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3 Days in Edinburgh: The Best Itinerary for Your Visit
Table of contents
Best Things to Do with 3 Days in Edinburgh
Itinerary in Edinburgh: day 1
Explore the Royal Mile
An exploration of the famed Royal Mile is the perfect way to launch your Edinburgh itinerary of 3 days booked through Voyage Privé. This iconic thoroughfare is loaded with one amazing attraction after another and is also home to some of the area's best restaurants, cafés and traditional pubs. From St Giles's Cathedral to the Scottish Storytelling Centre, you are sure to have an amazing time wandering around in this unique area of the Scottish capital. This renowned stretch begins at Holyrood Palace and ends at our next point of interest.
Tour Edinburgh Castle
At the end of the Royal Mile, you will arrive at what is probably the most iconic and recognizable site in the city. Edinburgh Castle looks over the area from atop a rocky hilltop, which is actually an extinct volcano plug. Construction on this venerable location began in the 11th century CE and has continued on since that time. The castle is home to the Crown Jewels of Scotland as well as the Stone of Destiny and the National War Museum of Scotland. Guided tours are offered by the stewards, with audio available in 8 different languages.
Itinerary in Edinburgh: day 2
The National Museum of Scotland
There are plenty of reasons to make the National Museum of Scotland your first stop on the second leg of your Edinburgh itinerary of 3 days. Outside of London, this is the most visited attraction in the United Kingdom. It is home to a huge range of artefacts, works of art and unique objects across multiple galleries and categories. During your visit, you will discover fascinating facts about the history, culture and art of Scotland. Some of the site's most celebrated items include the Lewis chess pieces, the Queen Mary harp and the Monymusk reliquary.
The Grassmarket
Edinburgh's Grassmarket is located in one of the oldest areas of the city and is renowned for its fantastic architecture. It was once a site for public executions but is now a lively part of the city. During your exploration of this vibrant district, you will come across plenty of opportunities to purchase high-quality gifts and souvenirs since the area is home to some of the area's top artisans, merchants and designers. You can also try some of the snacks on offer here.
Itinerary in Edinburgh: day 3
Holyrood Palace
Holyrood Palace serves as the official residence of the British monarchy in Scotland whenever the king is staying in the city. Whether you are a lover of architecture, a history buff, or simply want to explore one of the most popular attractions in the city, you cannot go wrong with a visit to the palace. Originally founded as a monastery in 1128, it was significantly transformed during the 1670s by the famed architect Sir William Bruce.
St Giles' Cathedral
The third day of your unforgettable holiday in Edinburgh wraps up with a visit to St Giles Cathedral. It is known for its iconic stained glass windows and its intricate carvings that can be found on the roof of the Chapel of the Order of the Thistle. Historically, the church played a key role in the protestant reformation in Scotland. These days, it is one of the country's most important historic monuments and a must-see spot for first-time visitors or those who have simply never seen it before.
Places to visit around Edinburgh
The Kelpies
Located an hour to the west of Edinburgh by car, you will find one of Scotland's most intriguing and iconic monuments and a great place to head for a day trip during your 3-day itinerary. The Kelpies are located in the town of Grangemouth. These horse-headed sculptures stand 30 metres in height and conjure up images of Scottish folklore. Tradition says that kelpies were shape-shifting spirits that looked like black horses and could take on human form. The attraction was first opened to the public in 2014 and represents the perfect opportunity for some amazing photos.
Cairngorms National Park
Head just under 2 hours to the north of Edinburgh for an unforgettable day trip to Cairngorms National Park. This is the perfect option for a break from the city's hustle and bustle. It is home to some of the most unique landscapes in the world as well as fascinating species of wildlife. There are a total of 9 National Nature Reserves in the park as well as a variety of restaurants serving up delicious meals and refreshing drinks.
Where to stay in Edinburgh
1. Hotel Indigo Edinburgh 4*
You will find 60 luxuriously appointed rooms and suites when you book a stay at the Hotel Indigo Edinburgh 4* through Voyage Privé. The property is located in the heart of the city in a historic Georgian townhouse. It is also just a short walk from top attractions and points of interest, such as the Edinburgh Playhouse and Princes Street. During your stay, you will be comfortably accommodated in a Standard Room with breakfast served each morning.
You will love the amenities, features and facilities available during your stay at Hotel Indigo Edinburgh 4*. They include Wi-Fi air conditioning, a bar, daily breakfast, a fitness centre and plenty of great in-room facilities. The hotel is also just a short walk from Waverly Station, which makes it ideal for travelling around the region and beyond.
What we like: We love this fantastic property's incredible location in the heart of Edinburgh as well as its convenient proximity to top attractions. The various luxury facilities here further add to the appeal.
2. Stewart by Heeton Concept - Aparthotel Edinburgh 4*
Featuring 31 unique, boutique-style apartments, the Stewart by Heeton Concept - Aparthotel Edinburgh 4* is an excellent choice for an unforgettable city break. Each of these properties features an open-plan sitting room as well as a fully-equipped kitchen with a washing machine and dishwasher. The fact that this accommodation is located in the heart of Edinburgh adds further to its appeal as it is only a short walk to spots like Edinburgh Castle and Princes Street.
We are sure you will be impressed with the services and amenities that you will find in your luxurious apartment. They include a 24-hour reception desk and Wi-Fi, a shower, a hairdryer, a kettle, a refrigerator, a coffee machine, air conditioning, a safe and a television. All this adds up to the perfect booking for your Edinburgh itinerary of 3 days.
What we like: There is plenty to love about these luxurious apartments that are available through our travel team at Voyage Privé. This is a great option for a romantic escape or a family getaway. The added level of privacy that you enjoy with an apartment booking is another perk that is hard to deny. It is an excellent choice for travellers who intend to spend their 3-day itinerary exploring this iconic city.
3. InterContinental Edinburgh The George 5*
You will enjoy a true 5-star hotel experience when you choose one of the 240 luxurious rooms located at the InterContinental Edinburgh The George 5*. Marvel at original features such as ornate pillars, lofty ceilings and delicate glass light fittings. These are some of the design elements that you will encounter at this stunning Georgian property located in the heart of the city. Nearby attractions include the Princes Street Gardens and Edinburgh Castle. During your stay, you will enjoy mouth-watering meals served at the Printing Press Bar & Kitchen.
Key hotel facilities and amenities you will enjoy during your stay at this fabulous 5-star accommodation include laundry and concierge services, Wi-Fi, a 24-hour reception desk and a pair of dining/bar facilities. You will love getting your mornings started by heading down to Burr & Co Coffee Shop for a coffee and a bite to eat.
What we like: We love the prime location offered by this property as well as its excellent dining options and its stunning, period design features that present an atmosphere of class and sophistication.
4. The Bonham Hotel 5*
The Bonham Hotel 5* is another incredible booking option for those looking for a 5-star stay during their Edinburgh itinerary of 3 days spent in the Scottish capital. You will be accommodated in a Superior Double Room with breakfast served each morning. Nearby locations of interest include Edinburgh Castle, Calton Hill and Arthur's Seat.
Going through the on-site amenities and features at the Bonham Hotel 5*, you will find the No.35 bar and restaurant, luggage storage, Wi-Fi and a concierge service. Your in-room facilities include a refrigerator, a safe, a television, a kettle and a hairdryer.
What we like: We love the fantastic location that this property offers for those planning to enjoy a 3-day holiday exploring all the delights of Edinburgh while on foot.
5. Novotel Edinburgh City Centre 4*
As noted in the property's name, the Novotel Edinburgh City Centre 4* is located in the heart of the region and close to iconic locations like the Royal Mile. It also enjoys proximity to plenty of the finest dining and nightlife hotspots in the city. During your stay, you can sample a delicious selection of craft beers and signature cocktails that are served up at the on-site Tap Music Lounge. It all adds up to an unforgettable break to the Scottish capital spread across three days.
There is no shortage of sought-after amenities and key features that you can enjoy when you book this hotel for your Edinburgh itinerary of 3 days. Leisure facilities include a fitness centre, an indoor pool, a sauna, a hammam, a Jacuzzi, a relaxation pool, an outdoor swimming pool and spa treatments.
What we like: We love this property's city centre location, its lineup of craft beers and signature cocktails and its relaxing infinity pool. Overall, the property truly shines when it comes to its leisure facilities.
Practical tips for visiting Edinburgh
When it comes to practical tips for booking an Edinburgh itinerary of 3 days, you want to remember that the weather in Scotland can be quite unpredictable and quite cold. It rains often, which means that you should ensure that you are prepared. It is also worth making sure that you take a good pair of walking shoes to Edinburgh if you plan to do plenty of exploring on foot. Also, bear in mind that the local currency is the pound sterling.
When to visit Edinburgh
In terms of weather, the warmest months in the Edinburgh area run from June to August. This time of year is characterised by its long days and ample sunshine. It is also the best time to visit for a variety of local festivals. An off-season booking in early spring or autumn is also sure to be rewarding and could save you some money. This is also an excellent time to book if you want to avoid the largest crowds of tourists.
How to get to Edinburgh
Getting to Edinburgh is a simple process, given the extensive network of road and railway options. There is no shortage of bus and train routes as well as taxi services and the option of hiring a car. If you are flying into the area, the closest major airport is Edinburgh Airport.
What to eat in Edinburgh
Trying out the best of a local area's cuisine is a must anytime you book a short getaway or an extended stay. The Scottish capital is no exception to this rule, with plenty of local and regional delights for you to try out. There are plenty of favourites that you simply must sample during your Edinburgh itinerary of 3 days. They include the freshest local seafood, a traditional Scottish breakfast, haggis, a fish supper with chips and Cullen skink. The good news is the fact that it is easy to find a variety of local eateries that serve up these amazing food items.