Edinburgh for couples: 12 romantic things to do

One of the most romantic things to do in Edinburgh is just… wander. The city is stunning, with so much to see and do for loved-up couples and honeymooners. Auld Reekie has many hidden gems and plenty of fun things to do around every corner. If you're looking for anniversary ideas, splash out with a trip to the Isle of Skye. If you want the perfect date, then a tour of the city is sure to impress. From all-day couples activities to a simple walk hand-in-hand, these ideas are sure to dial up the romance.

Discover Edinburgh’s romantic side

Showstopping romantic activities for special occasions: Take a weekend getaway to the Scottish Highlands or Isle of Skye.

Romantic neighborhoods to explore on date night: Head to the Old Town to wander around ancient streets hand in hand. Stop for a drink or a bite in one of the many cozy food spots.

Secret spots for romantic moments: The Water of Leith Walkway is a beautiful walk on a warm afternoon, or hike Arthur's Seat together for incredible views over the city.

1. Stroll the Royal Mile

For a casual date, head for the Royal Mile in Old Town. As well as many of medieval landmarks and monuments, there are plenty of places to eat and drink. The Royal Mile is also the place to be if you want to buy your loved one a special souvenir or gift, as there are many great independent shops along the mile.

Best time to go:

A dry day is always best for a wander, though the city does look beautiful in the rain if viewed through the windows of a warm and cozy cafe.

2. Visit the famous Highland Cows

With their beautiful horns and shaggy hair, Scotland's Highland cows have become a bit of a tourist attraction in recent years. There are few places around Edinburgh to take your nature-loving partner to see the cows, including Pentland Hills and in the beautiful nearby county of East Lothian. Use the excursion as an excuse to see some of Scotland's incredible countryside.

Best time to go:

Visiting the cows is a year-round activity, but always remember to dress for the elements!

3. Weekend stay on the Isle of Skye

If you enjoy romantic activities that involve getting back to nature, then consider a trip to the Isle of Skye. It takes about 5 hours to get there from the city, so plan your itinerary accordingly. On the way can stop off in Glencoe, hunt for the Loch Ness monster, and visit Eilean Donan Castle, as well as see the island's beautiful landscapes.

Best time to go:

The driest months are April and May, but it can get a little cold. July and August are the warmest months, but it's peak tourist season, so you need to balance heat with queues.

4. Hike up Arthur's Seat

As far as iconic views of Edinburgh go, you can’t get much better than Arthur’s Seat. This is another adventure for outdoorsy couples, and you don’t have to go far to find it. Located in Holyrood Park near the Old Town, Arthur’s Seat is a lovely day out—especially if followed by a dram or two of whisky for all your efforts!

Best time to go:

It’s best to hike up to the viewpoint on a clear, dry day.

5. A romantic boat cruise along the Firth of Forth

Cruise down the Firth of Forth estuary for an excellent view of the Edinburgh skyline, and keep an eye out for seals, puffins, and the other wee beasties that make the river home. You'll pass under all the Forth Bridges and get a low-down on the history of the city.

Best time to go:

As you'll be on a boat, plan to go on a calm day, or the choppy waters might make you uncomfortable.

6. Visit Edinburgh's famous book and movie locations

If your partner is into books and movies, then it's worth exploring all the locations that inspired some their favorite media. Harry Potter, Outlander, Braveheart—all of them were inspired by, set, or filmed in Edinburgh. You'll have a ball spotting all the iconic locations along the Royal Mile, or head to the Highlands for some real cinematic magic.

Best time to go:

May and June are the best months to explore, however tours of famous filming locations run year-round.

7. Discover the history of witches in Scotland

Myths and legends built Auld Reekie, and the witches of the city played an important role. Enjoy a spooky evening with your loved one and visit the Witches Well, an Edinburgh landmark that commemorates those accused, and learn about their history from 1590 to 1735. Another great location is the National Museum of Scotland to check out objects thought to be associated with witchcraft .

Best time to go:

The Well is small and easy to miss, so plan to visit early in the morning before the street gets too busy to get close.

8. Walk hand in hand around Edinburgh's park and gardens

Edinburgh is overflowing with parks and gardens, which make the perfect location for a romantic walk, bike, or picnic. Some of the most popular are the Royal Botanical Gardens glasshouses, Calton Hill views, and the Princes Street Gardens sculptures and monuments.

Best time to go:

Edinburgh's parks are best explored when the weather is warm and dry, ideally during the Scottish summer (June-August).

9. Visit a folk hero's grave

Visit the final resting place of the Scottish Robin Hood, Rob Roy MacGregor. He is buried beside his wife and sons in Balquhidder Parish Church. The location is 1 hour 45 minutes from Edinburgh, so take this as an opportunity for a romantic day trip to the Scottish Highlands. Born in 1671, Rob Roy MacGregor was a Scottish outlaw whose antics made him a Catholic folk hero.

Best time to go:

While summer is the best time to explore the Highlands, the rain and fog can make the region exquisitely atmospheric and cozy, which some couples may prefer.

10. Try a dram or two of Scotch whisky

You can't visit Scotland without tasting the national drink. Whisky has been popular in Scotland for hundreds of years, and it's thought that monks brought distillation with them in the fourth and fifth centuries. Today, there are many popular distilleries you can visit in Edinburgh together. Two of the most popular are the Holyrood Distillery and the Scotch Whisky Experience.

Best time to go:

Drinking in Scotland is a year-round activity! That said, avoid the busy tourist season for the best experience.

11. Learn about Edinburgh's spooky history

Looking for an excuse to cuddle up? Take a tour of the most paranormal sites in Edinburgh. The city is around 1000 years old, and home to a myriad of vaults and dungeons which tell tales of Edinburgh's bloody history. Visit to the infamously creepy arched vaults of South Bridge and Mary King's Close—two of the best places to visit in Edinburgh.

Best time to go:

Start your exploration as late as possible for a really chilling experience. Then, calm your nerves with a dram or two.

12. Try some iconic Scottish food

Scotland is home to a number of unique and hearty dishes. Discover the best food in Edinburgh with a visit to any local pub or traditional restaurant. The brave among you might give haggis, neeps, and tatties a try. Stovies (potatoes) and cullen skink (soup) are also popular. Those with a sweet tooth shouldn't leave Edinburgh without trying cranachan, the king of Scottish desserts.

Best time to go:

Rain or shine, food in the city can be enjoyed throughout the year. To enjoy a true Scottish food experience, visit over Burns Night or Hogmanay.

FAQs

What are the most romantic activities to do in Edinburgh?

Some of the most romantic activities in Edinburgh involve the great outdoors. Stroll along the Royal Mile for historic architecture, or head into the Scottish Highlands for stunning views. However, simply exploring the city and stopping in a cozy pub or cafe is enough to feel romantic in Edinburgh.

What are some offbeat romantic things to do in Edinburgh?

Offbeat romantic things to do in Edinburgh include visiting the city's most haunted areas. Take a tour of the South Bridge Vaults and the graves at Greyfriars Kirkyard for an excuse to hold hands. For something a little less creepy, take a stroll along the Leith Walkway—one of the best hidden gems in Edinburgh.

What are the most romantic spots to watch the sunset in Edinburgh?

The most romantic spots to watch the sunset in Edinburgh are all naturally elevated. Go to Calton Hill in the city center for a 360-degree view, or if you're feeling energetic, climb all 251 meters of Arthur's Seat in Holyrood Park for a panoramic view of the countryside and city.

What are some romantic day trips from Edinburgh?

Romantic day trips from Edinburgh will take you to some of the most beautiful natural areas of the country. Take a trip to Loch Ness to spot a monster or a Highlands tour to visit heroic legend Rob Roy's grave.

What are the best places to take romantic photos in Edinburgh?

The best places to take romantic photos in Edinburgh include Circus Lane, Victoria Street, and the picturesque parts of the Royal Mile. If you want some natural scenery, go to Dean Village, Calton Hill, and Leith Walkway's St. Bernard's Well.