10 Festive Things to do in Edinburgh This Winter

Yes, the sun sets at 2.30 pm and yes, Scotland is freezing. But trust me, Edinburgh's winter activities and decorations are well worth the cold.

1. Explore Edinburgh Christmas Market

From 25 November to 3rd January Edinburgh’s Christmas Market stalls will be showcasing a variety of local and artisanal goods for you to discover. Hop on the Big Wheel (£8/pp) for a breathtaking view of Edinburgh’s winter skyline and warm up with some tasty mulled wine. The Edinburgh Christmas market is carefully curated to capture the Christmas spirit. As you wander through the traditional chalets, take a second to taste festive Scottish favourites and Bavarian delicacies.

2. George Street Ice Ring

Get your skates on and glide your way through George Street’s ice rink. The temporary ice rink is on from 26 November to 3rd January (10am-10pm). You can book your 40 minutes time slots here. Prices vary (£10-£15) depending on peak or off-peak time. Edinburgh residents with an EH postcode get a discount.

3. Walk Around New Town/George Street

The glamorous New Town hosts many beautiful hotels, shops and restaurants, each decorated to the Gods for the Holiday period. Take a stroll in the neighbourhood and let yourself get mesmerised by the Christmas lights!

4. Festive afternoon tea

Afternoon tea is always a good idea, but afternoon tea in winter? Count me in! Here are Edinburgh’s favourite festive afternoon teas:

• The Ivy (£8.95-£35.95 per person)

• The Signet Library (£60 per person)

• Dalmahoy (Hotel & Country Club) welcomes you in a grand manor house setting, nestled in acres of breath-taking Scottish countryside for a traditional afternoon tea by a cosy fire (£29.95-£90 per person).

5. Drinks at the Dome

The Dome is one of Edinburgh's most famous landmarks and is the epitome of the Christmas spirit. Although you might have to queue in the cold for a bit, having a drink at the Dome is worth the wait for Christmas enthusiasts. The decor is enthralling, and the refined atmosphere will transport you into a real-life fairytale.

6. Get Proper Hot Chocolate in the Meadows

If you are more into simpler things, a walk in the Meadows and a Proper Hot Chocolate from Upland Roasts might be more appropriate. This is by far the best hot chocolate I've ever had and simply can't recommend it enough.

7. Eat some raclette in Stockbridge (Sundays only)

I'd be a terrible Swiss blogger if I didn't mention some cheesy dish as a winter activity so here it is! If you plan on going to Stockbridge's farmers' market, you might want to stop by Mellis for a serving of raclette. Just imagine the most wonderful thing: melted cheese on roasted potatoes... Enough to make anyone's mouth water.

8. Christmas at the Botanics

Each year the Royal Botanical Gardens are illuminated for the winter season, offering the most enlightening show for their visitors.

Book your tickets here (£21.50/pp).

9. Attend a Christmas show

10. Party 'Après-ski' style "Located on North Castle Street, just off George Street in Edinburgh’s city centre, Tonic is the hidden gem that is an essential ingredient in any good night out." For the Holiday season, they installed outdoor ski-themed cabins for customers to enjoy their after-work drinks like they're at an après-ski bar. Very chic.