Best Bars in Edinburgh
Hungry in Edinburgh? Explore top-rated bars with menus, reviews, and local recommendations. Open the free web guide or Evendo app.
The best bars in Edinburgh
- Top rated
- Closest to the centre
- Price level: low to high
- Time to spend: shortest first
- A–Z
20 bars
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Pub4.2★4,481 reviews
Frankenstein
Frankenstein Pub, located at 26 George IV Bridge in Edinburgh, is a uniquely themed bar and restaurant inspired by Mary Shelley’s classic novel. This atmospheric venue combines Gothic décor, live monster shows, and a menu featuring pizzas and creative cocktails, offering a memorable night out in the heart of the city’s Old Town.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Gastropub4.5★3,802 reviews
The Devil's Advocate
Nestled in a hidden Victorian pump house on Advocate's Close in Edinburgh's Old Town, The Devil's Advocate is a renowned gastropub famed for its extensive whisky collection of over 300 varieties, award-winning cocktails, and a menu celebrating seasonal Scottish produce. The atmospheric setting combines exposed brick, raw wood, and candlelit booths, offering a unique blend of historic charm and contemporary dining in a lively yet intimate environment.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Pub4.6★2,270 reviews
The Bow Bar
Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, The Bow Bar is a classic Scottish pub renowned for its exceptional whisky selection and traditional cask ales. Housed in a charming single-room setting with vintage brewery mirrors and a rich atmosphere, it offers a welcoming space for whisky aficionados and beer lovers alike. Open daily from noon to midnight, this pub combines heritage with expert service, making it a must-visit for authentic Scottish drinking culture.
Daily 12:00–24:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Cocktail bar4.7★2,059 reviews
Panda & Sons
Nestled beneath Edinburgh’s Queen Street, Panda & Sons is a stylish speakeasy cocktail bar disguised as a vintage barbershop. Renowned for its theatrical, expertly crafted cocktails and immersive 1920s ambiance, it offers a unique drinking experience with attentive service, cozy low-lit interiors, and quirky touches like free popcorn and secret bookcase entrance.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Gastropub4.4★1,845 reviews
The Voodoo Rooms
Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh's New Town, The Voodoo Rooms offers an immersive experience combining award-winning cocktails, eclectic live music, and sumptuous dining within a lavish Victorian setting. Since 2007, this multi-faceted venue has become a cultural hub, blending opulent décor with a quirky tiki theme, three distinct event spaces, and a vibrant atmosphere that appeals to locals and visitors alike.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
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Cocktail bar4.6★1,203 reviews
Hoot The Redeemer
Nestled on Hanover Street in Edinburgh, Hoot The Redeemer is a uniquely themed cocktail bar known for its tarot-inspired drinks, quirky decor, and playful atmosphere. This intimate venue offers creative cocktails, an adult ice cream machine, and a signature claw machine that adds an element of surprise to your drink selection. A favorite for those seeking an imaginative and lively night out in the heart of the city.
Tue–Fri 16:00–1:00 · Sat–Sun 15:00–1:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Bar4.7★1,087 reviews
The Cocktail Geeks
The Cocktail Geeks is a vibrant, small cocktail bar located in Arch 14, 27 E Market St, Edinburgh. Known for its rotating immersive themes and expertly crafted cocktails, it offers a unique experience with quirky twists, including excellent non-alcoholic options. The bar is wheelchair accessible, dog friendly, and features attentive, passionate staff who enhance the welcoming atmosphere.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
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Bar4.7★892 reviews
Bramble Bar
Nestled discreetly on Queen Street in Edinburgh’s New Town, Bramble Bar is a celebrated speakeasy-style cocktail lounge known for its expertly crafted drinks, cozy underground setting, and lively yet intimate atmosphere. Operating daily from late afternoon to early morning, it offers a unique blend of innovative cocktails, attentive service, and a relaxed vibe, making it a favorite among locals and visitors seeking a refined yet unpretentious night out.
Tue–Sun 16:00–1:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Bar4.6★733 reviews
Thistle Street Bar
Thistle Street Bar is a welcoming traditional Scottish pub located at 39 Thistle Street in Edinburgh's vibrant New Town. Known for its extensive whisky and gin selection, cask ales, and draught beers, it offers a cozy atmosphere where locals and visitors enjoy live traditional music and friendly banter. Open from midday to late evening on weekends and afternoons on weekdays, it’s a perfect spot to experience authentic Scottish pub culture with a warm, passionate team behind the bar.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Cocktail bar4.5★730 reviews
Dragonfly
Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh at 52 West Port, Dragonfly Cocktail Bar offers a unique and sophisticated drinking experience. Known for its imaginative cocktail menu and expert staff, this stylish venue combines a mysterious, cozy atmosphere with a welcoming vibe. Ideal for cocktail enthusiasts seeking creative drinks crafted with care, Dragonfly is a standout spot near the Grassmarket area, perfect for evenings filled with flavor and ambiance.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
The Rat Pack - Piano & Cocktail Bar
Nestled in Edinburgh’s vibrant West End, The Rat Pack Piano & Cocktail Bar offers an intimate American-style piano bar experience. Known for its lively live music featuring classic tunes from the 60s to 90s, expertly crafted cocktails, and welcoming atmosphere, this venue blends nostalgic charm with modern nightlife. Its late-night hours and mix of cozy seating and lively spaces make it a popular spot for music lovers and cocktail enthusiasts alike.
Price level $$Time to spend 2–4 hrs
Under The Stairs
Under The Stairs is a unique, cozy bar and restaurant tucked beneath George IV Bridge in Edinburgh’s Old Town. Known for its warm, bohemian atmosphere, it offers a flexible menu of small to medium plates, excellent cocktails, and friendly, attentive service. This intimate venue is perfect for relaxed evenings with friends or solo visits, combining quirky decor with hearty food and drinks in a welcoming setting.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Heads & Tales Gin Bar
Heads & Tales Gin Bar is a stylish, intimate gin-focused cocktail bar nestled in Edinburgh’s West End, beneath the Rutland Hotel. Known for its unique atmosphere, it features two active Edinburgh Gin stills, offering visitors a rare glimpse into the distilling process. The bar serves an extensive menu of creative gin cocktails alongside seasonal sharing plates and Asian-inspired snacks, creating a vibrant yet cozy setting ideal for gin lovers and social gatherings.
Tue–Thu 17:00–24:00 · Fri–Sat 17:00–3:00Price level $$$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
The Raging Bull
Located on Lothian Road in Edinburgh’s vibrant city center, The Raging Bull is a stylish cocktail bar renowned for its exceptional Espresso Martini variations. With a fun, quirky atmosphere and a spacious private party room, it offers a perfect spot for both casual drinks and special occasions. The bar also hosts interactive cocktail masterclasses, making it a lively and engaging destination for cocktail lovers.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Nightcap
Nestled in Edinburgh’s New Town, Nightcap is a stylish cocktail and wine bar famed for its expertly crafted drinks, cozy speakeasy vibe, and knowledgeable staff. Located in a basement with exposed brickwork and neon accents, it offers an inviting atmosphere for relaxed evenings, romantic dates, or solo visits. Open daily from 5pm to 3am, Nightcap features unique cocktails made with locally sourced ingredients alongside premium whiskies, making it a standout destination in Edinburgh’s vibrant nightlife.
Daily 17:00–3:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
The Oz Bar
Located at 33 Candlemaker Row in Edinburgh, The Oz Bar is a vibrant and inexpensive pub known for its friendly atmosphere, affordable drinks, and a strong connection to Australian culture. Popular for casual socializing, it features pool tables, sports broadcasts, and a relaxed ambiance that draws locals and visitors alike. Open daily from early afternoon until after midnight, it offers a lively yet laid-back experience in Edinburgh’s city center.
Daily 13:00–1:00Price level $Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Cask
Perched atop Waverley Mall on Princes Street, Cask Smugglers offers a vibrant rooftop cocktail bar experience with sweeping views of Edinburgh’s Old Town and castle. Known for its creative cocktails, authentic Peruvian small plates, and lively atmosphere, this spacious venue blends industrial style with a nod to Scotland’s whisky smuggling past. Open daily until late, it’s a perfect spot for drinks, casual dining, and soaking in iconic cityscapes.
Mon–Wed 12:00–1:00 · Thu–Sun 11:00–1:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Lucky Liquor Co
Lucky Liquor Co is a vibrant, intimate cocktail bar located on Queen Street in Edinburgh’s New Town. Since 2013, it has been celebrated for its creative, expertly crafted cocktails, a compact but eclectic menu, and a welcoming atmosphere enhanced by a 100% vinyl soundtrack. This moderately priced bar offers a unique mixology experience with friendly bartenders and a curated bottle shop, making it a standout destination for cocktail enthusiasts.
Wed–Sun 16:00–1:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Never Really Here
Nestled discreetly down a lane off Rose Street in Edinburgh, Never Really Here offers a unique speakeasy experience with bespoke cocktails crafted to your taste in a cozy, intimate setting. Known for its dim lighting, vintage glassware, and brickwork interiors, this cash-only bar invites guests to enjoy personalized drinks without a menu, creating a mysterious and exclusive atmosphere perfect for cocktail enthusiasts seeking something special.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
The Caley Bar
The Caley Bar, located within the historic Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh - The Caledonian, is a sophisticated cocktail and whisky bar blending Victorian railway heritage with modern luxury. Open daily from 5 pm, it offers a warm, inviting atmosphere where guests can enjoy expertly crafted cocktails and an extensive selection of Scottish whiskies. The bar’s elegant interior, inspired by vintage train carriages, makes it a perfect spot for pre-dinner drinks or a relaxed evening in Edinburgh’s city centre.
Daily 17:00–24:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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