Spending Valentine’s in Edinburgh this year? Edinburgh has historic castles, layered views, and softly lit dining rooms that naturally create a romantic atmosphere. The city encourages slower plans, whether that means sharing a tasting menu, walking through old neighbourhoods, or choosing a gift made in Edinburgh. Many restaurants design Valentine’s menus that highlight Scottish ingredients, while cultural and outdoor experiences offer space to connect without formality.
Therefore, Edinburgh works well for both visitors and locals who want the day to feel considered rather than crowded. So, are you ready to plan Valentine’s in Edinburgh? Keep reading for romantic restaurants, meaningful experiences, and gift ideas rooted in the city!
Key Takeaways
- Romantic restaurants with Valentine’s menus: The Witchery by the Castle, Restaurant Martin Wishart, Ondine, The Dome, and Timberyard
- Romantic experiences and activities: Calton Hill, Royal Mile, Edinburgh Playhouse Theatre, Whisky Tasting Experience, and Dean Village
- Thoughtful Valentine’s gift ideas: Coco Chocolatier, The Scottish Design Exchange, Valvona & Crolla, Johnstons of Elgin, and Love Rose Edinburgh
- Why Edinburgh works for Valentine’s Day: The city combines historic settings, refined dining, walkable scenery, and locally made gifts that suit both classic and low-key celebrations.
Romantic Restaurants for Valentine’s in Edinburgh
The Witchery by the Castle
The Witchery by the Castle is one of Edinburgh’s most established fine dining destinations. Located beside Edinburgh Castle, the restaurant occupies a historic building filled with antiques, wooden walls, and candlelit dining rooms. Valentine’s menus are typically offered as a set tasting experience, featuring Scottish game, seasonal produce, and rich sauces. The kitchen focuses on traditional techniques rather than modern experimentation. Its setting and menu structure make it especially suited to formal Valentine’s celebrations.
Restaurant Martin Wishart
Restaurant Martin Wishart holds a Michelin star and is led by Chef Martin Wishart, one of Scotland’s most respected chefs. The cuisine is French-inspired with strong Scottish sourcing, particularly seafood and local meat. Valentine’s menus are usually multi-course tasting menus, carefully paced. The dining room remains calm and understated, allowing the food to lead the experience. It suits couples who value precision and culinary reputation.
The Kitchin
The Kitchin is a Michelin-starred restaurant located in Leith and led by Chef Tom Kitchin. The cuisine follows a strong farm-to-fork philosophy, with menus built around seasonal Scottish produce sourced from land and sea. For Valentine’s Day, the restaurant typically offers a multi-course tasting menu that highlights premium ingredients such as seafood, game, and carefully selected vegetables. The Kitchin suits couples who want a serious culinary experience grounded in Scottish ingredients and technique.
The Dome
The Dome is a landmark restaurant set inside a grand neoclassical building on George Street. Known for its striking interior, it offers Valentine’s menus that focus on classic European dishes with seasonal updates. The experience feels celebratory and polished, often paired with cocktails or champagne. The Dome works well for couples who enjoy a lively atmosphere and a sense of occasion.
Timberyard
Timberyard is a place known for being a Michelin-starred restaurant run by a family. The kitchen works closely with Scottish growers, foragers, and producers. Their history dates back to the 19th century, which adds to the charm of the warehouse-inspired interior. You can expect tasting menus for Valentine’s Day. Dishes focus on texture and natural flavour rather than richness. Timberyard suits couples looking for a modern and quietly intimate dining experience. Make sure to book your table in advance to secure your spot.
Romantic Valentine’s Activities in Edinburgh
Calton Hill
Calton Hill has long been associated with Edinburgh’s most iconic views. Home to historic monuments and open viewpoints, it offers panoramic scenes across the Old Town and beyond. Imagine how romantic it would be to go on a sunset walk along the hills for a Valentine’s date! Since the walk is short and accessible, it is an easy yet meaningful way to mark the day.
Royal Mile
The Royal Mile connects Edinburgh Castle with Holyrood Palace and forms the historic spine of the city. Walking it together allows couples to explore medieval closes, historic buildings, and softly lit streets in the evening. Valentine’s time on the Royal Mile would feel atmospheric, especially after dark when crowds thin and details stand out.
Edinburgh Playhouse Theatre
The Edinburgh Playhouse is one of the city’s main venues for big productions. February schedules often include musicals, touring theatre, and special performances. So how about pairing a show with dinner for a classic Valentine’s night? Since the theatre is located in the city centre, finding dining options won’t be too difficult either.
Whisky Tasting Experience
Whisky tastings in Edinburgh often take place in historic venues or specialist bars. Valentine’s themed tastings typically focus on guided sessions, pairing flavour education with storytelling. Many experiences are offered in small groups or private settings. This makes them ideal for couples seeking something distinctly Scottish and interactive. Book a custom tour with Amitylux for a specialised Whisky tasting experience just for you and your partner.
Dean Village
Dean Village sits just outside the city centre and feels noticeably quieter. Once a milling village, it now offers riverside paths, stone bridges, and traditional buildings. Valentine’s walks here feel calm and unhurried. It suits couples who prefer nature and architecture over structured plans.
Valentine’s Gift Ideas from Edinburgh Shops
Coco Chocolatier
Coco Chocolatier is known for combining ethically sourced chocolate with distinctive graphic design. Valentine’s collections often include chocolate bars, truffles, and boxed selections with artistic packaging. The brand focuses on sustainability and creativity, with its roots in Edinburgh. Therefore, makes a strong choice for couples who value design as much as flavour.
The Scottish Design Exchange
The Scottish Design Exchange represents hundreds of independent Scottish makers. Valentine’s gifts range from jewellery and ceramics to prints and textiles. Each item carries information about its maker, which adds meaning to the gift. It suits couples who value craftsmanship and local identity.
The Chocolatarium
The Chocolatarium is an Edinburgh-based chocolate brand and visitor space focused on Scottish-made chocolate and cacao education. For Valentine’s gifts, its chocolate gift boxes and tasting selections that work especially well because they feel experiential, not just edible. Many couples also book a guided chocolate tasting, which turns a simple gift into a shared memory. It is a strong alternative to standard boxed chocolates, and it keeps the gift distinctly local to Edinburgh.
Johnstons of Elgin
Johnstons of Elgin offers luxury cashmere and fine wool products from Scotland. Valentine’s gifts often include scarves and accessories designed for longevity rather than trends. The brand reflects Scottish textile heritage and craftsmanship. It suits practical yet elegant gifting.
Rose & Ammi
Rose & Ammi is a florist in Edinburgh known for modern floral arrangements. The studio works with seasonal flowers and thoughtful colour combinations rather than traditional large bouquets. For Valentine’s Day, Rose & Ammi offers special arrangements, seasonal flowers, and extra gifts such as cards or chocolates. Their flowers appeal to couples who appreciate contemporary design and skilled craftsmanship, offering a gift that feels meaningful and connected to the city. So don’t miss your chance on impressing your partner with Edinburgh’s best stems!
Conclusion
Valentine’s in Edinburgh is shaped by thoughtful choices, from refined dining and scenic walks to locally made gifts that feel personal. The city encourages connection through its history, atmosphere, and slower pace. For couples who want to explore beyond the main sights, discovering Edinburgh with a local guide adds depth and context to the experience. Join our Amitylux private walking tour in Edinburgh, which offers a relaxed way to uncover hidden streets, historic corners, and meaningful stories together. It is a natural addition to a romantic visit to the city!
Frequently Asked Questions
What to do on Valentine’s Day in Edinburgh?
You can enjoy a set dinner menu at a romantic restaurant, take a sunset walk on Calton Hill, attend a theatre performance, or join a guided whisky tasting. Many couples also explore historic areas like the Royal Mile or Dean Village for a quieter experience.
What does Scotland do for Valentine’s Day?
In Scotland, Valentine’s Day is typically celebrated with intimate dinners, shared experiences, and meaningful gifts rather than large public events. Restaurants often offer special menus, while couples focus on time together through food, walks, and cultural activities.
What to do in Edinburgh romantic?
Romantic things to do in Edinburgh include dining at candlelit restaurants, walking through historic neighbourhoods, visiting scenic viewpoints, and choosing locally made gifts. The city’s compact layout makes it easy to combine several experiences in one evening.
Is Edinburgh a romantic city?
Yes, Edinburgh is widely considered a romantic city. Its historic streets, dramatic viewpoints, traditional architecture, and refined dining scene create an atmosphere that naturally suits romantic occasions.
