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Coast Properties

Plan a day trip to Edinburgh

A day trip to Edinburgh is easy when you stay at a Coast Properties self-catering holiday let.

Edinburgh skyline as viewed from Calton Hill (© Visit Scotland)
Edinburgh skyline as viewed from Calton Hill
© Visit Scotland

With the majority of our East Lothian holiday rentals within a 30-minute train ride of Edinburgh, the region offers the opportunity for a fun-filled family day out to Scotland's capital.

Palace of Holyroodhouse, Edinburgh (© Visit Scotland)
Palace of Holyroodhouse, Edinburgh
© Visit Scotland

On a self-catering break to East Lothian, you are well-located to explore the city of Edinburgh.

Plan a day trip to Edinburgh

Explore Edinburgh on a self-catering break with Coast Properties

Whether you love history, culture or Harry Potter, Edinburgh has something for you!

Read on for our guide on the best things to do in Edinburgh during your self-catering break with us.

Things to do in Edinburgh city centre

As soon as you arrive in Edinburgh you will recognise the many famous landmarks in the city.

Visit top sights such as Edinburgh Castle, home to the Scottish crown jewels, or the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the British monarch's official residence in Scotland. 

Between these two sights sits Edinburgh's Royal Mile, full of great places to eat, top attractions and independent businesses. 

On a family day trip, make sure to visit Camera Obscura and World of Illusions at the top of the Royal Mile. 

Home to a historic Victorian observatory, this Edinburgh attraction allows visitors to view a device from the 19th century, enabling them to see the surrounding streets and passers-by.

Camera Obscura and World of Illusions also features exciting exhibits and optical illusions, perfect for the family to enjoy!

Things to do for couples in Edinburgh

If you are visiting with a loved one, there are many fun things for couples to do in the city of Edinburgh.

For those who enjoy spooky experiences, the Edinburgh Dungeon offers a journey into the past and the gruesome goings on in the city.

There are also several ghost tours available in the city centre, including the infamous Greyfriars Kirkyard, one of the most haunted locations in the world.

For couples who would prefer a more relaxed visit to Edinburgh, there are plenty of restaurants offering the perfect setting for a romantic meal or afternoon tea.

Alternatively, during the festive season, a stroll through Edinburgh's magical Christmas markets never disappoints!

It is also worth heading out of the city centre to attractions such as Edinburgh Zoo and the Royal Yacht Britannia, located in Corstorphine and Leith respectively.

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The Coast Properties portfolio features several 1-bedroom properties, ideal for a romantic seaside getaway.

Seagulls allows guests to unwind with stunning, panoramic sea views of Bass Rock in the Firth of Forth.

Hideaway Apartment is centrally located just off North Berwick High Street and has a patio garden with table and chairs, ideal for enjoying the weather of Scotland's Sunshine Coast!

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Free attractions in Edinburgh

With a wide variety of free attractions, a day out in Edinburgh doesn't have to cost the earth.

The National Museum of Scotland on Chambers Street is a good choice for a free, indoor activity and is well worth a visit.

Learn about scientific breakthroughs, nature and even art and fashion at this fascinating free attraction.

If you would like to explore more of the centre of Edinburgh take a free walking tour and learn about the history of the city.

For Harry Potter lovers there is plenty to see, from tombs in Greyfriars Kirkyard featuring recognisable names to Victoria Street where visitors will see the inspiration for Diagon Alley.

Unusual things to do in Edinburgh

If you are looking for more unusual things to do on a day trip to Edinburgh, head to John Knox House. 

This building is one of the oldest on the Royal Mile and was home to Knox until he died in 1572.

Today the house is home to the Scottish Storytelling Centre which hosts many great events throughout the year.

In good weather, there is also the opportunity to climb extinct volcanos!

Arthur's Seat in Holyrood Park, Calton Hill and the hill on which Edinburgh Castle stands all date back millions of years and afford fantastic views of the city's skyline.

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East Lothian is well connected to Edinburgh by train and several Coast Properties holiday lets are located close to train stations.

East Road Apartment, a 2-bedroom property in North Berwick, is situated close to the town's beautiful Lodge Grounds.

Firth View Apartment meanwhile boasts a private parking space and a fantastic beachfront location.

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Arthur's Seat, Edinburgh (© Visit Scotland)
Arthur's Seat, Edinburgh
© Visit Scotland

On a self-catering break to East Lothian, you are well-located to explore the city of Edinburgh, especially during the city's world-famous festival season.

Book with us today and start planning your day trip to the capital!

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