3 Days in Edinburgh - 72-Hour Itinerary (2024)

Just walking up the esplanade on approach, you know you're about to step into one of Scotland's most special historic buildings. Take in the views across the city and learn about the dramatic events which have played out between these ancient walls as you explore great halls, royal chambers, monuments and dungeons. To avoid disappointment, make sure to book your tickets far in advance for guaranteed entry.

At the bottom of the Royal Mile you'll find the Canongate and Holyrood area of the Old Town which dates back over 800 years. The Palace of Holyroodhouse is an elegant royal residence with links to monarchs from throughout the centuries situated at the foot of the Royal Mile. Today it is the official Scottish residence of His Majesty The King.

Take a tour and see Mary Queen of Scots' bedchamber and the room where her confidante, David Rizzio, was brutally murdered. If you've got time afterwards, pop into the Scottish Parliament opposite for a tour.

Another great way to get a feel for this exciting city is to take an open-top Edinburgh Bus Tour. Departing from Waverley Bridge, the tour is an hour in total. It's a hop-on, hop-off service which gives you the freedom to do a bit of exploring along the route. You'll pass some awesome parts of the city such as the New Town, Old Town andGrassmarket, and seeEdinburgh Castle, the National Museum of Scotland,The Palace of Holyroodhouse, and much more.

The Royal Yacht Britannia is named by many as one of the UK's best attractions.Step on board the late Queen Elizabeth II's former floating Royal residence, where you'll see the engine room, a Rolls Royce and state apartments across five decks. After the tour, take some time to explore the Shore in Leith, one of the most fashionable areas to live in Edinburgh.

Spend a few hours touring the Royal Botanic Garden with its wonderful glasshouses, exhibitions and a world of colourful plants and shrubs. It's located in the Inverleith part of the city and is just a mile from the city centre.

Head to Princes Street and George Street, the ideal destinations for some retail therapy. There's a huge range of top high street brands, or if you like designer stores, head toMultrees Walk and the new St James Quarter which also has an amazing selection of eateries.

If shopping isn't your thing, then why not head toCalton Hillto the east of Princes Street? It's home to the National Monument and offers some superb city skyline views. Or, if you're in the mood for a bit of culture, head to the Scottish National Gallery to see some masterpieces for free.