Though a night out at your local is fine, it's nice to try something a little different every once in a while. Whether you're looking for a quirky cocktail bar or are instead looking for a new restaurant with a bit of extra character, these venues are all perfect for anyone looking to take a big step outside of their comfort zone. From secret speakeasies decorated as a Victorian barber shop to cocktail bars inspired by the Rio De Janeiro's street side watering holes, there's always something a little different in Edinburgh for you to try on for size.
Unique things to do in Edinburgh don't get much better than CityDays, the quirky outdoor activity where you'll explore Edinburgh while cracking escape room-inspired puzzles and games. Plus, you can expect plenty of rest stops for drinks.
If you're interested in learning how to make sushi, YO! is answering your prayers. Mosey on over to its Princes Street spot where you'll be guided by one of their expert chefs to create four different types of the Japanese cuisine, all the while sipping and nibbling refreshments.
Situated in the Old Town, Edinburgh Gin Distillery at The Arches offers a great way to learn more about the distilling process while also sampling some delicious drinks. Their interactive tours provide a real insight, and they host plenty of other activities too.
Try your hand at gin making in their brilliant masterclass, or opt for a cocktail making workshop instead. Or for a pairing session, the gin and chocolate tasting is not to be missed.
When you've done the castle and walked the Royal Mile, CuppaPug Edinburgh is the perfect way to experience a completely different, unexpected side of the city. Stepping inside this unashamedly pink cafe throws you straight into a world of pugs galore, where you can book a public session just to cuddle, play with, and photograph a resident pack of squishy-faced pups.
The cafe also has a deep commitment to animal welfare, functioning as a hub that supports pug rescue and rehoming work.
@ Brewhemia on Sunday 6th September 2026 and 4 other Sundays
Soul Supper brings the rhythm to Edinburgh with an immersive evening of music and dining. From £30, secure your entry or upgrade for a welcome drink and a two-course menu crafted for the occasion.
With powerhouse vocalists and a live band, this is the perfect way to celebrate with friends or mark a special occasion.
Beat these puzzles in 60 minutes to gain the glory. This fun, thrilling escape room challenge is sure to be one heck of a bonding experience for you and your mates. With four themed rooms to rake on, crack the code and earn your freedom.
Hiding down an alleyway in Edinburgh's Old Town, the Devil's Advocate is a charming restaurant and cocktail bar that is constantly pushing boundaries with the drinks it creates. From its rustic decor to its welcoming atmosphere, there are few better places to grab a quiet tipple with your closest friends.
@ Edinburgh Ghost Bus Pickup Location on Various dates from Friday 7th August 2026
Get ready for a ghostly adventure through Edinburgh's most haunted spots with the Ghost Bus Tour. Hop aboard a vintage double-decker Routemaster and journey through the Old and New Towns while your creepy conductor tells stories of executions, grave robbers, and ghostly encounters.
Stops include iconic locations like Edinburgh Castle and Greyfriars Kirk. With a blend of supernatural tales and dark humour, this is one sightseeing experience that brings Edinburgh's chilling history to life.
@ Flight Club Edinburgh on Various dates from Saturday 8th August 2026
Flight Club isn't just a quirky bar with vintage fairground-inspired interiors, from the carousel horses to the retro bar, it also hosts epic Brunch Socials. Come the weekend, it's the place to be, thanks to social darts, prosecco and bottomless pizza.
A historic venue which was once a veterinary college, Pickering's Gin at Summerhall Distillery is a unique, independent distillery just south of the city centre and the first gin-exclusive distillery to open in Edinburgh in 150 years. They offer a wide range of gin-based tipples made from their small batch-distilled spirits, and weekends promise a lineup of fun events as well.
Take part in their cocktail making class to create three bespoke concoctions using their spirits, led by an expert mixologists. They also host Scottish supper clubs, where you can enjoy the very best of local produce paired with their drinks and beers from their neighbour brewery.
There's plenty more going on than first meets the eye at Panda & Sons. From the outside, it looks like your usual Victorian barber shop. But venture downstairs and you'll discover a secret speakeasy bar, decked out with old school barber chairs, vintage barber equipment, fun antiques and an unbeatable cocktail menu curated by Mr Panda himself. It's the perfect spot for anyone that's looking for a quirky new hangout.
If you love your cocktails and live in Edinburgh, odds are that you've heard of the legendary team at the Lucky Liquor Co. As a sleek, sophisticated and wonderfully unusual bar in Edinburgh, its talented line up of mixologists let their imaginations run wild when it comes to creating cocktails. Think bourbon washed with mustard and fiery liqueurs made using quirky techniques, the sky's the limit when it comes to the flavours on offer at this cocktail bar.
