Hotel Indigo Edinburgh, 51 - 59 York Place, EH1 3JD

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10 Summer Activities You Need to Do in Edinburgh

There’s no better place to spend a summer city break than in Edinburgh. There’s plenty to see and do, so you can enjoy the Scottish summertime to its full extent.

 

With summer events, outdoor dining and plenty of picturesque locations for a sunny walk, you won’t be short of that summer feeling in Edinburgh.

 

Take a look at our top ten summer activities that you need to do during your stay.


South Queensferry Bridge

River Cruises

 

Just a short journey out of the city centre, you can find some great river cruises if you fancy getting on the water during your trip. 

 

The Forth Boat Tour in South Queensferry, to the west of Edinburgh, is a great experience to explore the history and stories of the area. A relaxing river cruise is the perfect activity for a summer's day, especially when you’re surrounded by beautiful scenery. There’s even the opportunity to spot some seals!

 

Find out more here.

 

 

Edinburgh fringe

Edinburgh Fringe

 

You can’t have a summer trip to Edinburgh without immersing yourself in the iconic Edinburgh Fringe Festival!

 

With lots of events and street performers scheduled, the city is buzzing with energy and life with plenty of fun activities to add to your trip’s agenda.

 

Keep an eye out for this year's lineup here.

Read more about why the Edinburgh Fringe Festival is an experience not to be missed here.

 

 

edinburgh cocktails

Rooftop Cocktails 

 

There’s nothing quite like sipping on a few drinks in the sunshine, add a rooftop bar in Edinburgh to that and you have yourself the perfect summer activity.

 

There’s plenty of beautiful bars where you can enjoy a tipple with a great view of Edinburgh, whether you prefer sophisticated cocktails, or a laid back drink with friends.

 

Take a look at these top rooftop bars in Edinburgh here.

 

 

edinburgh zoo giraffes

Visit Edinburgh Zoo

 

Enjoy a relaxed wander as you marvel at amazing animals in Edinburgh Zoo. It’s a popular attraction whatever the season, but seeing the animals basking in the sunshine as you soak up the sun takes some beating!

 

Keep an eye out too for any seasonal events they may be running that you can get stuck into - there’s always something exciting happening!

 

Plan your visit here.

 

 

edinburgh outdoor dining

Alfresco dining

 

Enjoying a delicious meal under the sun is a top summer feeling, especially when you’re on your holidays! Edinburgh has a large selection of amazing dining experiences, with many now offering outdoor seating.

 

So grab a bite to eat while enjoying those rays. Take a look at some top recommendations here.

 

 

princes street gardens

Picnic in the park

 

If you’re in the mood for more casual alfresco dining, why not make the most of the beautiful parks and open spaces in Edinburgh?

 

Pack up a picnic with all your favourite snacks and treats and head to Princes Street Gardens to relax, and even enjoy a bit of sunbathing. It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike during the summer months, so head down early for the best spot!

 

 

edinburgh castle

Tour Edinburgh Castle

 

This classic Edinburgh attraction is a must whatever the season may be. In summer you can experience beautiful, clear views of Edinburgh that look magnificent in the sunshine. Plus there’s plenty to explore inside the castle, whether you want to immerse yourself in a tour, or just take a leisurely walk around the gardens.

 

Make sure you book your tickets in advance as they sell out quickly during the summer months! Get yours here.

 

 

royal mile edinburgh

Watch buskers on the Royal Mile

 

The Royal Mile is the best place for wandering and exploring on your trip to Edinburgh. The street is often home to a variety of buskers and performers that you can stop and watch. 

 

With everything from bagpipes to talented singers, there’s lots that you can take a moment to enjoy as you get that summer feeling!

 

 

edinburgh tour bus

Travel on the open top bus

 

The Edinburgh open top buses are an efficient way to explore every part of Edinburgh, as you can hop on and hop off as you please. 

 

It’s an even better experience in summer, as you can spend the day in the sun and discover the sights of Edinburgh in one trip.

 

View the different tours you can take, and book your tickets here.

 

 

 

The Military Tattoo

 

The Military Tattoo is a spectacular summer event that happens yearly at Edinburgh Castle. Each year has a different theme, and celebrates musicians and performers from all over the world.

 

With talented members of the British Armed Forces, Commonwealth and international military bands putting on a great show, it’s definitely an unmissable experience!

 

Book your tickets now.

 

 


We hope that’s given you some inspiration for your upcoming summer Edinburgh city break!

 

Take a look at our luxury hotel special offers, and book your break with us now.

HOTEL INDIGO EDINBURGH'S

LATEST SPECIAL OFFERS

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Ultimate Giraffe Package

Celebrate the return of the Edinburgh Zoo giraffes with our exclusive package.

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Upgrade your Edinburgh city break with our ultimate hotel bundle.

Stayed over the weekend with friends. Had the most fantastic time - from the moment we arrived Fiona on reception was so warm and welcoming, cocktails in juniper where amazing, bedrooms where really stylish - we all didn't want to leave!

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Hotel Indigo Edinburgh Reviews

Sophie,

Cambridge

This hotel is such a great find. Its location cannot be beat and the rooms are incredibly nice. Great amenities (including complimentary mini bar) and great service. Would definitely stay here again!


Sue,

Newcastle upon Tyne

I stayed here overnight to see Justin Timberlake on his Man of The Woods Tour. We were greeted with the warmest welcome by the receptionist...genuinely helpful and friendly. We stayed in the Suite, which has everything I could possibly need. A FREE (well stocked) mini bar! Robes, Aveda toiletries, slippers, free calls, a very appreciated cafetiere with ground coffee and a lovely selection of teas. 30mins in and a welcome plate arrived with 5 good size desserts...gorgeous.

Room service was excellent and the breakfast was utterly delicious and brought to the room at no extra charge. The room was very large and spacious with a huge double bed, blissfully comfortable. When needed in the evening the staff pressed a button at reception and a taxi arrived within 2 minutes...Outstanding service!

I had such a fantastic stay here that I shall return in November and I'll be re-booking this Suite.


Micky,

Kingston upon Hull

Less than 10 mins walk from Waverley. Staff were very polite, helpful and friendly throughout our stay. Room was a good size with a great bathroom. Large shower, robes and Aveda products included. Fridge with free cold drinks. Good breakfast with plenty of choice. Both couples enjoyed and would stay again.


Daniel,

Bury

Really nice friendly boutique hotel. We didn't arrive until late but the hotel was more than happy to let us check in late. After checking in we also asked for some area recommendations, which again the staff were more than happy to give us. Our room was really nice and very clean, bed was comfortable and gave us a good night sleep. We stayed for two night and did not hear any noise from the hotel or any of the other guest. In a good location with only a short walk to the shops and restaurant/cinema ! If staying on Edinburgh I would highly recommend this hotel!


Ashley,

Sheffield

Stayed for one night, but very impressed. Receptionist was fantastic, very professional, helpful, good looking and immaculately presented. The room was excellent, very clean, bed comfortable and the shower was fantastic, hot and powerful.

Breakfast well worth the money, with attention to detail and served hot. The location is excellent with just a 10 minutes walk from the station and to Princess Street. I will definitely stay here again.

Great boutique hotel and great value for money. Wish I was staying for longer.


Dave,

Dunfermline

Had a one night stay here. The location is great, right beside a Tram Stop, 2 minute walk to St Andrews Square bus station, 15 min from Waverley Train station and short walk to main shopping and restaurants. Hotel was very clean & comfortable. Good Breakfast. Very friendly staff.


Lynn,

Falkirk

Really nice hotel in a fantastic location for train station, shopping and nightlife. Lovely rooms, with complimentary snacks and lovely Aveda toiletries in the room. Bed was really comfortable, breakfast was also excellent and the staff very friendly. Would definitely recommend this hotel to family and friends visiting Edinburgh.


Rob,

Melbourne

Visited the hotel and stayed 2 nights having stayed at the Indigo in London. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay. Lovely rooms, great service, very good location opposite the tram stop and bus routes.
Lovely bar and restaurant is on site if you prefer to stay close for dinner!


Scott,

Inverness

I stayed at Hotel Indigo for first time last week, the service from the reception, bar and restaurant staff was faultless. The room was very comfortable and the bed was the comfiest i have ever slept in. The Hotel is situated close to the Playhouse and only 5 minute walk from waverley station, there are several good bars and restaurants in the vicinity. A great Hotel in a good area.

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