Without a doubt one of the most romantic cities in Scotland, Edinburgh is the place to go for a great date, whether you’ve new to the dating scene or have been lucky in love for years. The cobbled streets, dramatic landscape, and incredible culinary scene all make Edinburgh a dreamy setting to get hearts a fluttering.
Edinburgh offers a wealth of romantic opportunities for couples looking to spend quality time together, whether you’re in the mood for a cozy night in or an adventurous day out. From exploring the city’s rich history to taking in its breathtaking natural beauty, there’s no shortage of ways to create unforgettable memories with your significant other. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, read on for our top picks on the best date ideas in Edinburgh.
Whether you’re happy with a few cocktails in a trendy bar, dying for a delicious feast at a fine-dining restaurant, keen to get the adrenaline pumping with something more adventurous, or desperate to sample some of the local culture, we’ve got Edinburgh date ideas to suit all. To help you choose between the endless fun date ideas in Edinburgh, we’ve compiled this comprehensive guide. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, read on for the best date night ideas in Edinburgh in 2023.
Be sure to check out our guide to the best pubs in Edinburgh and the best afternoon tea in Edinburgh, too.
Best Edinburgh Date Ideas 2023
Enjoy the views from Arthur’s Seat
Looking for a nice daytime date idea in Edinburgh? First up on our list of the best date ideas in Edinburgh is a steep climb up the city’s most famous former volcano, Arthur’s Seat. As you climb (hand in hand maybe?) take in the impressive views together and admire the city from above. It’s also the perfect spot to watch the sunrise if you’re an early walker, or watch the sunset if you’re willing to stay up there until late. This is the perfect Edinburgh date idea for couples who love fitness or for those who don’t to bond over their hate for climbing hills.
The trail to the summit is well-marked and offers plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the scenery. Along the way, you’ll see everything from wildflowers and rock formations to ancient ruins and historic landmarks. Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Edinburgh’s skyline and the surrounding countryside. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider packing a picnic and enjoying a romantic lunch or dinner with your partner at the top of Arthur’s Seat. However you decide to do it, Arthur’s Seat is a must-try date idea in Edinburgh!
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Get lost together in Camera Obscura
If the weather isn’t quite accommodating a hike up Arthur’s Seat, the magical Camera Obscura & World of Illusions makes a great indoor date idea in Edinburgh, perfect for rainier days. Maneuver around the maze of mirrors, see what your date will look like when they’re old, view the city from a whole new perspective and even have a fake marriage (if you’re really keen). This is a super fun date idea in Edinburgh where you can experience five floors of interactive illusions and magic; the perfect Edinburgh date night for fans of the unbelievable.
If you’re looking for unique and fun date ideas in Edinburgh, visiting the Camera Obscura & World of Illusions is definitely worth considering. This popular attraction is located on the Royal Mile and offers a variety of interactive exhibits that will stimulate your senses and spark your curiosity. The Camera Obscura is a fascinating device that uses mirrors and lenses to project a live image of the surrounding city onto a concave surface. Visitors can observe the streets, buildings, and people of Edinburgh as they move in real-time, providing a one-of-a-kind view of the city that you won’t find anywhere else.
In addition to the Camera Obscura, the attraction also includes a range of exhibits that play with optical illusions and challenge your perceptions. From a mirror maze to a vortex tunnel and a light show, there’s plenty to explore and discover. You and your partner will have a blast trying to figure out the different illusions and laughing at the surprising twists and turns. After you’ve explored the exhibits, you can head up to the rooftop terrace for a stunning panoramic view of Edinburgh’s skyline. How romantic!
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Have a laugh at The Stand Comedy Club
For a guaranteed fun date idea in Edinburgh, head to The Stand Comedy Club, sure to get rid of any awkwardness for first dates. Regarded as the city’s year-round answer to The Fringe, this comedy club has performances every night and has become something of an institution in Edinburgh. Set in a small basement, it offers the perfect cosy, intimate setting for an Edinburgh date night. So, if you’re looking to have a laugh on your date night in Edinburgh, be sure to head to The Stand.
For couples who enjoy a good laugh, a visit to The Stand Comedy Club in Edinburgh is the perfect date idea. This popular venue is known for its lively atmosphere and hilarious performances, featuring some of the best comedians from Scotland and beyond. Located in the heart of the city’s New Town district, The Stand Comedy Club offers a cozy and intimate setting that’s perfect for date night. You and your partner can enjoy drinks and snacks at the bar before settling in for a night of laughter and entertainment.
The club features a regular rotation of stand-up comedians, as well as improv and sketch comedy performances. You’re sure to find something that will tickle your funny bone and leave you in stitches. The performers often engage with the audience, making for a truly interactive and engaging experience. One of the great things about The Stand Comedy Club is that it offers shows at different times of the day and night, so you can easily fit it into your Edinburgh date schedule. Whether you prefer a weekend evening show or a mid-week matinee, you’re sure to find something that suits your preferences.
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Find your way out of an Escape Room
Suss out how well you work together by taking on an Escape Room for your Edinburgh date night. Something a little different and guaranteed to be a fun date idea in Edinburgh, reveal any red flags early by working as one to crack the code and get out. Will this date night in Edinburgh seal the deal or end it early? Why not find out?
This is certainly one of the best date ideas in Edinburgh for couples who love puzzles and problem-solving, an escape room is an excellent date idea in Edinburgh. There are several escape rooms located throughout the city, each offering unique themes and challenges that will put your skills to the test.
Escape rooms typically involve a group of people who are “locked” in a room and must solve a series of puzzles and riddles in order to escape within a set time limit. You and your partner will need to work together, using your intelligence and creativity, to decipher clues and find hidden objects that will lead you to the key to unlock the door.
Escape rooms are also a great way to bond with your partner, as you’ll be working closely together and communicating throughout the experience. It’s a chance to strengthen your teamwork skills and develop a deeper level of trust and understanding.
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Whiskey tour
Kill two birds with one stone with a whiskey tour. This Edinburgh date idea allows you to spend some quality time with your date while sampling some of the local culture. If there’s one thing Edinburgh does right, it’s whiskey. Take a walk through the Old Town of the city with a local host and work your way through Scotland’s best whiskies. This is the perfect date idea in Edinburgh for couples who share a love for whiskey and a great way to start your Edinburgh date night.
For couples who enjoy a good dram of whiskey, a whiskey tour is an excellent date idea in Edinburgh. As the capital of Scotland, Edinburgh is home to some of the country’s most iconic whiskey distilleries and offers a range of tours and tastings for visitors. A whiskey tour typically involves a guided visit to a distillery, where you’ll learn about the history and production process of whiskey, from the malting and fermentation of grains to the distillation and maturation of the final product. You’ll get to see the stills, barrels, and other equipment used in the whiskey-making process, and learn about the unique flavors and aromas that distinguish different types of whiskey.
After the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to sample a range of whiskeys, from traditional single malts to blends and specialty bottlings. You’ll learn about the different tasting notes and flavors, and have the chance to ask questions and engage with the experts. In addition to the whiskey itself, many distilleries also offer stunning views of the Scottish countryside and provide a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage. It’s a chance to connect with Scotland’s history and traditions, and to enjoy a unique and memorable date with your partner.
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Explore Edinburgh’s Botanical Gardens
If you’re looking for free or budget-friendly date ideas in Edinburgh, the city’s Royal Botanical Gardens are free to wander and cover over 70 acres! Beautiful all year round, this is a great Edinburgh date idea for both summer and winter. Take a picnic and find a secluded area to spend some time together in this stunning scenery. For just £7 each, you can even visit the glasshouses, where you can experience 10 different climates. Visiting the city at Christmas? This is one of the best places to see the Christmas lights, taking your Edinburgh date night to a whole new level.
For couples who love nature and the outdoors, a visit to the Botanical Gardens is a perfect date idea in Edinburgh. Located just a few miles from the city center, the gardens offer a stunning array of plants and flowers, as well as picturesque walking trails and unique attractions. As you wander through the gardens, you’ll be surrounded by a diverse range of plant life from around the world, including exotic orchids, towering trees, and delicate ferns. You can explore the rock garden, which features a range of alpine and arctic plants, or stroll through the Scottish heather garden, which showcases the country’s native flora.
One of the highlights of the gardens is the Victorian Palm House, a stunning glasshouse that houses a collection of tropical plants from around the world. Inside, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a lush rainforest, with towering palms, colorful flowers, and exotic birds.The gardens also offer a range of seasonal events and exhibits, from flower shows and art installations to concerts and outdoor theater performances. There’s always something new and exciting to see and do at the Botanical Gardens, making it a perfect date idea for couples who love to explore and discover.
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Indulge in a Chocolate Tour
Prefer chocolate to whiskey? Then we’ve got the best date idea in Edinburgh for you. After all, chocolate is the way to a man and a woman’s heart. So, give your dating game an upgrade by taking that special someone to Edinburgh’s Chocolatarium, where you can immerse yourself in the magic of chocolate. You’ll not only be able to sample some of Scotland’s best chocolate, but you’ll also learn about the history of chocolate, too. During this Edinburgh date idea, you’ll be able to try malt whiskey-infused chocolate, as well as haggis-inspired chocolate, and even get the chance to make your own. Dating a chocoholic? They’re sure to love this Edinburgh date idea!
For couples with a sweet tooth, a chocolate tour is a delicious and indulgent date idea in Edinburgh. As the home of some of Scotland’s finest chocolatiers, Edinburgh offers a range of tours and tastings that will satisfy your cravings and ignite your taste buds. A typical chocolate tour in Edinburgh involves a guided visit to some of the city’s top chocolate shops, where you’ll learn about the history and art of chocolate-making. You’ll get to see the process from bean to bar, and learn about the different techniques and ingredients used to create a range of delectable treats.
Throughout the tour, you’ll have the chance to sample a variety of chocolates, from traditional milk and dark chocolates to unique and exotic flavors like lavender and sea salt. You’ll also have the opportunity to pair your chocolates with different types of wine, whisky or coffee to enhance the tasting experience. In addition to the delicious chocolates, the tour also provides a chance to explore Edinburgh’s vibrant culinary scene and immerse yourself in the city’s culture and history. You’ll learn about the unique role of chocolate in Scottish cuisine and discover hidden gems of the city’s food and drink scene.
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Stroll through Princes Street Gardens
If you’re looking for outdoor Edinburgh date ideas, perfect for summer or spring, Princes Street Gardens are a beautiful set of gardens that you can stroll through hand-in-hand with your date. The gardens were created by draining Edinburgh’s Nor Loch which was once used as a medieval defense for the city. As you wander through the different levels of Princes Street Gardens, you’ll be able to spot a number of Edinburgh’s greatest attractions, including The Scott Monument, built to commemorate Sir Walter Scott, one of Scotland’s most well-known novelists. Look up and you’ll also be able to spot Edinburgh Castle which sets the romantic mood for this date idea in Edinburgh.
For couples looking for a relaxing and romantic Edinburgh date idea, a stroll through Princes Street Gardens is a perfect choice. Located in the heart of the city, the gardens offer a beautiful oasis of greenery and tranquility amidst the hustle and bustle of Edinburgh’s busy streets. As you walk through the gardens, you’ll be surrounded by a stunning array of flowers, trees, and shrubs, including beautiful rose gardens, towering trees, and tranquil ponds. You can relax on one of the many benches scattered throughout the gardens and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
One of the highlights of the gardens is the Ross Fountain, a stunning Victorian-era fountain that serves as a beautiful centerpiece to the park. During the summer months, the fountain is illuminated at night and provides a romantic backdrop for a stroll with your significant other. The gardens also offer beautiful views of some of Edinburgh’s most iconic landmarks, including Edinburgh Castle and the Scott Monument. You can take a leisurely walk along the paths and take in the breathtaking sights and sounds of the city.
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Visit picture-perfect Leith
If you have time to travel slightly outside of the city centre, visiting Leith, one of the lesser-known but prettiest neighbourhoods, is another fabulous, romantic Edinburgh date idea. Here, you’ll find a series of paths that connect cool areas along the canal. One of our favourite walks in is from Stockbridge, an upmarket, bustling neighbourhood with trendy cafes, to Dean Village, which is one of Edibnurgh’s most instagrammable areas, set deep in the gorge of the river Leith. If you and your one true love are into walking, this is a great date idea in Edinburgh that provides a chance to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre.
Located just a few miles from the city center, Leith is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood with a rich history and a wide range of attractions to explore. One of the highlights of Leith is the historic port, which has been an important center of trade and commerce for centuries. You can take a stroll along the waterfront and admire the stunning views of the Firth of Forth, or visit the Royal Yacht Britannia, a beautiful and well-preserved former royal yacht that’s now open to the public for tours.
Leith is also home to a range of excellent restaurants and bars, offering a diverse range of cuisine from traditional Scottish fare to modern fusion dishes. You can indulge in a romantic dinner for two, or enjoy a casual drink in one of the area’s many cozy and welcoming pubs. In addition to its food and drink scene, Leith also has a rich cultural heritage, with a number of galleries, museums, and theaters to explore. You can visit the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, which features an impressive collection of contemporary art, or catch a performance at the renowned Traverse Theatre.
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Edinburgh is a city full of history, culture, and romance, and the wide range of date ideas available make it the perfect destination for couples looking for a memorable and exciting night out. From the stunning views of Arthur’s Seat to the laughter-filled evenings at the Stand Comedy Club, Edinburgh offers something for every couple.
A whiskey tour or a chocolate tour can provide a unique and indulgent experience, while a visit to the Botanical Gardens or a stroll through Princes Street Gardens offers the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. For those looking for a more eclectic date idea in Edinburgh, a trip to Leith provides a range of cultural, culinary, and outdoor options.
Whether you’re a long-time resident or a first-time visitor, there’s always something new and exciting to discover in Edinburgh. So why not plan your next romantic date in this beautiful and historic city and create memories that will last a lifetime?
Go take a look at our guide to the best romantic restaurants in Edinburgh, as well!
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