Edinburgh feels dramatic even in daylight, and at Christmas it hums. I’m landing at 1 p.m. and going straight for the sights that hit fast on a day trip. First up is the East Princes Street Gardens Market for that castle-view backdrop and a quick snack while I scout the stalls. Then I’ll ride the LNER Big Wheel for skyline photos you can’t get on foot. As the light drops, I’ll head to Christmas at the Botanics for the illuminated trail that turns the gardens into a calm, glowing maze. I’m also building in a stop at Baa Baa Sheep for a small woolly gift that actually fits in a carry-on and will still look cute in February.

Steal my Edinburgh list and you’ll have a route that lands cleanly from the station, hits the market without backtracking, times the wheel for the best light, and gets you to the Botanics with breathing room before your return train. I’ll note walking times, bus or tram options, and the exact corners where the castle view opens up so you’re not guessing with the clock ticking. It’s a simple plan for a short window, but it leaves room to pause, sip something hot, and watch the city glow. That’s the whole point.