Explore our top suggestions which blend natural beauty with local flavour.
If you’re an early riser, in Edinburgh you’re in for a treat: the city’s sunrises are some of the most magical moments you can witness, especially when paired with a delicious breakfast.
Read on to discover some super sunrise spots around the city, each offering its own slice of natural beauty, plus our recommendations for a perfect breakfast spot to fuel your adventure.
Calton Hill and Cafe Calton
The sunrise spot: Calton Hill is a popular vantage point in Edinburgh, offering one of the city’s most iconic panoramas. The early morning light casts a warm glow over the city, with views of the New Town, the Palace of Holyroodhouse and Arthur’s Seat in the distance. As you climb, the hill’s neoclassical structures, such as the National Monument (which was designed as a replica of the Parthenon in Athens) add a sense of drama to the view.
The breakfast stop: Once you’ve soaked in the sunrise, head to Cafe Calton. While the location makes the most of the hill’s outlook (including an outdoor terrace for those sunny mornings), the menu focuses on locally sourced, seasonal, organic dishes. Tuck into a traditional cooked breakfast, or fuel up with raspberry and matcha chia pudding, porridge served with Scottish heather honey and seasonal berries, or homemade hazelnut granola.
More of a night owl? They’re open into the evening, so you can swap sunrises for sunsets, while still enjoying something tasty.
Cramond prom and The Harbour
The sunrise spot: Hop on one of Lothian Buses regular buses to Cramond and prepare for one of the best coastal sunrise experiences in Edinburgh. Strolling along the wide Cramond prom, you can watch the first rays of light shimmer across the Firth of Forth, with views of Cramond Island, which is accessible via a causeway at low tide.
The breakfast stop: On the foreshore of Cramond harbour, The Harbour serves artisan coffee and a variety of satisfying breakfast options. If you want to make the most of the coastal views, you can also get your order as a take-away.
Portobello beach and The Beach House Café
The sunrise spot: Also accessible by bus from the city centre, an early morning visit to Portobello beach combines the beauty of both land and sea. As the sun rises over the water, the beach comes alive with the sound of waves gently lapping at the shore. The breakfast stop: After taking in the salty breeze, wander over to The Beach House Café on the prom. Open early for breakfast and all day for brunch, this charming café offers a selection of morning dishes, from creamy porridge to classic eggs benedict.
Inverleith Park and Sip & Bark
The sunrise spot: Located in the popular neighbourhood of Stockbridge, Inverleith Park is an oasis in the city. With spacious greens, wide paths, a serene pond, and views of Edinburgh’s skyline, it’s a great place for a morning dog walk. From the park you can see the famous outline of Edinburgh Castle, as well as the hills of the city framing the horizon.
The breakfast stop: Once you and your furry friend have worked up a hunger, head to the nearby Sip & Bark. Perfect for foodies and dog lovers alike, the all-day brunch menu features pastries, pancakes and croffles, while the special dog menu has pup-friendly treats and tipples.
The Meadows and Söderberg
The sunrise spot: Just a short walk from the city centre, The Meadows is a popular spot with both locals and visitors, and for good reason. In the early hours, the park feels calm and peaceful, with the first light of day bathing the open green space. You can spot the towering Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano, in the distance, and the light changes as the day begins. Come in the spring months and be rewarded with avenues of colourful cherry blossom.
The breakfast stop: Overlooking the park, Söderberg The Meadows offers a host of Scandinavian bakery treats that are perfect for a morning pick-me-up. Will it be their signature cinnamon or cardamom buns that tempt your tastebuds, or maybe one of their special edition seasonal buns?
It’s time to set your alarm a little earlier and discover the magic of Edinburgh’s sunrises – they’re sure not to disappoint.
This project is funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund
