Edinburgh, Obviously.

It's so easy to see how this city influenced the Harry Potter Universe. I'm basically waiting for my favorite Death Eater to pop out around the corner. With everything from graves for real-life Sirius Black and Thomas Riddle to the cobblestone of Victoria St., my inner Slytherin is obsessed.

Not only is it like walking through a movie set, but the town is as charming as you'd expect. Complete with bookstores and bars on nearly every corner, it's hard to go wrong.

Must-See's So Far (2 days down, 11 to go)

Even though I'm here for a bit of a long haul, I've already found places I'm obsessed with

I've split my lists based on what parts of the city they're in to try and limit walking in circles. Not like I can exactly read a map, but to simplify, I've labeled them East or West (of Market St. and the Edinburgh-Waverly Station). I've yet to figure out exactly what side of the road to walk on or how to read street signs, but we're trying!

For Coffee

Skipping Starbucks, because it's already not that great in the states anyway, I've tried stick to local roasters like Union Brew Lab (East) or Fortitude (West). They're stupidly cute and have great pastries for a quick breakfast.

For Snacks//Treats

I. J. Mellis is a DIVINE spot to pick up different cheeses, jams, fresh-baked bread, and more. With two locations, one off of Victoria St. (East) and another on Bakers Pl., it's a easy stop on the way back to the hotel. It's was too hard not to buy something, so I obviously had to grab a loaf and brie for the room.

For Lunch//Dinner

It's been a little tricky finding tequila over here (as crazy as this sounds, every other alcohol gives me a brutal flush and hives, not that it ever really stops me from drinking it). However, I found a delicious Mexican restaurant, El Cartel (Teviot Location//East), specializing in margaritas and tacos.

Coming from San Diego, I was beyond skeptical about Mexican food while abroad, but quickly proven wrong. The duck carnitas put California tacos to shame, and the street corn is delish. Thank god I got there early; they're a very popular spot around town.

For Books

I live and die by good books, like hello; they do make up nearly all of my room decor. I looked into a few bookstores before and tried planning around those for the beginning of the trip.

John Kay's (East) kicked it off. The super tiny spot on Victoria St. is full of different historical and fictional texts. Nothing super modern but very neat to browse either way, including some work from local artists.

Blackwell's (East) off of South Bridge is more modern with a smaller Barnes and Noble vibe. Across from the uni, it's always busy but the staff is super helpful and they have great deals on bestselling books.

For Harry Potter Fanatics

While there are official walking tours, it's pretty easy to see key spots on your own. I walked through Greyfriars Kirkyard and found graves for Sirius Black, Thomas Riddle, William McGonagall, and a Mrs. Moodie. Victoria St. is its own little Diagon Alley, and with crooked steps across the city, it's easy to imagine you've entered the Wizarding World.

Edinburgh Castle and the One O'Clock Gun (the girls who get it, get it...) are fantastic to see in person.