9 Days in Edinburgh: A Journey through History and Culture

Nicole Langford

8 Dec 2023

Embark on a thrilling adventure through the enchanting city of Edinburgh. Discover hidden gems, iconic landmarks, and immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of Scotland's capital.

Trip to Edinburgh

Tours & Activities

Viator Tours

Day 1Serenity in Dean Village and Contemporary Art at Modern One

Bucolic village abutting a tranquil stream, with gardens, 19th-century buildings & a museum.

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

•

Free

10 - 15 min

Directions

National Galleries of Scotland: Modern One

Modern art collection from Miro to Hockney, alongside new exhibitions, sculpture park and cafe.

9:30 AM - 11:30 AM

•

Free

Day 2Wildlife Wonders at Edinburgh Zoo and Spiritual Splendor at St Giles' Cathedral

$35

$ 3

Large parkland zoo offering keeper talks, hands-on animal encounters and free hilltop safari rides.

8:00 AM - 11:00 AM

•

$23

15 - 18 min

Directions

Grand, Gothic medieval building & Presbyterian place of worship where John Knox used to preach.

11:30 AM - 12:30 PM

•

$13

Day 3Botanical Bliss at Royal Botanic Garden and Tranquility at Princes Street Gardens

$10

$ 3

Manicured 70-acre gardens with palm house and temporary exhibitions, kids' events, tours and cafes.

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

•

$10

8 - 10 min

Directions

Green Flag park of geological/botanical interest, home to several public monuments and memorials.

10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

•

Free

Day 4Unveiling Secrets at The Real Mary King's Close and Nature's Majesty at Holyrood Park

$19

Walking tours through the maze of hidden streets below the city, with tales by costumed guides.

8:00 AM - 9:30 AM

•

$19

Parkland around the slopes & crags of Arthur's Seat, with walking & cycling paths & a loch.

10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

•

Free

Day 5Regal Opulence at Palace of Holyroodhouse and Panoramic Views from Calton Hill

$25

The 16th-century palace of the Stuarts, with tours of royal reception rooms, antiques & relics.

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

•

$25

19 - 28 min

Directions

Prominent hill with neoclassical monuments & sweeping views of the city skyline & Edinburgh Castle.

10:30 AM - 11:30 AM

•

Free

Day 6Historic Stroll along the Royal Mile and Maritime Majesty on The Royal Yacht Britannia

$19

$ 3

Buzzing street linking Edinburgh Castle with Holyrood Palace, lined with quaint eateries & shops.

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

•

Free

16 - 20 min

Directions

Large oceanic liner used by Britain's royal family on official state visits for more than 40 years.

10:30 AM - 12:30 PM

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$19

Day 7Majestic Edinburgh Castle and Whisky Tasting at The Scotch Whisky Experience

$57

An 11th-century castle and barracks housing the Crown Jewels and National War Museum of Scotland.

8:00 AM - 11:00 AM

•

$31

4 - 6 min

Directions

Attraction telling the tale of Scotland's national drink with high-tech exhibits and a barrel ride.

11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

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$25

Day 8Artistic Treasures at National Galleries: National and Mystical Beauty of Rosslyn Chapel

$15

$ 3

National Galleries of Scotland: National

National collection including European masterpieces & Scottish works, with seasonal exhibitions.

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

•

Free

25 - 30 min

Directions

Intricately carved chapel built in 1446, featured in The Da Vinci Code movie, with history talks.

10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

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$15

Day 9Optical Illusions at Camera Obscura & World of Illusions and Scottish Heritage at National Museum of Scotland

$19

Long-standing tower with 5 floors showcasing hands-on exhibits of whimsical optical illusions.

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

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$19

8 - 11 min

Directions

Bright, modern museum housing Scottish industrial history relics, natural history displays & a cafe.

10:30 AM - 12:30 PM

•

Free

Budget breakdown: $207 In total

Activities & Food:$198

Transport:$10