Romantic Things to Do in Edinburgh • 24 alternative spots!
Get the real romantic lowdown for the best things to do in Edinburgh for couples from our bonafide travel expert. Choose from hidden gem date nights, intimate tours, and cozy daytime activities for your next romantic vacation in Auld Reekie.
I recently came back from a trip to Edinburgh with my husband, so if you’re looking for some INCREDIBLE romantic things to do in Edinburgh, I’ve got you covered!
Saleh (my husband) and I did so many of these activities while we were there, so all these recommendations come from personal experience.
When we travel, we always travel like locals, so I’ve got all the hidden gems for you in this article.
Edinburgh is SUCH a romantic city, and although the weather isn’t always perfect, that just makes it even better for cozying up together.
Don’t want to scroll? No problem, just choose your favorite type of activity below to take you straight there!
1. Romantic dining & drinks in Edinburgh
1.1 Go for a private dinner at Angels with Bagpipes
Don’t let the casual exterior fool you – Angels with Bagpipes (map) has a little secret!
There’s a little room next to the bar called The Halo, perfect for a romantic evening just the 2 of you. And what better way to escape the blustery Scottish weather than a private dinner?
Expect delicious small plates, traditional haggis, fresh fish, and an extensive wine list.
1.2 Have a traditional lunch at the Edinburgh Larder
Saleh and I went to The Edinburgh Larder for a cozy lunch in November. It was freezing outside, so sitting down and seeing all the incredible food around us was the best feeling!
We had the traditional Scottish platter (pictured above) – when in Scotland, right? It was AMAZING, super fresh, and the cheese was my favorite part. Plus, homemade chutney! Yum!!
1.3 Head to Fava Restaurant for upscale Greek food
If you’re craving fast food in a fancy place, Fava Restaurant is a great option. My husband and I loved it so much – the food is amazing, and the service is even better!
This is an amazing option if you’re short on time, since the service is really fast. You can be in and out within an hour, leaving time to do other romantic activities in Edinburgh!
1.4 Eat fancy pub food and do a quiz at Indigo Yard
One of my favorite local haunts in Edinburgh, Indigo Yard off Queen Street was all decked out in Christmas lights when I went, which made the whole experience absolutely incredible.
Even if it’s cold outside, I highly recommend sitting out on the terrace! It’s all completely covered from the elements and there are heaters and blankets on every table.
Don’t miss their pub quiz, which takes place on a Wednesday night. Get ready to get cozy!
1.5 Get tipsy on a romantic whisky tasting tour
Even if you live in Edinburgh, a whisky tour is an absolute must.
On this tour, you’ll taste all the most incredible single malt whisky from one of the largest collections of whisky in the world – plus, you’ll hear all about the history of the drink and how they produce it!
This experience is totally immersive. Plus, you’ll be given a crystal tasting glass to take home with you!
The tour guides are so engaging as well. It makes for an incredible, alternative date night that goes beyond the traditional dinner and a movie!
NOTE: Bring ID with you!
1.6 Get your vegetarian on at David Bann
Are you both avid veggies? I’ve got you!
David Bann is proof that there’s more to eat in Edinburgh than Haggis. The menu is so creative (and delicious), and the atmosphere is so cozy and quiet. It makes for an incredible first date!
This is one of the most romantic restaurants in Edinburgh. And it’s not just for vegetarians!
PRO TIP: I highly recommend the homemade smoked tofu. I usually hate tofu, but I adored this!!
2. Scenic walks & outdoor adventures
2.1 Hike to Arthur’s Seat in Holyrood Park
This might seem like a cliché, but if you and your loved one are into hiking, this is a MUST in Edinburgh at least once!
I’m not much of a hiker myself, but the views make up for the hard slog – the easiest routes start from Commonwealth Pool (map). Just head up the road towards the low point between Arthur’s Seat and Salisbury Crags.
Located above Edinburgh Castle, this super romantic activity beats a boring dinner! While you’re at it, hit up Edinburgh Castle as well, it’s stunning! For stunning views, you sure can’t beat it.
If you’re new to hiking, no problem! Go with this small hiking group, where everything is organized for you. It’ll take about 2 hours through Holyrood Park – just check out their route first, as it’s a slightly more difficult one, but it’s well worth the incredible view!
2.2 Walk from Union Canal to Calton Hill
A less steep walk for you in Edinburgh! If the idea of a proper hike with your date fills you with dread, just walk from Harrison Park West to Calton Hill along the scenic canalway.
Many parts of this walk are lovely and quiet – you might not even realize you’re in a city!
Check out the route here.
Alternatively, if you want a boating activity why not support Re-Union Boats? They are a social enterprise focused on community projects and volunteering, environmental improvement, and the canalside communities in Edinburgh.
2.3 Hang out in Dean Village along the Water of Leith Walkway
Dean Village is such a gorgeous little neighborhood. It’s the perfect place to get lost in with your loved one!
The best way to really make the most out of Dean Village is to take a little tour to get the lay of the land (and learn about the secrets of the area) and then venture off after the tour to get afternoon tea or sit by the Leith Waterway and whisper sweet nothings in each other’s ears. *sigh*
Best way to go after the tour? Walk from Dean Village to Stockbridge. It’s such a beautiful walk and Stockbridge has the most adorable tea rooms!
You may think you know Edinburgh, but do you really?
Getting to grips with some of the most incredible hidden locations throughout this gorgeous city is the main point of this cycle tour – get ready to see a secret garden at Duddington Manse and Edinburgh’s oldest pub!
I love this tour so much, it helped me get to grips with the city so much quicker.
They do cycle up to Arthur’s Seat, so I highly recommend paying an extra £15 for an electric bike to save your legs!
2.5 Go for a nature walk at Hermitage of Braid
Located on the outskirts of Edinburgh (~1 hr drive), Hermitage of Braid and Blackford Nature Reserve is the perfect escape with your loved one if you’re looking for romantic spots.
Since it’s a good slog from Edinburgh city centre, I highly recommend hiring a car for the trip if you don’t have one. Rental Cars have the best prices, trust me!
The great thing about driving is that you can put on some soft music in the car and not worry about hiking up hills – you can just drive pretty much all the way to the top! Don’t forget to look out for buzzards!
PRO TIP: The best entrance is next to The Lodge Coffee House (map).
2.6 Hold hands along Portobello Beach
The weather in Edinburgh might be unpredictable at times, but those blustery winds can be super romantic – think Wuthering Heights vibes!
Portobello Beach is just a few miles away from the center of Edinburgh, and there’s so much to do there. You can go for a romantic stroll along the seaside, go for ice cream, or have a dip in the water if you’re feeling extra brave.
My husband and I found this amazing mindfulness activity along Portobello Beach! It calms your mind and takes you back to nature, and it’s something you can do year-round. You’ll practice breathwork, meditation, and have an emotional journey in the water with your loved one.
Trust me, it’s so invigorating!
2.7 Forage for wild garlic at Colinton Dell
This is one of my favorite things to do in Edinburgh – what better way to start off your romantic getaway?
The best time of year for this awesome alternative, romantic activity is around March-April. If you’re lucky, you’ll also find some wild leeks!
This is such an amazing thing to do with your partner on a date. It’s intimate, fun, and you can sit in the long grass after and talk for hours. Colinton Dell (map) is so pretty, and it’s off the beaten path so it won’t be filled with people.
3. Arts, culture, & unique experiences
3.1 Visit the Botanic Garden for afternoon tea
If you’re on a budget but still want to plan the date of your dreams, the Royal Botanic Garden in Edinburgh is an excellent choice.
Totally free to visit, you can wander around with your date and look at the pretty flowers and plants. And their afternoon tea is so cute!
It’s one of the most romantic places in the city – and you can walk from there to the cobbled streets of Dean Village!
PRO TIP: Visit around Christmas time! They have a little food market on the weekends and the lights are so beautiful, it’ll be so romantic!
3.2 Go on an intimate tour of Edinburgh Vaults
Saleh and I went on this INCREDIBLE tour of the Edinburgh vaults. How was it romantic, you might ask? Well, I was terrified, so holding onto him the whole time felt pretty cozy!!
Run by Auld Reekie Tours, you’ll be able to see a world renowned torture exhibition, the supposedly haunted South Bridge vaults (which are so creepy), and hear all about the history of the vaults.
It’s a real experience, and you’ll remember it forever. I know I will!
3.3 See the grotesque at Surgeons’ Hall Museum
This was by far my favorite stop during our trip to Edinburgh! It may not seem traditionally romantic, but that makes it all the more special. It’s also better than the National Museum!
My husband is a doctor, so of course he was excited at the prospect of seeing the incredible collections available at Surgeons’ Hall!
Once a resource for teaching medical students in the city, it’s now an open museum for all those fascinated by the surgical (and occasionally grotesque!)
“The specimens in the museums are displayed acknowledging the debt to those whose suffering has advanced our knowledge of disease.” ~RCSED
From age-old skeletons and ancient surgical artifacts to bodily specimens from the 1800s to now, it’s such an interesting place to go on a date.
NOTE: No photography is allowed in the museums. Check out the admission here.
3.4 Indulge your sweet tooth on a chocolate tour
I don’t know why, but sharing a dessert together is a pretty romantic thing to do. And luckily, The Chocolatarium in Edinburgh is the best place to do it!
For only £25 p/person, you can experience making your own chocolate, eating a selection of freshly-made Scottish chocolates (like haggis chocolate), and you get to take home your creations. YUM!
You also get a free hot chocolate upon arrival to tease your taste buds. Hype!!
3.5 Stargaze at the Edinburgh Royal Observatory
There’s nothing more magical than spending a night under the stars with your loved one.
I love anything to do with space and the universe, so the Royal Observatory in Edinburgh was one of the first things I wanted to do. It’s so magical, and makes you feel so tiny!
The Winter Nights are the most special public events, happening on Tuesdays in November and February.
There are also plenty of fascinating talks and virtual tours. Check out the events for your next date night here.
3.6 Get out of your comfort zone at a Scottish Ceilidh
If you’re looking for something wild to do on a date in Edinburgh, attending a ceilidh is a great way to break the ice!
The Edinburgh Ceilidh Club is the best place to go, and it’s great for beginners as well as those who’ve been before.
Don’t miss their weekly ceilidh on Tuesdays, with live Scottish bands and an incredible atmosphere!
4. Entertainment & nightlife
4.1 Head to The Stand for a comedy night
The Stand is BY FAR the BEST comedy club I have ever been to!
My biggest piece of advice for The Stand is to arrive early!! They recommend coming as soon as the doors open, even if it’s an hour before the set starts. We arrived more than an hour early and got excellent seats – plus we had extra time to get drinks!
They also do fundraising events! When we were there they were raising money for Amnesty International. So it’s romantic for a good cause! Get your tickets here.
My husband and I made the mistake of sitting close to the front and were (of course) picked on by the host – but she was lovely, so it’s ok! 🤪 Laughter is the best medicine, and studies show that laughing helps to boost a relationship!
If you fancy a hilarious addition, do what we did and take this Comedy Walk! It’s run by a professional comedian (a kilt-wearing Scotsman) and it was SO much fun. Just turn up together and prepare to laugh!!
4.2 Listen to live music at Jazz Bar on Chambers Street
The oldest jazz venue in Scotland and popular with locals across the country, there’s a reason why The Jazz Bar has won multiple awards!
Jazz is such a classic when it comes to romance. Listen to the soft music, hold hands, sip on cocktails and stare lovingly into each other’s eyes.
The Jazz Bar is right on Southbridge in the center of town, so it’s easily accessible for after dinner drinks on a romantic weekend!
4.3 Grab a cocktail at Hoot the Redeemer
For a quirky dive bar date night, Hoot the Redeemer has good prices, great vibes, boozy ice creams and arcade machines.
You’ll never be bored here, so it’s arguably more romantic than dinner and a movie since you’ll be having so much fun!!
If you’re into the nightlife scene in Edinburgh and fancy taking your date on a pub crawl, take this one! You’ll explore some of the most incredible bars and pubs, meet new people, and take shots with your partner for a really fun and different night out!
4.4 Play darts at Flight Club
For anyone who thinks darts isn’t good for a romantic trip, it most certainly is!!
Boring dates are a thing of the past – in 2025, we’re playing darts instead of going for dinner! Flight Club near the old town is like a social club-cum-fairground right next to the Scott Monument along Princes Street (map).
Don’t miss it for your next date night!
4.5 Go axe throwing at Boom Battle Bar
Similar to Flight Club but BETTER, Boom Battle Bar (map) has shuffleboard, an escape room, axe throwing, beer pong, crazy golf, and so much more!!
Take your date to play shuffleboard and have a crazy time together!
For a super romantic experience, why not play prosecco pong instead of beer pong? You can have a laugh together and bond over some light competition!
FAQs about romantic things to do in Edinburgh
💙 Is Edinburgh a romantic city?
Yes!! When Saleh and I went to Edinburgh, we found it a super romantic city, especially in the winter. There are some incredible spots that offer panoramic views as well, which adds to the gorgeous vibe. You can go for a picnic and relax with the great view and some wine. I can’t wait to go back!!
🌃 What are some fun and romantic activities to do at night in Edinburgh?
Some fun and romantic activities to do at night include The Stand comedy club, stargazing at the Royal Observatory, going on an epic vault tour, and playing prosecco pong at Boom Battle Bar! The Whiski Rooms are also a great spot if you love the Scotch!
❤️ Where is the best place for a first date in Edinburgh?
For a first date, I highly recommend going to The Edinburgh Larder! It’s casual enough that the pressure is off and the food is excellent. It feels like sitting in your grandma’s kitchen and the service is excellent!
💸 What are the top free things to do in Edinburgh for couples?
The Botanic Gardens are open and free for anyone to visit in Edinburgh. The great thing about them is that there’s no limit on time – you can spend as much time there as you’d like!
🏴 What are some quirky & activities in Edinburgh?
Quirky and romantic are Edinburgh’s middle name! A tour of the underground vaults is pretty quirky, as well as Boom Battle Bar and Surgeons’ Hall Museums. Surgeons’ Hall in particular makes me feel inspired!
Conclusion
There you have it! All the top romantic things to do in Edinburgh, by an experienced traveler who knows all about romance!
What was your favorite activity? Mine was 100% the Edinburgh Vaults tour just off the Royal Mile (those cobblestone streets get me every time). My husband is a bit of a skeptic, but he surprisingly loved it too – it was his favorite part of the whole trip! It’s more romantic than it sounds, and an excuse to cuddle after!
Let me know in the comments if you need any more tips for Edinburgh, I’ve got loads more!
Cheerio, lovers!
Lizzie
