Edinburgh, ScotlandDiscovering the Best of Edinburgh
Summary: Our Guide to Edinburgh: Top Attractions, Culinary Hotspots, Nightlife, and More. Plus, Tips on Making Connections with the Locals and Finding Fun Recreational Activities
Welcome to Edinburgh! If you're planning to move to Edinburgh, congratulations on taking the first step towards a new adventure. While there are many things to think about before you leave, such as visas, housing, and transportation, it's important to remember that once you arrive, the fun really begins. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the best sites, restaurants, and nightlife that Edinburgh has to offer, as well as provide tips on recreational activities and making friends in Edinburgh.
Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland, is a treasure trove of historical sites, cultural landmarks, and natural beauty. The city's most iconic site is the Edinburgh Castle, a historic fortress perched on Castle Rock that offers panoramic views of the city. The castle houses the Honours of Scotland, the country's Crown Jewels, and the Stone of Destiny, a symbol of Scottish monarchy. Another must-visit is the Royal Mile, a historic street that stretches from the castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Queen's official residence in Scotland. The street is lined with shops, restaurants, and historic sites, including St. Giles' Cathedral and the Museum of Edinburgh.
The city's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a labyrinth of cobbled streets, narrow alleyways, and hidden courtyards, all brimming with history. The New Town, also a UNESCO site, is a masterpiece of city planning, known for its neoclassical architecture and beautiful gardens. The Scottish Parliament, the seat of Scotland's government, is another important site, offering free guided tours. For nature lovers, Arthur's Seat, an ancient volcano and hill located in Holyrood Park, provides a great hiking experience and stunning views of the city. The Royal Botanic Garden, one of the world's leading botanic gardens, is a haven of tranquility and beauty, featuring a vast collection of plants from around the world.
Edinburgh's restaurant and nightlife scene is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself. From Michelin-starred restaurants to traditional Scottish pubs, the city offers a wide range of dining and drinking options. The Witchery by the Castle is one of the city's most famous restaurants, known for its opulent Gothic decor, exceptional Scottish cuisine, and extensive wine list. For seafood lovers, Ondine is a must-visit, offering fresh, sustainably sourced seafood in a stylish setting. The Dome, housed in a grand neoclassical building, is renowned for its stunning interior, afternoon tea, and cocktails.
The city's nightlife is equally exciting, with a plethora of bars, clubs, and live music venues. The Jazz Bar, winner of multiple awards, offers live music seven nights a week, ranging from jazz and blues to funk and soul. Bramble Bar, one of the world's best cocktail bars, is known for its innovative drinks and cozy atmosphere. The Stand Comedy Club is a popular spot for stand-up comedy, featuring local and international comedians. For whisky enthusiasts, The Scotch Whisky Experience offers guided tours and tastings.
Recreational activities in Edinburgh are varied and plentiful. The city's rich history and culture can be explored through its numerous museums and galleries, such as the National Museum of Scotland, the Museum of Edinburgh, and the Scottish National Gallery. For outdoor enthusiasts, hiking Arthur's Seat or exploring the Water of Leith Walkway, a beautiful riverside trail, are popular activities. The city's parks, including the Royal Botanic Garden and Princes Street Gardens, offer opportunities for picnicking, walking, and relaxing. Golfing is another popular pastime, with several courses in and around the city, including the historic Bruntsfield Links. For those interested in theatre and performing arts, catching a show at the Edinburgh Festival Theatre or the King's Theatre is a must. The city is also home to the world's largest arts festival, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, which takes place every August and features thousands of performances in hundreds of venues across the city.
AGS Worldwide MoversGet Quote
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
AGS Worldwide MoversRelocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Get Quote
Insider Tips from Expats in Edinburgh: Making the Most of Life and Connections
"There's the American Women's Club, but generally you meet people through work/volunteering or if you're a mom, at the gym or creche (day care)," said one expat living in Edinburgh.
AGS Worldwide MoversGet Quote
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
AGS Worldwide MoversRelocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Get Quote
"People seem to have a good work/life balance. Generally working hours are 35 - 40 per week; and people will go out during the week if they don't have kids. Sport is pretty big in Scotland. There are 2 football (soccer) teams in Edinburgh plus two 'major league' teams in Glasgow to follow. The scotland rugby team plays at Murrayfield in Edinburgh. Church and religion are less popular than in the US. But the Scots are so polite, no one would ever ask you your religion anyway," commented an expat living in Edinburgh.
AGS Worldwide MoversGet Quote
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
AGS Worldwide MoversRelocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Get Quote
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
