Edinburgh

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Discover the enchanting beauty and rich history of Edinburgh, where ancient castles meet vibrant culture, and every cobblestone street tells a story. From the iconic Royal Mile to the stunning views atop Arthur’s Seat, this Scottish capital is a timeless treasure waiting to be explored.

“The most beautiful of all the capitals of Europe.” – Sir John Betjeman

Top destinations:

Embark on a journey through Edinburgh’s most captivating destinations, where history and modernity converge in a breathtaking fusion. From the historic allure of the Royal Mile to the panoramic vistas of Arthur’s Seat, this guide will lead you to the heart of Scotland’s capital, unveiling the top must-visit spots that define its timeless charm.

Edinburgh Castle

Perched on Castle Rock, this iconic fortress is a symbol of Scotland’s history and houses the Crown Jewels. The panoramic views from here are simply stunning.

The Royal Mile

A historic and bustling street that stretches between the castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse. It’s lined with shops, restaurants, and many significant landmarks.

Arthur's Seat

An ancient volcano and the main peak in the group of hills in Holyrood Park. Hiking to the top rewards you with breath-taking views of the city.

The Palace of Holyroodhousel

The official residence of the British monarch in Scotland, this palace offers a glimpse into royal history and beautiful gardens. Don’t forget to explore the adjacent Holyrood Abbey.

Where to stay

Every neighbourhood has something great to offer, so regardless of where you decide to stay you’ll have loads of amenities around you. Some of our favourites are:

The Balmoral Hotel

Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh, The Balmoral Hotel is a luxury landmark that exudes timeless elegance and Scottish charm. With its iconic clock tower, the hotel has been a symbol of the city for over a century. Guests can expect impeccable service, world-class dining, and luxurious accommodations. The rooms and suites are lavishly appointed, offering a harmonious blend of classic and contemporary design. The hotel is also home to the Michelin-starred restaurant, Number One, and the Palm Court, famous for its traditional afternoon tea. Situated within walking distance of many of Edinburgh’s top attractions, The Balmoral is the ideal base for exploring the city while enjoying the utmost in comfort and sophistication.

The Scotsman Hotel

Located in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, The Scotsman Hotel is a historic and stylish 4-star establishment offering a blend of modern comfort and classic Scottish character. Set within a beautifully preserved Edwardian building, the hotel’s design pays homage to its journalistic past, with newspaper-inspired decor. Guests can enjoy well-appointed rooms and suites, some with stunning views of the city or Edinburgh Castle. The hotel boasts an inviting bar and a contemporary brasserie, North Bridge Brasserie, where guests can savor Scottish cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients. The Scotsman Hotel’s prime location places you within easy reach of iconic attractions like the Royal Mile, Princes Street, and the Edinburgh Castle, making it an ideal choice for both business and leisure travelers seeking a comfortable and convenient stay in the heart of the city.

The Old Waverley Hotel

Situated on Edinburgh’s famous Princes Street, The Old Waverley Hotel offers a comfortable and affordable stay in the heart of the city. The hotel provides a range of guest rooms, from singles to family rooms, each designed for a pleasant and convenient stay. While the hotel may not boast the luxury of its higher-star counterparts, it compensates with its unbeatable central location, providing easy access to many of the city’s attractions, shops, and restaurants. The Waverley train station is nearby, ensuring great connectivity for travellers. With its budget-friendly rates and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, The Old Waverley is a solid choice for those seeking a cosy and budget-conscious accommodation option in Edinburgh.

Where to eat

The Witchery by the Castle

The Witchery is a historic and atmospheric restaurant located right at the gates of Edinburgh Castle. It’s celebrated for its opulent Gothic décor, candlelit dining rooms, and a menu that emphasizes classic Scottish cuisine with a modern twist. The romantic setting and sumptuous dishes make it a top choice for special occasions.

The Scran and Scallie

This gastropub, co-owned by Michelin-starred chefs Tom Kitchin and Dominic Jack, offers a relaxed yet refined dining experience. The menu features traditional Scottish dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. The welcoming atmosphere and the emphasis on high-quality, seasonal produce make it a favorite among both locals and visitors.

The Gardener's Cottage

Housed in a charming cottage at the foot of Calton Hill, The Gardener’s Cottage is known for its farm-to-table ethos. The restaurant’s menu is ever-changing and based on what’s in season, with many ingredients sourced from its own garden. Dining here offers a unique and intimate experience, and it’s a great choice for those who appreciate locally-sourced, fresh, and inventive cuisine.

Pizza by the slize is actually really popular with locals and younger tourists in Barcelona and you can find some amazing pizza places. This is a great option when you’re just looking for some good, simple food for a light lunch or dinner. We fid you often get fed up of huge meals when travelling, and this little place is one of our favourites. Be sure to ask what they’ve just taken out of the oven when you pop in to get some of the best, freshest pizza in the city. Enjoy!

Top Tips

If you're a couple

The Water of Leith Walkway is a scenic path that meanders alongside the picturesque Water of Leith river, providing a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Begin your walk at the Dean Village, known for its charming, historic buildings, and follow the path as it takes you through lush greenery and along the riverbanks. You’ll encounter romantic footbridges, hidden gardens, and peaceful spots perfect for a picnic. The walkway eventually leads to the beautiful Dean Village, a former milling village that exudes a romantic, fairytale-like atmosphere.

If You’re A Group Of Friends

Wander through the historic streets of the Royal Mile, where you can explore unique shops, enjoy street performances, and visit attractions like the Real Mary King’s Close, St. Giles’ Cathedral, and the Scotch Whisky Experience.

If you're a family

Explore the historic Edinburgh Castle, which offers engaging exhibits, stunning views, and the famous One O’Clock Gun. Kids will enjoy learning about the castle’s history and legends.

Need to know

Currency
GBP (Pounds)

Best Time To Travel

The best time to travel to Edinburgh depends on your interests and tolerance for different weather conditions. If you want to experience the city’s cultural events and don’t mind larger crowds, summer is ideal. For a more peaceful visit with pleasant weather, consider spring or autumn. If you enjoy the holiday season and don’t mind the cold, winter offers its unique attractions.

Tips
– It is customary to leave a tip in restaurants and cafes. A service charge is often included in the bill (usually 10-12.5%). If a service charge isn’t included, it’s common to leave a tip of around 10-15% of the total bill.

Time Difference
– GMT

Flights
– Directs from Manchester and London – around 1 hour.

Public Transport
– Excellent infrastructure (buses, trams and trains), including night time

Local Laws

Smoking Restrictions: Scotland has some of the strictest smoking regulations in the UK. Smoking is prohibited in all enclosed public places, including bars, restaurants, and public transport. There are designated smoking areas, but these are typically located outdoors. These laws are enforced in Edinburgh, as they are throughout Scotland.

Minimum Alcohol Pricing: Scotland has introduced minimum unit pricing for alcohol. This means that alcoholic beverages must be sold at a minimum price per unit of alcohol, which is intended to discourage excessive drinking. This law applies to all alcohol retailers in Edinburgh, including bars, pubs, and shops.

Littering Laws: Edinburgh, like the rest of Scotland, enforces strict anti-littering laws. You can be fined for dropping litter, including cigarette butts and chewing gum, in public places. The city encourages cleanliness and maintaining its historic and scenic beauty.

Etiquette

In the UK, queuing is taken very seriously. Whether you’re waiting for public transport, entering a museum, or even waiting in line at a cafe, always respect the queue. Cutting in line is considered rude and can be met with disapproval from locals.

Scots are known for their politeness and friendliness. Simple gestures like saying “please” and “thank you” go a long way. Holding doors open for others and offering your seat to the elderly or disabled on public transportation are also common acts of courtesy.

As mentioned earlier, tipping is customary in Edinburgh, especially in restaurants. Be sure to leave a tip when dining out if service hasn’t already been included in the bill. In other service-related situations, like taxis or hairdressers, tipping is appreciated as well.

Edinburgh is a city rich in history and architecture. When visiting historic sites, museums, or public monuments, show respect by not touching or defacing the property. Follow the rules and guidelines provided at each site to preserve the city’s heritage.

In more formal or upscale restaurants and venues, it’s a good idea to dress appropriately. While casual attire is acceptable in many places, some locations may have dress codes that require more formal or smart-casual clothing. Checking the dress code in advance can help you avoid any uncomfortable situations.