Nightlife in Edinburgh

The capital of Scotland is well-known for its nightlife scene, with a good mixture of traditional pubs, quirky bars and pocket-friendly nightclubs. Edinburgh's a fairly small city, so you're never too far away from your next venue. Whether you're looking for a party, live music, or a few quiet drinks with friends, you won't be short on options in Auld Reekie!

Pubs 🍻

Looking for a cheap drink? There are plenty of student pubs and bars that are serving your favourite tipple at a favourable price. If the sun is shining, then there's no better place to be than the Pear Tree's massive beer garden, where you can catch some rays whilst sipping some cheap beverages and watching sport on their massive screen. If a relaxing craft ale or beer is more your bag, then make your way down to Hanover Tap, where you can enjoy a cold one for just £3 on Monday nights.

If you're after a quiet post-lecture pint with a couple of friends, then Pilgrim is a great shout. Just a short walk from most of the university buildings, you'll be able to get 15% off almost everything, all day with your student card. For livelier nights, then head to Irish pub McSorley's where every night is packed out with uni students, societies and sports teams looking for a great atmosphere. 

Clubs 🕺🏽

There are a variety of incredible nightclubs in Edinburgh to suit every taste. Like getting your money's worth? Head to The Hive for cheap drinks, cheesy tunes and a bustling student atmosphere. If you prefer live music and gigs then why not try Sneaky Pete's? This intimate club has something on almost every night and is a fantastic place to find your new favourite band. 

In the Old Town, Boteco Do Brasil gives you a taste of Brazil, bringing carnival vibes to Scotland every night of the week. Here, there's live music, salsa nights and delicious cocktails. A short walk away from the Royal Mile, you'll find The Jazz Bar, showcasing a variety of live music until 2:30am most nights of the week in a compact, basement setting. 

Edinburgh is a vibrant LGBTQ+ friendly city, with several spaces that celebrate the queer community. Edinburgh has its very own gay village for its LGBTQ+ community called 'The Pink Triangle'. Whether you're after a party, a few drinks or just to chill in an LGBTQ+ friendly space, then you won't be disappointed. The most popular club here is called CC Blooms, hosting club nights, drag shows and even cabaret. Want to know more about LGBTQ+ friendly spaces in Edinburgh?

Bars 🌃

Just round the corner from Edinburgh Castle is Bar Salsa. This is the perfect place to let your hair down after a long day studying. Open until 1am, you can get £1 shots, £1.50 bombs and mixers for just £2.50. If you're just looking for a bit of fun then Paradise Palms might be exactly what you're looking for. The bar hosts regular speed-dating events, karaoke, bingo nights and serves up drinks at prices that aren't going to burn a hole in your wallet. 

If you want a drink in the sun, local brewery Cold Town Beer's very own microbrewery offers a delightful rooftop terrace with a magnificent view of Edinburgh Castle, whilst you can get your favourite tipples from a vintage Nissan van! If you think that's a bit quirky, then you'll be blown away by funfair-themed bar, Hoot the Redeemer. This watering hole is filled with arcade games and offers creative boozy sweet treats such as slushies and ice cream. 

Honourable mentions:

Whilst we've tried to give you a few of the top venues in Edinburgh, with all the nightlife outlets available, we're inevitably going to have to miss a few spots. Here are just a few venues that didn't make the cut, but are still worth the visit: 

• The City Café - In the daytime, this classic American diner serves up delicious burgers, hot dogs and nachos, but in the evening it gets lively and turns into a pre-club joint. DJs regularly play funk, house and hip-hop tracks to get you in the mood for a boogie. 
• The Hanging Bat - If you're looking for a quiet and relaxed drink in the city centre then head to The Hanging Bat. The pub has an eclectic mix of craft beers that have been sourced from all over the world, and cosy seating to enjoy them in. 
• Cabaret Voltaire -  One of Edinburgh's most well-liked venues is Cabaret Voltaire. Set across two dance floors, this club has state-of-the-art sound systems blaring out a range of genres from house and techno to bassline and trance. 

We want you to have fun during your time at uni, but it's also important that you're back home safely at the end of the night. Make sure you take a look at our Getting Around guide, for tips on how to travel through the city safely.