Edinburgh 5-day Itinerary
United Kingdom (UK)
Where to go and what to see in Edinburgh to get the most from your trip – a 5-day itinerary from destination expert and travel writer Lucy Gillmore.
Bucket list experience:
Copyright Marc Millar
One of the most famous ships in the world, this luxury yacht served the British Monarchy for over 44 years in multiple capacities, from official state visits to family holidays, travelling over a million nautical miles.
Now an immaculately-kept museum, you can tour five different decks, including the Bridge, the State Apartments and the crew’s quarters.
You can stop for an afternoon cream tea where the Queen herself would have sat in the Royal Gallery.
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Destination Guide >The yacht museum is open all year round, seven days a week. Opening and closing times vary by season.
Recommended itineraries by our writers that include this experience
United Kingdom (UK)
Where to go and what to see in Edinburgh to get the most from your trip – a 5-day itinerary from destination expert and travel writer Lucy Gillmore.
Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first
Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)[3.2 miles]
History-steeped aparthotel with contemporary designer interiors, perfectly located for sightseeing at the bottom of the Royal Mile.
Official star rating:
Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)[3.3 miles]
A neoclassical Royal Bank of Scotland building that’s now a high-end aparthotel. One for design-conscious night-owls who like everything on their doorstep.
Official star rating:
Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)[3.3 miles]
The grand dame of Edinburgh’s hotel scene, this luxurious landmark hotel is still the epitome of elegance.
Official star rating:
Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)[3.4 miles]
A boutique hotel is in a 19th-century Georgian mansion. Located in pretty Stockbridge, one of Edinburgh’s ‘village’ neighborhoods.
Official star rating:
Destination guides including or relevant to this experience
Edinburgh Region, United Kingdom (UK)
Capital treats abound, from mighty castles and royal palaces to gourmet restaurants and arguably the world’s best performing arts festival.
Our writer’s recommendations of other bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first
Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)[3.3 miles]
Peek into the life of the monarchy, past and present, at this ancient royal residence – once the home of Mary Queen of Scots.
Best for ages: 8+ | £17
Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)[3.3 miles]
Edinburgh’s culinary scene, the best in Scotland, is an exciting mix of rustic field-to-fork eateries, glitzy Michelin-starred restaurants and earthy farmers’ markets.
Best for ages: 18+ | Free | Any
Edinburgh , Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)[3.6 miles]
A military band and thundering cannon spectacular, set against the stunning backdrop of Edinburgh Castle.
Best for ages: 6+ | £25 | 90 minutes
Edinburgh , Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)[3.9 miles]
Disneyland-style mock distillery tour, with a glimpse of the world’s largest Scotch whisky collection.
Best for ages: 18+ | £17
Other worthwhile experiences near this experience if you have time or interest..
Edinburgh , Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)[2.7 miles]
A tranquil haven, this bucolic 70-acre site was established in the 17th century, with highlights including the striking state-of-the-art visitor centre, Chinese Hillside and Victorian Palm Houses.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free
Edinburgh , Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)[3.1 miles]
The world’s first purpose-built portrait gallery, one of the highlights of this neo-Gothic palace is the Great Hall decorated with an ornate frieze of famous Scottish figures.
Best for ages: 18+ | Free
Edinburgh , Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)[3.3 miles]
Part of the Holyroodhouse complex, this art gallery exhibits a rotating collection of works from the Royal Collection. It’s one of 13 venues that showcase the largest private art collection in the world. Open daily.
Best for ages: 18+ | £9
Edinburgh , Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)[3.3 miles]
Every Sunday, a pretty corner of this Edinburgh neighbourhood is home to a weekly artisan producer market of around 50 stalls, selling hot food, local produce and hand-made treats. Stockbridge is worth a visit too, with vintage shops and quirky cafes.
Best for ages: 13+ | Free