Are you new to Edinburgh? Do you have friends or family visiting? Do you just want some ideas for how to spend your weekend as a student? Look no further for the perfect itinerary for your ideal weekend exploring this magnificent city.
I suggest walking everywhere – the city is small with many key sights close by. You can be incredibly spontaneous because of this; allowing you to get familiar with the city’s rich culture and history. I recommend taking a day to walk around Old Town and visit the Royal Mile with the castle and palace at either end, complete with historic pubs in between. Later on, walk down the hill to New Town and do some shopping. Take at least one day to really be a tourist and see all the sights. Be sure to spot the Scott Monument, Princes Street Gardens, The Ross Fountain, George Street, Calton Hill and St James Quarter. You’ll want to visit the spooky Frankenstein, Candy Bar or The Boozy Cow to try a unique cocktail or two.
The food on offer in Edinburgh is fantastic. You have probably heard of Scran Bistro (which is worth the hype) but also try out Hula Juice Bar, Dishoom, Paradise Palms, Ting Thai Caravan, El Cartel or Tuk Tuk. Also, be sure to have a doughnut at Considerit (all vegan doughnuts!). If you’re thinking of something boujee, head to New Town for a taste of Edinburgh’s luxurious Dome hotel restaurant for an upmarket, expensive treat.
If you are interested in the nightlife, take a stroll through the continuously buzzing Cowgate district, where you’ll find bars like Pilgrim or OX184. If you want some live music, head over to Stramash or The Jazz Bar. Clubs are dotted about throughout the city, with some of the most popular including Bourbon and Subway. And if you’re feeling wild, jump into the famous ball pit at Ballie Ballerson for a night you won’t forget.
There are some amazing daytime attractions and galleries in the city, like the Talbot Rice Gallery and City Art Centre; both free entry! The Writers’ Museum is also a great place to delve into Scotland’s rich literary history. Other attractions include Edinburgh Zoo and Dynamic Earth, an interactive science museum neighbouring the Scottish Parliament. Still got energy left to burn? Take the bus a short distance to either The Pentlands, Portobello Beach or Granton for undeniably stunning views.
Hopefully this article has given you some ideas of how to spend the ultimate weekend in Edinburgh! Use this information to tailor the days (and nights!) to your preferences.
Image “EDINBURGH” by ian_woodhead1 is licensed under CC BY 2.0.