Edinburgh is famous for its nightlife, which is as vibrant and dynamic as the city itself. There are a range of bars and clubs to suit all tastes, whether you want to head out clubbing or enjoy a more laid back evening with a drink and a view.
Old Town and New Town offer a blend of traditional pubs and trendier clubs, ensuring you can have a fun night out in Edinburgh no matter what your preference.
Nightclubs
If you are looking for some night time atmosphere, Edinburgh is home to some of the best pubs and clubs to suit all ages and music preferences. Edinburgh nightclubs are known specifically for targeting students, and since Edinburgh Universities surround the city centre, the student nightlife here is buzzing at all times. You can find a nightclub to suit your evening with affordable drinks, good music, and walkable distances to and from train stations and hotels.
Cinema
Edinburgh is a city with a vibrant nightlife scene that offers a dazzling array of theatre, live music and cinema. From stand-up comedy to side-splitting entertainment shows, breathing dance performances and thought-provoking dramas, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Edinburgh’s diverse theatrical offerings.
If you’re a movie lover, Edinburgh has an impressive range of multiplexes and independent cinemas. You can see the latest blockbusters at Vue Cinema, or head to one of the many historical cinemas including the century-old Cameo and the Dominion in Morningside which show a mix of popular films as well as indie and arthouse movies.
Comedy
Edinburgh has a comedy scene to suit all tastes, from road-testing shows at Pleasance to big-name acts performing at Festival Theatre. During August, Edinburgh’s infamous Fringe Festival brings the world’s best stand-ups to town.
The city is also home to year-round comedy hub The Stand, which hosts both local and touring comedians on a regular basis. The free lunchtime show and Red Raw showcase for beginners are a must see, while the bigger names take to the stage at regular nights throughout the week.
Bars
Edinburgh is home to a vast range of pubs and bars. Whether you’re looking for a quiet pint or a high-end dram, there’s something to suit everyone.
The student-packed Cowgate district has some of the city’s most buzzy clubs, while upmarket George Street and Lothian Road boast stylish modern boozers. However, it’s the traditional Scottish taverns that really do stand out in this part of town.
Located in the old insurance offices this is a bright bar with great atmosphere and a fantastic selection of real ales, whiskies and a good selection of food too.
