Just south of the bustling Meadows, Bruntsfield Links provides a serene and green retreat, far removed from the hubbub of festival entertainment. Indulge in a delightful brunch at Margot, a charming wine bar and café, where you can savor dishes like French toast topped with ginger-poached pears and bay-leaf custard or hot smoked trout accompanied by leek fritters. As the day unfolds, return for oysters, small plates, and an array of natural wines by the glass, ideally enjoyed from a window seat or outdoor table gazing at the vibrant hues of Arthur’s Seat at sunset. For an elegant dinner with stunning views, visit LeftField, the sister restaurant located just around the corner.
Portobello Beach, a well-known seaside spot for locals, may get busy on hot summer days, but offers an abundance of space to find a quieter corner. While the nearest sections to the cafes can be crowded, the long beach allows visitors to discover their own sandy sanctuaries. Enjoy a fishfinger sandwich from Shrimp Wreck, grab a slice of pizza from Civerino’s, or treat yourself to a scoop of delightful ice cream at Oscar’s Gelato.
The Royal Mile, often the center of festival excitement, also conceals quieter retreats within its unique alleyways. Dunbar’s Close, located off Canongate, features a 17th-century styled garden adorned with benches, making it a hidden gem for tranquility. Sip on a delicious direct-trade Brazilian coffee and nibble on a pastel de nata from Santu Coffee to bask in the serenity. Similarly, Lady Stair’s Close, which houses the free Writers’ Museum, serves as a perfect stop for a moment of calm away from the crowds.
In Leith, The Shore presents a vibrant waterfront space reminiscent of Copenhagen. Embrace local life by enjoying a cold beer from Malt and Hops along the riverside, or explore the Moonwake Beer Co.’s tap room. For a satisfying lunch, consider a generous takeaway sandwich from Domenico’s, or savor a meal at the trendy new seafood restaurant, Barry Fish.
The Royal Botanic Garden, spanning 72 acres, stands as one of Edinburgh’s crown jewels. Dating back to the 17th century, this lush expanse provides a perfect spot to relax among nature while enjoying views of the city skyline from Inverleith House. Nearby, Singapore Coffee House offers mouthwatering kaya toast and roti canai, while Betty and George serves a cozy tea experience alongside cake or soup. For a more upscale dining affair, The Tollhouse presents an appealing set lunch with river views.
The Stockbridge neighborhood bustles with excellent dining options but remains largely insulated from festival chaos. Visit Herbie of Edinburgh for a gourmet picnic or indulge in freshly made schiacciata sandwiches from Mootz General Store. Don’t miss a stop at the cult bakery Lannan for pastries, which can be enjoyed at Inverleith Park—a perfect spot for families, featuring a pond and playpark. For Italian cuisine, try Sotto or the affordable set lunch at Stockbridge Eating House.
At Newhaven, the tram’s final stop leads you to the picturesque Newhaven harbour. Stroll along the waterfront to find Wardie Bay, a lovely beach favored by locals. Afterward, savor fish and chips from The Fishmarket and consider staying for a sunset view from the terrace with a chilled glass of wine, before the easy tram ride back to the city center.
For an outdoor adventure, Arthur’s Seat and Holyrood Park offer iconic vistas of the city. While the main path may be busy, numerous trails ensure that visitors can find solitude. Consider a leisurely walk along Queens Drive, encompassing Dunsapie Loch and St Margaret’s Loch, which provides breathtaking 360-degree views of Edinburgh. For a satisfying snack, grab a sandwich from Alby’s Southside before heading out.
For those seeking a milder hike, the Union Canal path stretches all the way to Glasgow, beginning at Lochrin Basin. A picturesque stroll leads to Harrison Park (1.2 miles), where brightly colored residential houseboats and the Leamington Lift Bridge enhance the scenery. Continuing to Slateford Aqueduct (2.5 miles) presents more stunning views. Local eateries like Kafe Kweer offer savory vegetarian dishes and pastries, or you may opt for The Fountain pub for a hearty meal.
Finally, The Pitt at Granton, recently relocated, has become a must-visit for street food enthusiasts. With varying vendors like Choola’s Nepalese cuisine and Lazeez’s Lebanese wraps, it provides a delightful culinary experience alongside beautiful views of the Firth of Forth. Visitors can also enjoy treatments at the on-site Soul Water Sauna before walking along the promenade to Cramond village, where you might even be able to stroll out to Cramond Island depending on the tides.
Public transport in Edinburgh, including Lothian Buses and trams, offers contactless payments, with single fares at £2.20 and a daily cap of £5. Consider downloading the Edinburgh Bus and Tram app to navigate routes and track bus times effectively.
