A wine fan in Edinburgh

This year's annual friends' outing took us to Edinburgh, Scotland. Where last year we were still enjoying vinho verdes in the Alentejo (Portugal), we sipped whisky this year! Traditionally, the tour guides had kept the destination a secret until the very last moment. Although, when our group's profile picture changed to a Scottish Highlander, it was pretty obvious...

The group consists of Jeroen, Hanneke, Niek (flown in from Hamburg), Jorien, Christien, Hanneke, Peter, and me. We've known each other for ages and go on annual trips – from Vilnius to Sneek. Without any friends, because then you'd get into groups, and we're not into that.

Fancy a trip to Edinburgh? We've already made a promotional video 😉 Filmed and edited by our camerawoman Christien!

#1 Go to a pub

Duh, the pubs! We were there for a weekend – from Friday to Monday – and every day there was live music somewhere. From a really great band to the occasional one who sang off-key. It's the atmosphere that counts. Enjoy the IPAs or, as the locals do, enjoy the lager. I have to say, once you're used to the craft beers, a lager is a bit meaningless.

You'll certainly find loads of pubs in the Old Town. On Sunday, we walked into an alley where Celtic vs. Rangers was playing on a big screen. Supporters from both sides were watching TV together. Right in between them, there was an empty bench. A score, that's what we're all about. Great!

#2 Drink whiskey

Of course, you can't go to Edinburgh without tasting Scotch whisky. In the Whisky Experience, a truly authentic experience (...), we explore the different flavors. Lowlands is characterized by citrus notes. A bit fresher, so a good one to start with. Highlands leans towards vanilla, while Speyside whisky is most reminiscent of banana. Islay whisky is the smoky kind— not my cup of tea . My favorite is Highland whisky, like Dalwhinnie .

The whisky experience has become a bit commercialised, so you might as well choose to sample some whiskies in one of the city's many pubs.

#3 Book a bike tour

On the last day, a bike tour is on the agenda, complete with a guide and helmets. We'll start in the suburb of Leith, an up-and-coming neighborhood—so we're told—with lots of bars and coffee shops. Edinburgh is divided into Old and New Town. Incidentally, the New Town isn't really new anymore: construction began in 1800. However, the Old Town, on the other hand, is characterized by its medieval houses and, of course, Edinburgh Castle on Castle Rock, so you definitely notice the difference. The Old Town gave me a Game of Thrones vibe.

The Old Town became so crowded and dirty that they decided to build a new neighborhood. Because of the many high-rise buildings in the Old Town (before they built the New Town, the Scots used the stacking principle), the street level has changed several times. This has created an entire underground city, which is said to still be haunted. You can visit it, but we were too scared ;-).

During the 30-kilometer trip, we saw all the sights: Edinburgh Castle, Arthur's Seat, and the National Monument. The latter is a replica of the Athenian Parthenon. Because it remained unfinished since 1820, locals also call it Edinburgh's Disgrace. We continued on through the hills just outside the city and reached the sea, where we enjoyed a cup of coffee on the beach.

#4 Eat Shepherd's Pie, Fish & Chips & Drink Wine

Satisfied after a bike ride we settle down in The King's Ward , a pub in Leith. Without looking at the menu, we order fish & chips for everybody and a bottle of Pinot Grigio. Wine is in good hands in Edinburgh. I've noticed that every pub has a fairly extensive wine list. The wines are divided into classics and adventurous , coming from all corners of the world. We had a Barbera d'Asti from La Meridiana, a Washington blend 'Hot to Trot', and a Provençal rosé. A big score.

Earlier at We also tried the traditional Shepherd's Pie, a lamb and mashed potato dish, at The Doric – a pub in the city center. Highly recommended!

And also in New Town at – okay, it's a chain – All Bar One We had a delicious lunch on George Street. All three are highly recommended.

#5 Take a photo in traditional clothing

A visit to Scotland isn't complete without a photo in traditional dress. This one speaks volumes :D. You can do this at The Weaving Mill (next to Edinburgh Castle).