2-Day Romantic Escape in Edinburgh
An unhurried, intimate two-day itinerary for couples in Edinburgh in June. Combines iconic views, cozy cafés, candlelit dinners, gentle walks and two special moments — a sunset on Calton Hill and a couples' spa — with local insider tips for romantic photos and quiet corners.
Highlights
- Sunset on Calton Hill
- Candlelit dinner at The Witchery by the Castle
- Couples spa at The Balmoral Spa
- Hike Arthur's Seat for skyline views
- Royal Yacht Britannia visit in Leith
Itinerary
Day 1
A relaxed introduction to Edinburgh: Old Town charm, castle time, secret riverside corners and a show-stopping dinner followed by a sunset viewpoint.
Breakfast at Loudons (brunch and coffee)
Start gently with a sunny table and seasonally focused brunch. Loudons is relaxed, with good coffee and pastries—ideal for lingering and planning your day.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask for a window table for natural light photos — the interior is calm and intimate.
- Reserve ahead for weekend mornings in June; brunch fills quickly.
- If you want to share, try a couple of small plates rather than one large — more to taste and more intimate conversation.
Stroll along the Royal Mile (Old Town exploration)
A relaxed walk down the Royal Mile to soak in medieval architecture, interspersed with quiet closes and boutique shops — aim for a gentle pace and small discoveries.
Tips from local experts:
- Head into a narrow 'close' (alley) for quieter photo spots away from the main street.
- Wear comfortable shoes: cobbles can be uneven and best enjoyed slowly.
- Pop into smaller craft shops for unique keepsakes and avoid the busiest souvenir stalls by shopping side streets.
Visit: Edinburgh Castle (history with dramatic views)
Take a relaxed tour through the castle to enjoy panoramas of the city and a sense of history — choose a timed-entry ticket to avoid queues.
Tips from local experts:
- Book timed-entry tickets in advance for a less stressful visit and to secure a quieter arrival time.
- Head to the battlements together and pick a favorite skyline view for a romantic photo.
- Bring a light jacket — castle terraces are breezy even in summer evenings.
Lunch at Ondine (fresh seafood, intimate setting)
A cozy seafood restaurant near the Royal Mile ideal for a leisurely, romantic lunch — share a small plate or order a tasting-style starter selection.
Tips from local experts:
- Request a quieter table away from the front windows if you prefer a more private conversation.
- Order a couple of smaller dishes to share rather than large mains — more intimate and relaxed.
- Book a table in advance for a weekend lunch; mention it's a special occasion for a small extra touch if available.
Transfer to Dean Village (short scenic walk / taxi)
Head to Dean Village — a photographers' favourite with waterside tranquillity. Use this transfer to slow down after the bustle of the Royal Mile.
Tips from local experts:
- If walking, take the Princes Street Gardens route for a gentle, pretty stroll across town rather than a direct taxi.
- If you prefer less walking after the castle, a short taxi keeps things effortless and romantic.
- Carry a small picnic blanket if you'd like to pause riverside for a quiet moment together.
Stroll: Dean Village and Water of Leith (quiet riverside walk)
Wander the cobbled lanes and riverside paths of Dean Village — intimate, sheltered by trees and perfect for a slow, private hour of exploring.
Tips from local experts:
- Find the small bridge for a framed shot of the village reflections — a lovely couples' photo.
- Stay on the lower paths for the most tranquil experience away from foot traffic.
- Bring comfortable shoes; some paths are uneven and slightly muddy after rain.
Café break at The Lookout by Gardener's Cottage (light refreshments with a view)
A calm café perched near Calton Hill ideal for a light refreshment before evening — relax on the terrace if weather allows.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask for a terrace spot for city views — perfect for a quiet pre-dinner chat.
- Calton Hill can be breezy in the evening; bring a shawl or light jacket for comfort.
- Try a shared cake or sticky treat to keep energy up for the evening and preserve the romantic mood.
Candlelit dinner at The Witchery by the Castle
An atmospheric, romantic dinner in one of Edinburgh's most evocative dining rooms — rich décor and theatrical ambiance ideal for a celebration or intimate date-night.
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve well in advance and mention it's a special evening; they are used to helping couples celebrate.
- Ask for a quieter table in the candlelit room rather than the busier entrance area.
- Dress smart-casual; the atmosphere is theatrical and a touch dressy makes the evening feel special.
Calton Hill at dusk — romantic viewpoint (special moment: sunset / city lights)
Ascend Calton Hill for sweeping city and bay views as the lights come on — a perfect post-dinner intimate moment to toast together and take skyline photos.
Tips from local experts:
- In June the light lingers late; plan for a later sunset and bring a light jacket — hilltop breezes are common.
- Arrive 10–15 minutes before your preferred view to secure your favourite bench or stone for photos.
- Bring a small flask of something warm or a chilled glass of bubbly from dinner (discreetly) for a private toast.
Nightcap at Bramble Bar & Lounge (intimate cocktail bar)
Finish the night with expertly mixed cocktails in an intimate speakeasy-style setting — perfect for low-key conversation and a relaxed end to day one.
Tips from local experts:
- Book a late table or a seat at the bar for the most atmospheric experience.
- Ask the bartender for a bespoke cocktail — they craft tailored drinks if you tell them favourite flavours.
- If you prefer quieter spots, aim for a weekday or earlier evening; Bramble can become lively later at weekends.
Day 2
A day of soft adventure and relaxation: hike for panoramic views, explore Leith's waterfront and enjoy a couples' spa followed by a relaxed final evening.
Morning hike up Arthur's Seat (panoramic sunrise-style vistas)
A moderately-paced walk to Arthur's Seat for sweeping city and sea views — best done in the cooler morning hours for a private shared experience.
Tips from local experts:
- Set out early to enjoy quieter paths and softer light; even in June it can feel serene in the morning.
- Wear trainers with good grip — some trails are steep and rocky in places.
- Bring water and a light snack to enjoy at the summit; pick a sheltered rock for a private moment together.
Brunch at The Scran & Scallie (comforting, seasonally-driven gastropub)
A warm, welcoming spot in Stockbridge ideal for a relaxed brunch with Scottish produce—great for lingering and planning the afternoon.
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve ahead for a weekend brunch table; ask for a snug table if you want privacy.
- Try sharing a couple of starters and a main — it's a comfortable, homely way to sample more dishes.
- Stockbridge has lovely independent shops nearby; factor a slow stroll after brunch for a romantic browse.
Royal Yacht Britannia, Leith (waterside culture and history)
Explore the Royal Yacht Britannia together for a calm, engaging cultural visit with unexpectedly intimate nooks and royal interiors to admire.
Tips from local experts:
- Book a mid-afternoon slot to avoid the busiest morning tours and enjoy quieter rooms onboard.
- Listen for the audio-guide commentary — the personal stories bring the spaces to life and make for quiet shared discoveries.
- After the tour, stroll the nearby Leith waterfront for charming cafés and a less touristy seaside atmosphere.
Transfer back to central Edinburgh (gentle return via taxi or tram)
Return to the city center at an unhurried pace — a short transfer to relax before museum time and your spa appointment.
Tips from local experts:
- Choose the tram from York Place for a relaxed ride and to avoid parking or traffic in central Edinburgh.
- If you prefer a taxi, request a driver familiar with quieter scenic routes to keep the mood calm.
- Use this time to freshen up at your accommodation if needed before the museum and spa.
Explore the National Museum of Scotland (short cultural visit)
A compact, interesting museum with varied galleries — pick one or two sections (design, world cultures or Scottish history) for a relaxed visit.
Tips from local experts:
- Focus on one or two galleries to avoid museum fatigue and keep the visit intimate.
- Head to upper floors for quieter galleries and surprising city roofline views from some windows.
- Sit for a few minutes in a quieter gallery to read plaques together — it creates thoughtful shared moments.
Couples spa at The Balmoral Spa (special moment: relaxation for two)
A late-afternoon couples' spa session at The Balmoral's elegant spa — choose a side-by-side treatment or use relaxation suites to unwind together.
Tips from local experts:
- Book a couples' treatment or private relaxation suite in advance — these sell out for weekend evenings.
- Arrive 20–30 minutes early to use the thermal areas and make the experience unhurried.
- Coordinate dressing and arrival so you can leave together, refreshed and ready for a relaxed final evening.
Evening cocktails at The Dome (grand, intimate bar to end your trip)
A mellow final-night setting under grand lights on George Street — elegant cocktails and genteel ambience for a last intimate toast.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask for a quieter table in the colonnaded room to enjoy the architecture without a loud crowd.
- Order a classic cocktail and share a dessert or cheese plate to extend the evening slowly.
- If you'd like sweeter, lighter cocktails after a spa, ask the bartender for floral or citrus suggestions.
