To celebrate my birthday this year, I jetted off to the land of kilts, bagpipes, castles, and (of course) whisky. Scotland had been on my list for years, and I kicked off the trip in the capital city of Edinburgh. Rich in history, compact in size, and endlessly walkable, this city charmed me from the very first day.
I spent four days exploring the city’s cobblestone streets, historic sites, and cozy corners—and while I could easily have stayed longer, here are my top highlights from this unforgettable solo adventure.
🌿 1. Morning Strolls in Princes Street Gardens
Just steps from my hotel, Princes Street Gardens became my peaceful retreat in the middle of the city.
I spent one morning wandering through the well-kept flower beds, stopping at monuments and admiring the panoramic view of Edinburgh Castle from the Ross Fountain. Framed by Georgian and Victorian architecture, this lush green space offers a calm moment beneath the city’s ever-watchful castle.
Tip: Grab a coffee and sit by the fountain. Watching the city come to life around you is pure magic.
🍰 2. Afternoon Tea at the Signet Library
This was a dream for my fellow book and tea lovers.
Located beside St. Giles’ Cathedral on the Royal Mile, the Signet Library offers a refined afternoon tea experience in an absolutely stunning setting. I cozied up with a good book, sipped champagne and berry tea, and indulged in a tiered selection of savories, sweets, and fresh-baked scones.
It was the perfect slow moment between sightseeing—a bit of quiet elegance in the heart of the Old Town.
🏰 3. Castles, Palaces & Royal Intrigue
You can’t visit Edinburgh without exploring its royal landmarks. I visited both the Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and while the castle is definitely the city’s centerpiece, the palace completely captivated me.
On the day I visited Edinburgh Castle, there was a surprise ceremony marking the first anniversary of King Charles’ coronation—complete with a 21-gun salute and full Scottish procession. A total pinch-me moment.
But it was Holyrood Palace that lingered with me. I walked the same steep, winding stairs once used by Mary, Queen of Scots, to reach her private chambers—the oldest part of the palace. Inside her supper room, her private secretary David Rizzio was infamously murdered in front of her. The bloodstains from that moment are still visible on the floor. Chilling and fascinating all at once.
✨ Bonus Experiences Worth Mentioning
- Dean Village: A postcard-perfect corner of Edinburgh worth a peaceful walk.
- Victoria Street: Said to have inspired Diagon Alley for the Harry Potter fans.
- Whisky Tasting: I visited the Johnnie Walker Experience, where I sipped whisky while enjoying castle views from the rooftop bar.
- Ghost Tours: Edinburgh’s dark and spooky past comes alive at night—perfect if you’re up for a thrill.
Edinburgh is a city that’s easy to navigate, solo-friendly, and full of character. I felt completely safe wandering its streets—even late into the evening—and the locals were as warm as they were witty. In fact, no matter how many times I introduced myself as Claudia, they lovingly insisted on calling me Claudine
I left with a new name, a deep appreciation for Scottish history, and a growing love for solo travel. Whether you go alone or with friends, Edinburgh is a city that will stay with you long after you’ve left.
xoxo
Travel. Beach. Love
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