You and your partner have a bit of extra change lying around, and you’ve been stuck in familiar surroundings for far too long. The girl at the coffee shop knows exactly how many sugars you take, and she knows that your boyfriend is definitely NOT a fan of Oat Milk. 

I think it might be time to get out of your area and go explore. That does sound daunting I know. You may have to trim his beard a little, and you may need to get out of those Powerpuff Girl Pyjamas set that you’ve so clearly grown out of. 

Edinburgh is knocking, and we’ve made a 48 itinerary for you to make the most of it.

The Eden Locke is at the centre of Edinburgh City –

There is nowhere else you’d rather be in Edingburgh than right in the thick of it. Eden Locke’s George Street location can’t be beaten; you’re surrounded by some of Edinburgh’s swankiest pubs and stores. Bus and tram stops are within a five-minute walk or just a 15-minute trek up to the Old Town.

The exterior of Eden Locke is ‘oh so’ Georgian Edinburgh, but inside is ‘quirky’ Hoxton by New York architects Grzywinski + Pons. Its light-hearted vibe is created by pale wood flooring, pastels, mustard accents and a touch of eccentricity.

The pistachio-and-vanilla coffee lounge/bar is the hub of it all, with spiky plants in terracotta pots and an abundance of natural light that makes for a very relaxed and light feeling location. The bar’s reception is handled by friendly, easygoing employees. Rooms are cleaned daily and guests may use the complimentary fitness app to work out in their rooms. In contrast to the typical ‘passing ships’ hotel, it is geared at long-term as well as short-stay customers.

The rooms at Eden Locke are larger than most hotel rooms in the area and feature spacious beds with soft faux-leather headboards and stylish storage. The grey-and-pink walls are complemented with saffron woodwork and lime sorbet-coloured L-shaped couches and the kitchens and the TV are sophisticated and help tie the room together, helped by a dark and quiet back room, while the front mezzanine rooms make the most out of the beautiful Georgian windows.

Breakfast at Browns  – 

Breakfast at Browns usually involves a hearty well-cooked meal, right for setting you up for a busy day of exploration. Situated a stone’s throw away from the Locke means that it is the perfect place to start your first day in Edinburgh. 

Their famous Traditional Breakfast made with – “Smoked bacon, British pork sausages, two eggs, baked beans, flat mushrooms, black pudding, grilled tomato, sourdough toast, Netherend Farm Butter” is the perfect way to start your day.

Alternatively, they have a veg option which is made with – “Beetroot hash, smashed avocado, flat mushrooms, two eggs, baked beans, grilled tomato, sourdough toast, Netherend Farm butter”

Fresh seasonal cuisine is served alongside classic brasserie favourites from breakfast to supper, and a spectacular new bar serves handcrafted cocktails and a wonderful range of wine and Champagne.

Browns Edinburgh, on George St in the heart of New Town, has a gorgeous new makeover and is ranked number one on The Scotsman’s list of eleven new Scottish pubs and restaurants.

The National Museum of Scotland –

So you’ve loaded a hearty breakfast and are ready for a day of city exploration! Walk east on George St and head towards Chambers St for a healthy dose of Scottish History. 

The National Museum of Scotland, perhaps Edinburgh’s largest and busiest museum, houses a diverse collection of exhibits from throughout the world, including the Natural World, World Cultures, and Scottish History and Archaeology.

Take in the remarkable architecture of the Grand Hall, a superb example of Victorian architecture with soaring high pillars, enormous windows, and a magnificent glass roof that floods the gallery with light. From here, you may stroll through to the Museum of Scotland, a more modern structure committed to conveying Scotland’s narrative via exciting exhibitions and objects.

Scotts Monument – 

After leaving The National Museum of Scotland’s head down princess street, past the Royal Scottish Academy towards Scott Monument, which stands majestically in Princes Street Gardens, it is one of Edinburgh’s most famous sights and a must-see for tourists and locals alike. It is one of the world’s largest memorials to a writer, dedicated to Sir Walter Scott.

Lunch – 

It’s time to take a break and eat something. Let’s cross the Waverley Bridge and head up Cockburn Street, where we’ll have lunch.

You’ll never go hungry in this section of Edinburgh, but we know you’ll find some wonderful bistro cuisine and wines at Ecco Vino, or if you’re looking for something a bit sunnier, try Laila’s Mediterranean Bistro.

After another lovely taste of Edinburgh, it’s time to do something a bit active!

Authors Seat – 

Head over to Holyrood Park either via bus by taking the 4, 104, 113 or 124 from Princess Street (stop PN). Alternatively, you can walk it in about the same amount of time. 

There are several paths in Holyrood Park that are ideal for people of various levels. You’ll get amazing vistas and a sensation of escape from the city streets whether you lose yourself for half a day or drive around in 15 minutes. The Park is open all year, and despite the steep slopes and slick rock, it is rather safe as long as you exercise common sense and don’t push yourself too far.

After walking up and down Authors Seat, you’ll almost certainly be starving by this point, but before dinner and drinks, it might be worth grabbing a nice shower and possibly even a nap!

The Voodoo Rooms: Dinner And Dancing

The Voodoo rooms feature a relaxed, yet luxurious vibe in this well-loved, award-winning Edinburgh hotspot. Relax before dinner with a few tempting cocktails (their mocktail list is pretty impressive, too). The interiors have a decadent feel and the food and service match the quality surroundings. After dinner, stay in the bar for tasty drinks and low-fi DJ music, or head into the main room to catch a band or DJ night.

However, you choose to spend your evening, make sure you get enough sleep because Day 2 is going to be filled with more activities!