City Retreat @ West End Village
Edinburgh
Bedrooms 2 Sleeps 4
Written by Davide Tedesco
An insider guide from The Edinburgh Address team
Our team of Edinburgh locals have created a carefully selected one-day itinerary to help you experience alternative things in the Scottish capital.
This insider guide will keep you busy as you explore and experience the best Edinburgh has to offer; sights, venues and excellent eateries to immerse in the Scottish culture.
Remember to check the attractions/shops website for more information. Have a wonderful day in Edinburgh!
- MORNING -
Have a delicious hot drink and a quick bite, to start-up your day! The Milkman is a wee coffee shop with some seriously good coffee, hot chocolate (my favourite), teas and cakes.
It is located in Cockburn Street, just off the Royal Mile, with a cosy and lovely atmosphere. A little heaven of simplicity!
It only takes few minutes to walk through the close and you will be rewarded with a beautiful view of Princes Street.
If you want to avoid climbing the numerous stairs, you can get there from the Royal Mile. Isn't it beautiful?
The two locations are very close to each other and are a great way to learn about Edinburgh's most influential writers and the city's history.
One of Edinburgh's oldest homes, takes you back to the 17th century. Listen to incredible stories about the capital's past.
Located in one of the most popular hidden square, this museum presents the lives and works of three of the foremost Scottish writers: Robert Burns, Walter Scott and Robert Louis Stevenson.
This ‘improbably picturesque’ house is located in the Royal Mile, close to the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
The house is one of the oldest in Edinburgh and certainly one of the most atmospheric, with its Oak Room and painted ceilings.
Victoria St is a very popular and charming corner of the Old Town, yet you cannot miss it!
Visit Walker Slater for some great Tweed and vintage clothing or buy fantastic candles at The Isle of Skye Candle Company.
The views from the terrace are stunning, and you can see the famous George Heriot's School, one of the locations that gave inspirations for Harry Potter's Hogwarts.
The Royal Mile is the heart of Edinburgh, the stage of many historical events that are told to this day.
However, many hidden gems and stories have happened in its closes, wynds and narrow streets.
See the pretty hidden garden of Dunbar's Close, James Court or the Advocate's Close with it's stunning views of Princes Street.
How about strolling down the Royal Mile and simply exploring them all!
Another well-know attraction but definitely a nice moment to see the iconic and faithful dog that everyone loves.
Remember to leave his poor nose alone, otherwise it will keep wearing away and he will be left with no nose to sniff around!
- AFTERNOON -
It's time to recharge before you head-out for more exploration!
This relaxed soup cafe is a short walk from the Royal Mile. It serves healthy food from soups (obviously) to breakfast and artisan coffee. It has vegetarian, gluten free and vegan options.
The staff is really friendly and kind.The food is really good! Perfect for warning up before heading back out for more wandering.
A unique venue with sumptuous and seasonal lunches.
The location is simply stunning, from the decor to the atmosphere, a memorable experience for anyone who is in Edinburgh. Go for Lunch or Afternoon Tea and prepare to be amazed!
These locations provide two distinctive experiences. The first venue is a multi-art complex, while the second one (as you might have guessed) features a vast anatomical exhibitions, ideal for the curious and the brave!
A fantastic venue home to visual art exhibitions, concerts and much more.
In the location you can visit the famous Pickering's Gin and learn about Edinburgh's history of gin, visit Barney's Bee Brewery and have a few tipples in the local bars and pubs.
Famous for featuring the largest and most historic collections of surgical pathology in the world. The collection includes artefacts and works of art. Fascinating!
- EVENING -
Edinburgh is home to many great restaurants and bars, but only few can give you a special experience. If you are looking for a great culinary experience then look no further!
A lovely place with great and romantic atmosphere and service. The menu features Scotland's natural bounty.
Fantastic selection of vegetarian food, your taste buds will thank you! I suggest trying the lamb sweetbreads for starter and the wild Halibut as main.
A fantastic wee bar tucked away in a cobbled lane. You will find a buzzing atmosphere, great food and an experienced and friendly bar staff. Ask them for any cocktail you want, you won't be disappointed!
I recommend trying the steaks together with a dram of Whiskey. Also, I suggest you book in advance.
The day is not over yet! In the evening, Edinburgh leaves behind the bright and loud atmosphere for a more sophisticated and sometimes spooky vibe.
Begin the night with a storytelling tour of the dark closes and wynds of Edinburgh, then journey into the haunted streets and underground vaults.
Finally, retire to a candlelit cellar for a dram of Scottish whisky and more storytelling! I highly recommend this experience. It showed me an Edinburgh I never knew existed.
A small and bustling bar with live music and great drinks. The atmosphere is fantastic for those whom love jazz or music in general.
The Jazz Bar offers a unique experience, just make sure to get there early as it might get busy. Also, bring cash with you as you might need to pay to get in.
- NIGHT -
It has been a long and exciting day in the beautiful Scottish capital. Now, it is time to relax in your home and think of all the things you have experienced.
Enjoy some well-deserved rest.
Bedrooms 4 Sleeps 6 (+2) Free parking
