Planning 2 days in Edinburgh but not sure where to start? I’ve mapped out the perfect 48-hour route through Scotland’s capital that hits all the major sites without feeling rushed.
This guide covers what you need to know before arriving, a day-by-day plan through the Old Town and New Town, and practical tips I wish someone had told me during my first visit.
You’ll learn how to navigate the city on foot, which attractions deserve your time, and where to eat like a local. I’ve included realistic walking routes, budget-friendly options, and honest advice about what two days can actually cover.
You’ll find: historic castle tours, scenic viewpoints, traditional pubs, and hidden streets that make Edinburgh special.
What to Know Before Visiting Edinburgh
Two days covers Edinburgh’s main attractions. Most sites sit within a 30-minute walk. You’ll see the castle, Royal Mile, one viewpoint, National Museum, and historic neighborhoods.
You’ll miss Highland day trips but 48 hours works well for first-timers.
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer mild weather, fewer crowds, and better rates. Summer brings high prices, especially during August’s Fringe Festival.
Winter means low prices but short days. Bring a waterproof jacket year-round.
Walk everywhere. Old Town to New Town takes 15 minutes. Lothian Buses cost £2.00 single or £5.00 day pass when needed. Airlink 100 runs from the airport to city center for £5.00.
Wear comfortable shoes.
Old Town offers the best location for first-timers. New Town provides quieter streets with larger hotels. Book early for summer. Look for hotels near Waverley Station or Princes Street.
2-Day Edinburgh Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
This itinerary balances historic sites, scenic views, and local experiences without rushing through the city.
Day 1: Exploring Edinburgh’s Historic Old Town
Start at Edinburgh Castle around 9 AM. Walk downhill along the Royal Mile to St Giles’ Cathedral. Find hidden closes like Mary King’s Close and Advocate’s Close.
Visit Edinburgh Castle by 10:30 AM with pre-booked tickets. See the Crown Jewels, Stone of Destiny, and One O’Clock Gun. Allow 2 to 3 hours. Book online to skip lines.
For lunch, try The Devil’s Advocate (£12 to 18), Halfway House (£10 to 14), or Oink for pulled pork rolls under £7.
Walk to the Grassmarket below the castle, then climb to Victoria Street. This colorful curved street inspired Diagon Alley. Visit Greyfriars Kirkyard, Edinburgh’s most famous cemetery with the Greyfriars Bobby statue. Entry is free, and takes 45 minutes.
For evening dinner, try The White Hart Inn (£12 to 16), Howies (£18 to 25), or visit The Bow Bar for 300 plus whiskies. For live music, check Sandy Bell’s or Captain’s Bar.
Day 2: Scenic Views & Cultural Highlights
Choose Arthur’s Seat for 45 to 90 minutes round trip or Calton Hill for a 5 to 10 minute climb. Both offer great views. Bring a jacket.
Visit the National Museum of Scotland on Chambers Street. Free entry. See Scotland galleries, Dolly the Sheep, and Lewis Chessmen. Allow 2 hours. Take the elevator to the 7th floor rooftop terrace for free city views.
For lunch, try Loudons Café (£10 to 14), Urban Angel under £10, or Peter’s Yard (£6 to 9).
Cross North Bridge into New Town. Walk down George Street to see Georgian architecture. Visit Princes Street Gardens, a free public park. Walk to Dean Village, a former milling community. It takes 20 minutes from Princes Street. Plan 30 to 45 minutes.
For final dinner, try The Gardener’s Cottage (£35 to 45), The Scran & Scallie (£18 to 25), or The Dogs under £15.
Evening activities include ghost tours (£15 to 20), evening walks along Royal Mile, or live music starting around 9 PM.
Sample Map for This 2-Day Edinburgh Itinerary
Day 1 covers Edinburgh Castle to Royal Mile to St Giles’ Cathedral to Grassmarket to Victoria Street to Greyfriars Kirkyard. Total walking is 3 to 4 miles, mostly downhill.
Day 2 includes Arthur’s Seat or Calton Hill to National Museum to New Town to George Street to Princes Street Gardens to Dean Village. Total walking is 4 to 6 miles depending on viewpoint choice.
Old Town cluster has Castle, Royal Mile, Grassmarket, and Greyfriars within a 15-minute walk. New Town cluster has Georgian architecture and Princes Street. East cluster contains Arthur’s Seat and Holyrood Park. West cluster includes Dean Village and Water of Leith.
The itinerary minimizes backtracking. Most attractions sit within a 30-minute walk of each other. You’ll cover 7 to 10 miles total across both days at a comfortable pace.
Final Tips for First-Time Visitors to Edinburgh
Make the most of your 48 hours with these practical tips that save money and help you avoid common tourist mistakes.
- Visit free attractions and book smart. The National Museum of Scotland, Greyfriars Kirkyard, Arthur’s Seat, and Calton Hill cost nothing. Book accommodation outside peak season and pre-book attractions online for discounts. Budget £40 to 60 per person daily for food.
- Wear comfortable shoes and pack for rain. Cobblestones and hills destroy dress shoes. Wear walking shoes or trainers. Edinburgh gets rain year-round, so bring waterproof layers. Don’t take a car. The city is compact and walkable.
- Don’t skip New Town or overpack your schedule. Most tourists miss the Georgian architecture across the gardens. Two days isn’t enough for everything. Pick your priorities and save Highland trips for next time.
- Arrive early and walk everywhere. Edinburgh Castle at 9:30 AM beats noon for smaller crowds. Walking lets you see hidden closes and local life. Talk to locals for recommendations. Download offline maps as hills create cell service dead zones.
- Eat Scottish food and stay flexible. Try haggis, Cullen skink, or steak pie. Don’t eat only on the Royal Mile where prices are inflated. Walk two blocks for better value. Have backup indoor plans for rain.
Conclusion
Edinburgh gives you the perfect 48-hour city break. I’ve walked these routes multiple times and they showcase what makes Scotland’s capital memorable without feeling rushed.
You’ll see medieval streets, climb a volcano, eat haggis, and drink whisky. The compact layout means you spend time experiencing the city instead of commuting between sites.
Two days proves enough for first-timers. You’ll leave wanting to return, which feels about right. Book those flights, pack comfortable shoes, and get ready for Scotland.
Have you visited Edinburgh? What would you add to a 2-day itinerary? Share in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you walk everywhere in Edinburgh in 2 days?
Yes, Edinburgh’s city center is very walkable. Old Town, New Town, and major attractions sit within 30 minutes of each other on foot. Buses are available if you get tired.
Do I need to book Edinburgh Castle tickets in advance?
Booking ahead is smart during summer and festival season to skip ticket counter lines. Online tickets guarantee entry and let you visit early morning for the smallest crowds.
What’s better for first-time visitors, Arthur’s Seat or Calton Hill?
Arthur’s Seat offers better views but requires 45-90 minutes and moderate fitness. Calton Hill takes only 10 minutes to climb and still provides great city views.
Is Edinburgh expensive for tourists?
Edinburgh costs more than other UK cities outside London. Budget £40-60 daily per person for food, plus attraction fees. Many top sites are free including museums and viewpoints.
How many days do you really need in Edinburgh?
Two days covers the main city attractions at a comfortable pace. Three to four days allows for day trips. First-timers find 2-3 days ideal.