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8 Days in Edinburgh: Uncover the Secrets of Scotland's Capital

laura Nieto Serrano

laura Nieto Serrano

13 Jan 2024

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the historic streets of Edinburgh. Immerse yourself in the rich culture, stunning landscapes, and hidden gems this vibrant city has to offer. From ancient marvels to breathtaking views, this itinerary will take you on an adventure you won't soon forget.

Day 1Beaches, Secrets, and Gothic Wonders
+

$125

·

$ 10

Portobello Beach
Traditional seaside pursuits on the prom with sandy stretches of beach overlooking the Forth.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Free
21 - 26 min

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Directions

The Real Mary King's Close
Walking tours through the maze of hidden streets below the city, with tales by costumed guides.
10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
$75
2 - 3 min

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Directions

St Giles' Cathedral
Grand, Gothic medieval building & Presbyterian place of worship where John Knox used to preach.
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
$50
Day 2Majestic Peaks and Royal Residences
+

$100

·

$ 10

Holyrood Park
Parkland around the slopes & crags of Arthur's Seat, with walking & cycling paths & a loch.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Free
7 - 9 min

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Directions

Palace of Holyroodhouse
The 16th-century palace of the Stuarts, with tours of royal reception rooms, antiques & relics.
10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
$100
Day 3Museums, History, and Panoramic Vistas
+

$0

National Museum of Scotland
Bright, modern museum housing Scottish industrial history relics, natural history displays & a cafe.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Free
6 - 9 min

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Directions

Royal Mile
Buzzing street linking Edinburgh Castle with Holyrood Palace, lined with quaint eateries & shops.
10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Free
10 - 15 min

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Directions

Calton Hill
Prominent hill with neoclassical monuments & sweeping views of the city skyline & Edinburgh Castle.
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Free
Day 4Regal Voyages and Botanical Bliss
+

$115

·

$ 10

The Royal Yacht Britannia
Large oceanic liner used by Britain's royal family on official state visits for more than 40 years.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
$75
13 - 16 min

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Directions

Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
Manicured 70-acre gardens with palm house and temporary exhibitions, kids' events, tours and cafes.
10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
$40
Day 5Gardens, Art, and Whisky Tasting
+

$100

Princes Street Gardens
Green Flag park of geological/botanical interest, home to several public monuments and memorials.
8:00 AM - 9:30 AM
Free
8 - 11 min

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Directions

National Galleries of Scotland: National
National collection including European masterpieces & Scottish works, with seasonal exhibitions.
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Free
7 - 10 min

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Directions

The Scotch Whisky Experience
Attraction telling the tale of Scotland's national drink with high-tech exhibits and a barrel ride.
12:30 PM - 2:00 PM
$100
Day 6Monuments, Illusions, and Mysteries
+

$160

·

$ 10

Scott Monument
Spirelike Victorian memorial in honour of the writer Sir Walter Scott, with 287 steps to the top.
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
$25
9 - 14 min

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Directions

Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
Long-standing tower with 5 floors showcasing hands-on exhibits of whimsical optical illusions.
9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
$75
28 - 34 min

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Directions

Rosslyn Chapel
Intricately carved chapel built in 1446, featured in The Da Vinci Code movie, with history talks.
12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
$60
Day 7Quaint Villages and Wildlife Encounters
+

$90

·

$ 10

Dean Village
Bucolic village abutting a tranquil stream, with gardens, 19th-century buildings & a museum.
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Free
12 - 15 min

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Directions

Edinburgh Zoo
Large parkland zoo offering keeper talks, hands-on animal encounters and free hilltop safari rides.
9:30 AM - 12:30 PM
$90
Day 8Underwater Wonders and Majestic Castles
+

$200

·

$ 10

Deep Sea World
Sea life aquarium with seal enclosure and shark tank with 112-metre walk-through acrylic tunnel.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
$75
39 - 47 min

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Directions

Edinburgh Castle
An 11th-century castle and barracks housing the Crown Jewels and National War Museum of Scotland.
10:30 AM - 1:30 PM
$125

Budget breakdown: $945 In total

Activities & Food:$890
Transport:$55