Day 1: Old Town Charm & Castle Views

Morning | A Quiet Start in Old Town

📍 Victoria Street & Grassmarket
Start your morning with a peaceful stroll through Victoria Street, one of Edinburgh’s most iconic and colorful streets. With its curving architecture and vibrant shopfronts, it’s the perfect spot for early morning photos before the crowds arrive. Wander down to Grassmarket, a historic square lined with cozy pubs and great views of Edinburgh Castle.

📍 Rock Salt Café
After soaking in Old Town’s charm, head to Rock Salt for breakfast. This hidden gem serves up excellent coffee and hearty Scottish breakfast options to fuel your day. Try the full Scottish breakfast or a classic avocado toast.

📍 Greyfriars Kirkyard
A short walk from Rock Salt, Greyfriars Kirkyard is steeped in history—and a must for Harry Potter fans. You’ll find tombstones that inspired J.K. Rowling’s character names, including Tom Riddle and McGonagall. Don’t forget to stop by the statue of Greyfriars Bobby, the loyal Skye Terrier.

📍 Edinburgh Castle
Head up the Royal Mile to explore Edinburgh Castle, Scotland’s most famous landmark. Step inside the Great Hall, see the Crown Jewels, and take in the panoramic views of the city from this centuries-old fortress.

Midday | Classic Pubs & Hidden Gardens

📍 Mash Bar
For a cozy lunch, grab a seat at Mash Bar, a local favorite serving Scottish comfort food and craft beer. If you’re up for it, try the haggis with neeps and tatties but you can’t go wrong with any combination of their mashed potatoes and meat of your choice.

Red Hair Scale: Fiery Red – it’s a heavy meal, be warned! But it is so so good.

📍 Princes Street Gardens & Ross Fountain
Walk down to Princes Street Gardens, a peaceful green space nestled beneath the castle. Don’t miss Ross Fountain, one of the city’s most picturesque spots, with a backdrop of the castle towering above.

Evening | New Town Indulgence & Speakeasy Vibes

📍 Dinner at Fazenda
For an elevated dinner experience, head to Fazenda, a Brazilian steakhouse where you’ll enjoy an endless selection of grilled meats paired with fine wines and craft cocktails.

Red Hair Scale: Fiery Red – best splurge dinner I have had in all of the UK to date!

📍 Panda & Sons
End your night at Panda & Sons, a hidden speakeasy disguised as a vintage barbershop. Their inventive cocktails and intimate setting make it the perfect spot for a nightcap.

Red Hair Scale: Fiery Red – best place for vibes, drinks, a night cap, a date night. This speakeasy is just overall a great choice for whatever you are feeling!

Day 2: Coffee, Hikes, & Edinburgh’s Best Pubs

Morning | A Hiker’s Breakfast

📍 Greenwoods
Fuel up for the day at Greenwoods, one of the best brunch spots in Edinburgh. The banana bread with mascarpone is a must-try, but if you’re craving something savory, go for the full Scottish breakfast.

📍 Arthur’s Seat Hike
After breakfast, take on the Arthur’s Seat hike, a 45-minute trek to the top of an extinct volcano. The 360-degree views over Edinburgh are well worth the climb.

Midday | A Sweet Treat & Caffeine Fix

📍 Room & Rumors Coffee
After your hike, reward yourself with one of Room & Rumors’ exceptional donuts and lattes. If you’re lucky you’ll get the window seat with a beautiful view of the Edinburgh Castle.

Red Hair Scale: Fiery Red – anyone who knows me, knows I love good coffee spot. This one is my top pick in Edinburgh from their donuts (just get one) to the view and the coffee.

📍 Wander the Royal Mile
Spend the afternoon at your own pace—pop into independent bookshops, browse local tartan stores, or visit the Museum of Edinburgh for a dose of history.

Evening | Live Music & Farewell Drinks

📍 Dinner at The World’s End
For a final dinner to remember, unwind at The World’s End, a historic pub with a cozy atmosphere. Order the fish & chips or steak & ale pie—both perfect for refueling.

📍 The Jazz Bar
End your trip with a relaxed drink at The Jazz Bar, where live music, candlelit tables, and a laid-back crowd make for the perfect send-off.