A Long Weekend in Edinburgh: Castles, Cobblestones & Hairy Coos

My biggest piece of advice for your first day in Edinburgh? Don't rush.

If you're staying near the Royal Mile, start your morning with a coffee and pastry from The Milkman. Scran New Town and Room Rumours are both excellent alternatives and make for a more relaxed start to the day.

From there, wander through Cockburn Street and toward the Royal Mile. Between the bagpipe players, centuries-old buildings, and dramatic stone architecture, Edinburgh makes an immediate impression. Harry Potter fans will quickly notice the similarities between the city and the wizarding world that inspired so much imagination.

Continue through Princes Street Gardens and past the Scott Monument for one of the best first views of Edinburgh Castle. Seeing the castle perched high above the city is one of those moments that makes you stop in your tracks.

Rather than packing your day with museums and attractions, spend the afternoon exploring some of Edinburgh's most charming neighborhoods. Walk along the Water of Leith pathway and into Dean Village, a postcard-perfect corner of the city that somehow feels tucked away despite being only minutes from the center. Keep an eye out for Lindsay's Mill—admittedly a recommendation driven entirely by my own name.

Continue on to Stockbridge, one of Edinburgh's most charming neighborhoods. Browse the independent shops, wander picturesque Circus Lane, and enjoy a slower side of the city that many first-time visitors miss.

By the time you reach Stockbridge, you'll probably be ready for lunch. Mootz General Store is a great grab-and-go option for sandwiches, while Books N Cup offers a slower café experience if you're looking to linger a little longer.

Finish your day with dinner at Baba, a rustic Mediterranean restaurant and one of my favorite meals from the trip.

While Edinburgh is incredible on its own, I would absolutely dedicate one day to exploring the Scottish Highlands.

A Highlands and Loch Ness day tour is one of the easiest ways to experience Scotland's dramatic landscapes without renting a car or changing hotels. The scenery is unlike anything you'll see in Edinburgh and adds an entirely different dimension to the trip.

The day begins with a stop in the charming town of Callander, where you'll likely meet your first Hairy Coos. These shaggy Highland cows have become one of Scotland's most beloved icons and are every bit as adorable as the photos suggest.

As you continue north, the landscapes become increasingly dramatic. One of the highlights is Glencoe and the Three Sisters, where you'll learn about the region's tragic history while taking in some of Scotland's most breathtaking scenery. Harry Potter fans may also recognize several filming locations throughout the Highlands.

At Fort Augustus, you'll reach Loch Ness. If your tour offers the optional boat cruise, I recommend booking it. The scenery around the loch is beautiful, but the stories surrounding the legend of Nessie make the experience even more fun. Whether you actually spot the Loch Ness Monster is up for debate.

Additional highlights include views of Ben Nevis from the Commando Monument and a stop in Pitlochry before returning to Edinburgh. If your tour stops near Scotch Corner, grab an ice cream before heading back.

After a full day on the road, keep dinner simple. Deacon Brodie's Tavern on the Royal Mile is a cozy place to enjoy a casual meal and a pint.

Spend your final day diving deeper into Edinburgh's history.

Start at Tron Kirk Market, home to more than 20 Scottish artists and designers affiliated with the Scottish Design Exchange. If you're looking for a meaningful souvenir beyond the typical tourist shops, this is one of the best places in the city to bring home locally made art, jewelry, or gifts.

Then it's time for a walking tour. If you can find one led alongside a Scottish Terrier, even better—you'll have a furry friend along for the ride. The tour is a memorable introduction to Edinburgh's history, taking you through winding closes, hidden alleyways, and some of the city's most famous landmarks. Along the way, you'll pass Greyfriars Bobby, Greyfriars Kirkyard, the Royal Mile, and St. Giles' Cathedral before finishing on Victoria Street. Greyfriars Kirkyard is far more than just a cemetery. In addition to hearing the story of Greyfriars Bobby, you'll learn about some of Edinburgh's most notable historical figures buried there. Harry Potter fans will also enjoy spotting names on gravestones that are said to have inspired characters from the books.

After the tour ends on Victoria Street, take some time to explore at your own pace. The colorful storefronts and curved cobblestone street are often considered one of the inspirations for Diagon Alley and remain one of Edinburgh's most photographed spots. Grab a quick bite from Oink, try the famous Scotch egg from Mellis Cheese, and save room for a sweet treat from Kilted Donuts. Continue through Grassmarket, and don't miss The Vennel, which offers one of the best views of Edinburgh Castle in the entire city.

Later in the afternoon, head to the Johnnie Walker Experience and make your way up to the 1820 Bar. Even if you're not a whisky enthusiast, the panoramic views overlooking Edinburgh Castle are worth the visit alone.

End your trip with dinner at Dishoom. The wait can be long, but it's one of those restaurants that consistently lives up to the hype. For a final nightcap, head to Devil's Advocate. Just don't be surprised if you get slightly lost navigating Edinburgh's maze of closes along the way.