Whether it’s payday, you’re cheering up a friend, or simply just because, Edinburgh is bursting with places offering small delights that won’t break the bank.
From aged drams and soulful music to green delights and tasty bites, sometimes all it takes is a small indulgence to brighten your day. And in Edinburgh, happiness is never far away.
Here’s our 10 suggestions on places across the city that deliver big on delight.
Cupcake bliss at Mimi’s Bakehouse Lauriston Castle
for pure creamy indulgence, pair your cupcake with a hot chocolate.



Tucked away in the grounds of Lauriston Castle, Mimi’s Bakehouse is the perfect place to stop by for a recharge after a walk around the extensive grounds.
The cupcakes here are legendary. Think pillowy soft sponge, topped with generous swirls of icing. And they change with the seasons too, come in October and they’ll be Halloween-inspired goodies, or pop along in February and you can pick up a heartfelt treat for your loved one. Ensuring none of the family miss out, they’re also dog-friendly, so get tails wagging with one of their special pupcakes.
Bubbles with a view at Nor’ Loft
go just before sunset for a magical golden glow across the skyline.


Located on the 7th floor of Market Street Hotel, Nor’ Loft is a sparkling secret in the sky.
This stylish rooftop champagne bar boasts floor-to-ceiling windows with panoramic views over Edinburgh. It’s the kind of place where the bustle of the city fades away after one sip of something sparkling.
Quiet moments at Books n’ Cup
perfect for night owls, this coffee shop is open until 10pm.
Books n’ Cup is more than a coffee shop, it’s a place to slow down.
You can easily lose an hour (or two) here sipping on a chai latte, accompanied by a cheese and veggie croissant toastie, all while getting lost in a good book. The rustic décor of leather-bound books, comfy seats and rope chandeliers create the perfect backdrop for reading, studying, or simply enjoying a brew with friends.
Music and a dram at Sandy Bell’s
ask the staff to recommend a local whisky you’ve never tried.

For a slice of true Edinburgh, don’t miss a visit to Sandy Bell’s.
This traditional bar is a living love letter to Scottish folk music. Every evening, it is filled with the stirring sounds of fiddles, guitars and harmonies. Add to that a solid selection of malt whiskies, and you’ve got yourself an evening to remember. It’s warm, welcoming and entirely authentic.
Colourful scoops at The Little Parlour
combine your visit with a walk along the coastal path for an extra feel-good boost.


Travel the short distance from the city centre to South Queensferry, and you’ll find The Little Parlour, a small ice cream shop that is big on flavour.
It sits close to the water, making it perfect for grabbing a cone and admiring the majestic Forth Bridges. Their rotating menu features everything from salted caramel to Scottish tablet. Quite simply, it’s joy in a cone (or a tub).
Coffee and greenery at Seb’s Urban Jungle
not green-fingered? Ask the team for their advice on a beginner-friendly houseplant – they’re super helpful.

They say, plants make a home and a visit to Seb’s Urban Jungle is an ideal spot for finding a new plant and bringing the outdoors indoors.
This café-come-plant-shop in Leith is a lush oasis, filled with leafy companions, from tiny succulents to towering ferns. Afterwards, pay a visit to the café, and toast your new purchase with an artisan coffee.
Big flavours at Alby’s
come hungry. The portions are generous, and the sides are worth adding on.
Alby’s advertise “big hot sandwiches” and they certainly delivery just that.
With two locations in the city (Leith and Southside), this is where comfort food meets culinary genius. Their hefty sandwiched are stacked with slow-cooked meats, house pickles and zingy sauces, all perfectly packaged between two slices of salt-sprinkled focaccia. The flavours here come with a capital F. Think coronation chicken, courgette and whipped feta, and sardine melt.
Spin something new at Umbrella Vinyl
ask what just came in that week as, they often get rare and interesting stock.


For music and vinyl lovers, Umbrella Vinyl is a haven.
It’s one of those shops where you want to stay a while, flicking through a thoughtfully curated selection of everything from obscure jazz to local indie bands.
One-of-a-kind finds at Yellow Souls Studio
treat yourself to a colour analysis. It’ll offer hidden insights in how to look and feel your best.


Looking for something uniquely you for your wardrobe? Yellow Souls Studio in Leith offers custom dressmaking, personalised colour analysis, styling sessions and more.
They champion sustainable fashion and individuality, making it a standout spot for a thoughtful, feel-good treat. Whether you’re after a new look, or browsing for something special, a visit here is a confidence-boosting experience.
The scents of Edinburgh candle from Paper Tiger
can’t decide which scent to opt for? Why not get a selection of the small travel tins.
You’ve climbed Arthur’s Seat, seen Edinburgh Castle and wandered along the Royal Mile, how about taking home an aromatic reminder of your time in the city? Paper’s Tiger’s Scents Of Edinburgh Candles offer just that. From Dean Village with scents of geranium, bergamot and lavender, to Firth of Forth with echoes of lavender eucalyptus and bergamot, each is designed to not only smell lovely, but to enhance wellbeing. They’re the perfect gift for someone who needs a little bit of Edinburgh.
So whether you’re celebrating a small win, catching up with a friend, or just indulging in some “me time”, Edinburgh knows how to put a smile on your face. Go on treat yourself, you’re in the right city for it!
This project is funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund
