The ultimate Edinburgh city guide

Airport Transfer 

Edinburgh Airport City Airlink Bus Transfer

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Easiest way to get from the Airport to the city and back is the Airlink Bus. You can get a return ticket right at the bus station. Hop off Waverly Bridge if you have a accommodation close in the old or new town. The bus leaves every 10 to 15 minutes.

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Where to stay? 

Motel One Edinburgh Royal

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If you prefer hotels I highly recommend the Motel One right at the Princess Street Gardens. It´s the perfect location to explore the city.

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There are several Airbnb's that are very suitable for a long weekend. We have always stayed in an Airbnb in the Old Town near Victoria Street or Grassmarket. Be aware that this is a very busy area, even at night. If you are looking for a quieter place, try to find an Airbnb in New Town.

Best activities in Edinburgh

Arthur's Seat

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Lovely view over the city! The nicer the weather, the nicer the view :)

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Calton Hill

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The smaller version of Arthurs seat.

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Princes Street Gardens

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Get a coffee to go at the National Gallery and stroll through the gardens. In the winter season, the beautiful Christmas market takes place right in the gardens.

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Edinburgh Castle

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Really nice place to visit but I wouldn’t recommend to visit the inside. In my opinion it´s not worth it.

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Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

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Another lovely place to take a walk is the Botanic garden.

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Grassmarket Market

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Nice little market every Saturday. You can enjoy some food, drinks and buy souvenirs.

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Armchair Books

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Book store close to Grassmarket. If your not that much into book - don´t worry it´s also a great spot to take some nice pictures ;)

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The Royal Yacht Britannia

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Take a look on board of the Royal family. The Britannia is one of the most visited attractions in Edinburgh - so it can get really touristy but it´s worse a visit for those who are interested.

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Portobello Beach

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Escape the hussle and bussle of the city and take a long walk at the beach. Easiest way to get there is to crab a uber or a cab. It only takes 25 minutes and costs around 12 pound per way.

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Dean Village

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If there is still some time left and you are not tired of exploring the old and new town of Edinburgh Dean Village is a lovely place to visit.

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Best cafés in Edinburgh

The Balmoral

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If you are interested in a typical high tea experience make sure to book a slot at Balmoral. You must be very lucky to get a spot because it´s normally fully booked months in advanced.

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The Milkman

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Nice coffee and pastry :)

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National Galleries of Scotland: National

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Not only the best spot for art but also the very best coffee in town. Get yourself a coffee and a scone with some whipped cream.

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Hula Grassmarket

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Nice spot for brunch and lunch

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Waverley Cafe

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Good place for a to go coffee before heading to the airport or in between shopping on Princess Street.

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Best restaurants in Edinburgh

Dinner reservations for all restaurants is highly recommended, especially during the high seasons. 

The Standing Order - JD Wetherspoon

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A very typical scottish restaurant. You will find lot´s of locals here as well.

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The Devil's Advocate

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Amazing atmosphere with great food, craft beer and hundreds of different whiskeys.

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L'Escargot Bleu Restaurant and Wine Bar

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Very cute place with amazing french cuisine. A bit pricey but worth it!

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Amarone

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If you are more into italian food I highly recommend Amarone. It´s not a classic scottish vibe but the food is amazing!

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Burgers and Beers Grillhouse

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Cool place for Burger´s and Beer´s - like you can probably tell from it´s name! ;)

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Best Pub´s in Edinburgh 

Most of the Pub´s close around 11pm or midnight. 

Sandy Bell's

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One of the best local pubs in town. It´s a small place but I would alwayes recommend it. If you are lucky you can hear some live scottish folks music

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The Bow Bar

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Another great local pub is the Bow Bar in one of the most beautiful streets in town. Besides beer they serve a wide range of Gin as well.

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Jolly Judge

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Quite a hidden gem ! It´s the perfect place to drink a beer or whiskey.

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Bramble Bar

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If you are more into a cocktail mood go and check out the Bramble Bar in Edinburgh´s New Town. On Fridays there are some great hip hop DJ´s! No reservations ... Walk in only!

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Never Really Here

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Secret Bar ! Only 7 tables :) You are either lucky just walking in or you book a table via Instagram.

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Panda & Sons

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A very unique place for a great cocktail. During high season I would always recommend to make a reservation beforehand.

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Clubbing in Edinburgh

Whistlebinkies

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The Whistlebinkies is quite an ... experience! Before you go there make sure you already had some beers otherwise it can be a bit overwhelming because the Scots know how to drink and party! ;)

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Stramash

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Big Live Musik Club !

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The Last Drop

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The last drop is a mix of Pub/Club as they are normally open longer than Pub´s (till 1am on weekends).

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