Vita Student Edinburgh, in the heart of the city.
Vita have sussed out the hot spots, tried and tested the food and drink and have the recommendations ready for you. Come and explore your new home with our city guide, curated exclusively for you to make you feel like a local in no time.
Take a Stroll Down The Royal Mile to The Castle.
Potentially the most famous and picturesque street in the whole city, The Royal Mile leads you right up to the Castle gates and throughout August, is probably the busiest place to be. When the Edinburgh Fringe Festival arrives, good luck walking through here in a hurry! The Castle is also worth a visit, set on the hill overlooking the whole city, it’s a beautiful site and there are also events here during the Festival like the Edinburgh Tattoo!
Sightseeing Bus Tour in Edinburgh.
Want to see the entire city in a matter of hours? We highly recommend a Lothian Bus Tour if that’s the case as it shows you parts of the city you’d struggle to find on your own. Choose your route and hop on and off all day for a full Edinburgh experience not to be missed.
George Street.
One of our favourite streets in the city and for good reason. Originally connecting St Andrew Square (another place to add to your list as here you’ll find Harvey Nichols and other shopping hotspots as well as some amazing restaurants like Dishoom and The Ivy!) George Street is now a popular destination with some incredible food and drinks places you’ll want to see. Bars like Tigerlily, The Dome and Le Monde if you want something stunning and super Instagrammable or you can head to Candy Bar if you want something low-key, cheap and cheerful but with a great atmosphere.
Haymarket and the West End.
If you’re into your rugby, Haymarket is where you can find Murrayfield Stadium, pretty much the home of Scottish rugby. Another must-see area of Edinburgh is the West End. A short walk from Haymarket, the West End is full off eclectic finds, cobbled streets and a laid-back vibe. Described as a hidden gem, The West End is the perfect place for boutique shopping, luxury finds and delicious independent restaurants and bars.
Holyrood Palace
Venture to the eastern end of the Royal Mile to discover the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland, the Holyrood Palace. For only £14 on the day (young persons ticket (18-24 years old)), you can explore the historic rooms and beautiful gardens surrounding the Palace.
Take a Hike up Arthur’s Seat
Fancy some fresh air and a bit of exercise? Bring your friends and hike up the ancient volcano, Arthur’s Seat for panoramic views of the vibrant city. It’s a refreshing escape and a popular spot for both locals and visitors. Within the park you can also visit St Anthony’s Chapel – a 15th century medieval chapel, Salisbury Crags – a series of 150 foot cliff faces dominating Edinburgh’s skyline as well as Duddingston Loch – a fresh water loch rich in birdlife.
National Museum of Scotland
If you’re looking for something free to do, why not dive into Scotland’s rich cultural history at the National Museum of Scotland. Located in Chambers Street, this treasure trove features a diverse collection of artifacts, interactive exhibits, and fascinating displays spanning science, technology, fashion, and more.
Edinburgh’s Botanic Garden
Escape the city hustle and bustle at the Royal Botanic Garden. Wander through themed gardens, including the stunning Glasshouses, and marvel at an array of plant species. It’s a serene retreat where you can appreciate nature’s beauty.
Scotch Whisky Experience
Indulge in Scotland’s national drink at the Scotch Whisky Experience on the Royal Mile. Take a guided tour from £23 to discover the whisky-making process, explore a vast collection of Scotch, and even participate in a tasting session.
As you navigate this city, let Vita be your guide, leading you through the cobbled streets, historic landmarks, and cultural treasures that define Edinburgh. The Scottish capital welcomes you with open arms, promising an unforgettable chapter in your student journey.
Looking for student accommodation in Edinburgh? Check out our Vita Student Fountainbridge and Iona Street buildings.
