Tips from the Locals – Edinburgh
Kindly shared by locals and Edinburgh insiders: Caroline Skene, Colin Drummond, Ewan Mackie, Linda Shannon and Nick Ryce.
Edinburgh is a city where history, culture and everyday life come together effortlessly. From dramatic viewpoints and historic streets to cosy pubs and standout food, this guide highlights local favourites to help you make the most of your time in the Scottish capital.
Top Attractions in Edinburgh
Dominating the skyline, Edinburgh Castle is the city’s most iconic landmark, offering rich history and panoramic views across Edinburgh. From here, follow the historic Royal Mile, a lively stretch connecting the castle to Holyrood Palace, filled with hidden alleyways, shops and historic sites.
For breathtaking views, hike up Arthur's Seat, an extinct volcano in the heart of the city, or opt for a shorter climb up Calton Hill. For a quieter escape, Dean Village offers a peaceful setting along the Water of Leith.
Indoors, the National Museum of Scotland is a must-visit (and free), while The Real Mary King's Close provides a unique glimpse into the city’s underground history.
The Princes Street Gardens should be in full bloom in May, stretching right through the city centre from Lothian Road to Waverley Station. It’s a lovely spot to stop for a coffee, a picnic, or an ice cream. The Scott Monument is also well worth a few photos; you can even go inside and climb to the top, though it’s quite a tight squeeze.
A short 5-minute walk uphill from the meeting venue on Lothian Road will bring you to the Grassmarket. This is one of the main areas for evening entertainment, with plenty of bars popular with both locals and visitors (see suggestions below). From there, you can stroll up the colourful and steep Victoria Street, perfect for Instagram-worthy photos and especially popular with Harry Potter fans. Alternatively, if you continue straight ahead instead of heading up Victoria Street, you’ll reach the Cowgate, another lively spot known for its nightlife.
Note: Hilco Global will be organising a group outing to Arthur’s Seat on Friday, 22 May, departing at 13:30 from EICC. Please visit this page for more information.
Cultural Highlights
- Enjoy Edinburgh’s pub culture at spots like The Hanging Bat or around the Grassmarket, popular with both locals and visitors.
- Explore Scotland’s whisky heritage at the Scotch Whisky Experience or the Johnnie Walker Experience.
- Experience live comedy at The Stand Comedy Club.
- Visit free museums and galleries such as the Scottish National Gallery and the Scottish National Portrait Gallery.
- Relax in green spaces like The Meadows or take a walk along the Water of Leith.
- Enjoy traditional folk music at venues such as Sandy Bell’s, The Royal Oak, and Finnegan’s Wake.
- Discover Edinburgh’s theatre scene at venues including the Edinburgh Playhouse, Festival Theatre, Usher Hall, and The Lyceum, with a varied programme in May featuring musicals, new plays, live talks (including Louis Theroux), and a range of musical performances.
Local Cuisine & Food to Try
- Try a traditional Scottish breakfast (with tattie scone and square sausage) at Loudons Edinburgh or SEVEN Neighbourhood Cafe
- Taste classic dishes like haggis, Cullen skink and Scottish salmon at the Haggis Box, the Ship on the Shore or Café Royal
- Enjoy local dining at Makars Mash Bar or The Witchery by the Castle
- Explore popular international spots such as Dishoom Edinburgh and Ting Thai Caravan
- Don’t miss sweet treats like tablet, tea cakes and the deep-fried Mars bar
- Grab coffee and cake at Mimi's Bakehouse
Other Restaurant Recommendations
- Mother India’s Cafe – brilliant Indian food served tapas-style.
- La Locanda – a quaint, cosy Italian spot on Cockburn Street.
- Duck & Waffle – located in St James Quarter (the large shopping centre at the end of Princes Street), offering a diverse menu, a stylish interior, and late-night bar opening hours.
- Angels with Bagpipes – on the Royal Mile, known for refined (and pricier) dishes featuring Scottish produce.
- Haute Dolci – also in St James Quarter, specialising in indulgent, beautifully crafted desserts.
- Pizza Posto – on South Bridge, widely regarded as one of the best spots for pizza in Edinburgh.
- Edinburgh offers a wide range of dining options to enjoy while exploring the city, from budget-friendly chains like Wetherspoons to top Michelin-starred restaurants.
- Bonnie & Wild – a stylish food hall in St James Quarter, offering a variety of cuisines at more affordable prices, located near Duck & Waffle.
- Vittoria on the Walk – a long-standing, family-run Italian restaurant serving the city since 1970
- Simply Greek – known for fresh, flavourful Greek dishes.
- NAM – a Vietnamese restaurant near Haymarket Station, praised for its friendly atmosphere and excellent vegetarian and vegan options.
- Banh Mi Brothers - infamous Vietnamese baguette sandwiches
- Wutong Hub - Asian cuisine near the Grassmarket on West Port
Pub and Bar Recommendations
- The Dome (Tuesday Networking Event venue)
- The Alchemist
- The Last Drop
- The White Hart Inn
- The Devil’s Advocate
- Brass Monkey
- Oxford Bar
- The Blackbird
- The Pear Tree
Day Trips from Edinburgh
- Glasgow – A lively city with great museums, food and nightlife (approximately 45 mins by train)
- St Andrews – Coastal town and the “Home of Golf”
- Perth - Beautiful city at the base of the Highlands, only an hour away
- North Berwick – Seaside escape with beaches and wildlife
- Loch Lomond – Classic Scottish scenery within easy reach
- Glencoe & Isle of Skye – Ideal for longer trips into the Highlands
Getting Around
Edinburgh is compact and very walkable, with most key sights within easy reach. Trams and buses connect the airport to the city centre (30–60 minutes), and contactless payment is widely accepted. Taxis are also readily available.
Public Transport Links
Edinburgh Trams - Discount code: RIPE20
EICC Discounts
Discount codes and special offers for attendees have been provided by the Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC).
Please refer to this PDF document for full details and how to redeem them.