Having lived in Edinburgh for four years, I know how superbly wonderful it is! I was part tourist and part local so I aim to give you a concise yet jammed packed guide to this wonderful city. All the best bits I promise you. Enjoy these and your stay whether in one of our Edinburgh holiday apartments or not, will be a good one!
WHERE’S GOOD… TO EAT:
If you fancy dining out there is a plethora of amazing places to eat. For posh nosh go to the well-respected Witchery on the Royal Mile or one of the 5 Michelin starred restaurants in Edinburgh. I recommend The Kitchin which has been named the ‘Best restaurant in Scotland’ before and is owned by Tom and Michaela Kitchin who have ensured the British seasonal food and staff are wonderful. It is located in the trendy and quieter Commercial Quay.
Vittoria Itallian restaurant either in Leith or George 4th Bridge is absolute must for the friendliest staff and best Italian food in the city! Family run and a locals favourite.
If staying in one of our Edinburgh holiday apartments and going to cook a feast, then a trip to Crombies of Edinburgh Butchers on the lovely Broughton Street is a solid recommendation. Broughton Street is also home to quirky Real Foods, a favourite of my vegan friend and somewhere I used a lot too. Findlay’s of Portobello is well worth a visit too for ‘in my opinion’ Edinburgh finest haggis, gluten free too!
Favourite delicatessens have to be Valvona and Crolla and Peckhams. These are great if you want to pick up some delights for your apartment.
WHERE’S GOOD FOR… TEA & COFFEE:
Please visit Elephant House. Still unassuming despite its reputation as the birth place of Harry Potter where J.K Rowling would sit and write. Hands down one of the best tea and coffee houses in Edinburgh and in a fantastic location between the Royal mile and Grassmarket.
PLACES YOU ‘NEED TO GO’
WHERE’S GOOD… FOR HISTORY:
Edinburgh Castle. Do I need to explain why? Well ok, not only is it the only castle to never have been successfully penetrated by invasion due to it sitting on a hill but it also is home to the Crown Jewels. More than anything else, it is stunning!
The Palace of Holyrood. For those who love the Royal family, you can do a tour of the palace. I did it and it was interesting to understand more on Mary Queen of Scots.
Walk the Royal mile from the Castle to The Palace full of shops to browse but I recommend getting a bit lost by wandering the narrow cobble streets, they are fascinating and full of charm. See our Edinburgh holiday apartments for somewhere to stay.
The Museums. Check out the National Portrait Gallery, Natural History museum, National Museum of Scotland and Scottish National Gallery. The museums are free but if you want to enjoy feeling like a child again then the science museum is for you. I loved it but there is a fee. Also the Surgeons Hall is fantastic for those who are interested in medicine, bits of bodies in jars and how Edinburgh was and still is super important for the medical field. A personal favourite but there is a small charge.
WHERE’S GOOD FOR… A VIEW:
If you can, climb Arthurs Seat. It looks difficult but it’s not and when you’re at the top, there is no better view of Edinburgh! I have spent many days up there taking in the sights along with glorious fresh air. Arthurs Seat can be seen from these holiday apartments.
Climb Scots Monument for a fantastic view. It’s cramped in there but give it a go. Then walk the sumptuous Princes Street Gardens. Relaxing in summer with people picnicking, mesmerising in winter with the Christmas Market and attractions.
WHERE’S GOOD FOR… A SCARE:
Night time tours: Edinburgh is the most haunted city in Europe apparently, so if you like being spooked do a night-time walking ghost tour, not actually the scariest of things but finding out about Edinburgh’s dark past is both inviting and chilling.
Also The Real Mary Kings Close Tour shows you the remainder of the streets that lie below Edinburgh. Yes, very intriguing!
WHERE’S GOOD FOR… A DRINK:
Grassmarket area. Now if you like a pub as opposed to a swish bar, this is the area for you. With Scottish pubs like Greyfriars Bobby (again with its own story) and the last drop, you can enjoy a quieter drink or you can choose to go to one of the many noisy Irish pubs, its true they are everywhere and not for everyone but usually have lots of music, fun and show sports especially if you are partial to a game of rugby. This area leads onto Cowgate area with more pubs and clubs.
George Street. If you prefer something a bit more stylish then George Street is the place for you. Tiger Lilly’s have the best cocktails but can be a bit pricy. Many people visiting are surprised that this street lined with designer stores in traditional buildings is home to Edinburgh’s most popular trendy nightclub scene.
Rose Street: A favourite with locals and full of pubs. Bets recommendation is to start at the top and make your way down.
WHERE’S GOOD FOR… A LAUGH:
Go to the Stand Comedy Club. Famed for giving big names a start and if you go at lunch time you get lunch and free comedy. Who can be bad to that!
WHERE’S GOOD FOR… SHOPPING:
Not the UK’s No.1 shopping destination but there are more than enough. Princes Street spans a mile of high street stores. If you have got a few quid, Multree’s Walk with Harvey Nichols is a good choice and George Street is good for designer brands.
Ah and for vintage clothing lovers, Armstrong’s is a must! There are two stores, one in the Newington area and one in the Grass market area.
WHERE’S GOOD TO… STAY:
Well of course I am biased but since I have worked in serviced apartments I have never stayed in a hotel again. Nevertheless for those seeking a hotel, that’s great but for those clever cloggs of you who know what’s so much better about serviced apartments, you will be more than happy staying in any of our Edinburgh holiday apartments.
All fantastic quality and we offer from economy budget to top notch luxury with spa to rival the best hotels.
See our Edinburgh holiday apartments for somewhere to stay. Enquire with us for best available rates. We are always happy to help and make sure you have an amazing time!