Edinburgh is the perfect city for a romantic short break. From fine dining and tranquil walks, it offers something to melt everybody’s heart! Take a look at our romantic highlights to make your stay in Scotland’s capital extra special.
Romantic favourites
1.
The Balmoral
1 Princes Street, Edinburgh EH2 2EQ
What better place to base your city break than at one of Edinburgh’s most prestigious hotels.
The Balmoral Hotel’s five-star facilities and unrivalled hospitality offer the perfect romantic escape. Relax and unwind in the exclusive spa, enjoy classic French cuisine made with the best of Scottish produce in Brasserie Prince, or treat yourself to a traditional afternoon tea in the beautiful Palm Court – however you choose to spend your time here, you’ll feel very special.
From rooftop penthouses to floating ships, find your next retreat in our Guide to luxury hotels in Edinburgh
2.
The Witchery by the Castle
Castle Hill, The Royal Mile, Edinburgh EH1 2NF
For that special meal, enjoy Scottish fine dining at one of Edinburgh’s exceptional dining experiences.
Secluded away in the shadows of Edinburgh Castle, the atmosphere of the ancient dining room and the candle-lit secret garden of The Witchery by the Castle is hard to beat. Add an extra touch of luxury to your city break and stay in one of their magical suites, complete with breakfast hamper.
Edinburgh is blessed with a variety of outstanding eateries. Explore more in our Guide to fine dining in Edinburgh
3.
Copper Blossom
107 George Street, Edinburgh EH2 3ES
Bedecked with colourful flowers and ambient lighting, Copper Blossom is a beautiful space to relax in the company of your loved one.
Whether its weekend brunch, midweek lunch or evening cocktails, this floral oasis is a perfect romantic hang-out.
Classic or contemporary – however you like your cocktails, there’s a bar in Edinburgh for you. Find yours in our Guide to Edinburgh’s top cocktail bars
© Jeremy Rata
4.
Fingal Hotel
Alexandra Dock, Edinburgh EH6 7DX
For a luxury dining and hotel experience, look no further than Fingal.
Berthed in the cosmopolitan neighbourhood of Leith and sister ship to The Royal Yacht Britannia, this 5-star floating hotel is a world-class destination with unique luxury cabins, decks for stargazing and the luxurious Lighthouse Bar making it the ideal romantic stay.
5.
The Scotsman Picturehouse
20 North Bridge, Edinburgh EH1 1TR
Enjoy the ultimate date night at the luxurious Scotsman Picturehouse.
Tucked away down a narrow close, inside, this 48-seater cinema evokes the golden age of Hollywood, with plush seating and individual tables and lamps.
Films include both cinematic classics and modern favourites, so you can be sure there’s something for everyone. And with a carefully created range of food and drinks that be enjoyed from the comfort of your seat, a night at the flicks has never been so good!
6.
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
Inverleith Row, Edinburgh, EH3 5LR
Set in over 70 acres of beautiful landscape, and with a history dating back 350 years, the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is one of the world’s leading botanic gardens.
Known locally as The Botanics, a visit here is a pleasure all year-round, and a great place to switch off and relax in nature’s beauty. Come in December and you and your loved one can cosy up on a walk round their magical night-time illuminated trail.
7.
Dean Village
Just a short walk from bustling Princes Street you’ll find the unspoilt beauty spot that is Dean Village.
A former milling community, the village’s past can still be seen in the surrounding architecture. Take a walk round and you’ll find mill stones and stone plaques decorated with baked bread and pies. The most iconic building is Well Court, which dates from the 1880s and housed workers from the water mills. Cameras ready for that picture-perfect shot.
8.
The Water of Leith Walkway
Find some tranquillity in the heart of Scotland’s capital. Take a slow, romantic stroll along The Water of Leith Walkway as it meanders its way through the city. Keep an eye open for kingfishers, otters and badgers, marvel at ancient woodland and admire nature at its best, whatever the season.
From this hidden haven, why not stop off at the National Galleries Scotland: Modern and admire the stunning collection of 20th century art, or relax and replenish in one of the many lovely cafés in the pretty district of nearby Stockbridge.
9.
Edinburgh’s seaside
A city break with the option for a romantic walk along the beach really adds to the charm of Edinburgh.
Portobello Beach provides 2 miles of award-winning golden sand and beach side restaurants, while Cramond has picture-perfect views across to the UNESCO Forth Bridge.
Royal Observatory Edinburgh ©Visitscotland, Kenny Lam
10.
The Royal Observatory Edinburgh
Blackford Hill, Edinburgh, EH9 3HJ
What could be more romantic than watching the stars glisten in the night sky?
While the Royal Observatory Edinburgh on Blackford Hill is a working observatory, it also runs regular events where you can take part in some stargazing (weather dependent) and learn about the astonishing scientific studies that take part here.
Events guide
Whether you’re coming to Edinburgh for two days or two weeks, find out about the top festivals, events and festivities coming to the city each month.
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