edinburgh city travel guide hotspots
© Your Little Black Book

Edinburgh City Guide: 23 hotspots you'll want to know for your city trip

8 December 2025
Last updated: December 8, 2025

Edinburgh is one of Europe's most beautiful cities, and in my opinion, one of its most enchanting destinations for a city break. This city had been on my bucket list for a long time, and it finally happened! With a centuries-old castle in the heart of the city, you'll find a stark contrast between the old city center with its narrow streets on one side and the more modern new part full of elegant buildings on the other. Because the city center isn't very large, you'll feel at home the moment you arrive, and everything is easily accessible on foot.

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**Rotterdam is a vibrant city: Rotterdam is a vibrant city** As a child I came there with my parents to shop, as a teenager and in my twenties to club. Now I love coming there for a weekend escape characterized by good food, nice wine bars and that typical Rotterdam down-to-earth attitude. Rotterdam is buzzing with creativity and has a real IT factor. In this mini-guide, I share my favorite hotspots that you'll really want to know. 📌𝗦𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝗱𝗲𝘇𝗲 𝗴𝘂𝗶𝗱𝗲 for your next trip to Rotterdam. 𝗖𝗢𝗙𝗙𝗘𝗘 ⦁ @parqiet_parkcafe ⦁ @dunerotterdam ⦁ @wollyaandewaterkant ⦁ @nice.neighbourhood 𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗬 ⦁ @morganandmees ⦁ @hotelame ⦁ @roommate_bruno ⦁ @thejameshotelrotterdam 𝗡𝗘𝗜𝗚𝗛𝗕𝗢𝗨𝗥𝗛𝗢𝗢𝗗𝗦 ⦁ Noord ⦁ Katendrecht ⦁ Dijkzigt (Museum Park) ⦁ Scheepvaartkwartier 𝗗𝗢 ⦁ Take the Watertaxi ⦁ @boijmans ⦁ Walk & unwind at de Kralingse Plas ⦁ @nlfotomuseum ⦁ Visit @stationbergweg 𝗘𝗔𝗧 ⦁ @tresrotterdam ⦁ @barbertarotterdam ⦁ @hinoki_rotterdam ⦁ @barbistroloevetdie ⦁ @oxrotterdam ⦁ @restaurant_rotonde ⦁ On my to-visit list, the new @lioncitybistro 𝗗𝗥𝗜𝗡𝗞𝗦 ⦁ @walsjerot_nl ⦁ @cafeverward ⦁ @spikizibar ⦁ @lenselinq 💌What's your favourite spot in Rotterdam? ✖️✖️✖️ 🖊️ @anne_de_buck
Maybe the last weekend with ice and snow ⛄️❄️ Are you cocooning indoors or preferring to go outside? In our Snowy Amsterdam Guide, I share my favorite winter tips for this weekend in the city. Save it – because snow days like this are rare 🥰 Do you have a nice winter tip for Amsterdam? I'm reading along 👀 ✖️✖️✖️ 🖊️ @anne_de_buck #snow #amsterdam #winter snow in amsterdam, things to do winter in amsterdam
I have always been part of the family and have always been proud of my work. NEW DATE AND EVENTS IN AMSTERDAM 🗝️👀 Mark your calendars! Because on January 17 & 18 Hotelnacht is back in Amsterdam with an edition full of health & wellness events and of course legendary parties that you will be talking about all year long. I got a sneak peek at The Art of Balance theme at the luxurious Anantara Krasnapolsky and arranged a similarly special experience for you as a YLBB follower. AND YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: • overnight stay for 2 people in a luxury room on January 17, 2026 • access to the spa & wellness (based on availability via the wellness desk) • pre-dinner cocktail at Bar The Tailor • fully catered chef's dinner • passe-partouts for the Hotelnacht parties • extensive breakfast in the Wintergarden • participation in the unique Ice Experience in the Summergarden of Krasnapolsky 𝗭𝗢 𝗠𝗔𝗔𝗞 𝗝𝗘 𝗞𝗔𝗡𝗦: • let us know who you would like to check in with at Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky during the Mastercard Hotelnacht • download the Mastercard Hotelnacht app where you can find the See the full program • and check out @hotelnacht and @anantarakrasnapolsky for the latest updates and to get the fun started! The winner will be notified on January 5th via a comment from @hotelnacht that I'll share in my stories. Fingers crossed for you! Love, Anne #hotelnacht #amsterdam #yourlbbcollab #winactie #giveaway
Merry Christmas 🎄❤️ I wish you very happy holidays. Curious what you are going to do today ✨. ✖️✖️✖️ @anne_de_buck PS: who recognizes this Christmas tree? 👀
I hope you enjoy it and have fun! 🎄 Send a message to that one friend you want to grab one with this weekend. 𝗭𝘂𝗶𝗱-𝗛𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱 – Royal Christmas Fair – The Hague (until 23 Dec) @royalchristmasfairthehague – Winter Wonder Weeks – Leiden (12–14 & 18–21 Dec) – Green Christmas Market – Rotterdam (12–14 Dec) – Dordrecht December Days Christmas Market – Dordrecht (13–14 Dec) – Rotterdam Harvest Christmas Edition – Rotterdam (13 & 20 Dec) 𝗚𝗲𝗹𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱 – Winter Festival Zutphen – Zutphen (14 Dec) 𝗟𝗶𝗺𝗯𝘂𝗿𝗴 – Christmas City Valkenburg – Valkenburg (until 4 Jan) Christmas Market – Delden Christmas Market – Delden (13 Dec) – Dickens Festival – Deventer (13–14 Dec) – (H)onest Christmas Market – Deventer (13–14 Dec) Christmas Market – Museumplein Christmas Market – Amsterdam (until 28 Dec) – Haarlem Christmas Market – Haarlem (12–14 Dec) – Funky Xmas Sunday Market – Amsterdam (21 Dec) – Pure Markt Winter Market – Amsterdam (21 Dec) 𝗨𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗵𝘁 – Winter Market Molen de Ster – Utrecht (13–14 Dec) – The Utrecht Winter Spectacle – Utrecht (18 Dec–4 Jan) Have fun! Nothing is as much fun as spontaneous plans in December. ✖️✖️✖️ 🖊 @anne_de_buck #yourlittleblackbook #christmasmarketnetherlands #christmasmarkets2025 christmasmarketamsterdam christmasmarketthehague christmasoutings thingstodointhenetherlands
𝗔𝗡𝗧𝗪𝗘𝗥𝗣𝗘𝗡 𝗚𝗜𝗩𝗘𝗔𝗪𝗔𝗬 👀 This is the coolest new hotel for a night away! Meet @viaantwerp , the newest boutique hotel in Antwerp on the border of Zurenborg and Borgerhout (yep, voted 2nd coolest neighborhood in the world by Time Out). I recently stayed at this gem and this hotel really has it all: a lively bar with a cozy atmosphere, walls full of creative art, beautiful bright rooms and it's within walking distance of great hotspots. And I haven't even mentioned @mea.antwerp! The delicious restaurant with a chef behind the pans who previously cooked at The Palomar in London. If you know, you know! And now the best news: I can surprise one of you with a dream night away at VIA Antwerp. 💛 𝗪𝗔𝗧 𝗝𝗘 𝗞𝗨𝗡𝗧 𝗪𝗜𝗡𝗡𝗘𝗡 • Overnight stay for 2 people • Breakfast included • Chef's dinner at MEA 𝗭𝗢 𝗠𝗔𝗔𝗞 𝗝𝗘 𝗞𝗔𝗡𝗦 • Let us know in the comments which friend you would like to stay here with • Of course, also take a look at @viaantwerp & @mea.antwerp to dream away and follow their updates The winner will be notified personally via DM on December 10th. I'm keeping my fingers crossed for you and will soon share a mini guide with more great tips for Antwerp! 🖤 ​​✖️✖️✖️ 🖊️ @anne_de_buck #antwerp #antwerp #zurenborg #antwerpencity #borgerhout
edinburgh city travel guide hotspots

Victoria Street © Your Little Black Book

All the tips and hotspots you want to know for your city trip to Edinburgh

Book a few great restaurants in advance, wander the picturesque streets, and visit a free museum; you certainly won't be bored in Edinburgh. There's something beautiful to see on almost every corner, and I went home with hundreds of photos. Edinburgh is now hands down one of my favorite cities for a winter city break. From the end of November, there's also a wonderful, large Christmas market in the city, which I definitely want to go back for. I loved it so much that I'm already secretly making plans to explore more of Scotland. You can read why I fell in love with this city in this new Edinburgh City Guide, packed with must-see highlights and my personal restaurant favorites. Because Edinburgh has no shortage of great hotspots!

 TIP: I spent two nights in Edinburgh during this city break, but if you also want to explore the neighborhoods further afield (like Leith and Stockbridge), try booking your flights so you have a full day in the city, or book an extra night. Here are some hotel tips for Edinburgh: Gleneagles Townhouse, Market Street Hotel, Motel One Edinburgh Castle (budget) & The Dunstane HousesFrom the airport, you can easily take the Airlink bus to the city center, which stops near all these hotels!

9 Fun Things to Do in Edinburgh

Edinburgh Castle

A city trip to Edinburgh isn't complete without a visit to Edinburgh Castle. This castle boasts an incredibly rich history, and inside you'll find all sorts of items that tell those stories. The castle also houses the magnificent Crown Jewels of Scotland. Almost every day, a cannon is fired from the castle, its sound clearly audible throughout most of the city. The view from the castle walls over the city is stunning, and you can also see clearly between the Old Town and the New Town. If you decide to visit the castle, arrive early to avoid the large tourist crowds. Or buy your tickets online in advance to ensure your entry >>

edinburgh city travel guide hotspots

Edinburgh Castle © Your Little Black Book

Old Town & Royal Mile

As the name suggests, Old Town is the oldest part of the city, still retaining its medieval charm. Here you'll find unique architecture and ancient streets. In the heart of Old Town, you'll find the Royal Mile, a bustling street with great restaurants and shops. Are you, like me, a Harry Potter fan? Then you might want to try a special Harry Potter tour. Harry Potter tour do through the old town (more infoDon't forget to wear sneakers or good walking shoes, as there's a lot of elevation change and you'll be climbing some stairs to reach the most beautiful spots. Don't miss the beautiful Victoria Street and the lively Grassmarket. There's also a lovely Farmer's Market on weekends.

edinburgh city travel guide hotspots

Victoria Street © Your Little Black Book

Calton Hill

Calton Hill is a prominent hill in the heart of Edinburgh, home to a recognizable landmark you've probably seen in photos. This hill not only offers stunning views of the city itself, but also offers a completely different perspective on Edinburgh Castle. I was there early in the morning, and it wasn't too busy yet. Next time, I'll definitely go back in the evening, as the sunset from this hill is apparently highly recommended. It only takes five minutes to climb the steps, so a visit is a must in my opinion.

edinburgh city travel guide hotspots

Calton Hill © Your Little Black Book

National Museum of Scotland

This internationally renowned museum features art from across the globe and locations, with fascinating exhibitions on technology, history, and globalization. Cultures from around the world are celebrated here, and Scottish culture is also given a platform. When visiting this museum, don't miss the "Dolly the Sheep" exhibition, dedicated to the first successfully cloned animal.

edinburgh city travel guide hotspots

National Museum of Scotland

The Real Mary Kings Close

Just off the Royal Mile, you'll find Real Mary King's Close, an iconic medieval alleyway shrouded in mystery and myth. A tour here will give you a glimpse into what the city used to look like, with guides and actors dressed in period costume. This alleyway is also known for its tales of murder and spooky myths; so, only for readers with nerves of steel! The Real Mary King's Close tours last 1 hour and can be viewed here >>

The Scotch Whiskey Experience

The Scotch Whisky Experience is the perfect ending to an afternoon strolling through Edinburgh's Old Town. Here, you'll enjoy authentic Scotch whisky in all price ranges. Let the experts teach you about the different types of whisky and the history of this local drink. I'm a huge whisky lover myself, so I even took a bottle home as a souvenir. Are you a whisky lover too, or do you want to learn more about this piece of local culture? Then don't miss The Scotch Whisky Experience with tasting! You can book in advance for the tasting here, because they sell out quickly >> 

edinburgh city travel guide hotspots

The Scotch Whiskey Experience

Water of Leith Walkway

This walking and cycling path is perfect for a morning or afternoon stroll in Edinburgh. It follows the river of the same name and offers countless beautiful views along the way. The path passes through Dean's Village, a fairytale village you definitely won't want to miss. You can also walk to the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art from the city center via this path. And if you're staying at The Dunstane Houses, like me, the path begins almost behind your hotel. TIP: If you're booking a room at The Dunstane Houses, make sure you book a room in the main building.

edinburgh city travel guide hotspots

Water of Leith Walkway © Your Little Black Book

Grassmarket Neighborhood

Fancy spending hours strolling past artsy shops, unique cafés, and excellent restaurants? Then spend an afternoon in the Grassmarket Neighborhood. This neighborhood has a dark history; criminals were once executed here, but today it's a lively area with plenty to see and do. For the Harry Potter fans among us, J.K. Rowling found a lot of inspiration in this neighborhood, and fans of the series will recognize some of the sights! On weekends, there's also a lovely Farmers' Market and a craft market where they sell handmade and vintage items, as well as delicious treats. In this neighborhood, you'll find Timberyard and Cold Town House, among other places, which I'll also recommend in this guide!

edinburgh city travel guide hotspots

Grassmarket on Saturday © Your Little Black Book

The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art

The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art is a beautiful museum with a collection of modern and contemporary art just outside Edinburgh's city center. The museum's collection includes works by artists such as Pablo Picasso, Francis Bacon, and Andy Warhol, as well as several Scottish artists. Admission is free and the museum is open daily.

Edinburgh Farmers' Market

Edinburgh boasts a wealth of farmers' markets, but the one at Castle Terrace is perhaps our favorite. Here you'll find charming stalls with delicious, local produce to take back to your hotel/Airbnb or enjoy as a tasty lunch. This market is open every Saturday from 9:2 AM to XNUMX:XNUMX PM. So set your alarm early and visit one of Edinburgh's many markets.

11 X Great Restaurants in Edinburgh for Delicious Food and Drinks

Timberyard

Restaurant Timberyard is known for its menu full of traditional Scottish dishes with a modern twist. These dishes are of exceptionally high quality, thanks in part to the fact that Timberyard has its own butchery and smokehouse, meaning the meat comes directly from the kitchen. Furthermore, this restaurant strives to source all its plant-based ingredients directly from nature. So, incredibly sustainable and also incredibly delicious. How cool is that?
10 Lady Lawson St, Edinburgh – timberyard.co

Cold Town House

Right next to Edinburgh Castle, you'll find Cold Town House's fantastic rooftop terrace. Here you'll find the best craft beers and a huge selection of unique cocktails. Order delicious snacks or one of the brick-oven pizzas with your drink, all topped with unique toppings. The interior is trendy, and we're especially fond of the fantastic rooftop terrace. So, make sure you arrive early when the weather is nice to secure a spot on this delightful terrace.
4 Grassmarket, Edinburgh – coldtownhouse.co.uk

Paradise palms

We're now real fans of this restaurant. Paradise Palms is a welcoming restaurant where you can also enjoy drinks in the evening, and everything has been carefully thought out. For example, the vegetarian menu is a huge success, the restaurant uses sustainable energy, and absolutely no single-use plastic is used. It's cozy here, and the atmosphere is always good. Paradise Palms is definitely worth a visit.
41 Lothian St, Edinburgh – theparadisepalms.com

Salt Horse Beer Shop & Bar

Do you love craft beer and fancy a tasting of unique Scottish beers? Then head to Salt Horse Craft Beer Shop & Bar during your visit to Edinburgh. If you're feeling peckish after drinking all the delicious beers, order a large burger or other simple yet delicious food at the bar. It's an accessible and fun place right in the heart of Edinburgh.
61 Blackfriars St, Edinburgh – salthorse.beer

Dishoom Edinburgh

Dishoom is an authentic Indian restaurant with friendly service. The restaurant is known for its delicious, high-quality dishes. They don't take reservations, so if you want to be guaranteed a table, arrive early. Is it already full? Order a cocktail and wait quietly at the bar, because this restaurant is definitely worth the wait.
3a St Andrew Square, Edinburgh – dishoom.com

© Cold Town House

more nice restaurants in Edinburgh

Noto

Restaurant Noto serves incredibly delicious food in a welcoming setting with friendly staff. This restaurant uses a shared dining concept, featuring several small dishes designed for sharing. Expect to find plenty of Asian influences on the menu, but unique, original flavor combinations also feature prominently. Order a delicious wine or a unique cocktail to complement your meal, and your evening will be perfect!
47a Thistle St, Edinburgh – notoedinburgh.co.uk

The Bon Vivant

This restaurant offers a delightful, refined dining experience with a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. The interior features a lot of wood and leather, making it an elegant bar for drinks after a long day or a cozy dinner. Expect delicious à la carte dishes and tapas options, which pair perfectly with a good glass of wine, champagne, or a delicious cocktail. Surprisingly, you'll rarely find other tourists here, and that alone is why we love going to The Bon Vivant.
55 Thistle St, Edinburgh – bonvivantedinburgh.co.uk

Panda & Sons

This comfortable and atmospheric bar boasts one of Edinburgh's finest selections of craft beers and unique cocktails. This award-winning bar is known as one of the world's best (cocktail) bars. While it might not be obvious from the outside, it's definitely worth a visit. So, if you're looking for a great place to enjoy a drink, you won't be disappointed if you visit Panda & Sons.
79 Queen St, Edinburgh – pandaandsons.com

Forage & Chatter

At Forage & Chatter, delicious Scottish cuisine is elevated to a whole new level. The menu changes almost daily thanks to the use of fresh ingredients, but the food is always delicious. The interior complements the dishes; cozy and atmospheric. Lots of wood and diamond patterns—that's what they love here. The staff is welcoming and friendly, and they also have a good sense of humor. Definitely worth a visit!
1A Alva St, Edinburgh – forageandchatter.com

The Palmerston

The Palmerston has a daily changing menu featuring delicious European dishes. The menu changes daily because they strive to use only the freshest ingredients, such as fruits and vegetables from local farmers and fish from nearby fishermen. The interior is reminiscent of a French gastropub, and the delicious food perfectly complements this. You can also enjoy a delicious lunch here!
1 Palmerston Pl, Edinburgh – thepalmerstonedinburgh.co.uk

© Noto

3 x nice hotels in Edinburgh where you want to stay

The Roseate Edinburgh

Edinburgh is home to many beautiful hotels featuring typically Scottish antiques, but Tthe Roseate Edinburgh Located just outside the city, the hotel is a well-known landmark. Spread across two buildings, you'll find 35 rooms, each uniquely decorated. We're especially fond of the rooms in Dunstane House. The other building, Hampton House, is a bit less stylish. Think orange velvet chairs, draped beds, and copper bathtubs in Dunstane House. A crackling fire in the cozy bar is the perfect place to relax after a day exploring the city. Definitely an experience!

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Edinburgh travel guide hotspot

© The Roseate Edinburgh – booking.com

Gleneagles Townhouse

This well-known Scottish hotel, which also has a country house outside the city, can now be found in Edinburgh. Fun fact: it's owned by the same group behind The Hoxton Hotels. A favorite chain that I return to again and again. Expect sublime service, incredibly friendly staff, and of course, a beautiful hotel. This hotel is located in the former Bank of Scotland building, and the rooms reflect this in the interior. If you stay overnight, skip the line. Gleneagles Townhouse And definitely don't miss the gym, partly because you'll find a cryotherapy chamber and an infrared sauna there!
39 St Andrew Square, Edinburgh

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Edinburgh travel guide hotspot

© Gleneagles Townhouse – booking.com

Market Street Hotel

The program Market Street Hotel The hotel is incredibly centrally located, right in the heart of Edinburgh's Old Town, and is worth booking for that reason alone. The hotel offers minimalist design rooms with a stylish Scottish flair. The bathrooms are also beautifully appointed. Several rooms offer stunning unobstructed views of the Old Town. In short: a perfect base for a city break to Edinburgh.
6 Market Street, Old Town, Edinburgh

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Edinburgh travel guide hotspot

© Market Street hotel – booking.com

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