What to Do in 48 Hours in Edinburgh?

Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is an amazing city with a wealth of attractions for tourists. From exploring historical sites like the Castle, to steeped in culture like the National Museum and unique attractions like the Scott Monument, the city offers something for everyone. So if you’re planning a short two-day visit to Edinburgh, you’ll want to make the most of your time. Here is a guide of the must-see, must-do attractions in Edinburgh in under 48 hours.

Day One:

The Castle: A trip to Edinburgh wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the iconic Edinburgh Castle. The castle’s walls have been standing for over a thousand years and tell a stunning story of the city’s past. The castle has enough history to fill your day, from discovering royal artifacts at the Royal Palace to learning about famous battles at the The National War Museum. Be sure to catch the daily one o’clock gun salute from half-past noon.

Holyrood Palace: After touring the Royal Palace at the castle, why not visit the palace of Edinburgh’s monarchs; Holyrood Palace. Located in the middle of Edinburgh, the palace often hosts street parties and open-air concerts. Enter the palace grounds and explore centuries-old palace buildings and galleries that offer plenty of stories about kings and queens who have lived within its walls.

St Giles’ Cathedral: This beautiful Cathedral is located in Edinburgh’s Old Town and is a fine example of traditional Gothic architecture. Inside is a variety of artifacts and art created by the Regency era architect Sir David Lyndsay. From intricate tombs to stained glass windows, you can explore many impressive attractions inside.

Day Two:

National Museum: A visit to Scotland’s National Museum is a must if you are spending just two days in Edinburgh. With exhibitions on everything from art to science, this award winning attraction has something for everyone. Explore ancient artifacts from around Britain and around the world, and delve into the city’s history with the Scotland galleries.

The Meadows: City parks are often overlooked by visitors but they offer a framed insight into local life and culture. The Meadows offer an escape from the city centre and feature open parkland and tranquil gardens. Cycle around the park or enjoy a traditional afternoon tea at The Meadows Café?

Royal Botanic Garden: Located just outside the city centre, The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh provides an oasis of beauty in the heart of Scotland’s capital city. Spanning across 70 acres with over 15,000 different species of plants, the gardens feature a variety of hidden gardens, exotic flowers and Japanese-style rock gardens.

National Library of Scotland: End your 48 hour trip with an ode to culture and knowledge at Scotland’s National Library. Housing over 29 million books spanned throughout 200 miles of shelves, it is a dream for any bibliophile. If you want to visit some more attractions in your two days, Edinburgh City of Literature offers a full list of literary walking trails to get around Edinburgh quickly so you can make the most out of your short stay.

Whether you’re in town for business or pleasure, there is so much to explore in this vibrant city. From the history filled Castle to tranquil parks and gardens to the literary streets of Edinburgh – there is plenty to see in 48 hours. Don’t miss out!

Insider’s Guide to Spending 48 Hours in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a city that exudes history and culture. It is a beautiful and iconic city that is full of excitement and charm. Two days are not enough to explore all the hidden gems, but with careful planning and an insider’s guide, you can make the most of your time in this stunning city. Here is a guide to help you maximize your experience in 48 hours.

Day 1: Discover Edinburgh’s Iconic Landmarks and Local Attractions

Start your day off by visiting Edinburgh Castle. Located atop a volcanic rock, it is an iconic landmark that overlooks the city’s historic streets. You can explore the castle’s history by visiting the various exhibitions and see the Scottish crown jewels and Stone of Destiny. After the castle, head down the Royal Mile and visit St. Giles Cathedral, the mother church of Presbyterianism.

Next, visit the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. It is one of the world’s finest botanic gardens, with a collection of over 13,000 plant species. The garden spans over 70 acres and features several glasshouses, such as the Victorian Palm House, which holds exotic plants from around the world.

After the garden, it’s time to head to Arthur’s Seat. A dormant volcano that overlooks the city from a distance. It serves as a popular location for hiking and sightseeing, offering beautiful panoramic views of Edinburgh.

Day 1 Lunch and Dinner: Try Local Cuisine

For lunch, try Haggis, a traditional Scottish dish made from the entrails of a sheep. Some of the best places to sample traditional Scottish cuisine include The Sheep Heid Inn and The Whiski Rooms. For dinner, try The Witchery by the Castle, which is housed in a 16th-century building and has a private garden overlooking Edinburgh Castle.

Day 2: Explore the City’s Culture and History

On day two, start with a visit to The National Museum of Scotland. It is one of the best museums in Scotland and one of the top ten museums and galleries in the UK. You can visit and learn about the history, culture, people, and innovations that have shaped Scotland.

Next, visit the Palace of the Holyroodhouse. It is the Queen’s official residence in Edinburgh and is used regularly for state occasions. It is an elegant and historic castle with beautiful gardens that you can explore.

You can end your day with a ghost tour of Edinburgh. It is a unique way to explore the darker historical side of the city. One of the most popular and recommended ghost tours is The Edinburgh Dungeon.

Day 2 Lunch and Dinner: Local Delights

For lunch, try Cullen Skink, a soup made from smoked haddock, potatoes, and onions. Some of the best places to try this dish include The Oyster Bar and Café Royal Circle Bar. For dinner, try the local specialty of fish and chips. You can find some of the best fish and chips at The Tailend and The Fishmarket.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you have more time, consider visiting Leith, a historical port area of the city. Here you can explore the Leith Theatre and visit the Royal Yacht Britannia, Queen Elizabeth II’s former royal yacht that is now open to the public.

Another off-the-beaten-path suggestion is visiting Arthur Conan Doyle’s birthplace. Located at Picardy Place, it offers an interesting look at the life of the creator of Sherlock Holmes.

Final Thoughts

Edinburgh is a beautiful city that has something for everyone. It offers a perfect blend of history, culture, nature, and cuisine. With only 48 hours in this iconic city, it might not be possible to see everything, but with this insider’s guide, you can at least experience some of the best things Edinburgh has to offer.