Day 1: Royal Mile and Old Town
Begin the visit along the Royal Mile, exploring the medieval spine of the city. Highlights include a visit to the castle, hands-on optical displays and an atmospheric underground close.
- Edinburgh Castle: Explore the Crown Jewels and the Great Hall; book timed entry in advance to reduce queuing.
- Camera Obscura & World of Illusions: Interactive optical exhibits and rooftop views from a Victorian building.
- Lunch on the Royal Mile: Choose a central café or traditional pub for classic Scottish dishes.
- The Real Mary King's Close: Join a guided tour of preserved 17th-century underground streets for local stories.
- Evening: Dinner at an atmospheric restaurant overlooking the castle and a stroll through Grassmarket.
Day 2: Holyrood Park and Calton Hill
Combine royal history and elevated viewpoints. Walk through the palace precinct, then head to a landmark hill for panoramic city scenes.
- Holyrood area: Visit the palace surroundings and pause for lunch at a relaxed gastropub.
- Calton Hill: Short climb to monuments and sweeping views at golden light.
- Dynamic Earth: An interactive science centre ideal for a hands-on afternoon.
- Dinner in New Town: Choose an impressive dining venue on George Street for varied menus.
Day 3: New Town and Galleries
Discover Georgian architecture, formal gardens and national art collections across New Town.
- The Georgian House: Visit a restored late-18th-century townhouse to learn about period life.
- Princes Street Gardens: A relaxed stroll with floral displays and views of the Scott Monument.
- Scottish National Gallery: See major European and Scottish works; consider the Scott Monument for external views or an optional climb.
- Lunch and dinner: Sample cafés and reserve an upscale New Town restaurant for an evening meal.
Day 4: Leith and Ocean Terminal
Swap the city centre for a maritime quarter, former royal yacht and coastal walking or kayaking.
- Royal Yacht Britannia: Self-guided audio route through state apartments and deck areas.
- Leith sea kayaking: Guided kayaking around the harbour with safety briefing and kit provided.
- The Shore: Walk cobbled docks, visit independent shops and choose a seafood restaurant for dinner.
- Ocean Terminal: Seafront lunch options and shopping near the terminal.
Day 5: Pentland Hills and Portobello
Spend a day outdoors with a guided hill walk followed by a seaside afternoon at a sandy promenade.
- Pentland Hills: Join a shorter guided hike from a common meeting point, focusing on viewpoints and local flora.
- Lunch: Enjoy a local inn meal or a packed picnic after the walk.
- Portobello Beach: Relax on the promenade, take a coffee and enjoy casual seaside activities.
Day 6: Gardens, Dean Village and Museums
Balance peaceful green spaces with quiet historic streets and museum options near the centre.
- Dean Village: A picturesque riverside walk with opportunities for photos and calm exploration.
- Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh: Stroll themed gardens and glasshouses for a restorative visit.
- Evening: Choose a central restaurant for a relaxed dinner after a day of walking.
Day 7: New Town, last visits and departure
Use the final day for shopping, a missed museum or a last riverside walk, then prepare for departure.
- New Town shopping: Window-shop on George Street and Princes Street or visit Charlotte Square.
- Optional stops: Pop into a small museum, the Scottish National Portrait Gallery, or take a short walk along the Water of Leith near Dean Village.
- Lunch and travel: Enjoy a calm farewell meal and allow time for checkout and transport to departure points.
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