Only have one day in Edinburgh? No problem – Scotland’s capital is compact, walkable, and overflowing with history and charm. From medieval closes and castles to sweeping hilltop views, this Edinburgh in one day itinerary will help you see the highlights in just 24 hours.

View from Calton Hill with the Dugald Stewart Monument and the Edinburgh skyline at golden hour.
Calton Hill, Edinburgh
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I’m Hazel, a travel blogger and seasoned solo traveller who’s wandered Edinburgh more times than I can count – and trust me, even with just one day here, this city has a way of stealing your heart.

Here is your one-day itinerary for Central Edinburgh.

Morning: The Royal Mile & Castle 🏰 

Start your Edinburgh in one day adventure on the Royal Mile, the city’s most famous street, stretching from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace.

Wander its cobbled lanes, popping into historic closes (alleyways) along the way.

People walking along the Royal Mile in Edinburgh on a sunny day with St Giles’ Cathedral spire in the distance.
The Balmoral Hotel clock tower and nearby buildings on Princes Street, Edinburgh, on a cloudy day.
The Royal Mile and the Balmoral clock tower

Then head straight up to Edinburgh Castle.

Perched on Castle Rock, it has panoramic views and fascinating exhibits, from the Scottish Crown Jewels to the Stone of Destiny. Pre-book tickets to save time.

Stone walls and towers of Edinburgh Castle lit by afternoon sun under a clear blue sky.
Edinburgh Castle

☕ Grab a coffee and a pastry at Deacon’s House Café, tucked into a historic building on the Royal Mile.

Late Morning: St Giles’ Cathedral & Hidden Closes 🏛️

Stop at St Giles’ Cathedral, known for its crown-shaped spire and beautiful Thistle Chapel. It’s free to enter, and the interior is stunning.

The facade of a large Gothic-style cathedral in Edinburgh with pointed arches and elaborate stained glass windows under a blue sky. Several people are seated or standing outside.
Stained glass window in a cathedral with heraldic flags and ornate wooden carvings below.
St Giles Cathedral

Explore the Real Mary King’s Close, an underground tour that reveals Edinburgh’s hidden 17th-century streets and spooky history. You’ll need to book tickets in advance (only available on their website).

Optional: Pop into the Writers’ Museum for a look at Scotland’s literary greats – Robert Burns, Robert Louis Stevenson, and Sir Walter Scott.

A woman sits beside a bronze statue of a cloaked figure on a bench at The Real Mary King's Close exhibit.
Historic stone building with a turret and decorative windows, featuring a sign that reads "Makars' Court.
The Real Mary King’s Close and the Writer’s Museum

Lunch: Scottish Flavours 🍤 

For lunch, try some traditional Scottish dishes:

  • Cullen skink – smoked haddock chowder.
  • Haggis, neeps, and tatties – Scotland’s most famous dish.
  • Scotch pie or fresh seafood.
Close-up of Scottish haggis with oatcakes and whisky sauce, garnished with microgreens on a restaurant table.
Bowl of creamy Cullen skink soup garnished with herbs, served on a wooden table.
Haggis and Cullen Skink

My favourite spots include Makars Gourmet Mash Bar or The Devil’s Advocate (you’ll likely need to book in advance).

👉 Read more: Food of Scotland: 18 Traditional Dishes & Local Drinks You Have to Try.

Afternoon: Arthur’s Seat or Calton Hill 🌳 

If you’re up for a hike, climb Arthur’s Seat, the extinct volcano in Holyrood Park, for panoramic views over the city and sea. It takes about an hour round-trip.

A green, hilly landscape under a blue sky with scattered white clouds. Vegetation covers the hills, with rocks and patches of dry grass visible.
Arthur’s Seat

For a shorter, easier option, head to Calton Hill, where you’ll find the National Monument and sweeping views of the skyline – especially iconic at golden hour.

View from Calton Hill with the Dugald Stewart Monument and the Edinburgh skyline at golden hour.
Person walking on Calton Hill, Edinburgh, with the National Monument in the background under a clear blue sky.
Calton Hill, Edinburgh

Golden Hour: Princes Street Gardens & New Town 🌅 

Stroll down into the Princes Street Gardens, a green space nestled beneath the castle.

Then wander through Edinburgh’s elegant New Town, with its Georgian architecture and chic shops along George Street.

A view of a city park with people sitting on the grass, a prominent spire to the left, and historic buildings in the background under a partly cloudy sky.
Princes St Gardens View

Evening: Pubs & Ghost Tours 🎉

End your Edinburgh in one day trip with dinner and drinks. Options include:

After dinner, join a ghost walk or a vaults tour in the old town – Edinburgh is famously haunted, and it’s a fun way to end your night.

Practical Tips for Edinburgh in One Day 🛠️

🚶 Getting Around: Edinburgh is very walkable but hilly. Wear comfortable shoes.

🎟️ Book in Advance: Reserve tickets for Edinburgh Castle and Mary King’s Close.

🌞 Best Time to Visit: May-September for festivals and lively streets; December for magical Christmas markets.

👣 Solo Travel: Edinburgh is safe, welcoming, and great for solo exploration.

🥃 Foodie Tip: Try a dram of Scotch whisky at a local pub.

Map of This Edinburgh in One Day Itinerary 🗺️ 

See all the key stops on your Edinburgh day trip pinned on this custom map.

FAQs: Edinburgh in One Day 💡

Quick answers to help you plan your Edinburgh trip with confidence.

Is Edinburgh safe for solo travellers?

Yes, Edinburgh is safe, friendly, and easy to explore for solo travellers. In fact, it’s on my list of Best Places to Travel for Solo Female Travellers.

Do I need to book tickets for Edinburgh in one day?

Yes – especially for Edinburgh Castle and ghost tours. You’ll possibly need to book restaurants in advance as well if you are visiting in peak season.

What’s the best way to get around Edinburgh in one day?

Walking is the best form of transport in Edinburgh. Most sights are close together, but buses and trams are available if needed.

Is one day enough in Edinburgh?

Yes, just about – one day lets you cover the Royal Mile, Castle, a viewpoint, and an evening experience. But there are many more things to do in Edinburgh if you have more time to spend.

Can I combine Edinburgh with a day trip?

Not if you only have one day. Focus on the city itself! But if you have longer, I have a dedicated Day Trips from Edinburgh post.

View from Arthur’s Seat in Edinburgh at sunset with purple clouds over the city.
Arthur’s Seat at dusk

Final Thoughts on Edinburgh ✨ 

Spending one day in Edinburgh is enough to capture the spirit of Scotland’s capital – from castles and cathedrals to cobbled streets and whisky pubs. Between history, views, and atmosphere, it’s a city that shines in just 24 hours.

As a solo traveller, I found Edinburgh safe, inspiring, and endlessly walkable – a city that feels both historic and welcoming. I hope you enjoy this one-day in Edinburgh itinerary.

Save This Edinburgh Itinerary for Later 📌 

Save this Edinburgh 24-hour itinerary for later – you’ve got two Pinterest pins to choose from!

Edinburgh Castle illuminated at dusk with text overlay reading ‘Edinburgh’ — travel guide for exploring Edinburgh in one day.
Collage-style Pinterest pin showing Edinburgh landmarks and text reading ‘1 Day Itinerary Edinburgh – Done for You Planned Itinerary + Map,’ promoting how to see Edinburgh in one day.

🔗 Related Reading: More Scotland Inspiration

Pair your Edinburgh visit with these guides:

🏰 Ultimate Edinburgh Travel Guide.
🚶 Best Day Trips from Edinburgh.
🎉 15 Fun Things to do in Edinburgh.
🏨 Where to Stay in Edinburgh.
😋 Food of Scotland: 18 Scottish Dishes You Must Try.

👉 Looking for practical travel tools? Check out my Travel Resources page.

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