Edinburgh in 48 Hours: Your Essential 2-Day Itinerary

Morning (7am - 11am)

Breakfast: Loudons
The airy, contemporary space showcases culinary artistry through creative breakfast twists and a remarkable selection of gluten-free dishes.
Nearest hop-on hop-off stop: Canongate (City Sightseeing)

Key Attraction: Scottish National Gallery
Situated in Edinburgh's vibrant heart, the gallery invites visitors on a captivating journey through art history, housing Scotland's premier collection from the Renaissance to Post-Impressionism.
Nearest hop-on hop-off stop: St. Andrew Square (City Sightseeing)

Highlights: 

• The neoclassical architecture of the gallery building itself is a work of art, enhancing the viewing experience.
• The gallery showcases significant works by Scottish Masters, including Allan Ramsay and Sir Henry Raeburn.
• The Dutch and Flemish Golden Age is represented by works from renowned artists like Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Rubens.
• A substantial collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist Art is on display, including paintings by Monet, Degas, Van Gogh, and Gauguin.

Pro Tip: The gallery welcomes sketchbooks, offering a unique opportunity to engage with the art through your own interpretations.
Suggested time to spend: 2 to 3 hours
Time to next stop: 5 to 10 minutes

Afternoon (12pm - 3pm)

Lunch: Clarinda's Tearoom
Enjoy the delightful vintage atmosphere and don't miss the opportunity to sample their delicious homemade scones, cakes, and classic Scottish shortbread.
Nearest hop-on hop-off stop: Canongate (City Sightseeing)

Key Attraction: Museum of Edinburgh
Witness the exceptional craftsmanship that characterized Edinburgh's history, as revealed through exhibits featuring intricately designed silver, glass, furniture, and architectural details.
Nearest hop-on hop-off stop: Canongate (City Sightseeing)

Highlights: 

• Decorative arts, such as silver and glass, display Edinburgh's historical craftsmanship.
• Period furniture reveals the interior design styles of past eras.
• Exhibits show how artists have portrayed Edinburgh throughout history.
• Historical signage illustrates the artistic styles of everyday life.

Pro Tip: Take advantage of any guided tours, audio guides, or informational pamphlets available for hidden insights.
Suggested time to spend: 1 to 1.5 hours
Time to next stop: 5 to 10 minutes

Evening (4pm - 7pm)

Key Attraction: St Giles' Cathedral
St. Giles' Cathedral is not just a place of worship; its stunning stained glass, intricate carvings, and historic chapels offer a visual journey through centuries of Scottish artistry and craftsmanship.
Nearest hop-on hop-off stop: Lawnmarket (City Sightseeing)

Highlights: 

• The cathedral's impressive organ, with its powerful and resonant tones, contributes to the building's artistic and spiritual atmosphere.
• The Thistle Chapel, a masterpiece of Scottish craftsmanship, features intricate stonework and heraldic symbols.
• The various other chapels within the cathedral, each with its own unique design and historical significance, offer a glimpse into Scotland's past.

Pro Tip: Check the cathedral's schedule to attend a service or concert when you’re visiting.
Suggested time to spend: 1 to 1.5 hours
Time to next stop: 10 to 15 minutes

Late Night (8pm – 12am)
Dinner: Timberyard
Diners are treated to a visual spectacle in the open kitchen, where chefs, like artists at work, meticulously transform ingredients into stunning culinary creations.
Nearest hop-on hop-off stop: Johnston Terrace (City Sightseeing)

Edinburgh Playhouse
The Playhouse, a leading venue for touring productions, also stands as a testament to timeless elegance. Its ornate interiors, characterized by sweeping curves, intricate details, and atmospheric lighting, are a visual masterpiece.
Nearest hop-on hop-off Stop: Waterloo Place (City Sightseeing)

Morning (7am - 11am)

Breakfast: The Elephant House
More than just a breakfast spot, The Elephant House is a literary landmark, where J.K. Rowling penned early chapters of the Harry Potter series. Its inspiring castle views and creative aura make it a unique space where history and imagination meet.
Nearest hop-on hop-off stop: Lawnmarket (City Sightseeing)

Key Attractions: Modern One and Modern Two
The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art provides a fascinating contrast: Modern One, set within a grand neoclassical building and sculpture park, houses a comprehensive modern and contemporary art collection, while Modern Two, located in a former orphanage, focuses on the surreal and expressive.
Nearest hop-on hop-off stop: Lothian Road (City Sightseeing)

Highlights: 

• A beautiful sculpture park surrounds the Modern One gallery, showcasing impressive outdoor installations.
• The gallery itself, Modern One, is located within a striking neoclassical building, adding a unique architectural element.
• Modern Two is known for its focused collection of surrealism and Dada artworks, offering a deep dive into these influential movements.
• They host focused exhibitions, providing in-depth explorations of specific artists and themes within modern art.

Pro Tip: Start with Modern One as it has a broader collection.
Suggested time to spend: 2 to 3 hours
Time to next stop: 10 to 15 minutes

Afternoon (12pm - 3pm)

Lunch: Contini George Street
Housed in a grand former bank building with beautiful architectural details, this Italian restaurant serves fresh antipasti and wood-fired pizzas.
Nearest hop-on hop-off stop: St. Andrew Square (City Sightseeing)

Key Attraction: Holyrood Palace
More than just a historical landmark, the palace's rich collection of tapestries, paintings, and decorative arts offers a fascinating look at the evolving tastes of Scottish and British monarchs.
Nearest hop-on hop-off stop: Canongate (City Sightseeing)

Highlights: 

• The Queen's Gallery displays rotating art from the Royal Collection.
• Holyrood Abbey's ruins contrast regal splendor with medieval beauty.
• State Apartments show royal opulence and past craftsmanship.
• Royal portraits offer a visual history of Scottish monarchs and their art patronage.

Pro Tip: If the weather is favorable, seize the opportunity to stroll through the calming palace gardens.
Suggested time to spend: 2 hours
Time to next stop: 5 minutes

Evening (4pm - 7pm)

Key Attraction: Royal Mile
Edinburgh's Royal Mile, a historic heart, is a living art gallery. Medieval architecture provides an interesting backdrop for centuries of artistic expression.
Nearest hop-on hop-off stop: Lawnmarket (City Sightseeing)

Highlights: 

• The numerous shops featuring Scottish crafts and artisan goods offer a chance to explore traditional artistic techniques and local craftsmanship.
• Hidden courtyards and closes reveal small, independent galleries showcasing contemporary art, crafts, and photography.
• Street performers along the Royal Mile provide a dynamic and ever-changing display of artistic expression, ranging from music and theater to living statues.

Pro Tip: Due to the uneven cobblestone streets, it's advisable to wear comfortable shoes.
Suggested time to spend: 2 to 3 hours
Time to next stop: 5 to 10 minutes

Late Night (8pm – 12am)
Dinner: The Witchery by the Castle
The restaurant's opulent, gothic decor creates a dramatically romantic ambiance, perfectly complementing the classic Scottish dishes served with theatrical style.
Nearest hop-on hop-off stop: Johnston Terrace (City Sightseeing)

Sandy Bell's
Beyond its folk music focus, this pub stands as a living testament to Scottish cultural heritage, where the art of storytelling and traditional music are dynamically intertwined.
Nearest hop-on hop-off Stop: National Museum of Scotland (City Sightseeing)

Morning (7am - 11am)

Breakfast: The Edinburgh Larder
Enjoy the rich flavors of Scottish produce in their menu, featuring hearty dishes that cater to all tastes. Their homemade jams and seasonal porridge are a must-try.
Nearest hop-on hop-off stop: High Street (City Sightseeing)

Key Attraction: Edinburgh Castle
Steeped in centuries of Scottish history, this iconic fortress, dramatically positioned atop a volcanic rock, offers a captivating experience with its grand architecture, fascinating exhibits, and breathtaking city views.
Nearest hop-on hop-off stop: Johnston Terrace (City Sightseeing)

Highlights: 

• The One o'Clock Gun, fired daily, provides a dramatic and memorable experience.
• Mons Meg, a massive 15th-century cannon, is a powerful reminder of the castle's military history.
• The Great Hall, with its impressive hammerbeam roof, showcases medieval architecture and royal grandeur.
• The Scottish Crown Jewels, including the Crown, Sceptre, and Sword of State, are displayed in the Crown Jewels exhibition.

Pro Tip: To help children learn and stay engaged during your castle visit, take advantage of the Family Trail.
Suggested time to spend: 2 to 3 hours
Time to next stop: 10 to 15 minutes

Afternoon (12pm - 3pm)

Lunch: The Baked Potato Shop
Offering a wide range of fillings, from traditional cheese and beans to more unique choices, they cater to diverse tastes. Their excellent vegetarian and vegan options make them a great choice for families with varied dietary needs.
Nearest hop-on hop-off stop: High Street (City Sightseeing)

Key Attraction: Our Dynamic Earth
Embark on a captivating journey from the Big Bang to the present, featuring engaging exhibits, a thrilling 4D cinema experience, and interactive displays that bring Earth's history to life for all ages.
Nearest hop-on hop-off stop: Our Dynamic Earth (City Sightseeing)

Highlights: 

• Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Salisbury Crags and Holyrood Park from the museum's cafe.
• Discover the incredible journey of Earth's formation and the vast diversity of life it supports.
• Experience the raw power of nature by feeling an earthquake and witnessing volcanic eruptions.
• The 4D cinema experience immerses you in Earth's wonders, engaging multiple senses for a thrilling adventure.

Pro Tip: Browse through the gift shop for souvenirs or educational materials.
Suggested time to spend: 2 to 3 hours
Time to next stop: 10 to 15 minutes

Evening (4pm - 7pm)

Key Attraction: Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
In the heart of Edinburgh's Old Town, discover a delightfully quirky attraction that playfully challenges your perception. With optical illusions, interactive exhibits, and the historic Camera Obscura show, it's a unique and entertaining experience for everyone.
Nearest hop-on hop-off stop: Lawnmarket (City Sightseeing)

Highlights: 

• The rooftop terrace offers stunning panoramic views of Edinburgh's Old Town and beyond.
• The Mirror Maze offers a disorienting and fun experience, perfect for families and groups.
• The Vortex Tunnel creates a dizzying sensation as visitors navigate a spinning walkway.
• Optical illusions and puzzles throughout the attraction provide engaging entertainment for all ages.

Pro Tip: Get done with the Camera Obscura Show as soon as possible to avoid long queues.
Suggested time to spend: 2 to 3 hours
Time to next stop: 10 to 15 minutes

Late Night (8pm – 12am)
Dinner: Salt Horse
For a relaxed and distinct dining experience, Salt Horse blends a lively craft beer atmosphere with a menu of gourmet sandwiches and snacks, making it ideal for families with older children or teenagers.
Nearest hop-on hop-off stop: High Street (City Sightseeing)

Department of Magic
Experience the magic firsthand at The Department of Magic, where escape rooms, interactive exhibits, and spell-casting activities combine to create a memorable adventure.
Nearest hop-on hop-off stop: High Street (City Sightseeing)

Morning (7am - 11am)

Breakfast: Lovecrumbs West Port
For a perfect morning start, visit this cozy café and enjoy their hearty Scottish breakfast, featuring freshly baked scones, haggis, and black pudding, all made with fresh, wholesome ingredients.
Nearest hop-on hop-off stop: Johnston Terrace (City Sightseeing)

Key Attraction: Edinburgh Zoo
A captivating window into the animal kingdom awaits, featuring iconic species like pandas and penguins. Beyond the fascinating creatures, the zoo's focus on conservation and education makes it a truly enriching and entertaining experience.
Nearest hop-on hop-off stop: Lothian Road (City Sightseeing)

Highlights: 

• The penguin rock provides an entertaining spectacle of king, gentoo, and rockhopper penguins.
• The koala territory provides the opportunity to see these iconic Australian marsupials.
• The Budongo Trail allows visitors to observe chimpanzees in a naturalistic habitat.
• The giant pandas, Tian Tian and Yang Guang, offer a rare glimpse into this endangered species.

Pro Tip: Be prepared for some uphill climbs; the zoo's terrain can make pushing strollers or wheelchairs difficult.
Suggested time to spend: 2 to 3 hours
Time to next stop: 15 to 20 minutes

Afternoon (12pm - 3pm)

Lunch: Dishoom
With its warm, inviting decor and authentic, delicious Indian cuisine, this restaurant provides a lively yet comfortable setting that's perfect for families of all ages.
Nearest hop-on hop-off stop: St. Andrew Square (City Sightseeing)

Key Attraction: National Museum of Scotland
Set within a stunning Victorian building, this museum provides a fascinating journey through time, blending ancient artifacts with modern interactive exhibits to captivate visitors of all ages.
Nearest hop-on hop-off stop: National Museum of Scotland (City Sightseeing)

Highlights: 

• The Millennium Clock, a kinetic sculpture, provides a fascinating, moving display that is a must see.
• The towering Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton in the Grand Gallery provides a thrilling encounter with prehistoric giants.
• Ancient Egyptian artifacts, including mummies and intricate burial objects, reveal the mysteries of a long-lost civilization in the World Cultures galleries.
• Hands-on exhibits, like the interactive DNA exploration station, allow visitors to actively engage with scientific concepts.

Pro Tip: Look out for any family-friendly events or workshops happening when you visit.
Suggested time to spend: 2 to 3 hours
Time to next stop: 5 to 10 minutes

Evening (4pm - 7pm)

Key Attraction: Museum of Childhood
Offering a truly unique experience, this museum brims with toys, games, and artifacts from across the ages, sparking nostalgia and igniting fond memories for families.
Nearest hop-on hop-off stop: Canongate (City Sightseeing)

Highlights: 

• Exhibits on school life and education reveal how childhood experiences have transformed over time.
• The collection of children's books and comics highlights the evolution of children's literature.
• Vintage toys and games, from tin robots to wooden trains, evoke nostalgic memories of past playtimes.
• The antique doll collection showcases the evolution of dolls and their craftsmanship through the centuries.

Pro Tip: Check the museum schedule for workshops, storytelling sessions, and other events.
Suggested time to spend: 2 to 3 hours
Time to next stop: 5 minutes

Late Night (8pm – 12am)
Dinner: Burgers and Beers Grillhouse
Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere and friendly service while indulging in a menu of satisfying comfort food, featuring juicy burgers, loaded fries, and a diverse selection of craft beers.
Nearest hop-on hop-off stop: High Street (City Sightseeing)

Royal Mile
Lit ancient buildings and glowing streets make for magical evening window shopping. Early street performers add to the atmosphere.
Nearest hop-on hop-off stop: Canongate (City Sightseeing)