Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland, and I really loved this city — I thought it was so beautiful. One of the most dramatic cities I’ve visited in Europe — a medieval castle perched on a volcanic rock, narrow alleyways (called closes) disappearing into darkness, Georgian terraces, and hills you can hike straight from the city centre. It’s compact, walkable, and genuinely fascinating to wander.

Time of Year I Visited

I went in March — cold, with some sun and some rain, sometimes both in the same day. Bring layers and a waterproof jacket if you’re going that time of year.

Did I Feel Safe?

Yes. I saw some drunk guys at the bars — whisky and the cold seem to be a combination — but nothing that made me feel unsafe. I stuck to main streets and never felt at risk.

Where I Stayed

Motel One Edinburgh Royal: Great location. I choose Motel One whenever I can — consistently good value across the cities they’re in, well-designed rooms without unnecessary frills. I stayed 4 days because I was also working remotely.

What’s Worth Doing

Dean Village: One of my favourite finds in Edinburgh. A tiny, almost fairytale-like neighbourhood tucked into a valley along the Water of Leith, just below Dean Bridge — cobbled lanes, old stone mill buildings, ivy-covered walls. It’s a short walk from the West End and Princes Street, but it feels like a different world entirely. A must if you’re visiting.

Calton Hill at Sunset: I went up for sunset and got lucky with a few genuinely sunny moments. One of the best views over the city — worth the walk up.

New College, University of Edinburgh: A taxi driver told me to go take pictures at the entrance. He was right — great spot, and not somewhere I would’ve found on my own.

You also see a lot of Scottish men playing the bagpipes around the city — genuinely adorable, and very Edinburgh.

What I Ate

Bariuma Ramen: One of the best bowls of ramen I’ve ever had, and not at all what you’d expect to find in Edinburgh.

The Doric Tavern — Cullen Skink: The best Cullen Skink (a traditional Scottish smoked fish soup) I tried in Edinburgh. A genuine must-try.

Black Sheep Coffee — Billionaire Shortbread: Heaven. That’s the only way to describe it.

Makars Gourmet Mash Bar: The haggis here was excellent. The lamb shank main course was so tender you could eat it with a spoon.

For the Gym Rats

I travel a lot, but I take care of my body, so wherever I go I try to find a gym and keep training. In Edinburgh I booked Gym Group, City Centre location (Waverley Gate, 2-4 Waterloo Place) — you can get one-day or three-day passes online. Big gym, easy to book, no hassle.

Things to Know

The weather changes constantly — I had sun and rain on the same day in March, so bring a proper waterproof layer, it’s not optional. Weekend nightlife gets rowdy — whisky and a cold climate apparently go together, expect drunk groups on Friday and Saturday nights. Not dangerous in my experience, just loud.

How Long Did I Stay?

4 days, but I was also working remotely. 2 days is more than enough if you’re just sightseeing and keep moving.

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