Blog

48 Hours in... Edinburgh!

Date Added 20/02/2023

Have you always fancied a trip to explore Edinburgh but unsure of where to start when you get there? Here at Johnsons we have got plenty of ideas and suggestions for how to spend your time!

Edinburgh is Scotland's Capital City, that is filled with rich history, stunning architecture and an awe-inspiring castle perched atop of a dormant volcano. You are never far from a cultural attraction in Edinburgh, with something for everyone to enjoy!

Interested in the Royal Family and their heritage? why not visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse to explore the Palace's close associations with some of Scotland’s most well-known historic figures such as Mary, Queen of Scots and Bonnie Prince Charlie, and learn about how today it is used by The King when carrying out official engagements in Scotland. The Palace is open to the public most days from 9.30am - 4.30pm but is usually closed on Tuesdays & Wednesdays but this can always change due to it being a working Royal Palace. You can either book online or you can also buy your ticket on the day. If you want to see more information on Holyroodhouse Palace then click here.

Take a walk down the Royal Mile that runs through the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, connecting the magnificent Edinburgh Castle, perched high on a base of volcanic rock, with the splendorous Palace of Holyroodhouse, resting in the shadow of Arthur's Seat. The Mile is overlooked by impressive, towering tenements, between which cobbled closes and narrow stairways interlock to create a secret underground world. The Royal Mile makes many attractions accessible from one place, such as The Real Mary King’s Close or the Scottish Storytelling Centre, historical sites including St Giles' Cathedral and some of the best eating and drinking spots in the city.

For a glimpse of recent history, be sure to visit the ultra-modern Scottish Parliament, a striking building boasting a cutting-edge design. Entrance to the Scottish Parliament building is free and is open to the public on Monday, Friday and Saturday from 10am-5pm and Tuesday's through to Thursdays from 9am-6:30pm. To find out more information click here.

For those more active, why not take a stroll around the Holyrood Park or hike up Arthur's Seat to experience the best view in Edinburgh, this dormant volcano sits 251m above sea level and offers 360-degree views over the city! Take a picnic up with you and spend a day taking in the scenery. From here you can also see the medieval St. Anthony's Chapel and Duddingston Loch where you can go feed the ducks.

Discover the Treasures of the National Museum of Scotland, one of the best indoor attractions in Edinburgh so ideal if the weather is not in your favour - and entry is free! With over 20,000 unique artefacts, there is something to interest everyone and fun for all the family! If you would like to find out more about the National Museum then click here.

Be amazed at Camera Obscura and World of Illusions - a top attraction in Edinburgh, that is fun for all the family. With five floors of interactive curiosities and illusions to explore, so lose yourself in the puzzling mirror maze or try to keep your balance in the vortex tuunel! - Be sure to get yourself an allocated show time to ensure you don't miss out on the 169-year-old camera obscura in action. For any photography fanatics out there this is right up your street. To find out more about the magic of the Camera Obscura click here.

Are you a fan of Scotch Whisky? Then you are in the right place! Around Edinburgh there are many different whisky tastings and trail experiences to take part in. Most notably the flagship Johnnie Walker - Bar, Dining experience, Whisky experience and Retail store all in one - Spread over eight floors where you can enjoy samples and world-class cocktails whilst taking in the incredible views of the Edinburgh Skyline at the 1820 rooftop bar! There is also the 'Scotch Whisky Experience' and the 'Edinburgh Whisky Trail' if Johnnie Walker doesn't take your fancy.

Brave enough to face the Edinburgh Dungeons? Enter into the dungeons and step back in time through Edinburgh's darkest history, find out about the Edinburgh Vaults and the dirty dealings made down there. Enjoy a 70-minute interactive walk-through experience using live actors, theatrical sets and thrilling rides to bring 1000 years of history to life. Will you plead guilty or not guilty? Enter if you dare! - Prebooking is essential so to find out more, click here.

Take a trip to Edinburgh with us:

Edinburgh & The 'Aberdonian' Tornado Steam Train

Monday 28th Aug - Fri 1st Sep 2023

4* The Edinburgh Marriott Hotel - 5 Nights Half Board

From £998 Per Person - Click Here for more info and to book now!

Shetland - The Vikings & Edinburgh

Thursday 4th - Thursday 11th May 2023

Variety of 3* & 4* Hotels around Scotland - 7 Nights Half Board

From £1,498 Per Person - Click here for more info and to book now!

Edinburgh Tattoo & The Royal Yacht Britannia

Sunday 13th - Thursday 17th August or Sunday 20th - Thursday 24th August 2023

4* Keavil House Hotel - 4 Nights Half Board

From £799 Per Person - Click here for more info and to book now!

Edinburgh Tattoo & The Royal Yacht Britannia

Monday 21st - Friday 25th August 2023

3* Winnock Hotel - 4 Nights Half Board

From £759 Per Person - Click here for more info and to book now!