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Edinburgh’s Old Town is a time capsule of cobblestone streets, medieval spires, and a brooding castle perched atop a volcanic rock. This UNESCO World Heritage site hums with Scottish history, ghost stories, and a whisky-soaked charm that’s impossible to resist. A weekend here is just enough to scratch the surface of its magic—perfect for a quick escape or a taste of Scotland’s soul. Here’s how to make the most of 48 hours in Edinburgh’s Old Town, with Orbitz as a handy tool to kick things off.
Day One: Castle to Closes
Start your weekend at Edinburgh Castle, the Old Town’s crown jewel. Perched on Castle Rock, it’s been a fortress, palace, and prison since the 12th century. Wander through the Stone of Destiny’s chamber, gawk at the Scottish Crown Jewels, and catch the One O’Clock Gun—a daily boom that’s startled visitors since 1861. The views from the battlements stretch across the city to the Firth of Forth, setting the tone for your trip.
From there, dive into the Royal Mile, the spine of Old Town running from the castle to Holyrood Palace. It’s a tangle of closes (narrow alleys) and wynds, each with a tale—try Mary King’s Close for a spooky underground tour of a 17th-century street sealed off after the plague. Pop into St. Giles’ Cathedral, its thistle-shaped crown glinting in the light, then grab a scone at a nearby café. If you’re flying in, Orbitz can snag you a deal to Edinburgh Airport, just a tram ride from this historic heart.
Night One: Pubs and Ghosts
As dusk falls, Old Town’s atmosphere thickens. Head to a pub like The Bow Bar or The Devil’s Advocate—cozy, wood-paneled spots where you can sip a dram of single malt and nibble haggis, neeps, and tatties. The vibe is warm, the accents thick, and the stories endless. For a thrill, book a ghost tour—guides in capes lead you through haunted vaults and graveyards, spinning yarns of bodysnatchers and restless spirits. Greyfriars Kirkyard, with its spectral Greyfriars Bobby tale, is a chilling highlight.
If you’re staying overnight, Orbitz has Old Town listings—think a Georgian flat steps from the Mile, perfect for crashing after a late night.
Day Two: Palaces and Peaks
Morning two calls for Holyrood Palace, the Royal Mile’s eastern anchor. This is the King’s official Scottish residence, steeped in drama—Mary, Queen of Scots, watched her secretary murdered here in 1566. Tour the state rooms, then stroll the ruins of Holyrood Abbey, its broken arches stark against the sky. The palace gardens are a peaceful breather before your next climb.
That climb is Arthur’s Seat, a rugged hill looming over Old Town. It’s a 45-minute hike from Holyrood, steep but doable, with 360-degree views at the top—Old Town’s rooftops, the castle, and the North Sea sprawling below. Pack a jacket; the wind bites, even in summer. Back down, reward yourself with fish and chips from a chippie—crisp, greasy perfection.
Afternoon Two: Museums and Markets
Post-hike, dip into the National Museum of Scotland on Chambers Street. It’s free, and the Grand Gallery’s soaring ceiling frames everything from Viking brooches to Dolly the cloned sheep. The rooftop terrace offers another killer city vista. If it’s a Saturday, hit the Grassmarket, a historic square turned weekend market—think tartan scarves, local cheeses, and buskers strumming folk tunes. It’s Old Town at its liveliest, with pubs like The Last Drop (named for a nearby gallows) spilling onto the street.
Why Old Town Works for a Weekend
Old Town’s compact size is its strength—everything’s walkable, from castle to palace, in a day or two. Summer brings the Edinburgh Festival’s chaos (book early!), while winter drapes it in mist and fairy lights. Spring and autumn? Goldilocks weather and fewer crowds. It’s a place where history isn’t just seen—it’s felt, in the stones underfoot and the bagpipes in the air.
Orbitz can streamline your getaway, whether it’s a flight or a quirky Old Town stay—maybe a loft with castle views to cap your weekend.
Practical Tips
Wear sturdy shoes—those cobbles are brutal. Cash helps for small vendors, though cards work most places. Layers are key; Edinburgh’s weather flips fast. Trams and buses link the airport and train station, but once you’re in Old Town, your feet are enough. Book castle tickets online to skip lines, and pace yourself—there’s a lot to pack in.
A weekend in Edinburgh’s Old Town is a whirlwind of kilts, castles, and closes—a crash course in Scotland’s gritty glamour. From Arthur’s Seat’s windswept summit to the Royal Mile’s medieval pulse, it’s a city that grabs you and doesn’t let go. With a little help from Orbitz, you can land here ready to explore, soaking in every haunted, hearty moment. So, pack your curiosity, raise a glass, and let Old Town weave its spell.
