One night in Edinburgh

Make the most of your business trip with a taste of Scottish history

Planning an upcoming business trip to Edinburgh? Even with just one night in Edinburgh, this historic capital offers the perfect chance to squeeze in a taste of Scotland’s vibrant past.

With our handy guide, we’re here to help you transform your short stay into a jam-packed travel adventure. Max out your precious free time and get ready to discover Edinburgh’s stunning local gems, historical landmarks and a touch of that Scottish spirit.


Remote working at Waterstones Princes Street

If your Edinburgh business trip coincides with a remote working session, fear not! Waterstones Princes Street boasts a prime location and a delightful productivity solution for remote workers. Knock out emails while surrounded by towering shelves overflowing with stories and soak up the panoramic views of the magnificent Edinburgh Castle from the top floor cafĂŠ.

With free Wi-Fi, perfect for staying connected, and plenty of comfy armchairs, tables and quiet corners scattered throughout the store – Waterstones Princes Street is the perfect Edinburgh spot to conquer your work to-do list.


Grab a tasty lunch bite from Bonnie & Wild food court

Dive into the heart of Edinburgh’s culinary scene with a quick and delicious lunch at Bonnie & Wild! Located in the heart of the St. James Quarter, Bonnie & Wild is a bustling food court unlike any other.

It’s a haven for busy, on-the-go professionals, offering a mouthwatering array of cuisines, all under one roof. Discover a diverse selection of independent food vendors, each showcasing the best Scottish cuisine with a modern twist.


Explore the city by foot – Calton Hill, Victoria Street & Royal Mile

Let’s face it, business trips often leave us glued to meeting rooms and taxi commutes. But Edinburgh offers a fantastic opportunity to ditch public transport and explore the city on foot – getting a proper feel for this capital’s unique charm.

Start your day with a brisk climb up Calton Hill and enjoy panoramic views of the city while snapping photos of landmarks like the National Monument and Nelson’s Column. Next, make a delightful detour down Victoria Street – a vibrant, rainbow-coloured street lined with independent shops and cafĂŠs. And finally, discover the historical Royal Mile stretching from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse – packed with iconic landmarks like St Giles’ Cathedral and the Scottish Parliament.


Stay nearby


Dive into Scotland’s history at Edinburgh Castle & Palace of Holyroodhouse

No trip to Edinburgh, even a whistle-stop business one, would be complete without a taste of the capital’s rich history. Luckily, the city boasts two must-visit Scottish landmarks to explore: Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

Towering over the city, Edinburgh Castle is an exquisite Scottish attraction. Pre-book your tickets online to skip the queues to maximise your time and explore the fortress’s breathtaking city-wide views as you dive into its military past. Next, just a short walk down the Royal Mile lies the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. Enjoy a self-guided tour through the opulent State Apartments and learn about Mary, Queen of Scots’ tragic story.


Try some traditional Scottish pub grub

Traditional haggis After a whirlwind afternoon exploring Edinburgh’s historic heart, your stomach might be rumbling for a refuel. Dinner is the perfect opportunity to delve deeper into Scottish culture through its delicious cuisine. So, we’re ditching the generic chain restaurants and heading for a traditional Scottish pub! Here’s a quick guide to some iconic Scottish dishes you might encounter:

Haggis, Neeps & Tatties: This national dish is a must-try for the adventurous eater! Haggis is a savoury sausage made with sheep’s offal, oats and spices and encased in a sheep’s stomach lining. It’s traditionally served with ‘neeps’ (mashed turnips) and ‘tatties’ (mashed potatoes).

Cullen Skink: This creamy soup is a seafood lover’s dream. Made with smoked haddock, potatoes, onions and milk, it’s a hearty and comforting meal, perfect on a chilly Scottish day.

Scotch Pies: These savoury hand-held pies come in a variety of fillings, with steak and ale being a classic choice. They’re perfect for a quick bite and can easily be enjoyed on the go between meetings.


Discover Scottish culture with a whisky-tasting

Burns Night WhiskyLooking for a relaxed evening activity with colleagues in the heart of Edinburgh? Why not discover Scotland’s beloved national drink: whisky? This isn’t just about enjoying a tipple, it’s a chance to explore deeper into Scottish culture and heritage.

Whisky production is known as a Scottish art form with a rich history, deeply woven into the fabric of the country. Distillery tours offer a fascinating glimpse into the whisky-making process, from malting to cask maturation. However, if time is tight, there are many whisky bars in Edinburgh boasting extensive collections and knowledgeable staff who can guide you through a curated tasting experience.