5-Day Scotland City Break in Edinburgh

Your exciting city break begins as soon as you arrive in the beautiful city of Edinburgh. You’ll stay in Edinburgh for 4 nights.

Kick off the day at Holyrood Park, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This archaeological site is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 12,119 reviews.

When the afternoon arrives, make your way to the hotel of your choice in downtown Edinburgh. Check-in at hotels in Scotland normally starts around 2 to 3 PM. Each accommodation option in Edinburgh offers a unique blend of comfort and style in addition to prime access to the city’s top attractions.

After a full day of exploring, we recommend you try one of the best places to eat in Edinburgh. Enjoy the local flavors, unwind, and reflect on the day's adventures.

Discover the essence of culinary excellence at Heron, a Bib Gourmand local dining experience. Renowned for its prestigious 1 Michelin-star rating and impressive menu, Heron consistently impresses both foreign and local diners, garnering praise for its exceptional modern cuisine.

Also highly recommended is Condita, one of the best 1-star Michelin establishments in Edinburgh. Take your pick from the modern menu, which has consistently earned Condita high ratings and praise from satisfied guests. This top-rated Bib Gourmand restaurant promises a culinary experience you will remember.

Experience the best local flavors while in Edinburgh and reserve a table at the 1-star Michelin restaurant, The Kitchin. Its delectable modern offerings have contributed to impressive reviews from numerous patrons who’ve already savored its meals. Food enthusiasts visiting the area will be particularly excited to experience this Bib Gourmand restaurant.

Wrap up your evening by visiting the renowned Makars Gourmet Mash Bar (Edinburgh), a must-visit hotspot in the region of Edinburgh. This bar has garnered an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, backed by 2,814 delighted customers.

Alternatively, quench your thirst at the popular Panda & Sons, consistently rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Or, for an authentic local recommendation, head over to The Dome, one of the top-rated bars in Edinburgh, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,433 satisfied customers.

Celebrate the start of your 5-day city break in Edinburgh with a toast!

Get ready for another exciting day in Edinburgh on day 2 of your city break! From historical sites to modern attractions, there's something for everyone to enjoy. With 3 nights ahead, make the most of your time and create unforgettable memories in Edinburgh.

Take the opportunity to see The Royal Yacht Britannia. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,023 visitors.

Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This botanical garden has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,765 travelers.

Edinburgh is also the home of Calton Hill. Around 4,517 people have rated this mountain an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Palace of Holyroodhouse. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from a total of 17,746 reviews, a visit to this official residence is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Edinburgh is also your chance to admire Edinburgh Castle. This must-visit castle enjoys an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 90,949 reviews.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Edinburgh, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Edinburgh below.

Before you know it, it’s time to head out for dinner. Treat yourself to a delicious meal at a nice restaurant in Edinburgh.

Make a reservation at Dishoom Edinburgh, a popular dining spot in Edinburgh. Its reputation for being a popular dining spot shines through its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 5,852 satisfied diners.

Make a reservation at Miller & Carter Edinburgh City Centre while indulging in the charm of Edinburgh. This restaurant offers a delicious menu reflected with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, cherished by 2,950 discerning connoisseurs.

Indulge in the flavors of Cafe Andaluz, a treasured establishment in Edinburgh. Its diverse menu promises to tantalize your palate and elevate your dining experience. Known for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 3,019 satisfied guests.

For a sip of relaxation, head over to Whiski Bar & Restaurant, a top-notch spot in the region scene. Whether you're unwinding solo or with pals, Whiski Bar & Restaurant has charmed many with its 4.4 out of 5-star rating, as attested by 2,669 happy guests.

Or, join the buzz at Chaophraya Thai Restaurant, where locals and fellow explorers gather for good times and good chats. Chaophraya Thai Restaurant captures hearts with its 4.5 out of 5-star rating, drawing acclaim from 2,238 merry-makers.

And don't miss out on The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh, another local party gem in Edinburgh. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,314 reviews, highlighting its charm and popularity in the area.

Savor the memories of an amazing day in Edinburgh, Scotland!

As day 3 dawns in Edinburgh, embark on another day of exploration and adventure. Discover the city's vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and captivating sights at your own pace. With 2 nights left, the possibilities for discovery are endless.

Make National Museum of Scotland one of your first sightseeing stops in Edinburgh. Rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 45,476 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

St Giles' Cathedral is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This cathedral is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 9,293 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by The Real Mary King's Close. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 10,638 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to The Edinburgh Dungeon. A trip to this popular sightseeing destination is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.5 out of 5-star rating as given by 5,688 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Royal Mile. This point of interest enjoys an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 14,405 local and international travelers.

You can learn more about Edinburgh today by going on a tour. Edinburgh offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites below.

Exploring the most popular attractions in Scotland can make you lose track of time. Be sure to grab something to eat at one of the best restaurants in Edinburgh.

Have a delightful culinary experience when you dine at The Witchery by the Castle. Favored by many foreign travelers and locals, this restaurant in Edinburgh boasts a carefully curated and enticing menu. Its delectable dishes have earned it an impressive rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from around 2,766 visitors.

Another dining spot you shouldn’t miss while in Edinburgh is Howies Restaurant. It has garnered a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,817 diners thanks to its impeccable menu options and flavors.

Experience a celebration of flavors when you dine in at Howies Restaurant, in Edinburgh. Its delightful menu and flavorful dishes have earned it a stellar rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,828 satisfied customers.

Order some of the best-tasting cocktails and celebrate the night away at Cafe Royal. This famous bar in Edinburgh has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,216 customers.

You can also check out an equally popular bar in the area, The Bow Bar. This amazing place never disappoints with its variety of drinks and fantastic ambiance. The Bow Bar has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,813 customers.

If you want to visit another bar, we recommend Tigerlily. This bar offers guests many choices of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to pair with a great night, helping it earn an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,369 customers.

Reflect on the adventures of the day as you unwind in the comfort of your hotel in Edinburgh. Tomorrow holds new possibilities and discoveries!

Wake up to day 4 of your vacation in Edinburgh. With 1 night left, you'll have ample time to explore and savor all Edinburgh has to offer.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Edinburgh Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 11,987 reviews.

Next up, make your way to The Scotch Whisky Experience. This museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 8,926 reviews. Usually, around 238,542 people visit The Scotch Whisky Experience every year.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Camera Obscura & World of Illusions. This visitor centre has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,536 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit National Galleries of Scotland: National. This art museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,079 visitors. Visiting National Galleries of Scotland: National means you'll be one of 660,741 people who do so every year.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in Scotland that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Edinburgh has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. This tour allows curious travelers like you to experience the best of the country. You can make the most of your time in Scotland by scrolling down and selecting tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

After a long day of sightseeing, try one of the best restaurants in Edinburgh.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visit Albanach, one of the top bars in the region. An excellent place to unwind and enjoy a refreshing evening drink, Albanach has earned an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,018 customers.

Alternatively, you could enjoy a toast with locals and other travelers at The Ensign Ewart, a crowd-favorite. Around 1,604 customers have rated their experience at The Ensign Ewart an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House belongs to the list of the best bars in Edinburgh, and its ratings and reviews are proof of this claim. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,474 bar-goers.

As the day draws to a close, bask in the tranquility of Edinburgh by night. With memories made and adventures ahead, rest well and embrace the journey anew tomorrow.

Your city break in Edinburgh is coming to an end, and it's soon time to say goodbye to the city. Before you leave, make sure to capture a few last moments to cherish your rejuvenating vacation in Scotland.

Depending on how much time you have to spare on your departure day, you may want to do some last-minute shopping or sightseeing. Downtown Edinburgh offers excellent shopping opportunities and is the perfect place to browse for souvenirs and gifts to bring home. Take a walk and discover unique items you can purchase to remind you of your city break in Edinburgh.

If you would rather go for some last-minute sightseeing, the remarkable Dean Village is an attraction you could visit today. This village has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,727 visitors.

Before you conclude your city break in Edinburgh, drop by a top-rated restaurant for your last chance at a memorable dining experience in the city. Savor the destination's vibrant atmosphere over a delicious meal.

As you prepare to leave Edinburgh, remember the moments of joy, discovery, and connection you've experienced in Scotland. Carry them with you as souvenirs of your journey, guiding you as you continue to explore and create new memories.