Discover the vast breathtaking sceneries spread out in the open and the best tucked-in secrets in Scotland’s cosmopolitan city.
♦STAY
≈ Tigerlily
Behind the stone-wall facade is a boutique hotel that isn’t afraid of sporting bold, bright colors and modern interior elements—bling included. The restaurant and bar is one of the popular hangout place in town. In contrast with the lively nuance of the public spaces, the individually designed rooms are more subdued, with just enough pop to keep you excited. The hotel’s located near the city’s boutiques and bars, so you can hop in and out with ease.
tigerlilyedinburgh.co.uk
≈ G&V
The only five-star hotel on the historic Royal Mile, G&V boasts dramatic design characterized by local Scottish heritage. Wake up to amazing view each morning and enjoy the modern indulgences in your room. There’s an award-winning Italian restaurant Cucina along with the Bar G&V which serves unique Tanqueray Afternoon Tea and mixologists’ seasonal collection. The G&V Spa is also available for those looking to relax.
quorvuscollection.com/gandv-hotel-edinburgh
♦ DINE
≈ Ondine
Serving lavish seafood cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere, Ondine will satisfy your taste buds while allowing you to enjoy a panoramic view of the Old Town. Inspired by a lifetime of the love and appreciation of seafood, the restaurant offers the finest, freshest ingredients from the East Coast of Scotland and beyond, prepared with various influences that will take you around the world. There’s also an oyster bar if you just want some champagne and oysters.
ondinerestaurant.co.uk
≈ The Printing Press Bar & Kitchen
Developed by one of London’s most respected restaurateurs, Des McDonald, The Printing Press pays homage to the city’s rich literary heritage through an elegant, relaxed dining serving seasonal Scottish produce. It’s housed in a Georgian townhouse, the former home of writer Susan Ferrier, and makes use of the space wonderfully. The food is served all day and its bar opens until late night.
printingpressedinburgh.co.uk
≈ Colonnades
Experience a memorable afternoon tea time set within the beautiful Signet Library, among the rows of books. There’s something for everyone among the sandwiches and cakes made from the finest ingredients, complete with gluten gree and vegetarian options. To accompany the delicious bites, an extensive list of teas is available including their own signature blend. You can also try the champagne, cocktails, and in-house gin, created in partnership with Edinburgh Gin.
thesignetlibrary.co.uk
≈ The Kitchin
Michelin-starred and award-winning The Kitchin was created by Tom Kitchin and his wife in 2006 and continues to be one of the best restaurants in the city. Bearing ‘From Nature to Plate’ philosophy, it’s a true reflection of Chef Tom Kitchin’s passion for the finest, freshest Scottish seasonal produce, served in modern British cuisine influenced by French cooking techniques. The cozy interior features tributes to its Scottish heritage through uses of stone, wood, wool and fur.
thekitchin.com
♦ SHOP
≈ Vibrant Markets
You can get everything from unique handcrafts to fresh, local produce at the city’s markets. Every week, the Stockbridge Sunday market offers various artisan products in a delightful setting. The Grassmarket area hosts another popular market each Saturday. Seasonal markets include St John’s Market during the Edinburgh Festival in August and Edinburgh’s Christmas Market where you can enjoy an even more special spectacle of inspirational gifts and delicious treats at the Edinburgh’s Christmas Market.
≈ Shopping Streets
From Edinburgh’s Princes Street, home to huge flagship stores, you can see an uninterrupted view of a medieval castle. Parallel to it, the George Street is stylishly Georgian from the outside and hosts chic, upmarket retail stores. Grassmarket and Victoria Street are perfect for discovering independent shops, from designer to vintage fashion. Fun fact, J.K Rowling was said to base Diagon Alley on Victoria Street.
♦ DO
≈ Architectural Secrets
Apart from the collection of modern buildings and grand, old structures, there are unique architectural spots you can see. A mock Elizabethan style half-timbered building, build around 1900, stands on Randolph Place. The narrow lane at the edge of the New Town, Circus Lane, contains old coach houses transformed into picturesque houses and offices. Linking the Old and New Towns, The Scotsman Steps are composed of 104 different marbles from around the world.
≈ Time Gone By
Witness landmarks that have stood the test of time, from fortresses to monuments. The large complex of Edinburgh Castle is among the most visited. Further out, Lauriston Castle allows you to step back into the Edwardian times. On Calton Hill, you will be rewarded with fantastic views across the city while visiting the Nelson Monument and National Monument of Scotland. For a more in depth experience, the National Museum of Scotland have tons of things to discover.
≈ Festive Fun
There are festivals in Edinburgh all year round. Edinburgh Art Festival offers a showcase of varied exhibitions and events, uniting galleries, museums and art spaces, most of them free to enjoy. With a growing variety of performances every year, Edinburgh Fringe is one of the biggest arts event worldwide. Experience a different kind of festival at Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, which celebrates the skills and talents of military bands and display teams from around the world.
≈ The Great Outdoor
The prime backdrop of Edinburgh, Holyrood Park and Artur’s Seat, are highly explorable and popular with walkers throughout the year. Stop by Princes Street Gardens to take a break from your shopping trip. Royal Botanic Gardens is perfect for a calm and pleasing stroll. Only a short drive away from the capital, you can also enjoy a day at the seaside and explore the beaches.
Photos by Marketing Edinburgh,
Tigerlily,
G&V,
Ondine,
The Printing Press Bar & Kitchen,
The Signet Library,
The Kitchin
