Edinburgh is a terrific destination for a romantic getaway, with its windy St. Arthur’s Seat, the bustling Princes Street, the Old Town’s cobblestone lanes and hidden nooks, and the castle situated on its craggy summit. Here are just a few romantic activities in Edinburgh and romantic day trips you can take from the city to aid in your adventure planning.
1. An early morning hitch on Arthur’s Seat
The best way to start your day is with a stroll up this hill. Edinburgh is one of the few places that can claim a volcano right in the middle of the city, making it one of the city’s most romantic activities.
Okay, so the volcano is dormant and green, and the hike is not particularly strenuous because there is a well-defined (though occasionally steep) path that leads up over Salisbury Crags and onto the summit of Arthur’s Seat. The views over the city to the Firth of Forth and the Kingdom of Fife beyond are truly unique once you reach the summit.
Holyrood Park, which is serene, is especially attractive as the sun is rising. Consider starting early, then. One of the most romantic things to do in Edinburgh is to go for a hike early in the morning. The view of the city will offer you a taste of the delights to come.
2. An elevator up the “Royal Mile”
Couples visiting Edinburgh should undoubtedly battle the traffic and make their way up the renowned Royal Mile. Along the sides of this storied road leading to the castle, there are several seductive tucked-away locations.
Many tour companies offer excursions through some of Edinburgh’s old town’s now-hidden alleyways and close. You go underground (below the Royal Mile) on this tour! Quite cool. This is one of the best methods to illuminate the bleak and actual past of these areas.
It is highly advised that you take one of the tours, preferably the one that appeals to you, as you will see people in costume and other promotional materials advertising them along the royal mile.
Some of the tours are straightforward explanations of the history, while others are ‘haunted tours’ with actors dressed historically. You should think about visiting Mary King Close and the neighboring alleyways in addition to the City Vaults on nearby South Bridge.
3. Romantic interruption where Edinburgh Castle
One of the most significant tourist attractions in all of Scotland, Edinburgh Castle is without a doubt the jewel in the crown of Edinburgh’s historical sites. A common Scottish national symbol is the castle.
It has been inhabited at least since the Iron Age, or during the second century AD, and is situated on the remnant of an extinct volcano. Since the 12th century, there has been a royal castle on the rock, and it served as a royal residence until 1633. It was used largely as a military barracks by the 17th century.
This strategic fortress has been crucial throughout history in numerous battles, notably the Jacobite Uprising of 1745 and the Wars of Scottish Independence. It has been one of the most often attacked locations in the globe and the most besieged location in Great Britain!
4. Magical guided walking tour of Harry Potter
Many themed tours are available to help visitors experience the charms of Edinburgh’s Old Town. Fantasy lovers should think about taking a Harry Potter-themed trip to find the location of the famous character’s “birth” and savor the magic and mystery.
One of the places J.K. Rowling penned the Harry Potter books is the Elephant House coffee shop in Edinburgh.
5. A picnic in one of the beautiful parks or gardens of Edinburgh
Princes Street Gardens, which are lively and crowded yet can be an excellent area for a picnic, are located beneath the castle. Go to the Meadows, another lovely green area, for a more laid-back and studenty atmosphere.
There are additional gorgeous parks in New Town that you can enjoy. A terrific way for couples to spend time together and take in the scenery on a bright day is to pick up some local food and relax in one of Edinburgh’s many green spaces.
6. Enjoy the vibrant scene in Leith
In Edinburgh, there are just as many things to do at night as there are during the day. Wherever you go in this university city, you’ll find a vibrant nightlife. There are many fantastic restaurants, pubs, bars, and clubs to enjoy throughout the Old Town and the New Town.
But for young couples seeking a youthful and vibrant atmosphere, we advise traveling outside of the city to Leith, where the area around the docks has been transformed into a haven of markets, cafe culture, top-notch dining options, and numerous bars. Both during the day and in the evening, this is a lively location to visit.
7. Go to the beach
What could be more romantic than escaping the city and spending time by the ocean? You can spend some time on the lovely coastline and savor the romance of the waves by taking a romantic excursion to Portobello, Silverknowes, or Cramond.
If you go a little further from Edinburgh along the shore, you can find North Berwick and Tantallon Castle, which are both lovely romantic locations nearby.
- Suggested read 11 Best Free Things To Do in Edinburgh To Save Your Money
8. Respect for art in Edinburgh’s galleries
In one or more of Edinburgh’s numerous art galleries, devoted couples can indulge in some art appreciation. To mention a few, visit the Scottish National Gallery, Royal Scottish Academy, and Scottish National Portrait Gallery.
9. Go on a day trip to see the breathtaking landscape of Scotland
One of the most well-liked day excursion alternatives for couples staying in Edinburgh is a journey to the Scottish Highlands. Many travelers on this quick-stop tour will travel north to see the craggy mountains, vast lochs, and stunning glens.
But if you want to experience all that Scotland has to offer, we strongly advise forging your own path and going off the beaten path by train or car. This will allow you and your partner to spend some quality time alone being romantic.
10. Dean Village’s alleys and bridges can be seen along the Water of Leith
One alluring area of the city is Dean Village, where time seems to have stopped. This area, which was once a grain milling hub with more than 11 active mills, is now a confusing network of lanes and bridges north of the city center along the Water of Leith.
11. The Grassmarket area at night
One of the city’s oldest neighborhoods, the Grassmarket, used to have a lot of taverns and inns for drovers who came to the market here to sell their cattle. Even now, there are still plenty of fantastic pubs and other places for couples seeking something to do in Edinburgh at night. You can sip a beverage here while taking in the historical ambiance.
