2 Days in Edinburgh: The Ultimate 48 Hours Itinerary

2. Go on an Edinburgh Ghost tour

A city as old as Edinburgh certainly has stories to tell, some of them far from pleasant. Wander into the city’s dark past on an Edinburgh Ghost tour. While the tour is suitable for couples, solo travellers, and families, some elements may not be suitable for very young children.

Admissions: from £22.00 for adults, book online

Starting point: Mercat Cross, High Street, Edinburgh

3. Explore Dynamic Earth

Go on an interactive adventure through time and space at Dynamic Earth, and discover how the forces of nature shaped the earth over millions of years. In addition to thrilling exhibits and displays, this facility offers a host of kids’ events. One of the best educational and fun things to do in Edinburgh, this interactive planetarium is a must for families.

Admissions: from £19.50 for adults, book online

Address: Dynamic Earth, Holyrood Rd, Edinburgh EH8 8AS

4. Watch a movie at Cameo

Watch in an independent movie, foreign film, or a mainstream blockbuster at the Cameo Picturehouse, an iconic cinema more than 100 years old. Start or end the experience by enjoying a drink and cinephile chit-chat at the cinema’s bar. Suitable for solo travellers, couples, and film buffs.

Book ticket online

Address: Cameo Picturehouse, 38 Home St, Edinburgh EH3 9LZ

5. Dine at a Michelin-starred restaurant

For foodies, enjoying Michelin-starred dining is one of the best things to do in Edinburgh. Indulge in the renowned cuisine on offer at Restaurant Martin Wishart. This is one of a few Michelin star restaurants in Edinburgh that serves traditional and modern French cuisine made with the freshest locally sourced ingredients. Suitable for solo travellers, couples, and gourmands.

Address: 54 Shore, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 6RA

6. Check out Edinburgh’s new Street Food Market

This vibrant and bustling market is located in Leith Street, to the East of the city, and offers a fantastic selection of delicious food and drink from around the world. Whether you're in the mood for spicy Indian street food, mouth-watering burgers, or fresh and healthy salads, you're sure to find something to tantalize your taste buds at this exciting new market.

With live music, a friendly atmosphere, and plenty of seating available, it's the perfect place to spend an afternoon or evening with friends and family. So why not add the Edinburgh Street Food market to your itinerary for your next visit to the capital? You won't be disappointed!

Various locations on Leith St, Edinburgh EH1 3AU

7. Explore Mary King's Close

The Real Mary King's Close is one of Edinburgh's top attractions and only preserved 17th-century street one. This underground street in the heart of Edinburgh's Old Town is said to be haunted by ghosts and has a fascinating history. Take a guided tour to learn about the lives of the people who once lived and worked here.

Admission: from £21 p.p, book online

Address: 2 Warriston’s Close, High Street, Edinburgh EH1 1PG

Best free things to do in Edinburgh

There are plenty of fabulous free things to do in Edinburgh. Take a look at some of our favourites.

1. Climb Arthur’s Seat

Arthur’s Seat is the other of the city’s two extinct volcanoes. If you love the outdoors, don’t miss the opportunity to go rambling in Holyrood Park and hiking up Arthur’s Seat.

The peak is 251m above sea level and offers unparalleled views of Scotland’s capital. Suitable for solo travellers, couples, and families with older children. Unsuitable for those with mobility issues.

Address: Holyrood Park, Queen’s Drive, Edinburgh EH8 8HG

2. Explore Leith

Also known as the Shore, Leith is a cosmopolitan, culturally significant waterfront district of Edinburgh. Explore the area and stumble across trendy restaurants and bars, the historic Leith Theatre, and more.

Go on a weekend for the live music, craft beer, and street food available at the independent market the Pitt. Suitable for families with older children, couples, and solo travellers.

3. Immerse yourself in art at the Scottish National Galleries

The Scottish National Galleries include the National Galleries complex at the foot of the Princes Street Mound, the Portrait Gallery in New Town, and Modern Art One and Two in Dean Village. Whether you love classical or contemporary art, you’ll be in your element. Suitable for solo travellers, couples, teens, and art lovers.

National Galleries: The Mound, Edinburgh, EH2 2EL

Modern Galleries: 73 & 75 Belford Road, Edinburgh, EH4 3DR

Portrait Galleries: 1 Queen Street, Edinburgh, EH2 1JD

4. Amble down the Royal Mile

Extending from the castle of Holyrood Palace, the Royal Mile is Edinburgh’s most vibrant and iconic street. Go for a walk and take in street performances and bagpipe music, find souvenir shops, see historic landmarks, and enjoy a dram, a pint, or a meal in charming pubs and restaurants. Suitable for solo travellers, couples, and families.

Address: Edinburgh EH1 1QS

5. Visit the beaches

While Edinburgh might not be the first place that springs to mind when you think of a beach holiday, the city is home to some stunning seaside locations, including Cramond and Portobello. Both beaches offer a refreshing change of pace from the hustle and bustle of the city and provide the perfect setting for a day out with family or friends.

Whether you're in the mood for a leisurely stroll along the promenade, a dip in the refreshing waters of the Firth of Forth, or a picnic on the sand, you're sure to find something to enjoy at these picturesque locations. With plenty of cafes, ice cream vendors, and other amenities nearby, it's easy to spend an entire day soaking up the sun and enjoying the sea breeze at Cramond or Portobello Beach Edinburgh.

6. Watch a performance at Summerhall

Summerhall is the undisputed heart of Edinburgh art and culture scene. You’ll find a programme of art exhibitions, gigs, films, workshops, talks, theatre performances, a microbrewery, a distillery, and more. Entrance is free, although you’ll need to buy tickets for the events and other offerings. Suitable for families, solo travellers, couples, and culture vultures.

Free admissions

Address: 1 Summerhall, Newington, Edinburgh EH9 1PL

7. Enjoy some outdoor art

If you're looking for a relaxing way to spend an afternoon in Edinburgh, why not take a stroll along the Water of Leith Walkway and check out the Antony Gormley statues? This beautiful walkway follows the path of the Water of Leith, a river that winds its way through the heart of the city.

Along the way, you'll pass through some picturesque neighbourhoods and green spaces, and you'll have the chance to see some of Gormley's striking statues, which are scattered throughout the route.

These sculptures are made from cast iron and are designed to blend in with their surroundings, creating a sense of harmony between nature and art. Whether you're an art lover or simply looking for a peaceful place to take a walk, the Water of Leith Walkway and the Antony Gormley statues are well worth seeing.

Address: Damside, Edinburgh EH4 3BE

Where to stay in Edinburgh

Centrally located in the Old Town, Fraser Suites Edinburgh is the ideal base for exploring Scotland's capital. In addition to enjoying luxury suites and apartments, you’ll be in easy distance of great transport links, an abundance of attractions, and the best things to do in Edinburgh. Each suite is beautifully furnished, featuring a well-equipped kitchen and living areas. Your stay with us also include access to an onsite fitness room, restaurant, and laundry suite.

Take advantage of our offers, book your stay at our hotel, and enjoy an unforgettable time in this incredible city.