3 days in Edinburgh

Edinburgh’s Old Town lives and breathes history. It’s a warren of cobbled streets, winding wynds, long lanes, and dark alleys – it's easy to feel like you’ve stepped out of a time machine! Spend today discovering historic places and iconic sites and soak up the bustling Old Town atmosphere.

This trip includes:

• Edinburgh Castle – just walking up the esplanade on approach, you know you’re about to step into one of Scotland’s most special historic buildings. Take in the views across the city and learn about the dramatic events which have played out between these ancient walls as you explore great halls, royal chambers, monuments, and dungeons. To avoid disappointment, make sure to book your tickets far in advance for guaranteed entry. 
• Palace of Holyroodhouse – this elegent royal residence has links to monarchs from throughout the centuries this and is situated at the foot of the Royal Mile. Today it is the official Scottish residence of His Majesty The King. Take a tour and see Mary Queen of Scots’ bedchamber and the room where her confidante, David Rizzio, was brutally murdered.
• Edinburgh bus tour – departing from Waverley Bridge, this hour-long hop-on, hop-off service gives you the freedom to explore the city inan exciting way. Highlights include the New and Old Towns, the Grassmarket to see Edinburgh Castle, the National Museum of Scotland, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and much more. 

If you've got time to explore further, check out:

• Scottish Parliament – enjoy a free guided tour and learn about the history, inner workings and procdeures of a day in the life in parliament.

Take in the historic Port of Leith and the handsome Georgian New Town and you’ll find some rather wonderful sites to uncover.

• The Royal Yacht Britannia – named by many as one of the best UK attractions, step on board the late Queen Elizabeth II's former floating Royal residence. Inside, you'll see the engine room, a Rolls Royce and state apartments across five decks. After the tour, take some time to explore the Shore in Leith, one of the most fashionable areas in Edinburgh to live.
• The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh – spend a few hours touring its wonderful glasshouses, exhibitions and a world of colourful plants and shrubs. It's located in Inverleith and is just a mile from the city centre.
• Enjoy some retail therapy – find a huge range of top high street brands and designer stores at Multrees Walk and St James Quarter.
• Calton Hill – home to the National Monument and offers some superb city skyline views. 
• Scottish National Gallery – discover famous masterpieces and see world-class Scottish and international art through the centuries.

If you're taking a similar trip, you could also explore:

• Stockbridge – this bustling village-like area located in the city’s New Town offers a great blend of independent retailers, delicatessens, charity shops, bars and restaurants.

Enjoy a day of discovery where you’ll sample the national drink, experience Victorian innovations, and discover a treasure trove of artefacts.

• Camera Obscura and World of Illusions – discover amazing optical illusions and panoramic views of Edinburgh. Step inside a darkened room and watch incredible live moving images of the city and its inhabitants projected onto a table by a giant periscope while listening to colourful tales of the past. 
• Scotch Whisky Experience – book a tour where you can enjoy a barrel ride to learn about the whisky-making process and identify which whiskies suit your palate. You'll also get to experience standing in the room with the world's largest collection of whisky. It's pretty impressive!
• National Museum of Scotland – this world-class museum is filled with incredible displays covering history, natural heritage, world cultures, design innovation, technology and more. Best of all? It’s completely free.