The Ultimate 3-Day Whitby Itinerary

The perfect long weekend on the Yorkshire Coast

Whitby is one of those places that wins people over fast. Dramatic clifftop views, a bustling harbour, legendary fish and chips, gothic history and miles of glorious coastline – all wrapped up in a town that feels both lively and laid-back.

If you’ve got three days in Whitby, this itinerary strikes the ideal balance between sightseeing, coastal walks, good food and proper relaxation. It’s perfect for first-time visitors, couples, families or anyone looking to make the most of a long weekend.

Day 1: Arrival, Old Town & Where to Eat

Morning–Afternoon: Arrive in Whitby & Get Your Bearings

Arrive in Whitby late morning or around lunchtime and start by getting a feel for the town. If you arrive by car, many car parks allow you to park for the day, making it easy to explore before check-in.

Head straight to the harbour area, where everything is close together and easy to enjoy at a gentle pace. Take a stroll along the quayside, watch the fishing boats come and go, and soak up your first views of the coastline.

Lunch Suggestions

• Sanders Yard Bistro – Great for a relaxed lunch with fresh, local dishes in a cosy setting.

• Abbey Wharf – Casual lunch option with seafood, fish pies and pub classics near the market.

• Harry’s Lounge Bar & Brasserie – A lively brasserie on Pier Road with modern British food and drinks.

(Whitby has lots of cafés and lighter lunch venues too if you’d prefer a quick coffee and cake before sightseeing.)

199 Steps & Whitby Abbey

After lunch, wander into Whitby’s Old Town, browsing the independent shops, galleries and sweet shops that line the narrow streets.

When you’re ready, make your way up the famous 199 Steps. Take it slowly – there are benches along the way and plenty of photo opportunities. At the top, explore St Mary’s Church and enjoy the panoramic views over the town and harbour.

4 pm: Check Into Your Accommodation

Head to your accommodation to freshen up and put your feet up for a while before heading out again.

Evening: Dinner by the Sea

Whitby is famous for its seafood, especially fish and chips, but there are lots of great dinner options for every taste and budget.

Dinner Suggestions

• • Magpie Café – Perhaps Whitby’s most iconic seafood spot; book ahead as it’s popular for fish and chips and classic seafood dishes.

  • Trenchers – A Whitby favourite for traditional fish and chips and seafood with a harbour view.

  • The Fisherman’s Wife Whitby – Excellent seafood and classics with a scenic setting — great for families too.

  • Ditto – A lovely bistro for modern British cuisine if you want something a bit more refined.

  • Cosa Nostra – Italian cuisine for a break from seafood (advance booking recommended).

  • The Moon & Sixpence – Harbourside grill and bar with views, great for cocktails and a relaxed meal.

  • Pizza West – Harbour-side pizzeria with outdoor seating and a fun, casual vibe.

After Dinner: Harbour or Cliff Walk

Cap off your first Whitby evening with a gentle stroll:

• Along the harbour and piers for sunset views

• Up on West Cliff for dramatic seaside vistas

Day 2: Coast, Countryside & Local Flavours

Morning: Coastal Walk or Beach Time

Start your day with a proper Whitby classic: fresh sea air.

Depending on how active you’re feeling:

• Walk part of the Cleveland Way towards Sandsend for clifftop views

• Enjoy a relaxed morning on West Cliff Beach

• Or head to Sandsend Beach, perfect for paddling, rock pools and coastal scenery

Breakfast / Coffee Stops

• Botham’s of Whitby – For pastries, bread and a great cup of coffee

• Jester’s Coffee House – Cosy, friendly – perfect for a relaxed breakfast

• The Singing Kettle – Traditional and hearty, ideal if you want a proper sit-down start

Lunch: Seaside & Village Favourites

After your morning outdoors, refuel with lunch:

• The Hart Inn, Sandsend – A popular coastal pub with sea views and classic dishes

• Bridge Cottage Bistro – A charming spot for lighter lunches and local flavours

• The Fisherman’s Wife (West Cliff) – Great seafood and fish dishes overlooking the beach

Afternoon: Boats, History or Browsing

Choose how you’d like to spend the afternoon:

• Take a boat trip from the harbour (weather and season permitting)

• Visit the Captain Cook Memorial Museum for a dose of Whitby’s maritime history

• Wander independent shops, galleries or enjoy tea and cake

Afternoon Tea & Cake Stops

• Marie Antoinette’s – Famous tearoom with generous portions

• Little Angel Tea Rooms – Lovely homemade cakes in a cosy setting

Evening: Dinner & Drinks

Whitby evenings are relaxed and atmospheric — perfect for a leisurely meal.

Dinner Suggestions

• Ditto – Modern British cuisine using local ingredients (great for couples)

• The Moon & Sixpence – Harbourside dining with a lively but laid-back feel

• Harry’s Lounge Bar & Brasserie – Stylish, central, and ideal for groups

Finish the night with a drink in a cosy pub or a moonlit stroll along the harbour.

Day 3: Easy Exploring & a Relaxed Farewell

Morning: A Slow Start or Early Views

For your final day, keep things gentle:

• Enjoy a slow breakfast at your accommodation

• Or head out early to the abbey clifftop paths for quiet views and fresh air

Breakfast / Brunch Spots

• Botham’s of Whitby – Perfect for something sweet or savoury

• Cranberry Swamp Gluten-Free Café – A great option for dietary needs

Late Morning: Souvenirs & Harbour Wandering

Spend your last morning picking up souvenirs:

• Whitby jet jewellery

• Local gin, rum or preserves

• Handmade gifts and artwork

Enjoy one final wander around the harbour, watching the boats and soaking up the atmosphere.

Lunch: One Last Whitby Treat

Before heading home, squeeze in a final meal:

• Trenchers – A classic choice if you’re craving one more portion of fish and chips

• Magpie Café – Iconic Whitby dining (booking recommended)

• The Endeavour – Traditional pub food with a welcoming feel

• Humble Pie ‘n’ Mash – If you fancy a warming and hearty meal. This is the place! Comfort food at it’s best.

Afternoon: Farewell Walk

End your stay with a gentle walk along:

• The pier, for final sea views

• Or the beach, shoes off if the weather allows

A perfect, unhurried way to say goodbye to Whitby — until next time.