Edinburgh feels like it was built for stories. Castles perched on cliffs, cobbled alleys winding downhill, bagpipes echoing through the streets. It has a character that is both ancient and alive. For us, it was the perfect finale to an eight-day trip across the UK: four days in London, two in Glasgow, and two in Edinburgh.
Getting There and Where We Stayed
We took the morning train from Glasgow to Edinburgh Waverley. The ride itself was scenic, with rolling fields and glimpses of water, but stepping out into the city was something else entirely. The air was crisp, the buildings rose tall and old, and the streets instantly felt welcoming.
We checked in at the Residence Inn by Marriott Edinburgh. Spacious rooms, a handy kitchenette, and a wholesome breakfast made it a comfortable family base. The only thing missing was a pool, though the city outside more than made up for it.
Day 1: Castles, Cobblestones and Comfort Food
We began with Edinburgh Castle, the city’s most famous landmark. Perched high on Castle Rock, it dominates the skyline. Since it was too steep with kids in tow, we chose not to go inside. Still, for most visitors, it is worth entering because the castle is more than just stone walls. Inside you can see the Crown Jewels of Scotland, the Stone of Destiny used in coronations, the National War Museum, the Royal Palace apartments, and even the prison vaults where captured soldiers were once held. The one o’clock gun is also fired daily, a tradition that dates back more than 150 years.
From there, we wandered slowly down the Royal Mile. The mix of street performers, tartan shops, and bakeries made the walk lively. A special mention must go to the authentic Scottish fudge sold at traditional cafés and sweet shops along the way. Some places even prepare it right in front of you inside the bakery, and watching the process is as delightful as tasting it. Rich, buttery, and melt-in-the-mouth, this is something every visitor should try at least once.
A quick detour to Victoria Street, with its colorful facades and winding curve, became a highlight for the Potter fans in our family.
Lunch was at Durbar Indian Kitchen, and it turned out to be the best meal we had in the UK. We ordered malai kofta, cottage cheese in a rich gravy (paneer, as we call it in India), dal makhani made with black lentils, freshly baked naans, and refreshing mocktails. It was one of those meals where everything came together with the right flavors, presentation, and service. The staff were genuinely warm, making it feel less like dining out and more like being hosted.
Day 2: Touring the City
Many visitors climb Arthur’s Seat for panoramic views of Edinburgh. We skipped it since we had the kids with us, but we would recommend it for anyone visiting without such constraints.
What we did instead was take the Hop On Hop Off bus tour, choosing the green bus by Edinburgh Bus Tours. It was a relaxing way to see the city and covered all the major landmarks. We stopped at Holyrood Palace, the Scottish Parliament, Calton Hill, and finally the National Museum of Scotland. The museum was a surprise hit with the kids, thanks to its interactive displays, while we enjoyed the blend of history, science, and culture.
The rest of the day we explored on foot at our own pace, soaking in the atmosphere of the Old Town, pausing for coffee, and letting the city unfold slowly.
Eating Out in Edinburgh
While Durbar gave us the comfort of Indian food, Edinburgh also impressed us with its vegan-friendly dining. A few global favorites worth recommending are:
- Seeds for the Soul for hearty vegan bowls and indulgent desserts
- Holy Cow for a traditional vegan breakfast or afternoon tea
- Loudons for pancakes, coffee, and a relaxed café vibe
- Mimi’s Bakehouse for a sweet break near Waverley Station
Beyond vegan spots, the city is full of pubs, cafés, and fine dining options. Wherever we went, what stood out was not just the food but the warmth of the people. Friendly conversations with café staff and helpful bus drivers made us feel at home in a foreign city.
Practical Tips for Edinburgh
- The best time to visit is late spring or early autumn, when the weather is mild and crowds are lighter.
- Book castle and palace tickets online in advance to save time.
- Keep a raincoat or umbrella with you, as the weather can change quickly.
- Walk the Old Town slowly to enjoy its character, but balance it with a bus tour to cover more ground without tiring yourself.
- Vegetarians and vegans will find plenty of choice across the city, from casual cafés to fine dining restaurants. And don’t miss trying authentic Scottish fudge in traditional bakeries.
Farewell at Edinburgh Airport
Our UK journey ended at Edinburgh Airport. It is smaller than Heathrow, yet it felt calm and efficient. Check-in with British Airways was smooth, security took less than fifteen minutes, and the staff went out of their way to help with oversized bags.
We spent our remaining pounds at WHSmith and Costa. The kids enjoyed croissants while I had one last vegetarian English breakfast. Charging stations were easy to find, washrooms were spotless, and the free Wi-Fi worked without issues. Boarding was simple and free from chaos.
What we carried back, though, was not just the efficiency of the airport but the feeling of being looked after. Edinburgh left us with a sense of warmth that matched its beauty.
Final Thoughts
Two days in Edinburgh gave us a glimpse of its history, culture, and daily rhythm. It was the perfect way to end our trip. Castles, cobblestones, and green hills gave us the setting, but it was the kindness of its people that made the city unforgettable. Edinburgh welcomed us like a friend and left us with stories we will carry for years.
Inside Out With Rahul Yuvi 