35 of the best things to do in Edinburgh at night

Edinburgh is a beautiful city and the capital of Scotland that’s full of awesome fun things to do. If you’re looking for the best things to do in Edinburgh at night, then you’re not going to be short of things to try. 

Edinburgh is a hub for music, theatre, comedy and more, making it the perfect place to explore after dark. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there are plenty of things to keep you entertained in Edinburgh at night.

Below, I’m sharing some of my favourite things to do in Edinburgh at night, from catching a show at the theatre to exploring the city’s pub scene. Whether you’re a night owl or just looking for something to do after dinner, Edinburgh is sure to deliver an unforgettable experience.

How to get to Edinburgh

While many domestic visitors to Edinburgh will likely drive to the capital city of Scotland, there are other ways to travel there too including the following:

Flights to Edinburgh

Edinburgh has an international airport, which sits about 8 miles west of the city centre. 

The airport is served by a range of airlines, including budget carriers like Ryanair and EasyJet and you can fly to Edinburgh from many UK cities and major European destinations.

There are also direct flights from North America, the Middle East, and Asia.

Skyscanner is what I use to find cheap flights.

To get to Edinburgh city centre from the airport you can ride the train which is a comfortable and reliable way to travel.

Trains to Edinburgh

Edinburgh is well-connected to other UK cities by train, and the main train station in Edinburgh is Waverley Station, located in the city centre. 

There are regular trains to Edinburgh from major cities like London, Manchester, and Glasgow as well as more regional and local train routes.

The journey time from London to Edinburgh is around 4-5 hours on a high-speed train.

Omio is a great platform for booking European and UK travel on. You can check train and bus prices and schedules and book super easily!

I also like using TheTrainLine.com for train tickets.

Alternatively, you can take the Caledonian Sleeper train from London to Edinburgh. This train leaves in the evening and arrives in Edinburgh early in the morning.

Check timetables and book tickets for the sleeper train.

Buses to Edinburgh

Edinburgh is also well-served by bus services, and the main bus station in Edinburgh is located in St Andrew Square in the city centre.

You can take a bus to Edinburgh from other UK cities, including London, Manchester, and Glasgow.

The journey time from London to Edinburgh by bus is around 10-12 hours, depending on the route and operator.

Omio is a great platform for booking European and UK travel on. You can check train and bus prices and schedules and book super easily!

Best fun things to do in the evening in Edinburgh

1. Take an evening walk

If you’re looking to explore Edinburgh at your own pace, there are plenty of audio guides available for download which can make taking a walk a great choice for evening activities Edinburgh has to offer. There’s even a Harry Potter audio guide!

You can stroll around the city whenever suits you, whether it’s day or night. Edinburgh looks especially lovely under the lights, with the Castle providing a stunning backdrop for some gorgeous photos. 

Make sure to check out the Vennel viewpoint which is one of my favourite views of the castle and Edinburgh’s architecture.

While the starting point at Edinburgh Castle is only accessible during the day until 6 pm depending on the time of year, there are plenty of other places that the audio guide will lead you to that can be visited at night. 

Read more: Only have one day in Edinburgh? Check out this Edinburgh one day itinerary!

2. Enjoy a night at the theatre

Head to Edinburgh Playhouse to catch a play. As the largest theatre in Scotland, Edinburgh Playhouse started life as a cinema in the 1920s. 

With a capacity of 3,000 over 3 levels, the Playhouse offers a great theatre experience. 

The original design and décor only add to the charm, whether you’re watching a musical like Les Miserables, a comedy show, live music, or a dance production. 

And with five bars, you won’t have to wait long for a drink. 

See the latest plays and shows at Edinburgh Playhouse right now.

3. Sample some Scotch whisky

No trip to Scotland is complete without sampling the nation’s most famous export – whisky! 

Joining a whisky tour is a great way to learn more about how this beloved drink is distilled. If you’re not sure about whisky, I’ve found whisky tours really give me more of an appreciation for it, and while I wouldn’t say I’m a whisky lover (yet) I always have fun going to a distillery for a tour!

There’s also the Scotch Whisky Experience which is a great thing to do during the day, but the last tour is quite early in the evening so it’s not the best Edinburgh night experience. 

4. Take a ghost tour in the Edinburgh Vaults

For an adventure that’s packed with history, intrigue, and a good dose of spookiness, a ghost tour of the Edinburgh Vaults is a must-do. 

The underground caverns were built in the 18th century and were once used for storage and slums. 

Nowadays, they’re the perfect setting for a ghost tour, where you can explore the underground vaults and hear about the dark events that have taken place below the city. 

It’s definitely one of the more unique things to do in Edinburgh if you’re looking for a thrilling experience.

• Edinburgh Underground Vaults and Graveyards night tour
• Edinburgh late nights underground vaults terror tour
• Edinburgh underground ghost tour

You can also take a non-ghost you of the Edinburgh Vaults if that’s more your style.

5. Go to a game

Sports fans will be pleased to know that Edinburgh has plenty of options to choose from. Edinburgh has two Premiership sides – Hibernian and Heart of Midlothian and the Scottish national rugby union side plays at Murrayfield. There’s also an ice hockey team (Edinburgh Capitals) and an American football team (the Wolves) to check out. 

Sport is an important part of the city’s culture, so be sure to check the sporting calendar for events taking place during your visit. 

Regular evening matches are held in all team sports so just pick one that takes your fancy and have a fun night! Being in a fun atmosphere at a sports game can be such a fun idea for fun things to do in Edinburgh at night.

6. Watch a film

For a night of entertainment, head to the Dominion cinema in Morningside, Edinburgh’s lovely independent cinema. 

Built in the 1930s with Art Deco style in mind, the building itself is worth visiting even if you don’t end up watching a film.

Watching a film at the Dominion, you’ll be comfortable with reclining sofas and snack and drinks service straight to your table. 

7. Dance at a ceilidh

Princes Street is central to Edinburgh life, and you can enjoy a traditional Scottish experience there – dancing at a ceilidh.

The Ghillie-Dhu is a large space that used to be a church, and nowadasy every weekend, you can enjoy live music to dance to as part of a ceilidh. 

There’s also a whisky bar where you can enjoy a drink or two before summoning the courage to join in on the dance floor.

I’m not usually much of a dancer, but ceilidhs are so much fun and one of the best things to do in Edinburgh at night!

8. Surprise yourself at Camera Obscura

Camera Obscura is one of Edinburgh’s best indoor activities, and it’s perfect for days when you want an indoor alternative. 

With five floors, there’s plenty to explore, and on weekends, it stays open until 9:30 pm. 

You’ll encounter tricks of the light and numerous photo opportunities as you make your way through this illusion-filled attraction. 

Before you leave, be sure to visit the Rooftop Terrace, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Edinburgh. Camera Obscura is right by the castle so you can get some super cool views of the castle and the rest of the city at night.

9. Real Mary King’s Close

For a deep dive into Edinburgh’s hidden history, take a tour of Real Mary King’s Close. 

Located under the Royal Mile, these secret alleyways reveal how Edinburgh residents used to live underground four centuries ago. 

The costumed character guides bring history to life with tales of myths, legends, hauntings, and murders that took place in the tenement houses centuries ago. 

The final tour starts at 9 pm so make sure to book your spot well in advance if this is one of the things you want to do in Edinburgh at night. 

10. Go to after-hours at the zoo

If you’re an animal lover, you won’t want to miss the chance to visit Edinburgh’s wonderful zoo after hours. 

The zoo usually closes at 4 pm in the winter and not much later in the summer, but there are several After Hours events that you can check out. 

The zoo is home to all sorts of animals including, my favourite, penguins. 

Some of the after-hours events at Edinburgh zoo include live music and drinks and it’s a fun way to experience the zoo when it’s a bit quieter. 

11. Have a night out in Edinburgh

A great way to get to know Edinburgh’s nightlife is to go on a pub crawl and, if you only have one night in Edinburgh I highly recommend checking out a few of the city’s pubs.

With a guide, you can discover places to go for a drink based on experience rather than a guidebook. 

Your journey through the old part of the city includes seven places and several free shots. At the end of the night, you can decide which places you want to revisit during your stay in Edinburgh.

If you know the city a little bit already or don’t like the idea of a tour, you can make up your own pub crawl by just going from pub to pub. Grassmarket is a great place for this.

12. Hit up a club in Edinburgh

Edinburgh’s club scene is lively until the early hours, and there’s something for everyone’s musical tastes. 

Stramash is one place worth trying, with a large bar in Cowgate that stays open until 3 am, live music, and the best of live sports. 

Food is available until around midnight, and there’s plenty of local and famous music to enjoy. 

The musical styles do change by the night, so be sure to check out which night is more your style.

13. Edinburgh Dungeon Late Show

The Edinburgh Dungeon is a top attraction in the city, and their Late Show is a unique way to experience it after hours. 

You’ll embark on a 1-hour journey through the dungeons, exploring one of the most terrifying, yet interesting, places in Edinburgh. 

The tour takes you through dark and narrow corridors with amazing sound effects and ends with a scary fun Drop Ride. As you go through the dungeons there are actors you’ll interact with you which makes the tour both scary and fun.  

The tours start from 8 pm till late and the late shows are only for those aged over 18.

14. Attend the seasonal markets in Edinburgh

Edinburgh is known for its fantastic seasonal markets that take place throughout the year. 

During the winter months, the city is transformed into a winter wonderland, complete with Christmas lights, decorations, and a bustling Christmas market in Princes Street Gardens.

Then, during the summer months, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe takes over the city, bringing with it a range of exciting After Hours events including comedy shows and theatre productions.

In August, the International Book Festival also takes place, providing book lovers with a range of evening talks and events to enjoy.

15. Attend a comedy show

The Edinburgh Festival Fringe is the world’s largest arts and media festival, held across numerous venues in the city each August. There are events all throughout the day and night so there’s always something to do no matter the time of day.

If you’re visiting outside of August, the Stand Comedy Club is a great place to enjoy stand-up comedy. With over 20 years of experience, it’s a favourite among locals and visitors alike. They have regular shows with renowned comics as well as those who are up-and-coming

Monkey Barrel comedy is another great option that provides an intimate setting where you can get up close and personal with the comedians. Be warned, you may get picked on during the show!

16. See the city lights from one of Edinburgh’s best viewpoints

Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano in Edinburgh, offers one of the best vantage points in the city. 

With panoramic views across the city, Holyrood Palace, and beyond, it’s a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting Edinburgh.

The climb to the summit is not as difficult as it may seem and can take an averagely-fit person under 1 hour. 

You can visit Arthur’s Seat at any time of day, with sunrise and sunset being the most popular times.

I highly recommend walking up Arthur’s Seat for sunset with a drink and a few snacks. It’s such a fun thing to do in the evening in Edinburgh if you like the outdoors. It’s also a great option if you’re looking for things to do in Edinburgh at night for free. 

Read more: The best things to do in Edinburgh for free

17. Get sunset drinks at The Lookout, Edinburgh

For a more relaxed evening activity, head to The Lookout on top of Calton Hill a UNESCO World Heritage site.

With floor-to-ceiling glass walls, you’ll get spectacular views of the city as you sip on your favourite drink. 

The food is just as impressive, with a menu crafted using the finest, seasonal ingredients from local producers. It’s the perfect spot to watch the sun go down in style.

18. Go stargazing at the Royal Observatory in Edinburgh

For a romantic and unique experience in Edinburgh at night, why not try stargazing at the Royal Observatory?

Late-night events are available where you get a tour of the telescope dome, a talk to learn more about the night sky and a chance to observe the sky from the rooftop.

There are two slots available, including an earlier one for families with young children.

19. Enjoy cocktails in Edinburgh

For a fun and interactive night out, try one of the cocktail classes in Edinburgh.

The American Bar at the Voodoo Rooms offers masterclasses with expert mixologists who will show you how to make a range of classic and modern cocktails. You can even try your hand at making your own cocktail.

Alternatively, head to Lulu, located below Tigerlily, for interactive cocktail classes led by experienced mixologists. Choose from a variety of packages, including a simple classic class or a VIP experience with a three-course meal.

The Printing Press also offers cocktail classes focusing on classic and modern cocktails, tailored to any level of experience, including a fun cocktail-making competition.

20. Head to the Leith food market

For a great evening out in Edinburgh, visit the Pitt Street Food Market in Leith. This food market opened in 2015 and has won numerous awards since then.

The market has a super fun atmosphere and so many different cuisines from all over the world to try. There’s often live music too and it’s open until 11 pm at the weekends so it’s a super fun thing to do in Edinburgh in the evening. 

21. Check out an Edinburgh Escape Room

Looking for a fun and challenging activity to do on a rainy evening in Edinburgh? Try an escape room! 

Escape Edinburgh has a variety of wonderfully themed rooms to choose from, including a wizarding world, Sherlock Holmes at Baker Street, and a world-saving adventure.

These games last for an hour and are suitable for 2 to 5 people. Solve puzzles and search for clues with your friends to escape the room before the time runs out. 

Whether you’re a puzzle-solving pro or a first-timer, an escape room is a great way to spend an evening in Edinburgh.

22. Enjoy live music in Edinburgh

Edinburgh has a thriving live music scene with venues that cater to all music tastes. 

One such venue is Sneaky Pete’s, located in the heart of the city’s Old Town. Sneaky Pete’s has a small capacity but hosts a variety of local and international artists, making it a must for music lovers.

Another popular venue is The Queen’s Hall, which hosts concerts ranging from classical music to jazz, folk, and rock. 

Or, for those who prefer a more relaxed setting, Sofar Sounds Edinburgh is a great option. This company hosts secret, intimate gigs in unique locations throughout the city. You won’t know who’s performing until the night, adding an air of excitement to your evening out in Edinburgh.

Read more: Fun things to do in Edinburgh for couples

23. Attend Edinburgh’s Cabaret Voltaire

Cabaret Voltaire is a popular arts venue in the Old Town of Edinburgh, perfect for those who love loud music and energetic crowds.

You can enjoy a range of music here, from dance music to live performances by visiting musicians. Booking a booth in advance will make it easy to order drinks from the bar all night long and makes that night a bit more special.

With opening hours until 3 am every night, you can dance the night away well into the next day.

24. Listen to classical music

If you are a fan of classical music, St Giles’ Cathedral is a must-visit landmark located on the Royal Mile.

The vaults of the cathedral host late-night concerts featuring choral singing and string quartets, with a programme published well in advance.

The atmosphere and the live music are enhanced by flickering candlelight, stained-glass windows, and the wooden rafters and roof above, creating a unique and memorable experience.

25. Enjoy a delicious meal at a great Edinburgh restaurant

Edinburgh has a range of dining options, from Michelin-star restaurants to casual fish and chip shops.

For a fine dining experience, head to Restaurant Martin Wishart in Leith, or Six by Nico. These restaurants use the best local produce and create stunning dishes both in taste and looks.

Other great options are Dishoom for Indian, or Fava Greek restaurant.

26. Take a Ghost Tour in Edinburgh

For a spooky adventure in Edinburgh, try one of the city’s famous ghost tours. With such a huge history, it’s perhaps not a surprise that Edinburgh has plenty of ghost tours.

Experienced guides for these ghost tours will be dressed up in character and take you on a tour of Edinburgh at night, telling you about the city’s past and legends. 

There are lots of Edinburgh ghost tours to choose from and it’s an exciting way to see Edinburgh after dark and learn about the city’s history and folklore.

• Extreme paranormal Edinburgh ghost tour
• Edinburgh evening underground ghost tour
• Dark secret ghostly walking tour
• Edinburgh dark side walking tour

27. Sample local craft beers

If you’re a fan of craft beer, Edinburgh is a great place to explore. Beer has influenced the city for over 800 years, and the craft beer scene has exploded in the last decade. 

There are brewery tours to learn about the history of brewing in Scotland and taste local craft beers or you can explore the vibrant craft beer scene on your own. 

I highly recommend this walking and tasting craft beer tour. You’ll learn more about the craft beer culture in the city, get to taste different ones and see more of the city at the same time!

28. Visit the National Museum of Scotland

The National Museum of Scotland is a must-see attraction in Edinburgh, and it’s even better after hours. 

The museum allows for after-hours visits at certain times throughout the year, where you can enjoy pop-up shows with food and drinks as you explore the exhibits. 

The National Museum of Scotland covers everything from art and design to science and technology, and Scottish history. You’ll find permanent and temporary exhibitions from ancient to modern times, and you can visit the roof for spectacular views of Edinburgh, day or night. 

Entry is free, and you don’t need to pre-book a ticket.

29. Take a walk along the Royal Mile and Edinburgh’s Old Town

Wandering around Edinburgh’s Old Town and Royal Mile is a great way to experience the city at night. 

The cobbled streets are always safe to explore, and you’ll find tourists, locals, and students all enjoying the city’s nightlife. 

You can stop in somewhere for a bite to eat or a couple of drinks as you take in the sights and sounds of the city. 

It’s the perfect way to end a trip to Scotland’s capital city, as you put your newfound knowledge of Edinburgh’s history, ghosts, and culture from visiting the city’s museums or taking the tours. 

30. Have a night out in Grassmarket

If you’re looking for a night out in Edinburgh, then head to the Grassmarket. 

Located at the foot of Castle Rock, it’s a vibrant section of Edinburgh’s Old Town with pubs and restaurants that come to life at night. 

Popular with locals, students and tourists, this is the perfect spot to visit after 5 pm. 

Check out Biddy Mulligan’s Irish Bar for great food, drinks, and live music which is also home to Scotland’s smallest pub, the Wee Pub. 

31. Calton Hill

If you’re looking for one of the best views of Edinburgh, take a stroll to the top of Calton Hill. 

Calton Hill offers panoramic views of the city and, once at the top, you can enjoy a 360-degree view of the city including Edinburgh Castle, Arthur’s Seat and Holyrood Park. 

Stargazers can also check out two observatories on Calton Hill – the Old Observatory House built in 1792 and the City Observatory built in 1818.

If you’re visiting in August, then Calton Hill is a hub for Edinburgh Festival shows. 

32. Watch the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is a truly iconic event that has been held annually for decades, bringing together performers from around the world for a night of unforgettable entertainment. 

Set against the backdrop of the majestic Edinburgh Castle, this incredible spectacle is a must-see for anyone visiting the city during the event. 

With a complete sellout every year and over 220,000 attendees, it’s clear that this event is incredibly popular, drawing in visitors from around the world. 

If you’re lucky enough to be in Edinburgh during the Tattoo, don’t miss the chance to witness this incredible display of music, dance, and military precision.

33. Enjoy classic games in a pub

The Mousetrap on Leith Walk is a popular spot for those looking to enjoy a classic games night in Edinburgh. 

With its eclectic decor and selection of free board games, it’s a fun and unique place to spend an evening in the city. 

But it’s not just the games that make The Mousetrap a great place to visit – it’s also got a great selection of drinks, including some of the best-priced cocktails in the city. 

Whether you’re a local or a tourist, a board game enthusiast or just looking for a fun night out, The Mousetrap is a great place to unwind and enjoy some classic pub games.

Read more: Guide to the best things to do in Edinburgh

34. Have a fun evening at Edinburgh Street Food

Newly opened in 2023, the Edinburgh Street Food Market is the place to go if you can’t decide what to eat and want to try a range of things. 

It’s a bold and eclectic foodies paradise filled with the best independent traders in Scotland and promises award-winning global flavours, local beers and spirits and live entertainment.

It’s based on some of the awesome food markets in Oslo and it’s so good!

35. Get festive at Edinburgh’s Christmas Market

Edinburgh’s Christmas Market is one of the best Christmas markets in Scotland and the UK for that matter.

For six weeks every year, Princes Street Gardens turns into a winter wonderland with wooden stalls selling personalised gifts and fresh food. 

The market comes alive in the evenings, with tourists and locals enjoying festive music, and mulled wine. If you want to get into the Christmas spirit, head to Edinburgh’s Christmas Market in the evening, wrap up warm and enjoy the twinkling Christmas lights.

Where to stay in Edinburgh

When planning a trip to Edinburgh, finding the right place to stay can greatly enhance your experience. From budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels, there are plenty of accommodation options to choose from in the city.

Below, I’ve picked out some of the best places to stay in Edinburgh.

JUST SLEEP Hostel

JUST SLEEP hostel is an affordable and comfortable place to stay in Edinburgh that’s the perfect base for exploring all that Edinburgh has to offer.

You can enjoy stunning city views from certain rooms, and the hostel even offers bike rentals for those looking to explore on two wheels.

Previous guests have raved about the amazing staff, helpful amenities, and unbeatable location.

Cheval the Edinburgh Grand

Looking for a luxurious and centrally located apartment accommodation in Edinburgh? Look no further than The Edinburgh Grand!

This stunning hotel in Edinburgh is just a 3-minute walk from Princes Street and features a range of amenities including an on-site restaurant, bar, and coffee house. Each apartment has a fully equipped kitchen and period features.

The location is unbeatable, with top Edinburgh attractions such as the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, and Calton Hill all within half a mile.

Previous guests praise the staff and special touches like birthday treats as well as the location.

Haymarket Apartments

For a comfortable and convenient place to stay in Edinburgh, Haymarket Apartments offers a stylish apartment that’ll feel like a home away from home.

Each apartment comes fully equipped with a kitchenette, seating area, flat-screen TV, and private bathroom with free toiletries. But the best part is the location – with Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile just a short walk away, as well as easy access to transportation options like the airport-bound tram and bus.

Past guests praised the great location, comfortable rooms, and abundance of nearby shops and restaurants.

Final thoughts on the best things to do in Edinburgh in the evening

Edinburgh is a vibrant city that offers plenty of exciting things to do at night. From stargazing at the Royal Observatory to enjoying live music at Stramash, there is something for everyone. 

Take a walk along the Royal Mile and Edinburgh’s Old Town or explore the Grassmarket and its pubs and restaurant or learn more about Edinburgh’s history and legends, ghost tours are a fantastic option. 

Foodies can head to Pitt Street Food Market for a taste of local cuisine or dine in one of the many Michelin-starred restaurants. And during the Christmas season, the Edinburgh Christmas Market is a must-visit. 

All in all, if you’re visiting Edinburgh and looking for Edinburgh things to do at night, you’re in for a treat. This city has a diverse nightlife scene and attractions that can cater to all interests and preferences.

FAQs on the best things to do in Edinburgh at night