Close is a fantastic thing to do with just one day in Edinburgh.
However, keep in mind the tour lasts one hour and tickets cost around £24. Check availability here.
St. Giles Cathedral
Visit the Gothic St. Giles Cathedral during your time on the Royal Mile. It’s free to enter and has one of the most unique cathedral ceilings I’ve ever seen.
Plus, it was built in 1124 and is full of history, intricate details, and old-world stained glass windows.
Opening hours vary, but it’s typically open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
And if you’re really keen to learn more about this cathedral, you can join one of their walking tours at 10:30 a.m. or 2:30 p.m. It’s free of charge and you can book your slot here.
The Writers’ Museum
Another free thing to do in Edinburgh is visit the Writers’ Museum. It’s in a close on the Royal Mile and is one of the most picturesque areas in the city.
The museum is tiny and is dedicated to Scottish writers, but the exterior of the building is one of the main reasons to add this to your 1 day Edinburgh itinerary. It’s housed in the historic Lady Stair’s House.
Once you’re inside, you’ll see that the museum showcases the lives of three of the most significant Scottish writers: Robert Burns, Walter Scott and Robert Louis Stevenson.
Tip! Edinburgh has amazing bookshops. If you have time, I highly recommend stopping by Topping & Company or another one of the best Edinburgh bookstores. A book makes for a wonderful souvenir from this literary city.
The Witches Well
Right at the bottom of the hill before you ascend to the Edinburgh Castle, there’s a hidden gem 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.
The plaque 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.
Edinburgh Castle
No first-time visit to Edinburgh is complete without a trip up to the iconic Edinburgh Castle. Perched atop Castle Rock, this historic fortress offers lovely views of the city below and mountains beyond.
Then, if you book a tour of the Edinburgh Castle, you’ll get to uncover more Scottish history and culture as you take in the charm of a royal castle that’s been around since at least the reign of Malcolm III in the 11th century.
The land, however, has been occupied by humans since at least the Iron Age. It’s one of the oldest places in Edinburgh for this very reason.
Grab your Edinburgh Castle tickets here!
Victoria Street
After checking out the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle, meander your way down the colorful Victoria Street which is unique for having a second-story sidewalk/walkway. Go up the stairs and enjoy views from the second level.
There’s also a Harry Potter store on Victoria Street. It’s full of fun little souvenirs for any Hogwarts lovers.
Grassmarket
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.
Vennel Viewpoint
The Vennel Viewpoint is one of the most iconic photo spots in Edinburgh. It’s a sandstone staircase by Grassmarket. There are buildings on either side and a historic street lamp in the middle.
The spot offers a postcard-worthy view of Edinburgh with the castle perched perfectly in near distance.
The location is linked in my One Day in Edinburgh Map at the bottom or you can find it on Google Maps here.
Lunch at Söderberg Pavilion
While it might seem like your day is already full, it’s actually only lunch time! All of the attractions and places to visit in Edinburgh mentioned so far are very close together.
In total, you’ve probably only walked a total of 30 minutes, not including all your stops and visits inside attractions.
Söderberg Pavilion is my recommendation for lunch. It’s perfectly located enroute with your Edinburgh self-guided walking tour. Plus, they have great coffee, Scandinavian pastries, a nice patio, and a cozy interior.
You’ll order from their brunch menu which is made up of offerings like delicious sourdough pizza, amazing sandwiches, Swedish meatballs, and stone oven omelets.
And if you’re thinking “Oh no! I need to eat Scottish food”, don’t stress. This Edinburgh itinerary stops for dinner at a Scottish pub with great authentic cuisine.
Plus, locals love Söderberg Pavilion, especially university students as it’s located in the area.
The Meadows: Enjoy view of Arthur’s Seat
After lunch, take a leisurely stroll through the scenic Meadows, which is right by the restaurant.
This is a lovely area to recharge in a serene atmosphere. You’ll also be able to catch a view of Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano that offers sweeping views of Edinburgh and beyond.
While having just one day in Edinburgh, you won’t have time to trek up to Arthur’s Seat, you’ll get to see a nice perspective of it from The Meadows and surrounding area.
Whisky tasting at Sandy Bell’s
If you’re curious about whisky (please don’t call it Scotch in Scotland), I recommend heading over to the traditional Scottish pub Sandy Bell’s to sample some of the country’s best whiskies.
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. and it’s located perfectly for this one day in Edinburgh self-guided walking tour.
Alternatively, you can do this lovely whisky tasting tour with storytelling and history.
Greyfriars Kirkyard
I love a graveyard, and Greyfriars Kirkyard is one of my favorites. Side note, kirkyard is the Scottish equivalent of a graveyard. So, there is also a church next to it.
I wouldn’t call it eerie, it’s more hauntingly beautiful and mysterious – located within Old Town, minutes from The Meadows. The kirkyard is the final home of many prominent Scottish figures and it’s been a burial site since the 16th century.
It’s also believed that this is where JK Rowling found the names for many of the characters from 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. In fact, there’s now a statue of the dog outside the grave gates.
Walk around and admire this lovely place while seeing Edinburgh in a day. There are also walking tours available that give you more insight into the burial sites and history of this Scottish graveyard.
Book your Undgeround Vaults and Graveyard Tour here.
National Museum of Scotland OR National Gallery of Scotland
Since you only have one day in Edinburgh, Scotland, you’ll probably have to choose which of these two museums are calling to you.
What’s great is that they are both free to visit, as are all public museums in the UK.
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, and that’s why I recommend it for first time visitors to Scotland.
However, if you’re a big art lover, the National Gallery of Scotland is a nice alternative. It’s close to Princes Street and has been open since 1859. It has Scottish and international art ranging from the years 1300 to 1945.
The Elephant House
This is probably the most famous cafe in Edinburgh, as it’s the location where JK Rowling did much of the writing for Harry Potter.
If you’re a Harry Potter fan, it’s worth stopping by for a photo or going inside to have a warm drink and Scottish shortbread, or my personal favorite millionaire’s shortbread with chocolate and caramel.
Dinner at The Piper’s Rest
Your one day in Edinburgh itinerary is not yet over – 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!
There are also different sorts of savory pies, beef and veggie burgers, and Scottish seafood dishes.
Pair your meal with craft beer, cocktails, or whisky and enjoy live folk music while you eat and drink merrily.
Calton Hill
Depending on what time you have dinner, people in Scotland will literally eat dinner at 5 p.m., you should be able to catch the sunset at Calton Hill. This is the best way to finish off your 1 day Edinburgh itinerary.
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.
Its called The National Monument of Scotland and it’s actually unfinished. It was intended to commemorate the fallen soldiers of the Napoleonic Wars, but construction was never completed due to lack of funds, leaving it as a striking reminder of Edinburgh’s past.
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.
Nonetheless, locals and visitors alike come to Calton Hill to sit in the sun, catch a sunset, or unwind with a book.
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.
Bonus: Following Morning in Edinburgh
If you have the luxury of another morning in Edinburgh before you head off, kickstart your day with a hearty Scottish breakfast at The City Cafe or The Edinburgh Larder.
For one last coffee before you go, you can visit Gordon Street Coffee by the train station or stop back by The Milkman on Cockburn Street.
If you have more than one day in Edinburgh
With more time in Edinburgh, you can visit more museums, walk along the coastline at Leith, or take the trek up Arthur’s Seat.
The hike up Arthur’s Seat takes an average of 30 to 60 minutes to ascend to the summit from the base of the hill. It’s a moderate hike suitable for most visitors, offering rewarding views of Edinburgh and its surroundings from the peak.
If you want amazing views and feel like you’re Anne Hathaway in One Day, Arthur’s Seat is an amazing way to spend 2 days in Edinburgh.
What to wear in Edinburgh
When it comes to packing for Scotland, it greatly depends on the season, the weather forecast and destinations.
As a general rule, pack for cooler weather and think in layers. Scotland’s weather loves to change throughout the day, so layers are going to be essential.
I recommend you check out my guide on what to wear in Scotland for every season.
And if you’re staying in a hostel, this hostel packing list will come in handy as well. 🙂
FAQ for One Day in Edinburgh Itinerary
Here are some common questions I see from travelers planninga trip to Scotland’s capital.
Is it worth going to Edinburgh for one day?
If one day is all you can spare, then it’s absolutely worth it. You can cover a lot of ground with just a day in Edinburgh. The city is compact, walkable, and the main attractions are basically back-to-back.
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.
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