My 9-Day London + Edinburgh UK Trip: Complete Itinerary with Costs & Mistakes

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I still remember the day I stumbled upon an old photo album while cleaning my house. Flipping through those grainy Kodachrome film photos taken by my father in London during the early 2000s felt like stepping into a time capsule. There, amidst the faded colors and slightly blurred edges, stood the iconic Big Ben – majestic, timeless, and a little mysterious through the analog lens.

Fast forward two decades, and here I was, standing in almost the same spot, but instead of a film camera, it was my smartphone clicking away in vibrant digital clarity.

I had the privilege to speak at KubeCon Europe 2025, held from April 1-4 at ExCeL London. This was my ninth country visit, but my first time visiting the UK. Naturally, I extended my work trip to squeeze in some exploration, not just in London but also in Edinburgh. After all, why not make the most of flying halfway across the globe?

This blog post is all about my 9-day London + Edinburgh UK trip, designed with flexibility in mind. I was juggling conference sessions, networking events, and sightseeing, so I visited places whenever time allowed. But the best part? This itinerary can work for anyone, whether you’re extending a conference trip like me or planning a dedicated vacation.

If you’re planning a London Edinburgh itinerary from India or searching for a practical UK trip itinerary Indian traveler style, grab a cup of chai and join me!

Practical Information for Indian Travelers

UK Visa for Indians: What You Need to Know

Before you start dreaming of London Eye selfies or Edinburgh castle views, here’s a practical reality check – you need a UK visa if you’re an Indian citizen. Applying for a UK visa is straightforward but requires planning.

You can apply online via the official UK Government website. The processing time typically ranges from 2 to 3 weeks, so it’s wise to apply at least one month before your intended travel date. The visa fee is around ₹15,000, though fluctuations in exchange rates can affect this slightly.

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare:

• Valid Indian passport (with at least 6 months validity)
• Financial statements (bank statements showing sufficient funds)
• Confirmed hotel bookings or accommodation proof
• Return flight tickets (showing your exit plan)
• Travel insurance covering the UK duration
• Proof of employment or purpose of visit (like conference invitation)

A biometric appointment is mandatory at VFS Global centers in India, where your fingerprints and photo are taken. I had my appointment booked at the Hyderabad VFS office in Punjagutta metro station.

Pro Tip: If your trip involves a conference like mine, include the conference invitation letter and accommodation details provided by your employer.

Budget Breakdown: Flights, Accommodation, Transport, and Food

Planning a budget UK trip from India or aiming for a mid-range experience? Here’s a transparent breakdown of costs from my trip, useful for first-time visitors alike.

Flights

• Round-trip Hyderabad to London Heathrow typically costs between ₹70,000 to ₹90,000.
• I flew British Airways direct – super convenient for avoiding layovers.
• Prices vary based on your departure city (Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore) and travel season.
• Booking at least 2-3 months in advance can save you thousands.

Visa

• Approximately ₹15,000, including service fees and biometric charges.

Accommodation

• Budget: Hostels like YHA, Travelodge, or Premier Inn cost about ₹3,000-5,000 per night.
• Mid-Range: Hotels like Novotel or Holiday Inn run ₹8,000-12,000 per night.
• My Experience: During the conference, I stayed at Novotel with an office colleage, which was covered by my company. Afterward, I stayed with a friend in Wimbledon, saving a significant amount.
• Money-Saving Tip: Consider Airbnb or budget hotels in London’s Zone 3-4 – they’re well – connected and cheaper.

Transport

• London to Edinburgh train: Prices range from £50 to £150 (₹5,300-16,000) depending on when you book.
• I booked through LNER two weeks ahead for £80 (₹8,500). The journey is 4.5 hours, scenic, and comfortable.
• London Public Transport: Use contactless debit/credit cards or Oyster cards. The daily cap system means you won’t overspend. Expect to spend ₹800-1,200 per day.
• Edinburgh: Very walkable city. Trams from the airport cost around ₹600-800.

Food

• Budget meals cost ₹800-1,500; mid-range around ₹2,000-3,500 per meal.
• Vegetarian options are plentiful in both cities (I’ll share detailed food posts soon).

Total Estimated Budget for 9-10 days:

• Budget Traveler: ₹2.5-3 lakhs including flights and visa
• Mid-Range Traveler: ₹3.5-4.5 lakhs including flights and visa

Remember, costs depend on your style, but this should help you plan realistically.

What to Pack: Layers, Wind, and Comfort

I traveled in April, and let me tell you, the UK weather can be unpredictable!

Here’s my packing advice for Indian travelers, especially first-timers:

• Bring light warm clothes – a jacket or hoodie is mandatory.
• CRITICAL: Pack a windproof jacket and rain protection, especially for Edinburgh and Scotland. The wind chill will surprise you.
• Layering is key: t-shirts, long sleeves, sweaters, and jackets that you can add or remove.
• A compact umbrella or poncho helps with unexpected showers.
• Bring comfortable walking shoes – expect 15,000+ steps per day.
• Don’t forget a Type G power adapter and a portable power bank for your devices.
• Pro Tip: Pack light and prioritize layers over bulky items; this makes moving around much easier.

SIM Card and Connectivity

For connectivity, I used a Nomad eSIM, costing about ₹2500-3000 for 10 days of data only. I chose the unlimited data plan, so depending on the plan you use, you can expect to pay a different amount.

Why it worked:

• Easy online activation, no need for physical SIM swapping.
• Kept my Indian number active for OTPs and WhatsApp.
• Much cheaper than international roaming plans.

Alternatives include purchasing a physical SIM at London airports from EE or Vodafone, or using Airtel/Jio international roaming packs if you prefer.

Tip: You can use my Nomad Invite Code: for a $5 discount on your first purchase.

Edinburgh Section: Exploring Scotland’s Capital in 3 Days

Day 1: The Scenic Train Journey and Arrival

The last day of KubeCon , I hopped onto the LNER train at London King’s Cross for my 4.5-hour journey to Edinburgh Waverley station. Booking two weeks in advance cost me £80 (~₹8,500), a fair price compared to last-minute fares which can spike to £150.

The train ride was a highlight itself – the route winds through picturesque Yorkshire countryside, rolling hills, and quaint villages. I highly recommend snagging a window seat on the left side going north for the best views. Free WiFi, plenty of power outlets, and a cafe car made the trip comfortable and productive. Since I was with a friend, we chatted all along the way!

Day 2: West Edinburgh to City Center

We started the day by visiting the St Mary’s Cathedral, a serene Gothic masterpiece with a massive pipe organ. Entry is free, and I spent about 30-40 minutes soaking in the peaceful atmosphere after the long journey. It was a perfect introduction to the city’s charm.

Followed by a visit to the Dean Village, a picturesque historic settlement along the Water of Leith river. This peaceful, photogenic spot feels like stepping back in time with cobbled streets and colorful buildings. The walking trail along the river is calm and refreshing, perfect for photos and quiet reflection. Free to explore, spend 1.5-2 hours here.

Mid-Morning to Afternoon: Royal Mile & Castle Area

• Royal Mile: This historic street connects Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Bustling with colorful shops, street performers, and quaint restaurants, it’s free to wander and soak in local life.
• St Giles’ Cathedral: Located on the Royal Mile, this Gothic cathedral features stunning stained glass and the famous Thistle Chapel. Entry is free, and a visit takes about 30-45 minutes.
• Edinburgh Castle: The city’s crown jewel, featuring the Crown Jewels, Great Hall, and panoramic views over the city. Tickets cost £19-22 (~₹2,000-2,300); booking online in advance is recommended. Allocate 3-4 hours.

Lunch: For vegetarians, I recommend checking out Hendersons Vegan restaurant nearby, which offers hearty Scottish-inspired dishes.

Evening: Historic Streets and Dinner

Explore the colorful curves of Victoria Street, the lively Grassmarket, and quirky Cockburn Street. These areas are great for evening photography and boutique shopping.

Dinner at David Bann, a popular vegetarian restaurant known for creative dishes that even non-vegetarians rave about.

Day 3: Scottish Highlands Day Trip

A full-day tour from Edinburgh takes you to the dramatic Glencoe Valleys, legendary Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle, and the famous Highland Coos – those adorable hairy cows that are a Scotland icon.

Tours cost around £50-80 (₹5,300-8,500) and last about 10-12 hours. I booked through GetYourGuide. This was a highlight for me, especially after visiting the Swiss Alps last year. The Scottish Highlands offer a different kind of rugged, mystical beauty that’s well worth dedicating a day to.

Returned around 8 PM, had a light dinner, and headed to the station for my overnight train to London.

Edinburgh Additional Mentions

If you get a rainy day or extra time, the National Museum of Scotland is an excellent free attraction showcasing Scottish history, culture, and natural science. Allocate 2-3 hours.

Vegetarian food in Edinburgh pleasantly surprised me. From Scottish haggis patties made vegan to cozy cafes, my top picks are Hendersons Vegan, Nova Pizza, and Harmonium.

Read all my Scotland posts to get more details about all the places I’ve mentioned here.

London Section: 6-7 Days Organized by Neighborhood

Westminster & South Bank – History and Iconic Landmarks

This area is a 20-30 minute walk along the Thames, full of London’s most photographed spots.

• Westminster Abbey: Historic church for royal weddings and coronations. Beautiful Gothic architecture with a free audio guide. Tickets cost ₹2,500-3,000, book online to avoid queues. Allocate 1.5-2 hours.
• Big Ben & Houses of Parliament: Standing here, I thought about my dad’s grainy Kodak photos – same iconic building decades apart. The clock tower was partially under renovation but still awe-inspiring. External viewing is free with great photo ops from Parliament Square.
• Thames Riverside Walk to Tower Bridge: A 30-40 minute stroll with street performers and book stalls. Free and refreshing.
• Tower Bridge: Victorian engineering marvel. I admired it from the south bank; the exhibition costs ₹1,500 if you want to explore inside.
• Borough Market: Foodie paradise since 1014. A haven for vegetarians with multiple stalls offering fresh, delicious options. Budget ₹1,500-2,500 for a meal here.
• London Eye (Evening): A 30-minute rotation offering stunning sunset views of Big Ben and Parliament. Tickets ₹3,000-3,500 online. Worth it for first-time visitors.

Nearby Vegetarian Options: The Southbank Centre has several cafes with good veg options. Also, I tried Tibits, a vegetarian buffet chain nearby.

South Kensington Museum Quarter – Culture and Gardens

This compact cluster includes three major museums and royal gardens.

• British Museum (Bloomsbury): Home to Rosetta Stone, Egyptian mummies, and Parthenon sculptures. Free entry, donations welcome. Spend 2-3 hours here, arrive at opening (10 AM) to avoid crowds. Pick up a free map.
• Natural History Museum: Famous for its T-Rex skeleton and blue whale model. Romanesque architecture adds to the experience. Free entry, allow 2-3 hours. Located in South Kensington.
• Kensington Gardens: Walk through this royal park, visit the Round Pond and Albert Memorial. Free and perfect for a peaceful break between museums.
• Albert Hall (Exterior): Iconic circular building nearby; I just admired it from outside.
• Vegetarian Food Nearby: I loved El&n Cafe, an Instagrammable spot famous for its watermelon tea (₹1,200-1,800). Another option is Mildreds, a popular vegetarian restaurant close by.

North London – Lord’s Cricket Ground and Surroundings

• Lord’s Cricket Ground: Known as the “Home of Cricket,” the 90-minute guided tour includes the Long Room, dressing rooms, the Ashes urn, and MCC Museum. Tickets ₹2,500-3,000, book in advance. Not available on match days. Allow 2 hours.
• Nearby: Regent’s Park is a 15-minute walk, free to enter. For panoramic city views, Primrose Hill is nearby and also free. If time permits, wander through Camden Market for quirky shops and street food.

Southwest London – Wimbledon

I stayed with a friend in Wimbledon, so this was easy to explore.

• Wimbledon Tennis Tour: Visit Centre Court, trophy room, and tennis museum. Tickets ₹2,800-3,500. Book online; tours unavailable during the tournament late June-July. Combined tour + museum is best value.
• Getting There: District Line to Southfields station (10-minute walk) or train to Wimbledon station.
• Nearby: Wimbledon Common is great for walks and free to enter. The village area has quaint cafes.

Note: Lord’s and Wimbledon are at opposite ends of London – avoid trying to do both in one day.

Covent Garden & West End – Shopping and Entertainment

• Covent Garden: Known as the “Sarojini Nagar of London” for affordable souvenirs! Apple Market and Jubilee Market feature street performers and stalls selling unique gifts. Free to walk around.
• Nearby: Oxford Street (busy shopping), Regent Street (upscale), and Fortnum & Mason (iconic British store, great for tea and browsing).
• Chinatown: Just 5 minutes walk from Covent Garden, offering Asian restaurants and bubble tea shops.
• Leicester Square: Movie theaters and tourist hub, great for evening entertainment.
• Vegetarian Food: My favorite was Kin Cafe, a fully plant-based spot offering creative dishes that even non-vegans love.

Buckingham Palace & Mayfair – Royalty and Elegance

• Buckingham Palace: External viewing is free. Check the Changing of the Guard schedule in advance. State Rooms open only during summer (Aug-Sept). The Mall approach is iconic for photos.
• St James’s Park: Beautiful royal park between Palace and Westminster, free entry. Great for a stroll and ducks watching.
• Fortnum & Mason: Famous British department store with a spectacular food hall and tea room. Even just browsing is a treat. Tea room is pricey (₹2,500+), but a memorable experience. For budget alternatives, try nearby cafes.
• Nearby: Green Park and Hyde Park Corner are free and peaceful.

Flexible Days: Food Exploration & Casual Strolls

Some days I kept it casual to recharge and indulge in food.

• L’eto Cafe: Tried their tres leches cake — heavenly! Beautiful interiors and perfect for brunch. Cost ₹1,500-2,000. Multiple locations.
• Vasiniko (Italian): Loved their white pizza (without tomato sauce). Authentic and delicious, ₹1,800-2,500.
• Chipotle: Yes, it’s a chain, but I miss Mexican food in India. Worth it for a change. ₹1,000-1,500.
• Hyde Park: Relaxing walks around Serpentine Lake, people watching, and nature — free and refreshing.
• Notting Hill (If Time): Colorful houses, Portobello Road Market (weekends), and cute cafes — very Instagrammable. Tube to Notting Hill Gate.
• Sky Garden / The Shard: I skipped due to time, but Sky Garden is free with advance booking, The Shard charges but offers higher views.

Quick City Comparison: Edinburgh vs London

Edinburgh: Compact, walkable, dominated by its castle and historic charm. Cooler and windier than London, laid-back vibe perfect for a 2-3 day visit. Offers easy access to the Highlands. Accommodation and food tend to be slightly cheaper.

London: Massive and sprawling, requiring public transport to navigate. Milder weather, fast-paced, multicultural, and packed with world-class museums and endless options. You could spend weeks here and still find new things.

Food: Both cities are excellent for vegetarians. Edinburgh pleasantly surprised me with its variety, but London wins for sheer diversity and availability of cuisines.

Cost: Edinburgh is generally cheaper, especially for accommodation.

Preference: Edinburgh feels like a perfect weekend escape; London feels like a city you could live in and keep discovering.

Mistakes & Learnings: Honest Reflections

What I Did Wrong

1. Edinburgh Weather Disaster: I underestimated the Scottish wind and packed only light jackets. The biting wind chill made me layer up heavily right from arrival. Lesson: Windproof jackets and warm layers are non-negotiable in Edinburgh.

2. Geographic Planning in London: Initially, I planned to visit Lord’s Cricket Ground and Wimbledon on the same day. Rookie error! They’re on opposite ends of London, glad I rectified that just in time and booked the tickets for two different days.

3. Not Booking Some Museums: Though most of the museums are free, it’s best to book the free visit online and have a ticket. Since if you already have a ticket, the queues are shorter and you get faster entry.

4. Trying to Fit Too Much: Some days were overscheduled, leaving me exhausted. Travel isn’t just about ticking boxes; it’s about soaking in experiences. I recommend pacing yourself.

5. Underestimating Walking: I averaged over 15,000 steps daily but didn’t bring my best walking shoes initially. Footwear matters!

What Worked Perfectly

1. Contactless Payments: Using my Indian contactless debit card was seamless for transport, cafes, and shops. No cash hassles or Oyster cards to manage.

2. Staying with a Friend: Saved a ton on accommodation and got local insights and home-cooked meals – priceless.

3. Nomad eSIM: Data-only eSIM kept me connected without expensive roaming or SIM swaps.

4. Geographic Clustering: Once I grouped my London explorations by area, my days became much more efficient and less tiring.

5. Train to Edinburgh: The scenic train journey was worth every rupee. More relaxing and picturesque than flying.

6. Conference Extension Strategy: Perfect way to explore without using precious vacation days. Work and play balance.

7. Free Museums: British Museum and Natural History Museum in London, and National Museum in Scotland, saved me a lot.

8. Walking Everywhere Possible: The best way to discover hidden corners and get a feel for neighborhoods.

FAQ Section: Quick Answers for Indian Travelers

1. How much does a 9-day UK trip cost from India?

Budget travelers spend ₹2.5-3 lakhs total; mid-range ₹3.5-4.5 lakhs, including flights, visa, accommodation, food, and activities. London is pricier than Edinburgh. Booking flights and trains early helps save.

2. Is 3 days enough for Edinburgh?

Yes, 3 days cover main attractions, the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, museums, and a Highland day trip. The city is compact and walkable. Having said that, it’s always less in Edinburgh, sometimes you just want to spend more time and soak in the beautiful old-charm city!

3. What’s the best way to travel London to Edinburgh?

Train via LNER/Lumo from King’s Cross to Waverley takes 4.5 hours, scenic and comfortable. Book 4+ weeks in advance for £50-80.

4. Do I need UK visa from India?

Yes, all Indian citizens must apply online, pay about ₹15,000, and attend a biometric appointment. Apply at least one month before travel.

5. Is London expensive for vegetarians?

London offers a vast vegetarian and vegan scene, from budget options like Pret and supermarkets to fancy restaurants. Meals range from ₹800 to ₹3,500. So it ideally depends on what you eat.

6. Best time to visit London and Edinburgh?

April to September is ideal. I went in April – weather was unpredictable but manageable. May and June offer longer days and mild temperatures. Avoid winter unless you like cold and dark days.

7. Can I use Indian debit cards in London?

Yes, Visa and Mastercard contactless cards work widely. Inform your bank before travel. Carry some cash as backup. Also, for all the apps that you plan to use, better configure the Indian cards in the app before you leave India.

8. Should I book Edinburgh train in advance?

Absolutely. Booking 4+ weeks ahead saves a lot. Tickets cost £50-80 in advance, but can spike to £150 last minute.

Conclusion: Reflections on a Memorable UK Journey

Standing at Big Ben, I thought about my dad’s grainy Kodak photos from the early 2000s. Same building, different era. He came for work, probably spent just a few days. I extended a conference into nine days of exploration, blending work and wanderlust.

This trip exceeded my expectations in so many ways. The conference extension strategy worked perfectly, letting me experience two iconic UK cities without using precious vacation time. London and Edinburgh each have their own unique appeal – Edinburgh’s compact, historic charm and breathtaking Highlands contrast beautifully with London’s sprawling multicultural energy and endless options.

Would I do it again? Absolutely. Would I change anything? Pack better for Edinburgh’s wind, cluster London days geographically from the start, and book popular restaurants in advance.

Edinburgh stole my heart with its intimate beauty. London amazed me with its diversity and vibrancy. Both made me appreciate how accessible the UK is from India now – direct flights, easy visa, English language, and incredible vegetarian food.

Planning your UK trip? Questions about specific attractions, vegetarian options, or conference extensions? Drop a comment below! I’m working on detailed vegetarian food guides for both cities- subscribe to not miss them. You can also reach out to me on Twitter at @Atulmaharaj or DM me @Atulmaharaj on Instagram or get in touch. Let’s keep the conversation going and share the love for Edinburgh’s vibrant vegetarian food scene!