A real plan from a traveler, day by day, with times. Follow it or make it yours.
Free day-by-day itinerary in seconds. No account needed to start.
Here is how a real traveler spent 10 days in Edinburgh. Day 1: Edinburgh Castle, St Giles' Cathedral. Day 2: Arthur's Seat, Camera Obscura & World of Illusions. Day 3: The Scotch Whisky Experience, The Real Mary King's Close. The stop most travelers include is Edinburgh Castle, in 8 of 3 trips. The full plan below has times, ticket prices and travel time between stops.
Built from 3 real traveler itineraries on Packy AI. Last updated October 2026 by the Packy AI Travel Team.
The itinerary
10 days in Edinburgh, day by day
A real plan from a traveler on Packy AI. Follow it as it is, or copy it and change anything.
Edinburgh
Day 1: Edinburgh Castle and St Giles' Cathedral
Day 1 starts at Edinburgh Castle at 9 AM - allow 2 hours for exploring. Take a 15-minute walk to St Giles' Cathedral, arriving by 11:30 AM for a 1-hour visit. Head to Palace of Holyroodhouse next; it’s a 20-minute walk, arriving by 1 PM for a 2-hour tour.
9:00 AM
Edinburgh Castle
Dominating the skyline, this iconic fortress offers rich history, stunning views, and a deep dive into Scottish heritage.
120 mins£19.5020 mins by walk to the next stop
11:30 AM
St Giles' Cathedral
This medieval cathedral, known for its stunning stained glass and impressive architecture, is a centerpiece of Edinburgh's Old Town.
60 minsFree20 mins by walk to the next stop
1:00 PM
Palace of Holyroodhouse
The official residence of the monarch in Scotland, this stunning palace offers a glimpse into royal life amidst beautiful gardens.
120 mins£16.50
Day 2: Arthur's Seat and Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
Day 2 in Edinburgh starts at Arthur's Seat at 9 AM - allow 2 hours for stunning views and exploration. After, take a 25-minute walk to Camera Obscura & World of Illusions, arriving by 11:30 AM for 90 minutes of engaging exhibits.
9:00 AM
Arthur's Seat
Climb this ancient volcano for panoramic views of the city and a taste of Scotland's natural beauty. A perfect escape from the urban landscape.
120 minsFree20 mins by walk to the next stop
11:30 AM
Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
Experience mind-bending illusions, interactive exhibits, and stunning views of Edinburgh from the rooftop terrace.
90 mins£1820 mins by walk to the next stop
1:30 PM
Calton Hill
Offering some of the best views in the city, Calton Hill is dotted with historic monuments, ideal for a leisurely walk or a picnic.
60 minsFree
Day 3: The Scotch Whisky Experience and The Real Mary King's Close
Day 3 starts at The Scotch Whisky Experience at 9 AM - allow 90 minutes for the tour. Take a 10-minute walk to The Real Mary King's Close, arriving by 11 AM (75 mins). Finally, enjoy the Scott Monument at 12:45 PM - a 5-minute walk from the last attraction.
9:00 AM
The Scotch Whisky Experience
Delve into Scotland's whisky heritage with tastings, interactive exhibits, and a barrel ride through the whisky-making process.
90 mins£1620 mins by walk to the next stop
11:00 AM
The Real Mary King's Close
Explore the hidden streets and stories of 17th century Edinburgh in this fascinating underground tour.
75 mins£1520 mins by walk to the next stop
12:45 PM
Scott Monument
This iconic Gothic monument dedicated to Sir Walter Scott offers a challenging climb with rewarding views of the city.
60 mins£5
Day 4: Dynamic Earth and Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
Start Day 4 at Dynamic Earth (closest to city center) at 9 AM - allow 2 hours for exhibitions. Take a 10-minute taxi ride (~£10) to reach the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh by 11:30 AM - spend 2 hours exploring the gardens.
9:00 AM
Dynamic Earth
An interactive science museum that takes you on a journey through Earth’s history and climate, featuring engaging exhibits for all ages.
120 mins£1820 mins by walk to the next stop
11:30 AM
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
A beautiful collection of plants and landscapes, perfect for a scenic walk, picnic, or enjoying nature’s tranquility amidst the city bustle.
120 minsFree20 mins by walk to the next stop
2:00 PM
Greyfriars Kirkyard Cemetery Edinburgh
Known for its historical significance and the story of Greyfriars Bobby, this graveyard is steeped in Edinburgh’s culture and history.
60 minsFree
Day 5: Palace of Holyroodhouse and Portobello Beach
Start Day 5 at the Palace of Holyroodhouse at 9 AM (allow 2 hours). Next, take a 25-minute bus ride (prices around £1.60) to Portobello Beach, arriving by 11:30 AM for lunch and leisure (3 hours).
9:00 AM
Palace of Holyroodhouse
The royal palace invites you into the living history of Scotland's monarchs, featuring lavish rooms and beautiful gardens.
120 mins£1720 mins by walk to the next stop
11:30 AM
Portobello Beach
This beautiful sandy beach offers a relaxing escape from the city with views of the Firth of Forth and plenty of seaside activities.
180 minsFree20 mins by walk to the next stop
3:00 PM
Victoria Street
A colorful, historic street known for its unique shops and cafés, perfect for leisurely exploring and finding hidden treasures.
60 minsFree
Day 6: National Galleries of Scotland: National and Greyfriars Bobby Statue
Day 6 starts at the National Galleries of Scotland at 9 AM - allow 2 hours to explore. Walk for about 10 minutes to reach Greyfriars Bobby Statue by 11:30 AM (30 mins). Then, stroll over to The Mound at 12:30 PM, just a 5-minute walk, allowing 45 mins to enjoy the views.
9:00 AM
National Galleries of Scotland: National
Home to an impressive collection of European art and Scottish masterpieces, this gallery is a must for art lovers.
120 minsFree20 mins by walk to the next stop
11:30 AM
Greyfriars Bobby Statue
A beloved symbol of loyalty, this statue commemorates Greyfriars Bobby, the dog known for guarding his owner's grave.
30 minsFree20 mins by walk to the next stop
12:30 PM
The Mound
A significant architectural feature that connects the Old and New Towns, boasting beautiful views and galleries along its route.
45 minsFree
Day 7: Midlothian Snowsports Centre, Hillend and Cramond
Day 7 starts at Midlothian Snowsports Centre, Hillend at 9 AM - allow 2 hours for skiing or snowboarding. Travel by taxi (approx. £20, 30 min) to reach Cramond by 11:30 AM - spend 90 minutes enjoying the beach and village. Finally, take a taxi (approx.
9:00 AM
Midlothian Snowsports Centre, Hillend
A unique destination for skiing, snowboarding, and tubing, offering year-round winter sports fun just a short drive from the city.
120 mins£2520 mins by walk to the next stop
11:30 AM
Cramond
A charming seaside village with picturesque views, ideal for a peaceful escape and discovering local history.
90 minsFree20 mins by walk to the next stop
1:30 PM
Holyrood Park
A sprawling park filled with natural beauty, offering scenic walking trails, lochs, and incredible views of Arthur's Seat.
120 minsFree
Day 8: The Shore and Surgeons' Hall Museums
Day 8 starts at The Shore at 9 AM - allow 1.5 hours to enjoy the waterfront and local eateries. Travel 20 minutes by taxi (~£10) to Surgeons' Hall Museums for a fascinating 1.5-hour visit at 11 AM.
9:00 AM
The Shore
This trendy area by the water boasts a fantastic selection of restaurants and cafés, perfect for seafood lovers and a leisurely waterfront stroll.
90 minsVaries with dining choices20 mins by walk to the next stop
11:00 AM
Surgeons' Hall Museums
Delve into the fascinating world of surgery and medicine with intriguing exhibits that blend science and history.
90 mins£1020 mins by walk to the next stop
1:00 PM
Palace of Holyroodhouse
Experience British royal history at this magnificent palace and explore its magnificent gardens, open to the public.
120 mins£17
Day 9: Dynamic Earth and The Edinburgh Dungeon
Start Day 9 at Dynamic Earth (closest to city center) at 9 AM - allow 2 hours for exploration. Next, take a 10-minute walk to The Edinburgh Dungeon at 11:30 AM, allowing 1.5 hours for the thrilling experience.
9:00 AM
Dynamic Earth
Engage with Scotland's environment in an interactive setting, featuring exhibits that take you through Earth’s wonders.
120 mins£1820 mins by walk to the next stop
11:30 AM
The Edinburgh Dungeon
Experience Scotland's turbulent history through engaging live shows and thrilling rides.
90 mins£2520 mins by walk to the next stop
1:30 PM
Water of Leith Walkway
Enjoy a scenic riverside walk through the heart of Edinburgh, with wildlife and art installations.
120 minsFree
Day 10: Dean Village Edinburgh and Portobello Promenade View
Day 10 starts at Dean Village Edinburgh (closest to city center) at 9 AM - allow 1 hour to explore. Take a 20-minute bus ride (~£2.50) to Portobello Promenade for sea views by 10:30 AM - enjoy for 1.5 hours.
9:00 AM
Dean Village Edinburgh
A tranquil oasis near the city center showcasing picturesque architecture and a calm atmosphere.
60 minsFree20 mins by walk to the next stop
10:30 AM
Portobello Promenade View
Stroll along the sandy beach and enjoy coastal views, cafes, and a vibrant atmosphere.
90 minsFree20 mins by walk to the next stop
12:30 PM
Lauriston Castle
Explore this beautiful castle and its stunning grounds, overlooking the Firth of Forth.
120 minsFree
Like this plan? Copy it, set your dates, and change anything.
Everything you need to know about spending 10 days in Edinburgh
Yes. The plan on this page fits 30 stops into 10 days, about 3 a day. Travelers on Packy have planned Edinburgh trips from 2 to 14 days.
The plan on this page opens with Edinburgh Castle, St Giles' Cathedral, Palace of Holyroodhouse.
Across 3 traveler itineraries, the stops that come up most are Edinburgh Castle (8 of 3), Arthur's Seat (6 of 3), Calton Hill (6 of 3), Palace of Holyroodhouse (6 of 3), National Galleries of Scotland: National (5 of 3).
From the plan on this page: Edinburgh Castle is £19.50; Palace of Holyroodhouse is £16.50; Camera Obscura & World of Illusions is £18; The Scotch Whisky Experience is £16. Prices change, so check before you book.
Yes. Copy it into Packy AI, set your dates, then add, remove or reorder stops. Packy keeps the timings and the route up to date.
Ready to plan your Edinburgh trip?
Free day-by-day itinerary in seconds. No account needed to start.
