Edinburgh 7-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrive in Edinburgh

Arrive at Edinburgh Airport (EDI), clear customs, and take a taxi or airport tram/bus to your accommodation in the city center.

Allow time for transfer and check-in.

Hotel Check-in

Check into your hotel, unpack, and refresh before beginning your exploration of Edinburgh.

The hotel is centrally located, offering easy access to many attractions.

Royal Mile Exploration

Begin your Edinburgh adventure with a leisurely stroll down the historic Royal Mile, the main artery of the Old Town.

Admire the architecture, browse souvenir shops, and soak in the atmosphere.

Starts from Edinburgh Castle and leads down to Holyrood Palace. Many side closes and hidden gems to discover.

Dinner in Old Town

Enjoy a traditional Scottish dinner at a cozy pub or restaurant in the Old Town area.

Consider trying haggis, neeps, and tatties for a true Scottish experience.

Edinburgh Castle Visit

Explore the historic Edinburgh Castle, home to the Scottish Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny, and St.

Margaret's Chapel. Don't miss the One O'Clock Gun fired from the Argyle Battery.

Book tickets online in advance, especially during early summer, to guarantee entry and skip queues.

Lunch in Old Town

Enjoy lunch at a café or restaurant near the castle or on Victoria Street.

St Giles' Cathedral

Visit St Giles' Cathedral, the historic 'Mother Church of Presbyterianism' in Scotland.

Admire its stunning stained glass and Thistle Chapel.

Entry is free, but donations are welcome. Photography passes may be required for certain areas.

Victoria Street & Grassmarket

Wander through the picturesque Victoria Street, known for its colorful storefronts and independent shops, leading down to the historic Grassmarket square, bustling with pubs and cafes.

Great for unique souvenir shopping and enjoying a coffee.

Dinner & Drinks

Savor dinner at one of the many lively restaurants or pubs in the Grassmarket area.

Award-Winning Cycle Tour

Join 'A Wee Pedal's' award-winning circular cycle tour to experience Edinburgh from a unique perspective, praised for high-quality guest experience and supporting the local community.

Learn about the city's rich history and vibrant culture.

Visit Scotland's award-winning 'Best outdoor experience'. All equipment provided. Booking required.

Lunch in Leith

After your cycle tour, enjoy lunch in the vibrant port district of Leith, known for its diverse culinary scene.

Lind & Lime Gin Tour

Take a tour and tasting at the Lind and Lime Gin Distillery in Leith.

Learn about the history and production of their balanced gin, forged from Edinburgh's heritage.

Booking required. Highly rated experience.

Dinner in Leith

Experience the culinary delights of Leith with dinner at one of its acclaimed restaurants.

Glenfinnan Viaduct & Glencoe Day Tour

Embark on a full-day tour from Edinburgh to the Scottish Highlands.

Witness the spectacular scenery of Glencoe, visit the iconic Glenfinnan Viaduct (famous from Harry Potter), and explore the beauty of Loch Shiel.

This tour offers breathtaking landscapes and photo opportunities. Pack snacks and drinks, and wear comfortable shoes. Booking required.

Late Dinner upon Return

After a long day of touring, enjoy a relaxed late dinner near your hotel.

Hike Arthur's Seat

Hike to the summit of Arthur's Seat, an ancient volcano and the main peak of the group of hills in Holyrood Park, offering unparalleled panoramic views of Edinburgh and beyond.

Wear comfortable walking shoes. The hike can be steep in places but rewards with stunning vistas. There are multiple paths, some easier than others.

Lunch near Holyrood

Grab a relaxed lunch in the area near Holyrood Park or the Royal Mile.

National Museum of Scotland

Spend the afternoon exploring the vast collections of the National Museum of Scotland, covering Scottish history, natural history, and world cultures.

Entry is free. It's a large museum, so pick sections that interest you most.

Princes Street Shopping

Enjoy some retail therapy on Princes Street, Edinburgh's main shopping thoroughfare, with views of the castle.

Farewell Edinburgh Dinner

Indulge in a special dinner to mark your last night in Edinburgh, perhaps at a restaurant offering modern Scottish cuisine.

Drive to Scottish Highlands

Embark on a scenic drive from Edinburgh northwards into the heart of the Scottish Highlands, heading towards Fort Augustus at the southern tip of Loch Ness.

Enjoy the changing landscapes from rolling hills to dramatic mountains.

Lunch in Fort Augustus

Enjoy a hearty lunch at a local pub or cafe in the charming village of Fort Augustus, located by the Caledonian Canal and Loch Ness.

Loch Ness Boat Tour

Take a captivating boat cruise on the legendary Loch Ness, keeping an eye out for 'Nessie' while soaking in the majestic scenery.

Several local operators offer cruises from Fort Augustus. Look for options like Jacobite Cruises or Cruise Loch Ness.

Urquhart Castle Visit

Explore the dramatic ruins of Urquhart Castle, one of Scotland's largest castles, with a visitor center and spectacular views over Loch Ness.

Check into Accommodation

Check into your luxury accommodation at Highland Club Scotland, nestled on the shores of Loch Ness.

Dinner in Fort Augustus

Enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant or your accommodation in Fort Augustus, savoring Highland specialties.

Explore Glencoe Valley

Drive through the breathtaking Glencoe Valley, renowned for its dramatic mountain peaks, deep glens, and rich history.

Stop at various viewpoints for photos and short walks.

Don't miss iconic spots like the Three Sisters and Glencoe Lochan. Dress warmly as weather can change quickly.

Lunch Stop

Enjoy lunch at a cafe or restaurant in Glencoe village or along your route back towards Edinburgh.

Drive to Edinburgh Airport

Begin your return journey from the Highlands towards Edinburgh Airport, allowing ample time for the scenic drive and any stops.

Return Rental Car

Return your rental car at Edinburgh Airport's car rental facility.

Airport Check-in & Security

Proceed with check-in and security procedures for your international flight from Edinburgh.

Departure Flight to Zadar

Board your flight from Edinburgh back to Zadar, concluding your Scottish adventure.