Edinburgh is a city for thrill seekers, where adrenaline rushes await in the city’s dramatic landscapes and world-class outdoor activity centres. But it’s all about the balance, and there’s no need to book a separate holiday to unwind and reset. Edinburgh has a soothing, rejuvenating side in its wellness experiences, from seaside saunas to mindful nourishment on a plate.
Our 4-day itinerary has suggestions for satisfying the adventurer in you, before slowing things down so that your trip leaves you feeling truly refreshed and rebalanced. Please note that some of the suggestions here may require a little pre-planning (such as buying tickets for a show or booking a table for food).
Day 1: Wheels, waves and welcome pints
Think the only way to see the city is to take a bus tour or on foot? Think again! Today, you’ll uniquely see the sights: on two wheels and then by boat.
Get your bearings with a scenic ride led by Ricky’s Bicycle Tours. This friendly, local-led experience offers scenic routes along the Union Canal and railway paths, taking you around Arthur’s Seat and a secret garden, or city-to-shore with a coffee stop and seaside views. Or you can even design a custom route. It’s a perfect way to see the city from a fresh perspective.
Lunch beckons, so it’s then either a 20 minute walk or journey with Lothian Buses 1, 15, 19 or 44 service for a wonderful lunch at Bonnie & Wild’s Scottish Marketplace at St James Quarter, where you can graze your way through Scotland’s best flavours. This beautifully designed space brings together a handpicked collection of independent chefs, kitchens and producers, offering everything from hand-dived scallops and wild game to artisan pizzas, fresh pasta and plant-based dishes.
After refuelling, it’s time to trade cityscape for seascape with Edinburgh Marine Academy’s Three Bridge Blast. Take the 45 minute bus journey from the centre to the historic port of South Queensferry and get ready to be whisked away on an unforgettable and exhilarating RIB boat trip. Immerse yourself in spectacular views of the three Firth of Forth Bridges, including the UNESCO world heritage listed Forth Railway Bridge, South Queensferry and Edinburgh. You’ll also have the chance to view and photograph some of the diverse wildlife that makes its home in the Firth of Forth, including seals, puffins, fulmars, gannets, and occasionally dolphins and whales.
Please note that the minimum age for boat trips is 6, and all children under 12 years old must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
Shake off your waterproofs on the 10 minute walk to The Ferry Tap, a cosy traditional pub near the harbour. You can’t miss its striking red exterior. Expect good craft beer and carefully curated cask ales, 50+ single malt whiskies, hearty food and a warm welcome to round-off the day.
Day 2: Clip in or wetsuit up
Time to move things up a gear. Choose your adventure: climb or surf at these world-class centres, each just outside the city.
Edinburgh International Climbing Arena (EICA) is the largest indoor climbing arena in Europe and is home to 300+ routes, a soft play, gym, and as of 2025, a brand new Olympic-standard bouldering zone. It’s a playground for climbers of all levels. You can also grab a bite to eat at the on-site cafe.
Or, if you prefer something that offers a truly unique rush, located beside EICA is the world’s first inland surf destination – Lost Shore Surf Resort. Founded by Scottish surf enthusiast Andy Hadden, who brought revolutionary Wavegarden technology home after seeing its potential abroad, the resort caters to all abilities and the whole family. Alongside perfectly timed artificial waves, you’ll find spa and wellness facilities, a waterfront bar, café and restaurant serving delicious local produce, and waterfront pods and lodges if you want to settle in for a full-on retreat.
Both centres are accessible by number 70 bus, which departs from Hermiston Park or the Gyle Centre (30 minutes’ bus/tram from the centre). Alternatively, keep up the momentum with an hour’s bike ride. Bikes can be hired from Baja Bikes in the city centre.
If you’re still raring to go, in the evening, why not hike to a spectacular sunset from one of Edinburgh’s seven hills.
There’s Arthur’s Seat, the city’s most iconic peak and dormant volcano; Calton Hill, a relatively easy quick climb rewarded with gorgeous views and majestic monuments; Castle Rock, another central volcanic crag housing Edinburgh Castle; Blackford Hill, a quieter alternative with plenty of route options within a sprawling nature reserve; Craiglockhart Hill, another escape from the centre with views of the Pentland Hills; Braid Hills, rugged and open landscape. And finally, Corstorphine Hill, known for wooded paths, the tower dedicated to Walter Scott, and being neighbours with Edinburgh Zoo.
For keen hikers craving a real challenge, take an extra full day to climb them all and feel like you’ve conquered Edinburgh.
Day 3: Stretch, sketch and savour
Now we’re winding down, but that doesn’t mean slowing your sense of discovery. Today blends gentle movement, mindful creativity and nourishing food to ease you into Edinburgh’s restorative rhythm.
Start your day right with some grounding stretches with Adventure Yoga. Sessions are held in scenic woodland, hills and beaches in Edinburgh, like Holyrood Park and Portobello Beach. No mats or equipment needed, just you and the elements.
Next up, for some competitive fun, head to Prestonfield Golf Club, proudly named Scottish Golf’s Club of the Year 2025. Celebrated as a “progressive, ambitious and welcoming” club, Prestonfield stands out for its friendly, inclusive atmosphere and its commitment to sustainability and the natural environment. The picturesque 18-hole parkland course winds through native wildlife habitats, offering rewarding challenges and uninterrupted views of Arthur’s Seat. If you’re looking for a unique hotel stay or decadent afternoon tea to match, the nearby Prestonfield House delivers theatrical luxury and the feel of a country estate with the convenience of a city address.
For the afternoon’s activities, it’s time to stretch those artistic talents, with a visit to Doodles – which is a 30 minute walk away, or a short bus journey on routes 3, 8, 37, 47 or 49. Channel your inner artist with a calming session at this relaxed pottery studio where you can BYOB and choose from a huge selection of ceramics to make your own or join a clay class. Please note there is typically a 7-day turnaround for picking up your pottery. However, certain items can be rushed at an additional cost and the turnaround time for this is 48 hours at the earliest.
Food also plays its part in feeling good, so for tonight’s evening meal, why not take the 20 minute walk (or 24 bus) to Hendersons, an award-winning vegetarian and vegan restaurant serving stylish Scottish food and cocktails using natural ingredients. Founded by Barrie Henderson, grandson of the founder of the original and iconic Henderson’s (which was the UK’s longest running vegetarian restaurant) the new Henderson’s stands by the values that the original Henderson’s also stood for, such as using locally sourced whole food and organic ingredients as much as possible.
Day 4:Total body calm
This last day is all about sinking deeper into the calm, melting away any lingering tension with soothing water and restorative rest.
Step into serenity where the benefits of sauna meet Scotland’s east coast’s rugged coastlines. At Granton, Soul Water Sauna offers two beautiful Siberian Cedar saunas overlooking the Firth of Forth estuary, with open-air showers and a cold plunge. Unwind, connect, and experience a timeless ritual by the water.
Once rejuvenated, hop on a bus and find tranquillity again in the city centre’s holistic Castle Thai Spa, where you can choose from a menu of authentic and personalised treatments that promote wellbeing for body and mind. Take bus 9, 16, 22 or 24 here from Granton.
This evening, how about some good food and flavour served in a cosy environment? La Casa in Leith is a fun and vibrant tapas and mezze restaurant in bright and airy surroundings. Bringing Mediterranean flavours to the streets of Edinburgh, only the best ingredients are used to make sure that every dish is as authentic to its origin as possible. Share food and try as many different dishes as you can!
So, whether you want to feed your adrenaline side or totally switch-off in nature, in Edinburgh you’ll find the best of both worlds.
This project is funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund
