Your Trip Story
Start your Edinburgh adventure at sunrise with a warm cup of coffee from The Coffee Cave on the Royal Mile. The cobblestones of Old Town echo with history, as you wander through its narrow closes, each with its own story to tell. By afternoon, experience the rich, warming flavors of Scotch whisky at SCOTCH, where you can learn about the drink's storied past. Day two takes you to Leith and the New Town. Begin at Little Havana with a perfectly brewed coffee. The scent of fresh seafood fills the air at Barry Fish, where the catch of the day is served. Later, learn the secrets of distilling at The Port of Leith distillery, where tradition meets innovation. Each step through these neighborhoods uncovers layers of history, culture, and taste. Edinburgh’s charm lies not just in its landmarks but in the small details: the worn stone steps, the smell of whisky, and the chatter of locals. This journey leaves you with a sense of wonder and a desire to explore more of what Scotland has to offer.
The Vibe
- Cultural immersion
- Relaxed exploration
- Savoring local flavors
Insider Secrets
- 01Visit the Dean Village for a picturesque, crowd-free stroll.
- 02The Sheep Heid Inn in Duddingston offers a secret skittles alley.
- 03Catch a quiet moment at Dr. Neil's Garden near Duddingston Loch.
The Research
Before you go to Edinburgh
Neighborhoods
Don't miss the Leith area, known for its vibrant waterfront and arts scene. Visit the historic Custom House and grab a coffee at the charming Teuchters Landing, which has a great view of the Water of Leith.
Food Scene
For a true taste of Scotland, head to The Kitchin in Leith, where chef Tom Kitchin serves seasonal dishes using local ingredients. Be sure to try the haggis with neeps and tatties, which is a traditional Scottish dish that embodies the flavors of the region.
Getting Around
Edinburgh's public transport is quite user-friendly, with Lothian Buses covering most areas. A single adult fare is £1.80, while a day ticket costs £4.50, allowing unlimited travel across the city. Consider the Tram if you're traveling to or from the airport; tickets cost £6.50 for a single journey.
Where to Stay
Your Basecamp
Select your home base in Edinburgh, Scotland — this anchors your journey and appears in the navigation above.
The Splurge
$$$$Where discerning travelers stay
The Balmoral, a Rocco Forte hotel
The Balmoral, a Rocco Forte hotel, offers a luxurious stay in the heart of Edinburgh, featuring eleg
Try: Book in advance for best rates
The Vibe
$$$Design-forward stays with character
House of Gods Hotel
House of Gods Hotel offers a unique and stylish stay in the heart of Edinburgh, featuring eclectic d
Try: Book in advance for best rates
The Steal
$$Smart stays, prime locations
B+B Edinburgh
B+B Edinburgh offers comfortable accommodations at budget-friendly rates, perfect for travelers seek
Try: Book in advance for best rates
Day by Day
The Itinerary
Culture
Whisky and History Walk
Start your day at The Coffee Cave, where the coffee is strong and the chatter is low. Stroll along the Royal Mile to Makars Mash Bar for lunch. The mashed potatoes stick to your ribs. In the afternoon, take a tour at The Scotch Whisky Experience. The guide speaks with passion about each step of whisky-making. End your day at SCOTCH Whisky Bar. The selection is vast and the air is warm with laughter and clinking glasses.
The Coffee Cave
The Coffee Cave
The Coffee Cave sits at 158 Fountainbridge, across from the Moxy Hotel. It serves takeaway drinks and snacks, with two benches available for outdoor seating. The space is small but functional, a straightforward stop for coffee lovers seeking a quick fix.
The Coffee Cave
Walk straight down Fountainbridge and turn onto the Royal Mile. Follow it to Bank Street.
Makars Mash Bar
Makars Mash Bar
Makars Mash Bar sits on Bank Street, a short walk from Edinburgh's main attractions. The menu focuses on mashed potatoes topped with various meats and vegetarian options. The atmosphere is casual, with wooden tables and a straightforward layout, making it easy to enjoy a meal without distractions.
Makars Mash Bar
From Makars, head back to the Royal Mile and walk uphill to Castlehill for The Scotch Whisky Experience.
The Scotch Whisky Experience
The Scotch Whisky Experience
The Scotch Whisky Experience offers a guided tour through the history and process of Scotch whisky. You will see exhibits detailing the distillation process and the different types of whisky. A shop sells various brands, and a restaurant serves whisky-infused dishes.
The Scotch Whisky Experience
Descend back down the Royal Mile and take a left onto Princes Street to find SCOTCH Whisky Bar in the Balmoral Hotel.
SCOTCH Whisky Bar
SCOTCH Whisky Bar
The SCOTCH Whisky Bar sits in the Balmoral Hotel on Princes Street. It features a vast selection of Scottish whiskeys displayed on wooden shelves. The atmosphere is elegant, with soft lighting and polished furnishings. Guests can sample flights of whiskey, including rare selections not easily found elsewhere.
SCOTCH Whisky Bar
Culture
Leith's Whisky and History
Start your day at Little Havana Coffee Store on Leith Walk. The aroma of fresh beans fills the air as you sip your coffee in a simple, welcoming space. For lunch, wander down to Barry Fish on the Shore. The seafood is fresh, straight from the North Sea. The decor is plain, but the flavors speak volumes. In the afternoon, visit The Port of Leith Distillery. The guides share their craft with passion, and the whisky has a story in every sip. End your day at Tipsy Midgie Whisky Bar. It's cozy, with friendly faces behind the bar. The whisky menu is long, but the staff are eager to help you choose.
Little Havana Coffee Store
Little Havana Coffee Store
Little Havana Coffee Store sits on Leith Walk. The shop offers a wide selection of coffee beans from places like Yemen, Cuba, Ethiopia, and Honduras. Customers can choose from various brewing methods. The air fills with the rich scent of freshly ground coffee. The worn wooden tables hold a few regulars, sipping quietly and chatting.
Little Havana Coffee Store
Walk south along Leith Walk, then head to The Shore. It's a 20-minute walk.
Barry Fish
Barry Fish
Barry Fish sits on the Shore in Leith, a spot marked by its simple decor and a focus on quality seafood. The small interior buzzes with conversation. Locals and visitors alike enjoy the fresh catch, served with care. The atmosphere feels relaxed, with friendly staff ready to recommend the best dishes.
Barry Fish
Walk south along Leith Walk, then head to The Shore. It's a 20-minute walk.
The Port of Leith Distillery
The Port of Leith Distillery
The Port of Leith Distillery sits on Whisky Quay in Leith. It produces its own whisky and offers guided tours. You can sample various whiskies during tastings and learn about the distillation process from knowledgeable staff. The building has a rustic charm, with wooden beams and copper stills on display.
The Port of Leith Distillery
The distillery is a short walk along The Shore. Follow the signage to Whisky Quay.
Tipsy Midgie Whisky Bar
Tipsy Midgie Whisky Bar
Tipsy Midgie Whisky Bar sits on St Leonard's Hill in Edinburgh. The bar offers a cozy atmosphere with wooden beams and a well-stocked whisky shelf. Lucy, the host, provides attentive service, making each visit feel personal. Locals and visitors alike share stories over a range of whiskies from Scotland and beyond.
Tipsy Midgie Whisky Bar
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Motor City Gas Whiskey Distillery
Motor City Gas Whiskey Distillery offers a wide selection of in-house crafted whiskeys. The bar features a rustic interior with wooden beams and shelves lined with bottles. Patrons can sit at the bar or at small tables, enjoying the atmosphere and the skilled bartenders who serve drinks with care.
Try: Try the whiskey flight to sample different flavors and styles.
The Lost Close
The Lost Close sits on Barrie's Close in Edinburgh. This spot combines a bar and a whisky tasting experience. It holds up to six people at a time, making it intimate and personal. Guests can enjoy a guided tasting of various whiskies while learning about their history and production. The atmosphere is relaxed, with wooden beams and low lights creating a snug setting.
Try: Try the whisky tasting; it's the highlight of the experience.
The Scotch Malt Whisky Society - The Vaults
The Scotch Malt Whisky Society - The Vaults is a private whisky bar in Leith, Edinburgh. Members can browse a selection of unique whiskies, each with a distinct flavor profile. The venue is cozy, with wooden beams and a rustic feel, creating a relaxed atmosphere for tasting.
Try: Try a flight of whiskies to explore different flavors and styles.
Three Marys
Three Marys sits on Henderson Street in Leith. It serves tacos and drinks in a relaxed setting. The bar features local artwork and wooden tables that show signs of wear. Spicy margaritas and friendly staff attract a crowd, especially during evenings.
Try: Try the spicy margaritas they are known for.
Nauticus
Nauticus sits at 142 Duke St, characterized by dark wood paneling and ship-themed decor. Chandeliers hang above the bar, casting a warm glow. Bartenders mix craft cocktails with skill, while friendly staff create a welcoming atmosphere. The drinks menu features unique options that stand out in the Edinburgh pub scene, making it a comfortable spot for both locals and visitors.
Try: Try the signature craft cocktails, which showcase unique flavors and local ingredients.
Dreadnought Leith
Dreadnought Leith sits on North Fort Street. The bar features wooden benches and dark wood panels. A mix of locals and visitors chat over pints. The staff greet everyone warmly, adding to the comfortable vibe. The drink selection includes local beers and spirits, all reasonably priced.
Try: Try a local craft beer on tap; they have a rotating selection.
Before You Go
Essential Intel
Everything you need to know for a smooth trip
When is the best time to visit Edinburgh?
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What is a daily budget for Edinburgh?
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