EDINBURGH
Edinburgh is a city of dramatic contrasts, where the medieval Old Town castle-crowned skyline meets the elegant Georgian architecture of the New Town. It is a place steeped in history and literary legend.
This Scottish capital offers a captivating journey through time. From the winding closes of the Royal Mile to the broad avenues of the New Town, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site of unparalleled beauty.
Most Popular Attractions
Old Town Core & The Royal Mile:
Edinburgh Castle: Scotland’s most famous castle, dramatically perched on an extinct volcano, offering incredible city views.
The Royal Mile: The historic backbone of the Old Town, running from Edinburgh Castle down to the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
St Giles’ Cathedral: The majestic High Kirk of Edinburgh, known for its stunning Thistle Chapel.
Palace of Holyroodhouse: The Queen’s official residence in Scotland, at the foot of the Royal Mile, with ruins of Holyrood Abbey.
Mary King’s Close: A series of underground streets and dwellings that offer a fascinating, historic glimpse into 17th-century Edinburgh.
Scottish Storytelling Centre: A vibrant hub for live storytelling, theatre, and traditional music.
Scottish Parliament Building: A striking example of modern architecture located adjacent to the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
The World’s End Pub: A famous historic pub marking where the city wall once stood at the bottom of the High Street.
John Knox House: One of the few original medieval buildings remaining on the Royal Mile, linked to the Reformation leader.
Scottish Museum of Literature/Writers’ Museum: Located in Lady Stair’s House, celebrating the lives of Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson.
New Town Core & Key Streets:
Princes Street Gardens: Beautiful public gardens separating the Old and New Towns, a popular spot for relaxation with views of the castle.
The Scott Monument: An impressive Victorian Gothic monument dedicated to Scottish author Sir Walter Scott, offering climbable viewing platforms.
National Gallery of Scotland: Home to Scotland’s national collection of fine art, housed in a grand neoclassical building.
George Street: The grand central axis of the New Town, lined with elegant shops, bars, and restaurants.
Charlotte Square: One of the New Town’s most elegant squares, featuring architecture by Robert Adam, including Bute House, the First Minister’s official residence.
The Scottish National Portrait Gallery: Housed in a magnificent red sandstone building, dedicated to portraits of famous Scots.
Dean Village: A picturesque, tranquil former milling village on the Water of Leith, near the New Town.
Calton Hill: A prominent hill featuring several impressive neoclassical monuments, including the National Monument and Nelson Monument, offering excellent city views.
Register House: A neoclassical building housing the National Records of Scotland at the east end of Princes Street.
Assembly Rooms: A significant historic venue on George Street, hosting major events and festival performances.
Museums & Cultural Sites:
National Museum of Scotland: A sprawling museum with collections covering Scottish history, natural history, science, and technology.
Surgeon’s Hall Museums: A collection of medical history, including anatomical and pathological specimens.
Museum of Edinburgh: Located on the Royal Mile, detailing the history of the city.
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh: A world-renowned scientific center for plant research and a beautiful public garden.
Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art: Split across two sites, Modern One and Modern Two, showcasing a vast collection of modern and contemporary art.
Dynamic Earth: An interactive science center at the foot of Arthur’s Seat, focused on the story of our planet.
The Museum of Childhood: A fun museum on the Royal Mile with a vast collection of toys and games.
Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh: A beautiful historic building that often hosts public exhibitions and events.
Dovecot Studios: A progressive tapestry studio and arts venue housed in a former Victorian bathhouse.
Museum on the Mound: A museum housed in the former Bank of Scotland headquarters, focusing on money and banking history.
Activities & Experiences
Take a Free Walking Tour: Join one of the many excellent free walking tours that cover the Royal Mile and offer fascinating insights into the city’s dark and dramatic history, including tales of murder and witches.
Hike up Arthur’s Seat: Climb this ancient volcano in Holyrood Park for the best panoramic view of the entire city, the Firth of Forth, and the surrounding countryside.
Tour Edinburgh Castle: Explore Scotland’s most famous fortress, perched atop an extinct volcano, and witness the firing of the One O’Clock Gun.
Walk the Royal Mile: Stroll the historic backbone of the Old Town, running from the Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, stopping at centuries-old closes (alleys) and historic buildings.
Visit the National Museum of Scotland: Discover Scotland’s history, nature, science, and art, from Dolly the Sheep to ancient Pictish artifacts (free entry).
Explore the Scottish Parliament: Take a free guided tour of the strikingly modern and controversial building near the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
Descend into the Real Mary King’s Close: Take a unique, award-winning guided tour deep beneath the Old Town to explore hidden streets and hear the true stories of those who lived there in the 17th century.
Go on a Scotch Whisky Experience: Start with an introductory barrel ride and then participate in a guided tasting to learn about the different regions and flavours of Scotland’s national drink.
Wander the New Town Streets: Explore the beautiful Georgian architecture of the New Town, especially George Street and Princes Street, for high-end shopping and elegant dining.
Browse the Scottish National Gallery: View masterpieces from Scotland and around the world, located in a beautiful neoclassical building on The Mound (free entry).
Haggle at the Edinburgh Farmers’ Market: Visit the market under the stunning backdrop of the castle (Saturdays) for fresh local produce, artisan cheese, and Scottish street food.
Attend a Ghost Tour: Experience the city’s darker side on a spooky evening tour through the shadowy wynds (laneways) and subterranean vaults of the Old Town.
Local Tips & Transport
Walking is Essential: Edinburgh is compact and hilly. The Old Town is a maze of cobblestones, steps, and closes best explored on foot. All major sights from the Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse are within walking distance of each other.
Excellent Bus Network: Lothian Buses are the main way to travel beyond the central tourist areas. They are efficient and reliable.
Tickets: Single tickets require exact change (coins only) or use a contactless card (tap and cap for a daily limit).
Day Tickets: If you plan to take more than two buses in a day, a Day Ticket is the most economical choice.
Tram: A single tram line connects Edinburgh Airport to the city centre and continues out to Leith. It is a direct and efficient way to transfer from the airport. Buy tickets at the platform stop before boarding.
From the Airport: The Airlink 100 Express Bus and the Tram are the two best options. The bus is often quicker for the main city centre, but the tram is great if your accommodation is near a tram stop in the New Town or Leith.
Avoid Driving: Parking is expensive and scarce in the city centre. The one-way streets and heavy traffic in the New Town can be challenging. Stick to public transport or walking.
Be Prepared for the Weather: Edinburgh is famous for experiencing four seasons in one day. Always carry layers, a waterproof jacket, and comfortable, sturdy shoes. A sunny morning can turn into a rainy afternoon very quickly.
Festival City: If you are visiting in August, the city hosts the massive Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the International Festival, and the Royal Military Tattoo. Book accommodation and transport months in advance as the city’s population and prices swell dramatically.
The “Old” and “New”: The Old Town (around the Royal Mile) is medieval, dramatic, and steep, while the New Town (north of Princes Street) is a Georgian masterpiece of straight lines and wide avenues. Don’t miss exploring the quieter, hidden garden squares and mews of the New Town.
Mind the Slang: Locals often use “wee” (small), “braw” (good/excellent), “aye” (yes), and “naw” (no). If someone says they’re “pure raging,” they’re very angry.
Tipping Culture: Tipping is customary in restaurants and for good service in pubs/taxis, usually around 10-15%. Unlike Spain, you should expect to queue or wait to be seated in most busy restaurants.
Hidden Gems:
Circus Lane: A beautiful, flower-filled street in the New Town’s historic Dean Village and a fantastic spot for photos.
Calton Hill: Known as ‘Edinburgh’s Acropolis,’ this hill offers incredible views, beautiful monuments, and is a quieter alternative to Arthur’s Seat for a panorama.
The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh: A peaceful, world-class garden in the Inverleith area, offering a lovely escape from the city bustle (free entry).
Stockbridge: A trendy and charming village-like neighbourhood a short walk from the New Town with independent boutiques, lovely cafes, and a weekly market.
Top Restaurants
Makars Gourmet Mash Bar [$20-$35] – A casual eatery with a focus on gourmet mash potato served with a variety of toppings, including traditional haggis, venison sausage, and other Scottish favorites.
Howies Victoria Street [$25-$45] – Set in a warm, cosy, café-style restaurant on the beautiful Victoria Street, serving seasonal and seriously tasty Scottish food like salmon, haggis, and sticky toffee pudding.
The Devil’s Advocate [$30-$50] – Tucked away in a historic Victorian pump house down Advocate’s Close in the Old Town, this bar and kitchen serves seasonal Scottish ingredients with a modern twist and has a 300-strong whisky selection.
Mums Great Comfort Food [$20-$35] – A longstanding favorite for comforting, no-fuss Scottish and British dishes like steak pie, fish and chips, and, famously, a variety of mashes.
The Piper’s Rest [$20-$35] – A welcoming spot in the Old Town serving traditional Scottish food, craft beers, and whiskies, often featuring live music.
Arcade Bar Haggis and Whisky House [$25-$40] – Located in the Old Town, this restaurant is dedicated to Scottish national dishes, offering haggis in various forms, including traditional, vegetarian, and with a modern take.
The Bon Vivant [$30-$50] – A charming New Town bistro and bar offering classic French and Scottish dishes, a relaxed atmosphere, and an excellent wine list.
The Queens Arms [$25-$40] – A cosy pub tucked below the cobbles of Frederick Street in the New Town, serving quality pub fare and local drinks in a welcoming, unpretentious atmosphere.
The Fishmarket [$25-$45] – While a bit further out in Newhaven, this institution is included for its reputation for truly fresh, traditional fish and chips and seafood in a setting beloved by locals.
The Edinburgh Larder [$20-$35] – Tucked away in the Old Town, this cafe/restaurant prides itself on using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients to create fresh, mouth-watering Scottish dishes.
Wedgwood The Restaurant [$40-$70] – An independent gem on the Royal Mile offering inventive, modern Scottish and European cuisine with a focus on local and seasonal produce.
The Outsider [$30-$50] – Located near the Castle, this popular bistro offers an eclectic European menu with beautiful views and a relaxed atmosphere, favored by locals for its fresh food and consistency.
Noto [$40-$70] – A contemporary spot in the New Town with a strong focus on small plates, inspired by New York and Asian influences, but using local, seasonal ingredients.
The Little Chartroom [$50-$80] – A highly-regarded restaurant offering refined, modern Scottish and European cooking with a focus on simplicity and flavor.
The Gardeners Cottage [$40-$70] – A unique dining experience in a charming cottage setting, serving modern European dishes with an emphasis on seasonality and communal dining.
The Table [$90-$150] – An intimate and interactive fine dining experience where only 10 guests sit around a chef’s counter for a multi-course tasting menu of modern European dishes.
Fhior [$80-$130] – A high-end experience in the New Town with a focus on ethical, modern Scottish cooking, sourcing directly from farmers, foragers, and fishermen.
Aizle [$80-$120] – A modern European restaurant near the Old Town with locally inspired tasting menus, presented in a relaxed, bright setting.
Timberyard [$70-$120] – A contemporary, family-run restaurant housed in a former warehouse, offering a constantly changing menu of innovative, seasonal dishes with a focus on cooking over fire.
White Horse Oyster & Seafood Bar [$40-$70] – Located at the end of the Royal Mile, this stylish venue offers exceptional, ethically sourced oysters and high-quality seafood dishes.
Dishoom Edinburgh [$25-$45] – A beloved Indian restaurant in the New Town, inspired by the old Irani cafés of Bombay, offering exceptional food and a distinctive atmosphere.
Ting Thai Caravan [$20-$35] – A popular, casual spot for authentic and vibrant street food-style Thai cuisine, often bustling with locals.
Union of Genius [$15-$25] – A local favorite in the Old Town, dedicated entirely to serving creative, delicious, and healthy homemade soups, with six options daily (meat, veggie, and vegan).
Civerinos Slice [$15-$25] – A cool, lively spot for New York-style pizza by the slice, popular with a younger crowd and known for its fun, energetic atmosphere.
El Cartel Teviot Place [$25-$40] – A small, vibrant spot near the Old Town specializing in authentic Mexican street food and great margaritas.
The Pakora Bar [$15-$25] – A cheery, casual setting in the Old Town for classic Punjabi eats like pakora, samosas, and curries, from a family-run business.
Oink [$15-$25] – A local legend on the Royal Mile, serving simple but delicious pulled pork rolls from a whole, slow-roasted hog, with a limited but perfect menu.
Wings [$20-$35] – A hidden gem tucked away off the Royal Mile, this spot specializes in chicken wings with a huge selection of dipping sauces, offering a fun, casual experience.
Macau Kitchen [$30-$50] – A small, family-run restaurant near the New Town offering unique, award-winning Macanese cuisine, blending Portuguese and Chinese flavors.
Fazenda Rodizio Bar and Grill [$40-$70] – An upscale Brazilian Rodizio in the New Town where staff bring an abundance of different grilled meats to your table to carve at your request.
The City Restaurant [$15-$30] – A family-run institution for over 60 years, famous for its excellent traditional fish and chips, and other comfort food classics.
Milkman Café [$10-$20] – A popular, hip coffee bar in the Old Town known for its exceptional coffee and pastries, great for a quick stop or people-watching.
Mimi’s Bakehouse Royal Mile [$15-$25] – Known for its fabulous cakes, afternoon tea, and all-day brunch menu, it’s a perfect spot for a sweet treat or a savory start to the day.
Victor Hugo Deli [$10-$20] – A long-standing New Town deli offering high-quality continental sandwiches, pastries, and coffee, with outdoor seating that has Castle views.
Fortitude Coffee [$5-$15] – A highly-regarded specialty coffee shop in the New Town focusing on quality beans and simple, delicious pastries.
Broughton Delicatessen [$15-$25] – A small, highly-rated New Town deli and cafe perfect for quality takeaway sandwiches, salads, and local provisions.
Loudons Fountainbridge [$15-$25] – Tucked slightly behind the main Old Town area, this spot is famous for its large, excellent Eggs Benedict and other hearty brunch options.
Hula Juice Bar & Healthy Eatery [$10-$20] – A vibrant, healthy option in the Old Town (West Bow) specializing in acai bowls, smoothies, and light, fresh bites.
The City Café [$15-$30] – An American-diner inspired spot in the Old Town known for its laid-back atmosphere, big breakfasts, and boozy milkshakes.
Laila’s Cockburn Street [$15-$25] – A colorful, Instagrammable cafe in the Old Town known for its unique brunch options like pink avocado toast and rose buttermilk pancakes.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
The Devil’s Advocate: Tucked away in a historic Victorian pump house up Advocate’s Close in the Old Town, this award-winning bar offers an extensive whisky collection and inventive, seasonal cocktails in a stylish, atmospheric setting.
Panda & Sons: A must-visit speakeasy in the New Town, cleverly disguised as a vintage barbershop on Queen Street. Head downstairs for finely crafted cocktails and an inventive, sometimes theatrical, menu.
Bramble Bar & Lounge: Located in a hidden basement on Queen Street in the New Town, this renowned bar is known for its intimate, candlelit atmosphere and expertly made classic and modern cocktails, focusing on high-quality mixology.
The Alchemist: Found on George Street in the New Town and St James Quarter, this popular bar specializes in theatrical, molecular-inspired cocktails, where drinks are often served with a dash of drama and smoke.
Tigerlily: A glamorous and chic bar and restaurant on George Street in the New Town, famous for its luxurious decor and extensive, ever-evolving cocktail list, perfect for a sophisticated night out.
Juniper: Situated opposite Waverley Station, linking the Old and New Towns, this cocktail bar at the Hilton Edinburgh Carlton boasts stunning city views and a striking copper bar where unique, creative cocktails are crafted.
Nightcap: Located on York Place near the New Town, this spot functions as a bar and a cocktail ‘laboratory,’ offering both classic and experimental drinks in a slightly eccentric setting.
The Bon Vivant: A cozy, chic New Town bar and restaurant on Thistle Street, offering expertly crafted cocktails alongside a great wine list and delicious food in a relaxed ambiance.
The Raging Bull: Known, in particular, for its creative takes on the Espresso Martini, this lively cocktail bar is located on Lothian Street, just south of the Old Town, making it a great spot for pre-club drinks.
The Cocktail Mafia: Located in the city center, just below the New Town, this bar merges glamour and edgy theatricality, serving up a range of classic and signature cocktails in a stylish setting.
Lady Libertine: Situated on West Register Street, between the Old and New Towns, this grand café bar features a stylish aperitivo bar and an expertly crafted cocktail list in an elegant, Art Deco-inspired setting.
The Last Word: An intimate, dimly lit cocktail den found slightly north of the New Town in Stockbridge, offering a quieter, more personal experience with a great selection of spirits.
Chaophraya: A rooftop restaurant and bar in the New Town offering unique signature cocktails and stunning views of the city from its sky-high perch.
Copper Blossom: An opulent oasis on George Street in the New Town, offering a lively and glamorous atmosphere with a wide array of signature and classic cocktails, perfect for a memorable experience.
Heads and Tales Gin Bar: Devoted to all things gin, this stylish bar is located in the West End, close to the New Town, and offers an impressive range of gin cocktails and serves, even featuring its own working stills.
The Hive: A notorious Old Town institution in the Cowgate area, open seven nights a week until 5 am and popular for its cheap drinks, cheesy tunes, and energetic, all-inclusive party atmosphere.
Why Not: One of Edinburgh’s premier late-night venues, located on George Street in the New Town. It features a modern design, including Scotland’s only full LED room and a garden area, appealing to a trendy, late-night crowd.
The Liquid Room: A long-standing, multi-genre music and club venue located in the Old Town, hosting both live bands and diverse club nights ranging from techno to hip-hop.
The Bongo Club: An established fixture in the Old Town’s underground club scene on Cowgate, known for its eclectic mix of nights, including techno, drum and bass, African funk, and soul.
Cabaret Voltaire: Set in a subterranean venue with vaulted ceilings in the Old Town, this club hosts an ever-changing lineup of cutting-edge DJs and is famed for its energetic dance music nights and live gigs.
La Belle Angele: Situated in the Old Town, this 500-capacity venue is a popular nightclub and after-party spot, hosting diverse electronic and dance music events.
The Mash House: Located on Hasties Close, just off the Old Town’s Cowgate, this multi-floor venue focuses on electronic music, with dedicated club nights covering the full spectrum and an extended 5 am license.
Sneaky Pete’s: A tiny but critically acclaimed live music venue and club tucked away on Cowgate in the Old Town, famous for its hip, intimate atmosphere and diverse, cutting-edge music programming.
Shanghai Club: Located beneath the Le Monde Hotel in the New Town, this club offers a sleek, glamorous party palace experience with VIP service and quality tunes, often open on weekends.
Coyote Ugly Edinburgh: Found in the city center, this high-energy bar and club offers a full-throttle experience with the world-famous Coyotes dancing on the bar tops.
Legends: A classic rock and alternative music bar/club located in the Old Town, open late and known for catering to a rock and indie crowd.
Banshee Labyrinth: Located in the vaults of the Old Town, this venue combines a pub, a live music spot, and a cinema, famously being haunted and offering a uniquely spooky atmosphere with late-night drinks.