Canadians are clearly being romanced by the Scottish accent this summer with Expedia reporting a major bump to the historic city of Edinburgh. If you’re really looking to impress your date, these romantic stays and activities are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Read on to discover our top recommendations for planning the perfect romantic getaway in Edinburgh, Scotland.
If you want to live out your Kate and Leo dreams without running the risk of icebergs, Fingal Hotel has you covered. This luxury floating property was once a working ship and now houses the most beautiful cabins, an award-winning restaurant, and a ship-deck perfect for star-gazing.
datenight tip: For a distinctly Sottish take on a classic cocktail, order the Irn-Bru Old Fashioned at The Lighthouse Restaurant & Bar which arrives to your table perfectly smoked.
Address: Alexandra Dock, Historic Port of Leith, Edinburgh, Scotland
If you’ve seen photos of the Edinburgh skyline, chances are you’ve already laid eyes on the iconic Balmoral Hotel clocktower. Speaking of icons, Taylor Swift reportedly called the property home during her recent Eras Tour stint, and part of the Harry Potter series was written on-property.
datenight tip: Choose from over 80 loose leaf varieties at the onsite Palm Court restaurant, said to be one of the best afternoon tea experiences in Edinburgh.
Address: 1 Princes Street, Edinburgh, Scotland
Where To Eat
Named after the witch burnings that took place on Castle Hill, this famous restaurant leans into the witchy aesthetic with gothic décor and meals by candlelight.
datenight tip: A two-course lunch option is available where you can experience the enchanting atmosphere while saving some dollars. Also, make sure you book far in advance as this spot fills up extremely quickly (for reference, we booked our table almost 2 months in advance to make sure were able to secure the date/time we wanted!)
Address: 352 Castlehill, Edinburgh, Scotland
For a dinner date experience that’s both delicious and stunning, head to Tattu. Not only do decorative cherry blossom trees dominate the space (seriously, you’ll think you’re in the forest), but the Asian-fusion cuisine is a solid 10/10.
datenight tip: To lean into the theme, keep an eye out for cherry blossom-inspired items like the the candy floss desert tree on dry ice, and the cherry blossom negroni complete with miniature tree.
Address: 18 West Register Street, Edinburgh, Scotland
The Lookout
If you’re looking for an incredible meal with a view, The Lookout won’t let you down. Sitting atop Calton Hill, this intimate gem uses fresh, local ingredients to curate a fixed menu.
datenight tip: Ask the staff about their ‘garden cocktails’ which the bar team creates daily.
Address: 38 Calton Hill, Edinburgh, Scotland
This vibrant street food hall is a bold and eclectic foodies paradise filled with the best independent traders in Scotland. Be sure to visit for a delicious lunch or dinner date to enjoy award-winning global flavours in a casual setting.
datenight tip: Scan the QR Code on your table to place your order online and their staff will bring your food and drinks to you – so convenient! We recommend ordering small dishes from a few different vendors and sharing.
Address: Leith St, Edinburgh, Scotland
What’s more magical than strolling the fairytale streets of Edinburgh? Doing it with a creamy gelato in hand! You’ll find Bun & Scoop located on Cockburn Street, which is one of the most stunning streets in the city.
datenight tip: For a deliciously Scottish combo, try a scoop of the whisky gelato paired with a scoop of salted caramel.
Address: 21 Cockburn St, Edinburgh, Scotland
Things To Do
No visit to the city is complete without a visit to Edinburgh Castle. Here, you’ll learn all about the history and stories associated with the fortress, including the real-life tale that inspired the red wedding from George R.R Martin’s Game of Thrones.
datenight tip: In a tradition that dates back to 1861, a cannon is fired daily at 1:00pm (minus holidays and Sundays). The area gets fairly crowded at the time so plan accordingly.
Address: Castlehill, Edinburgh, Scotland
One of the most famous whisky brands in the world calls Princes Street home, and it’s a great place to learn more about Scotland’s most famous drink. A variety of tours with knowledgeable staff are available to suit your whisky-tasting journey.
datenight tip: For a one-of-a-kind experience, book the Whisky Makers’ Cellar Premium Experience where you get to go behind the scenes where the casks are sleeping, draw your own dram and sample specialty whisky only available in that room.
Address: 145 Princes St, Edinburgh, Scotland
If you’ve fantasized about roaming the grounds of Hogwarts, Alnwick Castle (which appeared in two of the Harry Potter films) might be the closest you can get. While technically in the English borderlands, Alnwick Castle is just a tour away from Edinburgh with Rabbie’s Small Group Tours.
datenight tip: Kids of all ages can take a broom-flying lesson right on the grounds. The experience is free but requires a ticket so make sure you grab one as soon as you arrive as spots are limited.
Address: Alnwick, United Kingdom
When he’s visiting Scotland, the opulent Palace of Holyrood House is where the King hangs his hat (or rather, crown). If you’re a fan of the Royals or poking around other people’s houses (no judgement here), exploring the lavish paintings, jewels and gilded chandeliers will make for the perfect afternoon out. You can even see the spot where Mary, Queen of Scotts’ private secretary was infamously murdered by her jealous husband.
datenight tip: Don’t miss the ruins of Holyrood Abbey which was once the site of royal weddings, coronations, and burials.
Address: Canongate, Edinburgh, Scotland
While you might expect to find old churches all over the UK, you’d be hard pressed to find one more shrouded in mystery than Rosslyn Chapel. Associated with legends surrounding the Knights Templar, the Holy Grail, hidden musical architecture codes and even aliens, the chapel saw a renewed spike in visitors when it was featured prominently in the DaVinci Code.
datenight tip: Be sure to visit the ancient crypt and search together for the masonic drawings etched into the walls.
Address: Chapel Loan, Roslin, United Kingdom
When people rave about how green and picturesque Scotland is, it’s not an over-exaggeration! Explore the stunning Scottish Highlands through a full-day or multi-day tour. Some of our top places to visit include Glencoe – a village made famous as a setting for Skyfall and Harry Potter films – and the world-renowned Loch Ness with the infamous Lochness Monster, or “Nessie”!
datenight tip: If you’re short on time during your trip, we recommend booking the full-day excursion from Edinburgh to the Scottish Highands with The Hairy Coo. You’ll get to explore several scenic sites in just one day!
If Scottland is calling, check out Expedia.ca for packages, hotels, and things to do.
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