Curator’s statement
Edinburgh is the kind of place that rewards those who linger. Beyond the postcard landmarks lies a rich, lived-in city full of quiet courtyards, independent bookshops and local cafés where stories unfold slowly. Walking its cobbled streets at your own pace reveals layers of history, creativity and community. It's a destination that invites reflection, connection and presence — perfect for the slow traveler.
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Where to stay in Edinburgh
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Things to do in Edinburgh
Royal Mile: Walk along this historic street that connects Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse, lined with shops, restaurants and attractions.
Edinburgh Castle: Perched atop Castle Rock, this historic fortress offers stunning views of the city and houses the Honours of Scotland (Scottish Crown Jewels) and the Stone of Destiny.
Palace of Holyroodhouse: The official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. This palace is rich in history and features beautiful gardens and the ruins of Holyrood Abbey.
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh: Explore over 70 acres of diverse plant collections and themed gardens in one of the world's oldest botanic gardens.
National Museum of Scotland: Explore diverse collections that span natural history, world cultures and Scottish heritage. Highlights include the Lewis Chessmen and Dolly the sheep.
National Galleries of Scotland: Discover one of the world's finest collections of Western art. This collection features masterpieces by artists like Titian, Rembrandt and Van Gogh.
Edinburgh Old Town: Discover the medieval street plan and historic architecture of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to St Giles' Cathedral and the Real Mary King's Close.
Festival Theatre: A prominent cultural venue known for hosting an array of performances, including opera, ballet and musicals, within its blend of modern and historical architecture.
Places to eat & drink in Edinburgh
The Spence: Until 2017, this was the Royal Bank of Scotland, and the restaurant now occupies what was formerly the banking hall. All the grandeur is here, from the granite columns and the exquisite plasterwork to the magnificent cupola which allows natural light to flood in. The Scottish larder is the focus of the accessible menu, with the kitchen showing a keen eye for presentation.
Fhior: A husband-and-wife team run this appealing Scandic-style restaurant whose name means ‘True’. Creative modern cooking showcases local and foraged produce, with their one-acre garden the real driving force behind the menus. They preserve their home-grown ingredients so they can use them all year-round.
Angels with Bagpipes: Having opened on the Royal Mile in 2010, Angels with Bagpipes has quickly established itself as one of the best Scottish restaurants in Edinburgh. Mixing an atmospheric Old Town setting with chic, contemporary looks, Angels with Bagpipes was designed to fit perfectly into its Royal Mile setting. Pride in fresh, seasonal, Scottish ingredients is what defines Angels with Bagpipes and makes us one of the top Scottish restaurants in Edinburgh. Open throughout the day and evening, we are the perfect spot for a quick lunch or a relaxing dinner.
Aizle: This distinctive dining establishment embraces a farm-to-table philosophy, offering a surprise tasting menu crafted monthly from the freshest seasonal ingredients. Located in the heart of Edinburgh, Aizle focuses on sustainability and creativity. This ensures each dish reflects Scotland's rich culinary heritage.
The Bridge Inn: Situated in the picturesque village of Ratho, this historic inn offers a charming setting alongside the Union Canal. The restaurant is renowned for its commitment to locally sourced ingredients. The menu features dishes prepared with fresh produce from the inn's own farm, ensuring a true farm-to-table experience.
The Table: Offering an intimate dining experience, guests are seated around a single table, allowing direct interaction with the chefs. The restaurant emphasizes using seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. This provides a personalized and exclusive culinary journey.
Need to know
Late spring and summer's longer days and warmer temperatures make these periods the best time to visit Edinburgh. It's important to note that Edinburgh's weather can be unpredictable, with rain showers occurring throughout the year. Therefore, it's advisable to pack layers and be prepared for changing weather conditions regardless of the season you choose to visit.
Travel Advisor
Andrew Tidd
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, check out our Edinburgh page.