Edinburgh in 1 Day for Couples - Curated stops at independent, high-quality cafes and restaurants
In Collaboration with Skye Class Tours. Updated on February 13, 2026.
A locally owned, small-group walk through Edinburgh's Old Town and New Town sampling premium Scottish dishes and drinks. The guide adapts the route daily to showcase exceptional independent restaurants and cafés; tour includes several substantial samples (equivalent to a large lunch), coffee or tea, and at least one alcoholic beverage for guests 18+. Approximately 2 miles of walking across the Old
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Skye Class Tours, inspired by the tour Tailored Premium Edinburgh Food Tour with Highest Quality Dishes. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Curated stops at independent, high-quality cafes and restaurants
- Short guided stroll along the Royal Mile with local history
- Photo stop at Advocate's Close and views toward New Town
- Visit to the Scott Monument / East Princes Street Gardens area
- Includes coffee/tea and at least one alcoholic beverage (age permitting)
Itinerary
Day 1
Meet on location in Edinburgh Old Town then walk a carefully paced route through the Royal Mile, visiting independent cafés and restaurants in Old Town and New Town. The route is adaptable for most dietary restrictions (not vegan); expect roughly 2 miles of walking and 4.5 hours total including pauses.
Meeting point and introductions
Meet your guide at the Marriott Old Town Chambers (reception area) on High Street for check-in, quick introductions, safety notes, and dietary confirmation before departure.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive 10 minutes early to check in at the Marriott Old Town Chambers reception (329 High Street) so the group can depart on time.
- Bring any allergy or dietary information in writing (phone photo is fine) so the guide can confirm arrangements with venues.
- The meeting area is inside the hotel reception; if you have mobility needs, notify the operator in advance so the route can be planned.
Old Town introduction and first samples
Introductory walk through Edinburgh's Old Town (UNESCO World Heritage Site) with first tasting samples at hand-picked independent stops. Guide will cover local food context and practical notes.
Tips from local experts:
- Expect some short flights of stairs inside historic buildings; wear comfortable flat-soled shoes for cobbled streets.
- If you prefer to avoid alcohol, tell the guide at the start so the included alcoholic sample can be substituted.
- Keep a small water bottle with you—guides plan breaks but hydration is recommended between tastings.
Royal Mile highlights and short stop
A focused 15-minute segment along the Royal Mile to see key streetscape points and to sample local fare between venues.
Tips from local experts:
- The Royal Mile can be busy—stay close to the guide for quick transitions between stops.
- This stop is brief (about 15 minutes) so leave larger bags at your accommodation if possible.
- Photographs here are best with a light jacket to block wind; autumn afternoons can be breezy.
Pass the High Kirk (St Giles' Cathedral)
Pass by St Giles' Cathedral (the High Kirk of Edinburgh) while the guide covers its history and significance to the city.
Tips from local experts:
- This is a pass-by historic stop; if you want to enter St Giles' Cathedral afterwards, allow extra time as entry may have a separate fee or queue.
- Be respectful of worship and quiet zones if services are in progress; the guide will indicate acceptable areas for photos.
- Seating is limited around the exterior—use this stop mainly for photographs and narration rather than a long rest.
Photo stop at Advocate's Close
Short photo opportunity at Advocate's Close, one of the atmospheric closes off the Royal Mile. The guide may point out nearby legendary independent establishments.
Tips from local experts:
- Advocate's Close is narrow and can be busy; step aside to let other pedestrians pass and for clear photos.
- Wear shoes with grip—some paving here is uneven and can be slick in rain.
- If you want a longer photo session, mention it to the guide; they can advise best timing to avoid crowds.
New Town visits — cafés and restaurant tastings
Walk to New Town for multiple sit-down and counter-service tastings at carefully selected independent cafés and restaurants. Includes high-quality coffee or tea and several savory and sweet small dishes; at least one alcoholic beverage included for 18+ who drink.
Tips from local experts:
- This is the main eating block—plan for seated tasting portions; if you have mobility concerns ask to be seated first.
- Notify the guide immediately of any missed items (allergies/intolerances) so substitutions can be arranged within the route.
- Keep your phone handy for brief menu clarifications; some venues are small and may run out of particular dishes during busy service.
Scott Monument (Walter Scott tribute) and wrap-up
Visit the Scott Monument area in East Princes Street Gardens for a final overview and wrap-up of recommended places to eat in town. The guide will provide final suggestions and answer questions before the tour ends.
Tips from local experts:
- This final segment includes standing time and views—bring a light layer as gardens are exposed to wind.
- If you wish to climb the Scott Monument afterward, check opening hours and ticketing separately—the tour does not include monument entry.
- Ask the guide for a short list of nearby dinner spots tailored to your preferences—this is the ideal time to plan evening reservations.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | - |
| Restaurants | 1 |
| Total Activities | 7 |
| Total Places | 7 |
| Activities Types | Hotel, Neighborhood, Culture, Attraction, Meal |
