A European capital bursting with culture, history, stunning architecture and more booze than you can shake a sporran at, Edinburgh is an ideal destination for a weekend away. And best of all, it's right on our doorstep.
If you're looking for a festive break without the language barrier (debatable) and extortionate air fares, this stunning city has it all.
Where to stay
For the true Edinburgh experience, look no further than The Scotsman. Towering proudly over the city from its vantage point on Edinburgh's historical North Bridge, this regal hotel has been converted from the Scotsman Newspaper's baronial offices into one of the most stylish hotels in the city. With traditional Scottish furnishings blended with contemporary design throughout the 56 individual rooms and 13 suites, the Scotsman is a unique yet truly Scottish place to rest your head in the bustling centre of the city.
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The Rocco Forte Collection's The Balmoral is a luxury hotel in the true sense of the word. It's a stylish, five-star property in the very heart of Edinburgh that's been beautifully refurbished and individually designed by Olga Polizzi. The 188 opulent suites and stylish rooms have magnificent views of the city or the hotel's internal courtyard. And if the hustle and bustle of the city all gets a bit much, visit the hotel's award-winning Spa, with its 15 metre pool, ESPA treatment rooms and fully-equipped gym.
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Winner of Scottish Boutique Hotel of the Year 2009, Le Monde is one of the premier boutique hotels in Edinburgh. Le Monde is chic and contemporary whilst retaining the classic standards of service you would expect from a top luxury hotel in Scotland. And at just two minutes from Princes Street and the famous Harvey Nichols, and with a taxi rank just on its doorstep, it's ideally located for all your Christmas shopping needs.
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If self-catering's more your thing, you'll find a home from home in the centre of Edinburgh at the Holyrood Aparthotel. Housed in a modern building just off the Royal Mile, these 41 modern apartments are stylishly furnished, clean, contemporary and fully equipped. And with two bedroom apartments available for around £170, they make a convenient and affordable options for groups.
Find out more and book your apartment at Holyrood Aparthotel
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What to do
Edinburgh Castle
Of course, no visit to Edinburgh would be complete without a trip to the iconic, world famous castle. Perched high on a hilltop above the city, its silhouette is synonymous with Scotland - and it houses a great museum to boot. And even if history's not your thing, it's worth the trip up the Royal Mile for the views alone. Try to time you visit for 1pm when the gun is fired daily, if your eardrums can take it.
Arthur's Seat
In what other European capital could you find yourself climbing an extinct volcano? An exhilarating experience for the morning after the whiskey before, a trek up this landmark geological feature is fairly tough on the legs - but well worth it for the views you'll be rewarded with. And if you'd like to find out more about how Arthur's seat was formed, you can find out all about the area's geology at the Dynamic Earth visitor centre, at the foot of the hill.
Ghost Tour
Edinburgh's a city with a particularly gruesome past, so take the opportunity to find out all about it with an after-dark walking tour. The best ones will take you down into the vaults and closes beneath the city - including the spooky underground Mary King's Close, which was sealed during the plague in the 17th Century and only recently re-discovered. Try www.auldreekietours.com.
Royal Mile
Starting at the castle and stretching all the way down to the palace at Holyrood, The Royal Mile is one of the most iconic streets in Europe, and is packed with striking architecture, shops, pubs and museums. While wandering up and down this fascinating street could take up the best part of your day, you'll find even greater rewards if you wander off the main drag down any of the narrow closes leading off from the Royal Mile.
Where to eat
One for a very special occasion, The Witchery is located in a 16th century building at the gates of Edinburgh Castle and is one of the city's - if not the world's - most atmospheric and spectacular dining destinations. A unique setting, stunning interiors and superlative food, wine and service combine to create memorable dining experiences for locals, visitors and celebrities alike. The staff use the best of Scotland's produce including Angus beef, lamb, game and seafood. Nestled in the most historic part of the building, The Witchery dining room is rich, warm and atmospheric, with tapestries, mirrors and carvings hanging on oak-panelled walls. Spectacularly painted and gilded ceilings, similar to those at the Palace of Holyrood House, celebrate the links with France in the Auld Alliance, whilst much of the panelling was rescued from St Giles Cathedral and a Burgundian Chateau.
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Perched above the sandstone-clad landmark Museum of Scotland, spectacular views of Edinburgh's Castle and city skyline feature on the menu of James Thomson's stunning rooftop restaurant. Sleek and stylish, the Tower is designed to impress, and has become a must-see for A-list celebrities and visitors to Scotland, as well as its loyal local clientele. The Tower's extensive menu always features the best available seasonal ingredients, with Argyll oysters, local seafood, seasonal game, Angus beef and lamb impeccably sourced and simply prepared in the Tower's signature relaxed and unfussy style. The restaurant's reputation for creating outstanding gourmet food inspired a rash of complimentary reviews and recommendations in the Good Food Guide, the AA, Taste of Scotland, Fodor's, Frommer's and Michelin Guides among many others.
Find special offers and book your table at The Tower online.
Established in 1766, Whigham's is an old Georgian cellar below Edinburgh's teeming streets with a punchy line in Scottish cooking. Diners can snuggle up in a candlelit alcove in the brick wine vault, or bask in the sunshine in the bright airy restaurant. The grown-up ambience (children are not allowed) attracts smart business types and romantic couples in equal measure. Food includes the famous seafood platter and Scottish roast beef, with an understandably well-constructed wine list.
Book your table at Whighams online
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Where to drink
Under The Stairs
This shabby chic bar hidden away underneath Merchant Street, is the ideal place to escape the throngs of tourists and enjoy great music, cocktails and a cool crowd. Whether you're relaxing in an arm chair by the fire or dance the night away at the bar, thanks to the homely furnishings you'll feel more like you're at a trendy house party than in a bar.
3a Merchant Street.
The Villager
One of the key pre-clubbing bars in the Old Town, The Villager has kept its cool clientele and trendy reputation for the past decade. The bar can get pretty busy at weekends, so if you want to rest your feet before a night of dancing, find yourself a sofa in the dining area and soak up the stylish surroundings with a cocktail from the extensive menu.
49-50 George IV Bridge.
Brass Monkey
If you like your bars relaxed, then the bohemian Brass Monkey, with its room full of mattresses and cushions, should fit the bill. The bar's fairly small so it does get quite busy at weekends, but the drinks are cheap, the clientele are cool and the walls are adorned with monkey related art. What more could you want?
14 Drummond Street
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