Edinburgh-

What to do in Edinburgh, Scotland?

Edinburgh, one of the most enchanting cities I have ever visited!

This city captures the essence of Scotland with its whiskey, kilt-clad men playing vibrant tunes on their bagpipes, breathtaking landscapes, and rugged terrain.

And let’s not forget about the delightful Scottish accent!

This city has a rich cultural tapestry waiting to be unraveled, with a historical significance that has earned it a well-deserved reputation.

Surprisingly, it ranks among the most visited cities in Europe, a fact that I was not aware of until my visit.

Despite the occasional rain showers during my stay, I found Edinburgh to be an incredible place that I genuinely adore.

There is something truly magical about the overall ambiance that I want to share with you and recreate the same atmosphere I experienced.

The city is steeped in legends, showcasing the Scottish people’s extraordinary storytelling abilities.

Speaking of stories, Edinburgh gives off Harry Potter movie vibes, and for a good reason.

This is where the beloved author, J.K. Rowling, found her inspiration.

Although none of the scenes were filmed directly in Edinburgh, but in more distant locations in Scotland, you can still embark on a Harry Potter tour to immerse yourself in the magic.

I’m already planning my next trip to explore the filming locations!

Where to stay in Edinburgh, Scotland?

01.

Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa

This remarkable establishment stands as the epitome of the ultimate spa experience in Edinburgh. Its crowning jewel is undoubtedly the rooftop swimming pool, providing a breathtaking vantage point from which to admire the city's captivating skyline.

The rarity of such an offering sets it apart, making it an absolute must for those seeking an unforgettable and distinctive encounter. It is precisely this exceptional feature that elevates this hotel to the pinnacle of five-star excellence when it comes to accommodations in Edinburgh.

At One Spa, guests are granted complimentary access to a range of exceptional amenities. Immerse yourself in the serene waters of the 19-meter swimming pool, invigorate your senses in the well-equipped gym and fitness studios, and indulge in a variety of beauty and spa treatments, all of which can be arranged prior to your arrival, ensuring a seamless experience.

To fully savor these exceptional offerings, it is advisable to secure your bookings in advance, alongside the Thermal Suite and Rooftop Hydro Pool, as these experiences are charged separately. Rest assured, every moment spent within these tranquil havens will transport you to a realm of sublime relaxation and rejuvenation.

For those with a penchant for staying active, the gym provides an ideal setting to keep your muscles toned even after a leisurely stroll around the enchanting city. The state-of-the-art facilities cater to your every fitness need, ensuring that you can maintain your training regimen even while on your well-deserved getaway.

As the day draws to a close, prepare to embark on a tantalizing culinary journey. Indulge in a modern Scottish menu that showcases the finest local flavors and ingredients. To enhance your experience, a unique Gin Tasting awaits at the vibrant One Square Bar + Brasserie, providing an opportunity to explore a delightful selection of this beloved spirit.

This hotel is 900m away from the city center.

Wellness Facilities

Indoor heated swimming pool
Fitness/spa locker rooms
Personal trainer
Fitness classes
Fitness
Full body massage
Head massage
Foot massage
Neck massage
Back massage
Spa/wellness packages
Spa lounge/relaxation area
Steam room
Spa facilities
Sun loungers or beach chairs
Open-air bath
Massage
Spa and wellness centre
Fitness centre
Sauna

02.

Gleneagles Townhouse

We already had a former jail house check Estonian hotels on our website. This time it is formerly a grand bank(this exquisite hotel boasts 5-star accommodations, immersing you in sheer luxury at every turn.

It stands alone as a singular haven of opulence, an experience you would regret missing out on if you were to choose any alternative. Prepare yourself for an unparalleled encounter with impeccable aesthetics and unparalleled style.

The hotel staff exudes warmth and helpfulness, diligently ensuring that your every desire is catered to while maintaining an immaculate environment reminiscent of its freshly constructed origins.

Enter the magnificent atrium, an enchanting space where you'll be transported into the realm of a silver screen icon. The meticulous attention to even the tiniest of details transforms this area into a remarkable dining room fit for royalty. Within this enchanting ambiance, you'll bask in the grandeur that surrounds you.

In addition to its lavish offerings, the hotel provides exceptional 5-star accommodations, complemented by a rejuvenating sauna. Delve deeper into the premises, and you'll discover a state-of-the-art wellness area nestled within the very heart of the Townhouse, occupying the former bank vault. Within this sacred space, available exclusively to guests and members, a plethora of tailored treatments and therapies await.

Prepare to embark on a holistic wellness journey, curated to perfection, featuring cutting-edge technologies like a cryotherapy chamber and an infrared sauna.

This hotel is 600m away from the city center.

Wellness Facilities

Fitness/spa locker rooms
Personal trainer
Fitness classes
Yoga classes
Fitness
Spa/wellness packages
Steam room
Spa facilities
Massage
Spa and wellness centre
Fitness centre
Sauna

03.

Kimpton - Charlotte Square, an IHG Hotel

The prime location of Edinburgh, just a stone's throw away from the iconic Princes Street and George Street, this esteemed establishment awaits. Its unrivaled proximity to these landmarks ensures that you are at the heart of all the city's vibrant offerings.

Prepare to be enchanted by the comprehensive range of leisure facilities, which include a fully equipped gym, a refreshing swimming pool, and an indulgent spa. Within the spa's serene confines, a myriad of rejuvenating treatments awaits, from luxurious facials to blissful massages, all available at an additional cost. Allow your weary body to surrender to the soothing touch of skilled therapists and experience the ultimate relaxation that it craves.

The spa facilities provided a much-needed respite during our stay. We took advantage of the complimentary access to the leisure amenities, immersing ourselves in the invigorating ambiance of the gym, the invigorating allure of the swimming pool, and the tranquil haven of the spa. Indulge your senses, for the spa's offerings are a testament to its commitment to providing a comprehensive range of treatments.

From a diverse selection of massages to invigorating body scrubs and indulgent body wraps, the options are abundant and enticing. I highly recommend treating yourself to one of their exquisite massages—a personal favorite of mine. Furthermore, the sauna proves to be a fantastic way to unwind after a day of exploring the charming hills and valleys of Edinburgh.

This hotel is 900m away from the city center.

Wellness Facilities

Fitness/spa locker rooms
Personal trainer
Fitness classes
Yoga classes
Fitness
Full body massage
Hand massage
Head massage
Couples massage
Foot massage
Neck massage
Back massage
Spa/wellness packages
Spa lounge/relaxation area
Steam room
Spa facilities
Body wrap
Body scrub
Pedicure
Manicure
Facial treatments
Beauty Services
Massage
Spa and wellness centre
Fitness centre
Sauna

04.

Apex Waterloo Place Hotel

The hotel's interior is simply lovely, exuding a playful charm with its vibrant colors, making every moment enjoyable.

The spa facilities are absolutely brilliant, featuring a fantastic sauna, steam room, and a generously-sized pool that truly enhance the relaxation experience. I found it to be a pleasant surprise and a highlight of my stay, leaving me longing to return in the future.

The only aspect that fell slightly short was the gym, which could benefit from some updates and restoration to match the overall standard. Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh, the 4-star Apex Waterloo Place hotel epitomizes luxury living, offering a truly immersive and unforgettable experience.

This hotel is 700m away from the city center.

Wellness Facilities

Indoor heated swimming pool
Fitness/spa locker rooms
Fitness
Spa/wellness packages
Spa lounge/relaxation area
Steam room
Spa facilities
Sun loungers or beach chairs
Massage
Spa and wellness centre
Fitness centre
Sauna

05.

Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh - The Caledonia

The Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh - The Caledonian is a luxury hotel located in the center of Edinburgh. Built in 1903 and situated as part of the central railway station, it offers a beautiful and historic ambiance. Guests can enjoy unobstructed views of Edinburgh Castle from the hotel.

The hotel features a modern leisure club with amenities like a steam room, sauna, whirlpool, swimming pool, and gym. The spa offers a range of luxurious treatments, and the masseuses are highly praised.

The hotel's friendly staff and delicious breakfast, catering to different preferences, are also appreciated. In addition, the hotel's location provides easy access to George Street's vibrant scene of bars, restaurants, and shops.

This hotel is 900m away from the city center.

Wellness Facilities

Indoor swimming pool
Fitness/spa locker rooms
Personal trainer
Fitness
Full body massage
Couples massage
Back massage
Spa/wellness packages
Foot bath
Spa lounge/relaxation area
Steam room
Spa facilities
Body treatments
Pedicure
Manicure
Make up services
Waxing services
Facial treatments
Beauty Services
Sun loungers or beach chairs
Hammam
Hot tub/Jacuzzi
Massage
Spa and wellness centre
Fitness centre
Sauna

06.

Village Hotel Edinburgh

Within the realm of contemporary style, this hotel exudes an industrial elegance infused with the vitality of CrossFit. The spa facilities stand as the central focus, reflecting their immense importance. The spa and this superb gym with tons of activitites played a crucial role in our decision to include this hotel on our esteemed list.

The swimming pool is truly impressive, overshadowing others with its size and grandeur. The showers are a marvel to behold, captivating guests with their allure. The spacious gym, equipped with state-of-the-art machinery and meticulously maintained, offers a haven for fitness enthusiasts. Guests can enjoy the additional amenities of the Village Gym, including a swimming pool, sauna, and steam room, for an extra cost.

However, it is worth noting that the rooms themselves lack the distinctive appeal, being modest and compact. Nevertheless, the Village Hotel Edinburgh provides an indoor pool and a sanctuary for holistic well-being, just a short distance from the vibrant city center of Edinburgh.

This hotel is 3,4km away from the city center.

Wellness Facilities

Indoor swimming pool
Fitness/spa locker rooms
Personal trainer
Fitness classes
Yoga classes
Fitness
Full body massage
Neck massage
Back massage
Spa/wellness packages
Spa lounge/relaxation area
Steam room
Spa facilities
Body wrap
Body scrub
Body treatments
Pedicure
Manicure
Waxing services
Facial treatments
Beauty Services
Hot tub/Jacuzzi
Massage
Spa and wellness centre
Fitness centre
Sauna

What Edinburgh is all about?

01. Geography and transportation

With a population of nearly half a million, Edinburgh has the perfect size, in my opinion.

It feels like a bustling city, but once you venture a little outside the city center, it becomes remarkably peaceful, especially in the surrounding hills.

A short 30-minute walk from the city center can lead you to captivating hiking trails. This versatility is what makes Edinburgh truly special.

Upon arriving at the airport, I took a metro to the city center, but for the most part, I explored Edinburgh on foot.

The city is incredibly walkable, and you can easily reach almost everything, despite the many steps you may encounter.

However, I did take the opportunity to hop on an open-roof double-decker bus tour, just to get a different perspective.

It was a pleasant experience, particularly since it was one of the rare moments without rain.

Surprisingly, Edinburgh is not as distant as it may seem, with a train journey from London taking around 4 hours.

02. Culture of Scotland

The Scottish people are incredibly friendly and approachable.

They have a knack for striking up conversations, whether on the streets or in pubs.

However, their Scottish accent can be quite challenging to understand, as they speak fast!

I witnessed a local elder gentleman, let’s call him a “lad,” playfully slap two young guys who entered a pub.

I wonder if they are also referred to as “lads” in Scotland?

Let me know on social media!

It was clear that the slap was all in good fun, as they all burst into laughter.

Apparently, the Scottish gentleman was teaching them some kind of game, but I couldn’t catch the details.

I can bet the Guinness beer or a glass of whiskey might have made the slaps a bit harder later on!

03. The old town on Edinburgh

The Old Town is the heart of Edinburgh, binding together its culture, history, and labyrinthine narrow alleys brimming with stories and legends.

A weekend in Edinburgh might not be enough to satisfy your curiosity fully.

The Royal Mile is a must-visit when in Edinburgh, especially if time is limited.

It serves as the focal point of the city’s attractions, leading to the magnificent Edinburgh Castle.

04. Edinburgh castle

Edinburgh Castle, perched atop a volcanic rock, is a standout among castles.

Its location offers panoramic views of the entire city, making it truly remarkable.

I recommend being near the castle before 1 pm to witness the firing of the cannon, a daily tradition except on Sundays. How funny, as I actually just visited Poznan in Poland where we I had to be at the city townhouse when 1 pm strikes in the tower bell to watch something amazing, you can read what it was here!

Back to Edinburg, I think it’s an incredible experience and one that earned the name “clock gun” as it used to allow people to set their clocks.

However, the true origins of the tradition might be something entirely different, so don’t hesitate to ask the locals for their insights!

05. The Scotish Food

Now, let’s delve into the topic of food!

I have to admit that haggis wasn’t exactly to my liking during my culinary adventure in Edinburgh.

However, it’s possible that I didn’t choose the right restaurant to try it.

I’ve been informed by some fellow travelers who have had a better experience with haggis than me.

Since taste preferences differ from person to person, I would be open to giving it another chance on my next trip to Edinburgh.

Exploring local cuisine is always an exciting part of any travel experience, and Edinburgh offers a wide range of culinary delights beyond haggis.

From traditional Scottish dishes to international flavors, the city boasts an array of restaurants and eateries catering to diverse tastes.

Whether you’re in the mood for fresh seafood, hearty stews, or inventive vegetarian options, there is something to please every palate.

During my stay, I had the pleasure of savoring other delectable dishes that left a lasting impression.

I indulged in succulent Scottish salmon, tender Angus beef, and richly flavored whisky-infused desserts.

The local ingredients and skilled preparation showcased the city’s culinary prowess.

In addition to traditional fare, Edinburgh also embraces contemporary dining trends, offering innovative fusion cuisine and farm-to-table experiences.

From cozy cafes and bustling street food stalls to elegant fine dining establishments, the city’s food scene is great!

06. The whiskey - The Finale

And how can we forget about whiskey?

It’s not only a popular drink but also an integral part of Scottish culture.

The art of whiskey-making has been passed down through generations, and the country takes great pride in its production.

Scotland is home to some of the world’s finest whiskey distilleries, and Edinburgh offers numerous opportunities to immerse yourself in the whiskey experience.

Throughout the city, you’ll find a wide range of establishments where you can indulge in whiskey tastings and expand your knowledge about this renowned spirit.

These venues boast extensive collections of whiskeys from various regions, each with its unique flavor profile and production techniques.

Beyond the tastings, whiskey enthusiasts can also delve deeper into the world of whiskey through distillery tours.

Edinburgh serves as a gateway to some of the renowned distilleries in Scotland, where you can witness firsthand the traditional methods employed in whiskey production.

For those seeking a more in-depth experience, whiskey masterclasses and workshops provide a deeper understanding of the intricate art of blending and the complexities of flavor profiles.

Under the guidance of experts, you’ll learn the art of nosing, the proper way to appreciate the aroma of whiskey, and the techniques for distinguishing the different flavors and notes present in each glass.