We take a look at the city of Edinburgh and what it has to offer in terms of luxury hotels, restaurants and activities.
Luxury travel guide: Things to do and places to stay in Edinburgh
We take a look at the city of Edinburgh and what it has to offer in terms of luxury hotels, restaurants and activities.
“This is a city of shifting light, of changing skies, of sudden vistas. A city so beautiful it breaks the heart again and again” is how bestselling author Alexander McCall Smith describes Edinburgh.
From atop Arthur’s Seat, with breathtaking views over the Scottish capital, it can be hard to believe that Edinburgh is a modern city filled with offices and art galleries. This charming city exudes history; every corner hides a delight from the past, from the winding cobblestone alleys of the Old Town to its extinct volcano and architectural wonders.
Even the UNESCO World Heritage New Town dates back to the mid-18th century. Scotland’s wonderfully rich past is perfectly preserved here and contrasts beautifully with some of the country’s finest high-end restaurants, luxury hotels and unique experiences.
Find out everything you need to know about visiting this spectacular city in our luxury Edinburgh travel guide, including how to get there via luxury private jet charter.
Best luxury hotels in Edinburgh
Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh – The Caledonian
Best for : Old-world elegance
One of Edinburgh’s most recognisable landmarks, the Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh – The Caledonian, has welcomed esteemed guests since 1903. The stunning Victorian railway hotel has 241 tastefully decorated rooms and suites offering some of the city's (and Edinburgh Castle’s) best views. The Alexander Graham Bell Suite is the finest of the lot, and you’ll find gorgeous local artwork and a working vintage telephone in the 950 sq ft room.
Two fine-dining restaurants, a sophisticated wine and cocktail bar, and a spa featuring an indoor swimming pool, sauna and steam room are just a few of the luxury amenities guests can enjoy at the city’s grand dame of hotels.
The Balmoral
Best for : The royal treatment
Palatial is the world that comes to mind when you see The Balmoral. Overlooked by Edinburgh Castle, this Rocco Forte hotel has a signature clock tower that’s a key landmark of Edinburgh’s skyline. The five-star hotel has 167 individually decorated rooms that are classy and contemporary.
Guests can enjoy the fine-dining options in Brasserie Prince and the exceptional Michelin-starred basement restaurant Number One, or sample Edinburgh's most famous afternoon tea in Palm Court. Of course, there’s the Balmoral Spa, too, which offers exquisite relaxation and treatments. For those travelling with dogs, the hotel provides a welcome pack with a bed, a water bowl, and advice on where to take furry family members in the city.
Fingal
Best for : A unique stay on the water
One of the newer hotels in Edinburgh, the Fingal is certainly making a splash. Opened in 2019, this floating hotel is located in what was once a northern lighthouse board vessel that shipped supplies and personnel to Scotland’s numerous lighthouses.
It’s now a stunning 23-cabin boutique hotel. Each cabin is named after a Scottish lighthouse, and you’ll encounter tasteful nautical decorations throughout the hotel. In fact, HRH the Princess Royal, in her role as Patron to the Northern Lighthouse Board, spent time on this vessel; her quarters have been turned into the impressive Skerryvore Suite, which has a separate sitting room and private deck for cocktails. The hotel’s restaurant specialises in fantastic Scottish cuisine, and guests will love the cocktails served at the Lighthouse Bar.
Edinburgh’s top restaurants
Kitchin
Based in a converted whisky warehouse on the historically significant Leith waterfront, Kitchin is one of the few Michelin-starred restaurants in Edinburgh. Chef Tom Kitchin's philosophy of “nature to plate” drives him to produce some of the finest dishes in the city. He has trained under some of the world’s best chefs and applies elegant French techniques to the most luxurious local Scottish produce to create a sumptuous experience that is complimented by the chic and friendly vibe.
The Hawksmoor
Scotland is famous for its renowned Aberdeen Angus beef, so you can’t skip trying the best steakhouse in the city. This tantalising restaurant is found in a stunning former banking hall, and its Art Deco features and antique furnishings bring an old-world charm to the place.
Of course, the steak is the main star of the show, but be sure to sample the seafood, too. The local Eyemouth crab is a highlight and makes a perfect starter to a hearty Scottish sirloin for mains.
Restaurant Martin Wishart
Another Michelin-starred eatery, this is a fine-dining restaurant producing sumptuous European cuisine using the finest Scottish ingredients. Located in the historic waterfront area of Leith, it is elegant, classy and formal.
The restaurant is renowned for its gourmet tasting menu, which comes in a vegetarian option, too. The likes of hare braised in red wine and seared scallops with apple and endive salad adorn the menu, and every mouthful is a delight.
Exploring Edinburgh
There’s so much to explore in this eclectic city, and if you’re flying in by private plane for a brief visit, we suggest choosing just a few of the most appealing activities to suit your tastes. Here are our favourite things to see and do in Edinburgh:
Whisky tasting
Along with beef and bagpipes, Scottish whisky is one of the most recognisable and renowned Scottish exports. For a country of its size, Scotland has a significant reputation in the whisky industry and produces some of the finest in the world. Edinburgh is a whisky lover's dream. The Scotch Whisky Experiences allows visitors to learn how a dram is made and holds plenty of tastings. You’ll also see the famous Diageo Claive Vidiz Collection, which comprises nearly 3,400 bottles of whisky housed in a glass and marble vault.
The Holyrood Distillery, located at the bottom of the Royal Mile, is another whisky experience worth exploring, offering tours and tastings.
Explore on foot
Edinburgh is best explored on foot, and the Royal Mile (a succession of streets that make up the Old Town) is the ideal starting point. You’ll see St. Giles’ Cathedral, founded by the High Kirk of Edinburgh in 1124, while quaint shops sell everything from whisky and kilts to the finest cashmere. There are also plenty of pubs and restaurants along the way to satisfy any craving. Be sure to stop and visit The People’s Story Museum, which chronicles the city's history.
Move on to the picturesque streets of the Georgian New Town, which is rich with Neoclassical architecture. The Scottish National Gallery and the Scottish National Portrait Gallery are worthwhile visits for art lovers. On a Sunday, there’s excellent food and crafts on offer at the Stockbridge Market.
Castles, palaces and other historic buildings
The 12th-century Edinburgh Castle dominates the city skyline and beckons visitors to experience its ancient halls. With dark dungeons, military museums, a 12th-century chapel, and the impressive Scottish Crown Jewels on display, it’s a great excursion for anyone visiting the city.
Then there’s Holyrood Palace, the official royal residence in Scotland. It was also home to Mary Queen of Scots in the 16th century before her ill-fated demise. The best way to explore this stately home is through Sleigh’s Scotland travel specialists. The company holds a Royal Warrant for outstanding service to the royal family. They offer a unique and exciting after-hours palace tour, where you can access private areas like the State Apartments. You can also stop for a grand afternoon tea on the Royal Yacht Britannia.
Getting to Edinburgh via luxury charter flight
Getting to Edinburgh via private jet from the UK couldn't be easier. No matter which airport you need to fly from, we can organise a cost-effective, luxurious flight straight to the city. The main commercial airport is Edinburgh Airport, but you can speak to your dedicated account manager and charter expert about smaller airfields and helipads that could be available, too.
Get the most out of your Edinburgh visit with Air Charter Service
Edinburgh has an incredible history, stunning sights, high-end restaurants and impressive hotels. The Travel Division at Air Charter Service are experts on luxury travel to the world’s top destinations. With their knowledge and expertise, you can rest assured that your visit to the Scottish capital will include only the finest hotels, restaurants and private tours.
Contact us to learn more about our private jet charter flights today.