From those little cobbled streets to the abundance of intimate haunts, planning an amorous day out in the capital isn't hard. But while you could do the tried and tested formula, whether it be a first date or an anniversary, we've got a few tricks up our sleeves. Perfect for putting the spark in any outing, these romantic Edinburgh bars are ticking all the boxes; think impressive cocktails, low lighting, music sets and dreamy decor.
Last updated on 19th January 2023
There's no denying that Scotsman Hotel & Grand Cafe is an absolute stunner. Not only does it boast opulent chandeliers and sexy velvet booths, but also mesmerising views of the castle. The food and drinks menus are also certainly up to the task of impressing your date to no end.
For those of you seeking out first date bars in Edinburgh, we've found just the place. Made up of vibrant wall murals, sexy neon lighting and plush booths, it's a fabulous hideout to guzzle a range of quirky cocktails. And if you fancy carrying the night on, you can even enjoy pan-Asian bites here.
Close to Grassmarket, The Raging Bull is a connoisseur of all things coffee and alcohol, offering one of the best espresso martinis in the city. This date-ready bar also hosts a bunch of exciting masterclasses, so you can break the ice while learning something new.
Sultry, low-lit tables and mind-boggling bevvies await you at The Cocktail Mafia. Get your smackers around quirky quaffs, such as the Crème Brûlée Espresso Martini or the Pinky & The Brain, at one of the very best cocktail bars in Edinburgh's West End.
Have a hot date on the cards? Make sure to impress the pants off them with your knowledge of the city's swishest spots. Located on George Street, Le Monde is a snazzy drinking den that holds a reputation for whipping up tantalising, internationally inspired tipples.
A slick, intimate watering hole that's found beneath the streets of Edinburgh's New Town, Nightcap is one seriously hot spot for your next romantic outing. Think fun, quirky decor, neon lights and unique cocktails - a foolproof recipe for any successful date night.
Gaze into each other's eyes over a bunch of beautiful bevvies at Porty Vault, which flaunts bare-brick walls, leather seating and low lighting. Showcasing an impressive 36 taps, this is the ultimate date night spot for beer-lovers, plus there's a droolworthy array of BBQ bites to accompany.
Looking for romantic rooftop bars in Edinburgh? Chaophraya might just do the trick. Sat high above the city, this restaurant and cocktail hub can sort you out with a selection of unique sips, which are perfect when enjoyed alongside the delicious Thai eats and gorgeous skyline views.
Located in Edinburgh city centre, Ghillie Dhu isn't just an events venue - it doubles as a rollicking watering hole where you can find live music and ceilidh events. Plus, you can sink all kinds of tasty tipples, including frozen margaritas, banana sours and gin flights.
Have your date head over heels by taking them to one of the best secret bars in Edinburgh city centre, Bar Tonic. Featuring dark, moody hues and plenty of nooks to hide away in, it's a snug wee space to catch up over curious cocktails created by the talented team of mixologists.
Known for its massive selection of wine, Angels Share is one of the best date night bars in Edinburgh. The watering hole mixes old with new; think glitzy chandeliers and leather booths alongside monochrome prints. And if it goes really well? There are hotel rooms upstairs...
Veeno is a warm, cosy bar in Edinburgh's New Town that's ideal for intimate date nights thanks to its exceptional stock of Italian wine. While you glug your way through the extensive selection, nibble on cheese, cold cuts and sharing platters.
While a stellar choice for brunch, Rabble also transforms into one of the city's most amorous bars come nightfall. Pop over to Frederick Street and find the botanical hangout, which comes with a cocktail menu full of classics and a few tropical twists.
Take your romance back to the days of Prohibition and bootleg liquor at Cask Smugglers in the city centre. A gorgeous speakeasy-style bar, this joint is full of 1920s vibes and scrumptious pizzas, as well as a wicked drinks list to boot.
If it's quirky bars in Edinburgh you're after, then head over to this beaut for an evening of swish cocktail sipping. Paradise Palms is a knick-knack haven, filled with bunting and records. It also has a curated lineup of exciting events on the go, with DJs regularly spinning top tunes.
Sharing a home with a local distillery, Heads & Tales is the place for a seriously banging G&T. And it's not just the drinks that will sort you out on your next date night in Edinburgh, this romantic haunt is also crammed full of cosy corners that are ideal for hushed chats.
Black and white tiles, neon signs and velvet touches help to make Lucky Liquor Co a slinky, romantic bar in Edinburgh. And if you're stuck for date night chit-chat? The list of inventive, quirky and downright strange libations should help things along.
If you're on the lookout for indoor date ideas in Edinburgh, sweep your beau off their feet with a trip to this secret bar. Panda & Sons is tucked away behind a bookshelf, and once you're in? The dapper little space fronts a collection of small tables, low lighting, and inventive cocktails.
The Devil's Advocate is an atmospheric boozer found in the Old Town that is throwing romantic vibes our way with its flagstone floor and moody lighting. The former pump house isn't just about cool Victorian decor either, it also has a fantastic selection of whiskies for your date night sipping.
