Your guide to Edinburgh: Where to eat, what to see, and all the exciting stuff!

Let’s start with a local favourite. Arthur’s Seat is an ancient volcano just a short stroll from the city centre, and climbing it is a rite of passage. It’s not too tough a hike, and the view from the top is unbelievable. 

This stretch between Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace is packed with street performers, tartan shops, and historic buildings. Take your time — this is the city’s spine, and every nook has something to offer.

It sits right at the top of the city, watching over everything like a moody but regal relative. From the crown jewels to the one o’clock gun, the castle is a must-see. 

Quick tip: Book ahead if you don’t want to queue.

Beneath the city, a network of old streets and rooms are frozen in time. This guided underground tour gives you a feel for what life was like in 17th-century Edinburgh — plagues, ghosts, and all. It’s weirdly fascinating.

It’s free, it’s fun, and it has everything from ancient Egyptian coffins to Dolly the sheep. Plus, the rooftop terrace has one of the best views of the city (and hardly anyone knows about it).

And the best part? The entry is free!

Just down from the castle, this place is whisky heaven. You’ll learn how it’s made, sample a few drams, and maybe even discover your go-to Scottish single malt.

You can book your tickets to plan your tour.

If you want a quiet break from the buzz, wander down to Dean Village. It’s a peaceful, picturesque part of the city with riverside paths, ivy-covered stone buildings, and a serious fairy-tale vibe.

Scotland and live folk music go hand in hand. Many local pubs have nightly performances — no ticket needed, just walk in, grab a pint, and enjoy. Sandy Bell’s and The Royal Oak are good bets.

Oink

Yes, it’s called Oink. Yes, it serves roast pork rolls. And yes, they are glorious. Choose your size, your sauce (apple or haggis, why not), and enjoy on the go.

Origano

A laid-back pizzeria in Leith serving handmade, thin-crust beauties with big flavour and even bigger portions. Great for a casual dinner with fellow Moodlers.

Nile Valley Café

Tucked near the university, this tiny Sudanese café is a real hidden treasure. Falafel wraps, lamb tagines, and lentil soups — all delicious, all reasonably priced.

The Pakora Bar

Indian street food meets Scottish ingredients. Think haggis pakoras, chicken curry with chips, and cold pints to wash it all down.

“Many, many years ago, after completing my bachelor’s degree in England, I moved to Edinburgh for a few months to live with some old friends and enjoy the famous Fringe Festival.  I found a job working as a barman in the Balmoral Hotel, one of Edinburgh’s grandest venues, just at the end of Princes Street, above Waverley train station.  

After their festival shows, minor celebrities who were staying at the hotel would often come to the bar for last orders.  I served such legends as Paul Daniels and Debbie McGee, Paul O’Grady and The Proclaimers!  Paul Daniels was a famous magician in the UK and I remember he insisted on performing a magic trick for me whilst I made him his Irish Coffee.  Disappointingly, the weekend before I started, the Rolling Stones and REM were in the bar…which I think would have been a lot more fun… 

I loved my time in Edinburgh: I learnt a lot about Scotch whisky and once upon a time I knew how to make pretty much every cocktail. My favourite memory overall of Edinburgh was climbing to the top of Arthur’s Seat: the views are incredible and it’s so close to the city yet feels like another world.  I will definitely be popping back to the Balmoral for a quick glass of Laphroaig.”

Dan Lehner, Chief Commercial Officer at Moodle.