The El Camino Travel Guide to Edinburgh, Scotland
Written by Kayla Doris
Dare we say it, but we think it’s impossible not to love Edinburgh. Scotland’s capital offers everything you look for in a city, without the cosmopolitan bustle that can often be overwhelming in other cities. It’s very easy on the eye with its unique combination of cobbled roads, Gothic architecture, Georgian houses, and natural surroundings. It’s full of history yet it doesn’t feel dated: rather than its best days being behind it, it’s a liberal, forward thinking city that embraces innovation, art, and new ideas. This is perhaps most evident during the Edinburgh Fringe, the world's largest art festival, where the city becomes a vibrant hub for experimental performances, cutting-edge art, and diverse voices. Throw in the fact that it’s extremely walkable, full of great restaurants, welcoming pubs, quirky lanes, and in easy distance to scenic destinations, you can see why Edinburgh is just so likeable. True, it doesn’t get particularly warm, but the chill is all part of its cozy charm. Make sure to head out of the center and spend some time exploring its distinctive neighbourhoods for a true feel of the city.
We’ve collaborated with local insiders, Nell Nelson—food columnist and founder of Edinburgh Food Safari, Amelia Masters—Content Specialist at Tartan Blanket Co, and Christina—Marketing Rep from Tuk Tuk Indian Street Food, to curate a list of insider recommendations for eating, drinking, shopping, and sightseeing your way through Edinburgh.
Stay
Check into the House of Gods in Old Town for an eccentric Edinburgh stay. The boutique hotel exudes theatrics, decadence, and rock-and-roll glamour—think velvets, rich colors, animal-print throws, dramatic lighting, and disco balls. A hedonism theme is evident throughout: the on-site cocktail bar offers a drinks list inspired by the excess of music and fashion icons such as Kate Moss, Elton John, and Grace Jones.
Also included in the guide:
A Baroque-style mansion featuring grand interiors, antique furniture, and luxurious textiles
A contemporary take on Georgian elegance at a stunning townhouse
A quiet studio apartment hidden away in Old Town with minimal interiors
Image credit: Tuk Tuk
Shop
Shop modern tartan scarves, pyjamas, and accessories from the Tartan Blanket Co in Leith. Alongside Scotland’s most iconic print, you’ll find other stylish patterned items such as striped frilly bedsheets, super soft cashmere socks, quilted makeup bags, and oversized scrunchies. The female-founded business uses natural and recycled fibres, and donates 2% of every purchase to charities that protect the planet and give to those in need. These quilted washbags are a great organization tool for your suitcase.
Also included in the guide:
A family-run shop that works with designers to create thoughtful, joyful and responsibly sourced items
A specialty tea shop and café to shop unique blends
Image credit: Bard Scotland
Image credit: House of Gods
Eat
Scotland has had a long love affair with Indian food and going for a curry is as much a local tradition as going to the pub. Tuk Tuk in Toll Cross serves dishes inspired by the food vendors of India. Feast on curries, daals, Bengali fishcakes, kale bhaji’s, and tasty desserts. There’s a relaxed atmosphere in the restaurant and it runs a BYOB (bring your own booze) policy, charging only £2 per person to cover recycling.
Also included in the guide:
A modern Chinese restaurant that has received acclaim for its thoughtful and creative dishes
A neighbourhood wine bar that’s leading the wave of trendy cafes in Edinburgh
The best sandwiches in town (according to local intel)
Image credit: Tartan Blanket Co
Do
Design lovers should head to Leith to visit Bard, a shop and gallery that wants to show the world that Scotland is more than tartan shortbread tins. The studio uses craft, objects, and storytelling to showcase Scottish cultural identity. View an eclectic range of unique handmade items from artists across the country including woven baskets, Shetland wool jumpers, knives forged in the Isle of Sky, and terracotta candlesticks.
Also included in the guide:
A food tour led by a TV presenter who takes you to places you would never discover on your own
A former Victorian bathhouse where visitors can watch weavers and artists at work
Join our digital community of well-traveled experts and women—to access the full guide.
Get a two-week free trial to get inside and start exploring right away.