Postcard from Edinburgh: A local's favorite destinations in the city

Edinburgh resident Katie Goh shares her top recommendations for walks, artistic spots, neighborhoods, and craft breweries in her beloved city.

Having lived in Edinburgh for nearly seven years, I continue to uncover new places to explore in this historic city.

My friends and I often refer to Edinburgh as a village: in just 10 minutes, you can stroll from the lively, shop-lined Princes St to quaint cobblestone alleys and find yourself on a bench in the woods, listening to the gentle flow of the Water of Leith. Plus, you’re bound to run into familiar faces everywhere you go.

While most tourists flock to Edinburgh in August for a month of festivals that includes the fringe, international, book, art, and film festivals—when the city seems to swell in size and every corner hosts a performer—Edinburgh has plenty to offer throughout the year. Here are some highlights.

I typically begin my day in Edinburgh with…

A coffee. You need that caffeine boost to conquer the city's renowned seven hills and steep streets. While there are plenty of independent cafes perfect for people-watching, I usually grab mine to go on my commute. Cheapshot is a favorite among busy students, professionals, and tourists alike. With prices starting at just £2.50, Cheapshot truly lives up to its name, also offering freshly baked pastries. What sets this coffee shop apart is its unique rotating management system: each year, a new barista takes over for a year, fostering a welcoming and supportive community around the cafe.

When in Edinburgh, you simply must try...

Hiking up a hill for breathtaking city views. Edinburgh boasts seven hills, with the most iconic and tallest being Arthur’s Seat. The ascent is steep (so wear sturdy footwear), but the panoramic views over the city and the Firth of Forth make it all worthwhile. After catching your breath at the summit, descend the other side into Holyrood Park and make your way to the charming and historic Duddingston Village. Here, you’ll discover lovely streets and a 12th-century kirk (church) beside a serene loch. Reward yourself with a refreshing pint at the Sheep Heid Inn. If it's a Sunday, indulge in a tasty roast lunch.

Edinburgh's finest independent shops

My favorite area in Edinburgh is...

Portobello. This delightful suburb is located right by Edinburgh’s coastline. Hop on a bus to Portobello (or affectionately called Porty), and you’ll find a bustling main street filled with charity shops, unique gift stores, cozy cafes, and fish-and-chip shops, along with the fantastic Portobello Bookshop, which hosts author events nearly every week.

As you follow the sound of the waves crashing against the shore down the residential streets, you’ll soon arrive at Portobello Beach, a vast two-mile stretch of sand. In the summer, Porty Beach attracts swimmers and sun-seekers, while in the winter, it’s a serene place for a stroll (just be sure to dress warmly!). Along the seaside promenade, you'll discover various food and drink options, including gelato, and plenty of outdoor seating to relax and watch the waves.

The best place for a sandwich in Edinburgh is...

Alby’s. Located in the Leith neighborhood, Alby’s is renowned for serving the best hot sandwiches in town. The menu refreshes every two weeks, but you can always find vegan, vegetarian, and meat options available. These massive, cheesy toasties are packed with fresh ingredients to keep you satisfied until dinner. You can relax in the chic café or grab a sandwich wrapped in greaseproof paper to enjoy along Leith’s waterfront. Alby’s popularity has led to plans for a smaller takeaway shop opening this summer near the Meadows in the Southside of the city.

In Edinburgh, you can escape the hustle and bustle by…

Visiting Jupiter Artland on the city’s outskirts. Just a short bus ride from Edinburgh, this open-air art museum is set on the grounds of a 19th-century estate and was established in 2009. Spend your afternoon wandering through meadows and woodlands to discover the park’s permanent installations, including Marc Quinn’s vibrant Love Bomb and Charles Jencks’ captivating Cells of Life. It’s the ideal retreat from the crowded, narrow streets of Edinburgh.

The top item I suggest you pack for your trip to Edinburgh is...

Flat shoes. Sadly, Edinburgh isn't the easiest city to navigate. In addition to its seven hills, the streets are historic and uneven, filled with rickety cobblestones. While this contributes to the city’s allure, it also increases the risk of tripping on the irregular pavement. Therefore, if you plan to explore on foot, comfy footwear is essential. I prefer my trusty Doc Martens, but any flat shoes that can handle a slippery incline and cobblestone paths will work just fine.

Don’t forget to take home from Edinburgh…

Locally crafted beverages. Edinburgh boasts a vibrant craft beer culture along with its own gin and whisky distilleries. Support the local scene by bringing home a selection of award-winning brews from breweries like Pilot, Barney’s, Bellfield, and Newbarns. Many of these breweries feature their own taprooms and beer gardens where you can enjoy a fresh pint. For great suggestions, visit one of the city’s independent off-licenses, like Beets in Leith, which is one of my favorites.