After spending a few days in London we took the train up to Edinburgh for the weekend. It’s about a 4.5 hour train ride if you take the quickest route so not too bad. It was our first time in Scotland and we loved it. Personally I liked the architecture. You can really feel the history as you walk around this city. Joe agreed that it felt more authentically “old” than London since London is such a modern city now with skyscrapers. Edinburgh has really kept its charm. It’s is also easily walkable, unlike London, so we walked everywhere and never needed to take the bus.

Royal Mile

The Royal Mile is the nickname given to the streets around the Old Town of Edinburgh that lead up to the castle. You’ll find all the touristy things in this area like shops selling wool and souvenirs as well as people dressed up in kilts playing bagpipes.

Circus Lane

Picturesque cobblestone street in Edinburgh.

Victoria Street

Dishoom

We had breakfast at this local Indian restaurant twice it was that good. They have a vegan English breakfast option that I really loved, and the yogurt with fruit and granola was delicious as well.

Hollyrood Palace

The official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. We toured the inside which I highly recommend. It’s very grand and elaborately decorated. No pictures were allowed inside so I don’t have any to post here.

Arthur’s Seat

Arthur’s Seat is an extinct volcano that you can climb and it gives you amazing 360 degree views around Edinburgh. Highly recommend.

Dean’s Village

Highlands and Loch Ness day trip

We did a full day trip with the tour company Rabbie’s to the Scottish highlands and Loch Ness. Typical for Scotland it was cold and rainy that day so it really set the mood. I would love to come back to this area in summer and explore outside of the city more.