If shopping is your thing, whatever you're after, Edinburgh has something to suit. Wake up early to avoid the crowds of weekend shoppers and make your way along Princes Street for High Street favourites, George Street for sophisticated stores and Multrees Walk for a touch of luxury. On rugby weekends, Princes Street is awash with friendly rugby supporters, draped in flags and taking in the buzzing atmosphere.
Shopping makes for thirsty work so why not stop for lunch in one of George Street's stylish bars. Choose from the glamorous surroundings of Tigerlily, Le Monde or the Opal Lounge which all serve tasty hot lunches at reasonable prices. For lunch on a budget, Hanover Street is home to several sandwich bars, delis and value for money Italian restaurants.
Allow your lunch to settle by taking in all the sights of the city on an open top bus tour. Let professionals guide you, with interesting facts and anecdotes along the way about Edinburgh's most historic sites. Why not hop off and explore the historic Royal Mile, home to first-class visitors attractions as well as an abundance of quirky gift shops and eateries. With Scotland's most famous castle, Edinburgh Castle, at the top of this street, all the way down to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, there is plenty to keep you busy - don't forget your camera!
Edinburgh has more restaurants per head of population than any other UK city so you are truly spoilt when it comes to eating out. For dinner, why not try Howies on Victoria Street for some fine Scottish fayre or for a budget option, most pubs in the city serve up cheap and cheerful pub grub.
A trip to Edinburgh is not complete without an atmospheric ghost tour of the Old Town. Allow your guide to lead you down the many closes and wynds, recounting tales of murder or torture. Look out for ghostly apparitions - or more likely a jumper oo'ter - not for the faint hearted!
Enough to send you shaking to the pub, Edinburgh has a fantastic choice of bars and pubs. The Grassmarket and Old Town is always popular with the rugby crowd, where a lively atmosphere and rugby sing-alongs are always guaranteed.