How to spend 5 Days in Edinburgh: The Best Itinerary + Where to Stay

You want to visit Edinburgh in 5 days and you’re looking for the best places to visit?

You’re at the right place!

In order to help you plan your stay, I have prepared for you this 5-day itinerary in Edinburgh, perfectly optimized to discover all the city’s must-see attractions.

First, I will give you all my best tips to avoid queuing at Edinburgh’s main tourist attractions. Then, I will detail the day to day program, with all the best things to do and activities for each stage of your itinerary

Of course, I will also give you all my best tips and accommodation suggestions depending on your budget.

So, what are the best places to visit in Edinburgh in 5 days? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

How to avoid waiting in line (and save a lot of time!) at Edinburgh’s tourist attractions

Scotland‘s capital, famous for its stunning gothic architecture, attracts millions of visitors each year.

And they all want to discover the incredible attractions and activities the city has to offer, like the Edinburgh Castle and the Holyrood Palace.

Maybe you have been to the Colosseum in Rome, the Palacio Real in Madrid or the Empire State Building in New York?

If yes, you already know what it means: endless waiting lines at all must-see attractions!

But don’t worry, there are 2 very simple solutions that will allow you to save a lot of time (and money!) during your 5-day trip to Edinburgh.

1. The Royal Edinburgh Ticket

The First solution, to save time and money during your 5-day stay in Edinburgh is to purchase the Royal Edinburgh Ticket.

This type of city pass exists for all the most touristic cities around the word.

Here is what’s included in the Royal Edinburgh ticket:

• Priority entrance to the Edinburgh Castle (visit of the first day of this itinerary)
• Fast track access to Holyrood Palace (also for the first day)
• Skip-the-line ticket for the Royal Yacht Britannia (day 2)
• 48 hours of unlimited travel on the 3 hop-on hop-off bus lines.

After booking your Edinburgh Ticket (using the green button below), you’ll receive a confirmation voucher by email.

You will need to redeem your Royal Edinburgh Ticket at the ticket office located on St Andrew Square (the exact address will be specified in the email).

That’s really the best city pass if you’re spending 5 days in Edinburgh.

To purchase your Royal Edinburgh Ticket, simply click on the button below:

2. Skip-the-Line Tickets for Tourist Attractions in Edinburgh

Second option: to avoid waiting in line during your 5-day Edinburgh itinerary, you can buy skip-the-line tickets for each tourist attraction or activity in advance.

The good news is that you will be able to purchase these priority tickets for all the best attractions in Edinburgh, such as the Edinburgh Castle, or the Holyrood Palace or even a Harry Potter guided tour!

Here is the list of all skip-the-line tickets and excursions I will be talking about in this itinerary.

To check the prices and to book, simply click on the orange links below (you’ll also find them throughout this article):

5 Days in Edinburgh: All Must-See attractions

• Edinburgh Castle
• Scottish Whisky Experience
• Real Mary King’s Close
• Holyrood Palace
• Guided tour of Edinburgh
• Harry Potter themed guided tour
• Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
• Whisky-themed evening with tastings
• Greyfriars Kirkyard guided tour
• Ghost-themed guided tour
• Camera Obscura and World of Illusions
• Royal Yacht Britannia
• Edinburgh Pub Crawl.

One Last Tip for a Perfect 5-Day Stay in Edinburgh

If you already know your travel dates (or as soon as you will have them!), you should really book your accommodation.

As Edinburgh is one the most touristic city in Scotland, the hotels offering the best value for money are often fully booked months in advance.

As a seasoned traveler, I can assure you that it’s always by planning as far in advance as possible that I’ve found the best hotels or apartments deals.

You agree that it would be a shame to somewhat ruin your stay in Edinburgh by ending up in a not-so-great hotel that costed you a fortune, right? 😅

So your best bet is to take 5 minutes now to have a look at traveler’s favorite hotels in Edinburgh.

And if you like one of the hotels you find, book it!

It’s fast, it’s easy and most accommodation offer free cancellation. That’s the best way to protect yourself from the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the best hotels deals in Edinburgh, simply click on the green button below:

After securing your dream stay, it’s time to continue reading this guide!

5 Days in Edinburgh: the perfect itinerary

Let’s now start your 5-day itinerary in Edinburgh!

For each day, I will give you all the details you need to plan your visits + a map that will allow you to visualize the itinerary a bit better.

I’m assuming you will be staying in Edinburgh for 5 full days and that you will be using the Royal Edinburgh Ticket or skip-the-line tickets. It’s the best way to save time and money during your 5-day stay!

If you still have questions after reading this guide (or need help organizing your holiday), don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments section located at the very end of this article.

I will be glad to help you plan your trip to Edinburgh 😄.

So, what are the best things to do in Edinburgh in 5 days?

Day 1 – Discover the historic centre of Edinburgh

Day 1 visits:

A. Edinburgh Castle
B. The Royal Mile
C. The Palace of Holyroodhouse
D. Arthur’s Seat
E. Grassmarket 
F. Greyfriars Kirkyard or Ghost tour

A. Edinburgh Castle

Let’s start your 5-day visit to Edinburgh at the beautiful Edinburgh Castle, a symbol of Scotland’s history.

The castle has been a royal residence, a military stronghold, and even a prison.

Dating back to the 12th century, it has witnessed numerous historical events, including the Wars of Scottish Independence.

Perched atop Castle Rock, it offers stunning views of the city.

You can get there on foot via the Royal Mile avenue or by taking the Hop-On Hop-Off bus which is super convenient if you’ve bought the Royal Edinburgh Ticket as it will be free.

No matter which option you opt for, you will still need to get to the top of the hill on foot.

Inside the castle, you will discover the Crown Jewels of Scotland and the famous Stone of Destiny, used in the coronation of Scottish rulers.

You will also visit the Great Hall, St. Margaret’s Chapel, the Royal Apartments and the National War Museum of Scotland.

B. The Royal Mile

Next, stroll down The Royal Mile, a historic stretch connecting Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

It’s a must-see during your 5-day trip to Edinburgh!

The street pass through the entire Old Town and is lined with shops, eateries, and historical landmarks.

Key stops include St. Giles’ Cathedral, the Heart of Midlothian, and the Museum of Edinburgh. 

But I will tell you more about the best things to see at the Royal Mile on Day 3 of this itinerary, when you will have the time to explore the most famous street of Edinburgh.

For now, you just need to walk to the end of the avenue, where  your next visit of the day is located: Holyrood Palace

C. Holyrood Palace

The Palace of Holyroodhouse is the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland and the city’s second most famous castle.

The palace is closely associated with Scotland’s turbulent past, including the story of Mary Stuart, Queen of Scots, who lived here in the 16th century.

Inside, you can explore the State Apartments, the Historic Apartments of Mary Stuart, and the beautiful gardens where you can explore the ruins of Holyrood Abbey, a great photo spot!

You will also visit the Throne Room and the Great Gallery, which houses portraits of Scottish monarchs.

Entrance to the Holyrood Palace is included with the Royal Edinburgh Ticket.

As a skip-the-line ticket is really necessary to avoid queuing for hours, if you don’t have the pass, you should buy your ticket in advance by clicking here:

D. Arthur’s Seat

Let’s continue your 5-day Edinburgh itinerary by going to Arthur’s Seat, an ancient volcano offering some of the best views of Edinburgh.

To get to the top of Arthur’s seat (251m above sea level), you will have to do a moderate hike that takes about 2 hours round trip. 

Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking 360° panorama of Edinburgh and beyond.

E. Grassmarket 

As evening falls, head to the Cowgate and Grassmarket area for dinner.

Located in the heart of Edinburgh Old Town, Grassmarket is known for its lively atmosphere, historic architecture, and excellent restaurants.

In Grassmarket, you’ll find a plethora of restaurants and pubs: from traditional Scottish cuisine to international flavors, there’s something to satisfy everyone. If you feel adventurous, you should try some local specialties like haggis or Cullen skink!

After dinner, enjoy a leisurely stroll around the area.

F. Greyfriars Kirkyard or Ghost tour

In Grassmarket, you will also find the famous Greyfriars Kirkyard Graveyard, often referred to as the world’s most haunted cemetery!

To explore it, you should really opt for a guided tour. These tours are offered every evening and last around 1h30.

The tours are super interesting, as the guide will share with you numerous stories and spooky anecdotes about Greyfriars and Edinburgh!

Additionally, the tour includes a visit to Edinburgh’s haunted vaults as a bonus.

Tours are available at two different times, one at 6 PM and another at 8 PM. You need to reserve your spot in advance by clicking on the button below:

2nd day in Edinburgh: What to do and see?

Day 2 visits:

A. The Royal Yacht Britannia
B. Calton Hill
C. Princes Street
D. Princes Street Gardens and the Scott Monument
E. The Scottish National Gallery
F. Charlotte Square

A. The Royal Yacht Britannia

Begin your second day with a visit to the Royal Yacht Britannia, once the floating royal residence of Queen Elizabeth II.

Now moored in Edinburgh’s historic port of Leith, this yacht offers a glimpse into the royal lifestyle.

You can take public transportation (or the hop-on hop-off bus if you have the Royal Edinburgh Ticket). In both cases, it will take around 30 minutes to get to Leith.

Onboard the Royal Yacht Britannia, you can explore the State Apartments, crew’s quarters, and the engine room. You will see, it’s quite far from a classic ship!

The audio guides, which is available in multiple languages, offers insights into the yacht’s fascinating history.

Make sure to stop by the Royal Deck Tea Room for a cup of tea and a scone, enjoying the same spectacular views the royal family did.

Your ticket for the Royal Yacht Britannia is included in the Royal Edinburgh Ticket.

Otherwise, you need to book in advance by using the button below:

B. Calton Hill

After heading back to the Edinburgh’s center by bus, take a leisurely hike to the top of Calton Hill, located in New Town, the modern part of the city.

It’s a relatively easy climb (only 10 minutes) and one of the best places in Edinburgh to get panoramic views of the city, including Arthur’s Seat, the Royal Mile, and the Firth of Forth.

Atop Calton Hill, you’ll find several monuments and buildings, including the National Monument, the Nelson Monument, and the City Observatory.

They all offer great photo opportunities.

C. Princes Street

After exploring Calton Hill, it’s time to head to Princes Street, Edinburgh’s main shopping boulevard.

This street is a paradise for shoppers, offering a mix of high street brands, luxury stores, and Scottish souvenirs.

As you shop, you can also take time to admire stunning views of Edinburgh Castle and the Old Town. 

You should also explore the side streets and lanes off Princes Street as well. You’ll find boutique shops, quaint cafes, and hidden gems that many tourists overlook!

D. Princes Street Gardens and the Scott Monument

Don’t forget to pass by Princes Street Gardens, a beautiful public park nestled between Princes Street and the cliff on which Edinburgh Castle sits.

Within the gardens, you’ll find the impressive Scott Monument, dedicated to the famous Scottish writer Sir Walter Scott.

For a small fee, you can climb the 287 steps to the top of the monument. The panoramic views of Edinburgh from the top are absolutely worth it.

The gardens also host various monuments, a floral clock, and during certain times of the year, festivals and events.

E. The Scottish National Gallery

Next on your Edinburgh journey is the Scottish National Gallery.

Located near Princes Street Gardens, this gallery is home to a vast collection of fine art, ranging from the Renaissance to the start of the 20th century.

Here, you can admire works by masters such as Botticelli, Rembrandt, and Van Gogh.

The gallery also boasts an impressive array of Scottish artwork, providing a deep insight into the country’s artistic heritage.

Entrance to the gallery is free.

F. Charlotte Square

To end your day, head to Charlotte Square, one of Edinburgh’s most prestigious addresses.

This square, and a big chunk of New Town, is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Charlotte Square is famous for its Georgian architecture and is home to the official residence of the First Minister of Scotland.

Day 3 – Best places to visit in Edinburgh

Day 3 visits:

A. The National Museum of Scotland
B. Camera Obscura
C. The Scotch Whisky Experience
D. St Giles’ Cathedral
E. Other Activity Ideas

A. The National Museum of Scotland

Start your 3rd day in Edinburgh at the National Museum of Scotland, one of the country’s top attractions.

This museum is a treasure trove of Scottish history, culture, science, and art, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in learning more about Scotland.

From Dolly the sheep, the first cloned mammal, to ancient artifacts, dinosaurs and interactive exhibits, the museum has something to captivate visitors of all ages.

Admission to the museum is free.

B. Camera Obscura

You should now head to the Camera Obscura and World of Illusions, located near Edinburgh Castle (it’s just a 7-minute walk from the museum).

You will experience the camera obscura show, which uses a series of mirrors to project live images of the city onto a viewing table. This clever system was invented in 1835 and it’s very impressive.

You will also be able to explore the 6 floors of this museum, filled with modern illusion exhibits, including mirror mazes, holograms, and a vortex tunnel.

For sure, this will be one of your kid’s favorite attraction during your 5-day stay to Edinburgh!

And don’t forget to go to the rooftop terrace which provides stunning panoramic views of Edinburgh.

C. The Scotch Whisky Experience

You can’t visit Edinburgh in 5 days without delving into Scotland’s world-famous whisky heritage.

The Scottish Whisky Experience, also located near Edinburgh Castle and the Camera Obscura, offers a journey through the making of Scotch whisky.

Here, you can take a guided tour that includes a barrel ride through a replica distillery, discover the different whisky regions of Scotland, and off course enjoy a whisky tasting session!

It’s the perfect way to learn about Scotland’s national drink and its importance to Scottish culture.

Even if you aren’t a whisky enthusiast (like me 😅), I’m sure you will enjoy it as it’s very interesting and fun.

To book your visit, just click on the following button:

D. St. Giles’ Cathedral

After your whisky adventure, take a short walk on the Royal Mile to St Giles’ Cathedral, also known as the High Kirk of Edinburgh.

This historic church, the oldest religious building in Edinburgh, is a stunning example of Gothic architecture and plays a significant role in Scotland’s religious history.

The cathedral’s beautiful stained glass windows and intricate carvings are a must-see.

Be sure to see the Thistle Chapel, home to the Order of the Thistle, Scotland’s chivalric company of knights headed by the Queen.

Entrance to the cathedral is free, though donations are welcomed.

If you want, you can also take a guided tour. It’s a great way to learn more about the cathedral’s fascinating history and architecture.

E. Other Activity Ideas

To complete your 3rd day in Edinburgh, you can join a guided tour of the city.

In Edinburgh, you can find numerous great themed tours that cater to different interests, whether it’s literature, history, or the supernatural.

Here are 3 of my favorite’s tours in Edinburgh:

• Harry Potter Tour

For fans of the Harry Potter series, a 2 hour walking tour exploring the magical spots in Edinburgh associated with J.K. Rowling’s famous books is a must!

Visit the cafes where Rowling wrote parts of the books and see real-life inspirations for some of the series’ locations.

All you have to do is click the button below to book it:

• Edinburgh Catacombs Tour

If you prefer to explore the city’s darker side, you should do a tour of the Edinburgh catacombs.

Delve into the underground city and hear tales of Edinburgh’s history that are as chilling as they are fascinating.

Book your Edinburgh catacombs tour by clicking here!

• The Real Mary King’s Close

Alternatively, explore The Real Mary King’s Close, a historic close located under the buildings of the Royal Mile.

This 1-hour tour gives a unique glimpse into the city’s past and daily life in Edinburgh centuries ago.

Simply click the green button below to book it:

Day 4 – Walk in Edinburgh

Day 4 visits:

A. Royal Botanical Garden
B. The Scottish national gallery of modern art
C. Dean Village
D. Stockbridge district

A. Royal Botanical Garden

Let’s continue your 5-day trip to in Edinburgh at the Royal Botanic Garden, located just a mile from the city center.

Stroll through the beautifully landscaped grounds, explore the Victorian Palm House, and discover a variety of plant species from around the world.

Don’t miss the Garden’s famous Rock Garden and the Scottish Heath Garden for a unique glimpse into Scotland’s native flora.

The garden’s viewpoints also offer stunning vistas of Edinburgh’s skyline.

B. The Scottish national gallery of modern art

Next, head to the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art.

Housed in two buildings, Modern One and Modern Two, the gallery showcases a collection of modern and contemporary art.

Explore the works of Scottish and international artists, including pieces by Picasso, Matisse, and Scottish Colourists.

The gallery’s sculpture park and landscaped grounds also offer a perfect blend of art and nature.

C. Dean Village

In the afternoon, you should go to Dean Village, a picturesque and tranquil area just a short walk from the gallery.

This hidden gem, with its cobbled streets and historic mill buildings, feels like stepping into a fairy-tale!

Dean Village is situated along the Water of Leith, Edinburgh’s river.

Take a walk along the river, enjoy stunning views of the village and discover some of Edinburgh’s most peaceful spots.

Take your time exploring the quaint streets and the charming architecture. You will see, it’s really a wonderful place to take photos and enjoy a quiet moment away from the bustling city.

D. Evening in Stockbridge district

As evening approaches, head to Stockbridge district for dinner.

Stockbridge, known for its bohemian vibe, is filled with cafes, and restaurants.

From cozy pubs serving traditional Scottish fare to trendy bistros with international cuisine, you will be spoilt for choice!

Before dinner, you can also explore the variety of boutiques and second-hand stores that Stockbridge is famous for.

Day 5 – Visit the surroundings of Edinburgh

Visiting Edinburgh in 5 days will give you enough time to do a day trip to discover the surroundings.

So for your fifth and final day, I have 4 suggestions for you:

• Option 1: Hike in the Pentland Hills National Park
• Option 2: Relax at Portobello beach
• Option 3: Visit the pretty seaside villages in North Berwick and South Queensferry
• Option 4: Visit the Scone Palace or the Stirling Castle.

Option 1: The Pentland Hills National Park

If you’re in the mood for some outdoor activity, you should head to Pentland Hills National Park.

Located just a short bus ride from the city center, these hills offer a range of trails for all levels of hikers.

The Pentland Hills boast stunning landscapes, tranquil lochs, and panoramic views of Edinburgh and the Firth of Forth.

It’s a perfect place to enjoy some fresh Scottish air!

Option 2: Portobello

For a more laid-back day, you can go to Portobello Beach, Edinburgh’s seaside.

This charming beach is a great spot for a leisurely walk along the sand, or to relax with a good book. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can try to take a dip!

The seaside promenade is lined with cafes and ice cream shops, it’s perfect for a lunch by the sea or a sweet treat. Alternatively, you can prepare a picnic to enjoy on the beach.

During the summer months, you can even rent a deck chair or try your hand at some beach volleyball.

In Portobello Beach, you can also explore the local shops and art galleries, where you can find unique souvenirs.

Option 3: Seaside villages

For those who want to discover Scotland’s traditional coastal charm, a trip to the seaside villages of North Berwick and South Queensferry is the perfect way to spend your last day.

Both are easily accessible by train or bus from Edinburgh.

North Berwick offers beautiful beaches, a picturesque harbor, and the Scottish Seabird Centre.

You can also take a boat trip to the nearby Bass Rock, known for its gannet colony or climb Berwick Law for breathtaking views of the coast and surrounding countryside.

South Queensferry, with its cobbled streets and historic buildings, is famous for the stunning Forth Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

For a perfect day, you should enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront and savor some fresh seafood in one of the local restaurants.

Option 4: Scone Palace or Stirling Castle

Alternatively, delve into Scotland’s rich history with a visit to either Scone Palace or Stirling Castle, 2 important pieces of Scottish heritage.

Scone Palace is located near Perth, and was the crowning place of Scottish kings, including Macbeth and Robert The Bruce.

The palace is surrounded by beautiful gardens and offers a glimpse into Scotland’s royal past.

Stirling Castle, one of Scotland’s largest and most important castles, is known for its stunning architecture and its pivotal role in Scottish history.

Located atop Castle Hill, it offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.

Where to Stay in Edinburgh

You now have a good idea of the best things to do in Edinburgh in 5 days!

There is just one more thing to do: booking your hotel. Where will you stay during these 5 days?

As Edinburgh is very touristic, you should really book your hotel as early as possible to secure a good deal!

To make it easier for you, here is my selection of the best accommodations in Edinburgh depending on your budget:

• Edinburgh Central Youth Hostel: Youth hostel located only 800 meters from the train station and Princes Street. Bed in a dormitory from 30€ per night, breakfast at 6€. Strong points: cleanliness, great location, friendly staff.
• Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh Haymarket: Located in the city centre, 10 minutes walk from the castle. Contemporary and elegant double room from 90€, breakfast included. Strong points: the very helpful staff, the spacious rooms, the very comfortable bed. It’s my favorite for its amazing value for money!
• Radisson Blu Hotel, Edinburgh: Located on the historic Royal Mile Street, 10 minutes from the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Chic and refined double room from 200€ per night, breakfast at 14€. Strong points: central location, spa, heated indoor swimming pool, gym, and the excellent breakfast!
• Radisson Collection Hotel, Royal Mile Edinburgh: 5 star hotel located on the Royal Mile, 600 meters away from the castle. This luxury hotel offers comfortable and elegant double rooms starting at 300€ per night, breakfast at 18€. Strong points: located in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic centre, the interior design, very helpful staff, absolute comfort. This is the best hotel for a luxury stay in Edinburgh!

Edinburgh in 5 days with kids

Wondering if this 5-day itinerary in Edinburgh is possible and would be enjoyable with your family?

The answer is yes, of course!

Depending on the age of your kids, you might need to make a few slight changes to this itinerary.

They’ll love most of places to visit and activities mentioned, but for example, you might have to skip the whisky experience or the ghost tour.

I have made you a list of visits and activities in Edinburgh that kids enjoy the most:

• Visiting Edinburgh Castle: there is a special treasure hunt designed for children.
• Stopping at the Harry Potter shop on the Royal Mile, and for older kids, booking the guided tour dedicated to the young wizard!
• Discovering the National Museum of Scotland and its giant animal and dinosaurs skeletons
• Visiting Camera Obscura and World of Illusions.

Other ideas of things to do and see in Edinburgh in 5 Days

You’ve followed my 5-day itinerary in Edinburgh and have a bit more time left in the city?

In this case, you should read my guide of the best places to visit in Edinburgh: The 20 Best Things to Do in Edinburgh.

There, you will for sure find even more ideas of activities and things to see during your 5-day trip to Edinburgh!

Map of Your 5-Day Itinerary in Edinburgh

To help you visualize your itineraries over these 5 days in Edinburgh, I’ve created a map listing the places to visit day by day. You can display the map legend by clicking on the top left button with a small arrow. This will allow you to view the itineraries for each day.

Find the best flight prices for your 5 days in Edinburgh

Since the price of flights to Edinburgh can vary a lot, it’s a good idea to compare them as early as possible. For this, you can use our flight comparison tool, in partnership with Skyscanner. It’s the guarantee of getting the best fare.

Need help organizing your 5-day itinerary in Edinburgh? Feel free to ask me your questions in the comments.

Scotland travel Guides

• Buy the Lonely Planet Scotland guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
• Buy the DK Eyewitness Scotland guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk

You’re traveling to Scotland? These articles will help you!

Discover all my articles about Scotland: All my articles to help you plan your trip to Scotland are listed there.

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• Itinerary: 4-5 days in Scotland – The perfect itinerary for a short stay in Scotland
• Itinerary: 1 week in Scotland – The best Itinerary to visit Edinburgh + The Highlands + The Isle of Skye
• Itinerary: 10 days in Scotland – The definitive guide to visit Scotland in 9-10 days
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Scotland – The best Itinerary to visit Scotland in 14-15 days

• Edinburgh: Top 20 best things to do
• Glasgow: All tourist attractions
• Isle of Skye: The 20 best places to visit

• 2 Days in Edinburgh – How to visit Edinburgh in 48h
• 3 days in Edinburgh – The perfect itinerary
• 4 Days in Edinburgh – The best places to visit in 4 days
• 5 days in Edinburgh – The ultimate itinerary to visit Scotland’s capital

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