As the sun sets over Scotland’s capital city, Edinburgh transforms into a vibrant and exciting place to be. With its rich history, cultural attractions, and lively nightlife scene, this fascinating city has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll guide you through the best streets, zones, and neighborhoods to visit in the evening, ensuring an unforgettable experience.
A Night Out in Edinburgh: History and Culture
Edinburgh’s Old Town, New Town, and Newington are the main areas for nightlife in Scotland’s capital city. The Old Town, also known as the Città Vecchia, is the historic district of Edinburgh, where you’ll find most of the city’s attractions, as well as many bars, clubs, and restaurants. The New Town, or Città Nuova, is a more elegant area with Georgian-style buildings, while Newington is a lively neighborhood that’s popular among students.
The Old Town: A World of History and Entertainment
The Old Town is home to some of Edinburgh’s most iconic landmarks, including the Royal Mile, the National Museum of Scotland, and Edinburgh Castle. This historic district also boasts an array of traditional pubs, bars, and restaurants, offering everything from live music to craft beers.
- The White Hart Inn: The oldest pub in Edinburgh, serving traditional Scottish cuisine and great beer.
- The Last Drop: A famous pub in Grassmarket, offering excellent food and drinks.
- Tonic: A cozy cocktail bar with an intimate atmosphere.
Streets of the Old Town
Some must-visit streets in the Old Town include:
- Royal Mile: The main street of Edinburgh’s Old Town, lined with shops, restaurants, and historical landmarks.
- High Street: A lively street with a range of bars, clubs, and live music venues.
- George Square: A historic square surrounded by beautiful Georgian buildings, perfect for a relaxing evening stroll.
The New Town: Elegant and Sophisticated
The New Town is a more elegant area with Georgian-style buildings, offering a sophisticated atmosphere perfect for a night out. Some popular spots include:
- Bramble Bar: One of the world’s 50 best cocktail bars, with a sophisticated atmosphere.
- Tigerlily: Another elegant cocktail bar with creative drinks.
- The Voodoo Room: A stylish restaurant and bar in West Register Street.
Newington: Lively and Young
Newington is a lively neighborhood that’s popular among students, offering a range of bars, clubs, and restaurants. Some top picks include:
- The Pear Tree pub: A lively spot near the university, with a large outdoor area that fills up quickly on sunny days.
- The Royal Oak: Another famous pub in Infirmary Street, offering great food and drinks, as well as live music every evening.
- The Jazz Bar: Offers live jazz performances.
Leith: The City’s Hip Neighborhood
Leith is a trendy neighborhood just outside of Edinburgh’s Old Town, known for its street art, independent shops, and lively bars. Some popular spots include:
- Tigerlily: Another elegant cocktail bar with creative drinks.
- Barrio: A lively Spanish-inspired bar with live music.
- The Royal Oak: Offers great food and drinks, as well as live music every evening.
Newington: Bars, Clubs, and Live Music
Some top picks for bars, clubs, and live music in Newington include:
- The Jazz Bar: Offers live jazz performances.
- Barrio: A lively Spanish-inspired bar with live music.
- Whisky Bar: A cozy spot serving a range of whiskeys.
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Ghost Tours and Mysteries
Edinburgh is famous for its ghost tours and mysteries. For a 75-minute tour of the city’s hidden underground spaces, start at 9pm. Join a guided Ghost Bus Tour on a vintage bus to explore the city’s mysteries. Attend a Pub Crawl tour with drinks and discounts for a lively night out in Old Town.
Tips and Events
For festivals like Hogmanay (Edinburgh’s New Year’s Eve celebration), consult the official website for details on events and festivities. Be sure to check opening hours, dress codes, and any specific rules or regulations before heading out.
Conclusion: Where to Go in the Evening in Edinburgh
Edinburgh is a city that truly comes alive at night, offering an unforgettable experience for visitors. With its rich history, cultural attractions, and lively nightlife scene, this fascinating city has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for traditional pubs, elegant cocktail bars, or lively clubs, Edinburgh’s Old Town, New Town, and Newington are the perfect places to explore.
FAQs
Q1: What is the best time to visit Edinburgh at night?
A1: The best time to visit Edinburgh at night is around 8-10 pm, when most bars and clubs start to open. However, it’s always a good idea to check opening hours and events in advance.
Q2: Where can I find live music in Edinburgh?
A2: There are many venues in Edinburgh that offer live music, including The Banshee Labyrinth, Boteco Do Brasil, and The Rat Pack.
Q3: What are some popular ghost tours in Edinburgh?
A3: There are several guided Ghost Bus Tours available in Edinburgh, which take you on a journey through the city’s hidden underground spaces. You can also join a 75-minute tour of the city’s most haunted sites.
Q4: How do I find the best bars and clubs in Newington?
A4: Newington is a lively neighborhood with many great bars and clubs. Try searching online for “best bars in Newington” or checking out review websites like TripAdvisor to find the top spots.
Q5: What are some popular festivals in Edinburgh?
A5: Edinburgh hosts several festivals throughout the year, including Hogmanay (New Year’s Eve celebration), Fringe Festival, and Edinburgh International Book Festival.
Q6: Can I drink at bars that don’t serve beer?
A6: Yes, many bars in Edinburgh offer a wide range of cocktails and other drinks. Some popular cocktail bars include Bramble Bar and Tigerlily.
Q7: How do I get around Edinburgh at night?
A7: Edinburgh has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses and trams. You can also use taxis or ride-sharing services like Uber.
Q8: What are some safety tips for visiting Edinburgh at night?
A8: Always be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Avoid walking alone in dimly lit streets and keep an eye on your drinks and belongings.
Q9: Can I find live jazz music in Edinburgh?
A9: Yes, The Jazz Bar is a popular spot for live jazz performances, while other venues like The Banshee Labyrinth also offer jazz nights.
Q10: What are some recommended pubs to visit in Edinburgh’s Old Town?
A10: Some top picks include The White Hart Inn, The Last Drop, and Tonic.
