Weekend away in Edinburgh: 10 Best things to do in Scotland’s capital

A weekend away in Edinburgh means diving into history, charm, and a touch of Harry Potter magic around every corner. Nestled between hills and the sea, Scotland’s capital is home to around 520,000 people and offers a unique mix of medieval Old Town, elegant Georgian New Town, and a buzzing pub culture. From iconic landmarks like Edinburgh Castle to cosy cafés and scenic viewpoints over the city’s rooftops – Edinburgh is compact enough to explore many highlights in just one weekend. And if you’re planning to extend your trip, it’s also the perfect starting point for a road trip into the Scottish Highlands.

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Weekend away in Edinburgh

To give you a clear idea of which activities in Edinburgh are truly worth your time, I’ve put together my 10 favourite things to see and do in the city. As always, you’ll also find tips on how to get around, where to eat and drink, and which places to stay.

1. Royal Mile

The Royal Mile is the heart and soul of Edinburgh! A cobbled street stretching nearly two kilometres from Edinburgh Castle all the way to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Lined with historic buildings, charming pubs and narrow, winding closes (the old alleyways of the Old Town), there’s something to discover around every corner.

One highlight is St Giles’ Cathedral, known for its stunning gothic architecture and beautiful stained-glass windows. Not far from here, you’ll find Victoria Street, one of the most photographed spots in Edinburgh, with colourful, crooked buildings that inspired Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter series. Just around the corner are the Vennel Steps, offering one of those instagrammable views of Edinburgh Castle.

2. Harry Potter Walking Tour

If you’re a Harry Potter fan, the Potter Trail is an absolute must during your weekend away in Edinburgh. This free walking tour takes you through the spots that inspired J.K. Rowling while writing the books and even some locations that made it into the films. You’ll wander down narrow cobbled lanes that sparked the idea for Diagon Alley, visit the café where the first Harry Potter book was written, and stop by the graveyard where the real Tom Riddle rests. The tour is technically free, but a donation between £5 and £20 per person is expected at the end. This model means the guides are incredibly passionate and bring the stories to life with humour and energy.

While you’re already at Greyfriars Kirkyard, make sure to stop by the statue of Greyfriars Bobby. This little terrier is said to have kept watch over his owner’s grave every single day for 14 years, a story that reminded me of Hachiko in Japan.

If you’re in the mood for something heartier, head over to Makars Mash Bar . This spot is famous for its creative takes on mashed potatoes, offering both veggie options and traditional meat-based dishes. Comfort food at its best!

3. Dean Village

Just a short walk from the city centre lies the former milling village of Dean Village. Nestled along the Water of Leith, this charming spot feels like stepping back in time during your weekend away in Edinburgh. Surrounded by green hills, timber-framed houses, and flower-covered balconies, the gentle sound of the river adds to the village’s charm. The view from Dean Bridge is particularly lovely, or you follow the narrow riverside path towards the Stockbridge neighbourhood for an even more scenic stroll. While Dean Village is no longer a hidden gem, it’s still wonderfully peaceful early in the morning and perfect for a relaxed walk and a few idyllic photos.

If you’re visiting on a Sunday, make sure to stop by the Stockbridge Market. Similar to the Grassmarket market, it offers a variety of local products and food stalls. From Scottish cheese and gooey brownies to handmade dumplings, there’s something for every taste. I personally had one of the best salads of my life there!

Since you’re already in Stockbridge, you might want to make a quick detour to Circus Lane. This charming, cobbled street lined with cute little houses is incredibly photogenic. While it’s definitely more of an Instagram hotspot than a must-see, it’s still a lovely spot for a souvenir snap.

4. Camera Obscura Museum

Right in the heart of the Old Town, just next to Edinburgh Castle, you’ll find the Camera Obscura & World of Illusions. Spread over several floors, this quirky museum is packed with mirror rooms, optical illusions, and interactive exhibits that are just as much fun for adults as they are for kids.

The star attraction is the actual Camera Obscura, a historic optical projector that casts a live moving image of Edinburgh onto a large white surface in a darkened room. It might sound simple, but it’s surprisingly captivating. Plus, the rooftop platform offers stunning panoramic views over the city’s rooftops.

5. Arthur’s Seat

Craving nature, views, and a bit of adventure right in the middle of the city? Then lace up your hiking boots and head for Arthur’s Seat during your weekend away in Edinburgh! This extinct volcano rises about 250 metres and is the highest point in Edinburgh, basically the city’s very own mountain.

Depending on your route, the hike takes anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes. There are gentler paths (like the one from the back of the hill) or steeper ones if you’re in the mood for a workout. Whichever way you choose, the summit rewards you with a breathtaking 360-degree view. City, sea, and rolling hills all laid out beneath you. You find different route options here.

It’s best to start in the late afternoon so you can catch the sunset over Edinburgh. Be sure to bring a jacket, the wind can be fierce at the top and a headlamp for your way back.

6. Calton Hill

If you want city views without the climb, Calton Hill is your go-to. It takes less than 15 minutes to walk up, but the view from the top is just as stunning. From here, you can see the Edinburgh Castle, Arthur’s Seat, and on a clear day even the distant Pentland Hills.

At the top, you will find some iconic monuments, like the unfinished National Monument, which looks like a piece of ancient Greece dropped in the middle of Edinburgh.

7. Stramash Pub

A night out in Edinburgh without hitting a pub? Not gonna happen! Especially when there’s Stramash. Housed in a former church, this place is one of the city’s go-to spots for live music. Think high ceilings, colorful lights, a fun crowd, and great vibes all around.

The real highlight? On some nights, they host traditional Ceilidh dancing, This is Scottish folk dancing that’s way more fun than it sounds, even if you have no clue what you’re doing. Someone usually walks you through the steps beforehand, and then it’s just about jumping in and having a laugh.

Tip: Be sure to check the website in advance to see when live music or a ceilidh is on the schedule. Both are very popular, and it’s worth arriving a bit early to grab a good spot.

8. Royal Botanic Garden

If you’re craving a little break from the city buzz, the Royal Botanic Garden is the perfect escape. Just a 20-minute walk from the city centre, this lush green space spans over 70 hectares and is filled with plants, trees, flowers, and beautifully landscaped paths.

You can easily spend a couple of hours wandering through the different sections, from the tranquil Chinese Garden to the fragrant Rose Garden, there’s a lot to see. One of the highlights is the Victorian Palm House, filled with tropical and exotic plants.

Entry to the main gardens is free, so it’s a great option if you’re looking for a chilled afternoon without spending much. Bring a book, grab a coffee on the way, and find yourself a sunny spot to just relax for a while.

9. Edinburgh’s Underground World

Edinburgh isn’t just fascinating above ground. There is a whole mysterious world hidden underneath the city streets. The best way to explore it? Join a guided Underground Vault Tour. You’ll head down into old chambers that were once used as storage spaces, workshops and maybe even for some darker rituals back in the 18th century. Depending on the tour company, it’s either more spooky or more historical but always a very unique experience.

10. Day trip to Ben A’an in Loch Lomond National Park

If you feel like you’ve had your fill of the city and want to experience the natural beauty of Scotland, a day trip to Ben A’an in Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park is just the thing for you. It’s only about 1.5 hours from Edinburgh, but you’ll need a car for this trip. The summit of Ben A’an offers a breathtaking view over Loch Lomond and the surrounding landscape. The hike isn’t particularly long, but it does involve a fairly steep climb that rewards you with an unforgettable panorama. I’d only recommend this day trip if you have a fourth day in Edinburgh, as there’s already plenty to see in the city itself.

More Things to Do on a Weekend Away in Edinburgh

If you have a bit more time in your weekend itinerary, there are a few true classics in Edinburgh that you can fit in. At the top of the list is Edinburgh Castle, which sits high on an extinct volcano and dominates the city skyline. The view from here is fantastic, but there’s also a lot to see inside — including the Scottish Crown Jewels and the legendary Stone of Destiny. It’s a good idea to book tickets online in advance, as it can get quite crowded.

At the other end of the Royal Mile lies the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the British monarchs in Scotland. If you’re interested in royal history or simply want to stroll through royal gardens, this is the place to visit. The ancient walls tell stories of Mary Stuart and other fascinating figures from Scotland’s past. You can get tickets here.

And for all whisky fans, there’s the Scotch Whisky Experience, right next to Edinburgh Castle. Here, you can ride through an interactive exhibition in a small whisky barrel and then, during a guided tasting, discover whether you prefer the smoky whiskies of Islay or the fruity ones of Speyside. It’s also a great introduction to the world of Scottish whisky, especially for beginners. As always, it’s best to book tickets online in advance.

Weekend away in Edinburgh: How to make the most of your trip in 3 days

If you’re looking to squeeze in as many of the must-do activities as possible over three days, here’s a suggested itinerary. It’s pretty packed, so feel free to adjust it to your pace.

Day 1:

– Arrive & check-in (or drop off your luggage), Motel One Edinburgh-Royal is a great option
– Stroll through the Old Town & visit St Giles’ Cathedral
– Grab lunch nearby, maybe at Deacon’s House Café
– Head to Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
– Edinburgh Castle (I think this one’s optional, but worth it if you have time or are a big history fan)
– Dinner & live music or Ceilidh dancing at Stramash Pub

Day 2:

– Hike up Arthur’s Seat (best to go in the morning or for sunset)
– Lunch nearby, like at The Southern Bar
– Check out the Scotch Whisky Experience
– Souvenir shopping on Victoria Street or the Royal Mile
– Afternoon coffee & cake at The Milkman
– Optional: Evening Vaults Tour for something a little spooky

Day 3:

– Start with a walk through Dean Village
– Head to Stockbridge Market (only on Sundays)
– Quick detour to Circus Lane for some photos
– Lunch in Stockbridge
– Visit the Royal Botanic Garden or the Palace of Holyroodhouse
– Evening walk up to Calton Hill
– Dinner in the New Town, try Dishoom or The Ivy

Optional 4th day or day trip:

If you’re craving a taste of the Scottish countryside, take a day trip to Ben A’An in Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park.

How to get around on a weekend away in Edinburgh

On Skyscanner, you can compare various flight options directly.

If you’re visiting Edinburgh as part of a Scotland road trip, I’d recommend starting with exploring the city and renting a car later on. That way, you avoid parking hassles and extra costs. The Old Town and most attractions are easily walkable, and it’s a joy to wander through the little alleyways.

You can also use the Transport for Edinburgh App or buy a ticket from the driver with cash. Some bus stops even have small red ticket machines. For trams, contactless payments aren’t available yet, so you’ll need to buy a ticket through the app or get a single ticket from the driver.

Tickets are available again through the app or from the driver on the bus.

Where to stay for a weekend away in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is, like many other British cities, not exactly a bargain when it comes to accommodation. For a centrally located hotel with a good standard, you should expect to pay around 130–200 euros per night.

A classic in the mid-range price category is the Motel One Edinburgh-Royal. It doesn’t get much more central than this, the rooms are modern, and the breakfast is always excellent at Motel One. Also centrally located, but with a cozier and more Scottish vibe, is the Haymarket Hotel, not far from Haymarket Station, making it very well connected to the airport.

For something a bit more modern and stylish, consider the Moxy Edinburgh Fountainbridge. It’s not quite in the city center, but you’ll be just a few minutes away from the Old Town by bus or on foot, and you can enjoy a great view from the rooftop bar in the evenings.

If you’re looking for a more affordable option or traveling solo and want to meet other travelers, take a look at the a&o Edinburgh City Hostel. They offer both dorms and private rooms, making it ideal for central accommodation on a smaller budget.

I really hope this blog post helps you plan your trip to Edinburgh. You can find many more travel tips and inspiration here on the home page of my blog.
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