Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, offers a glimpse into the past with medieval architecture, ancient castles, and endless history waiting to be unveiled. Wander the cobblestone roads along the Royal Mile, listen to street performers serenade bystanders with their bagpipes and sip on some of the most globally-revered whiskeys.

Day one will find you exploring the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle. Edinburgh Castle does require tickets in advance- you can select from many different itineraries based on time and interest. Prepare to spend one to three hours (perhaps longer) touring the castle grounds. You can also enjoy a meal or tea at one of the cafes at the castle. Depending on your reservation time for the castle, you can stroll the streets of the Royal Mile before or after, though my favorite time of day is at sunrise when the roads are nice and quiet.

In the evening, book a table at Monteiths, a modern fine-dining Scottish restaurant focusing on steak and seafood along the Royal Mile. The elegant, yet modern interior is lovely, and their innovative cocktails are delicious. Enjoy Scottish delicacies such as venison in the candlelight glow of tables.

The following day, wake up for a sunrise walk in the city. Sunrise strolls are one of the best ways to enjoy a bustling city without all of the, well, bustle. We stayed near the Royal Mile and walked to Circus Lane, Dean Village, and Victoria Street in the morning. Roundtrip was a little over two miles, making it the perfect way to get those steps in, enjoy the quiet city, and get beautiful images without the crowds.

Circus Lane was a quiet residential street before social media thrust it into the spotlight. The cobblestone street, filled with brightly-colored florals, a church steeple towering over it and picturesque mew houses, makes it one of the most photographed streets in Edinburgh. The houses were initially built for the carriages, horses and staff from the Royal Circus.

Next up, Dean Village. Dean Village is located on the remnants of a water mill. If you enjoy scavenger hunts, look for the millstones and stone plaques with baked bread and pies hidden throughout the area. If you visit this street later in the day, set aside time to visit the Dean Gallery or the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art located nearby.

Lastly, make your way to Victoria Street, one of my favorite streets in Edinburgh. Victoria Street is another cobblestone street featuring brightly -colored storefronts. It is said to be the inspiration for Diagon Alley in Harry Potter. Though the roads were primarily empty at 7:15 a.m. when we arrived, one devoted wizard was there taking selfies in her robe. If you visit during the day, many artisan shops make finding the perfect gift or souvenir a breeze.

After a morning of walking, enjoy a coffee at Black Sheep Coffee or any local cafe. Black Sheep Coffee opens earlier than most, so we stopped there twice during our stay. If you have not quite had enough steps for the day, after your breakfast and coffee break, climb Arthur’s Seat, which overlooks the city. After the climb, stop for a tour of the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the Scottish Monarch.

Medieval legend says the original Holyrood Abbey was founded in 1128 by David I of Scotland. He had a vision of a stag with a glowing cross between its antlers while on a hunting trip, and then took this vision as a sign from God to build the Abbey at that spot. Holy Rood translates to “Holy Cross.” Later, in 1503, James IV had the first palace built on site after his marriage to Margaret Tudor. Since then, the palace has been rebuilt a few times. Today, the monarch spends one week a year at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, usually at the end of June, visiting Scotland and participating in a series of events celebrating Scottish culture and community.

On your final day in Edinburgh, squeeze in a whisky tasting along the Royal Mile, stroll the National Museum of Scotland, or enjoy one last fine dining experience at celebrated restaurants such as The Table, The Kitchin, or Aizle. Edinburgh is a city that sneaks up on you in all the best ways and leaves you wanting to return time and again.

Other nearby attractions: Calton Hill, Camera Obscura and World of Illusions, Lauriston Castle & Gardens, Edinburgh Dungeon

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