Fun Things To Do In Edinburgh

Edinburgh is that child that refuses to sit still; all it can think about is the copious amount of brilliant bars, gorgeous restaurants and buzzing clubs that fill its streets. There's just so much happening, it can sometimes be hard to keep track of all the goings-on. To keep you in the know, we've built a guide to all of the best things to do in Edinburgh, from hilarious comedy nights to lovely live music sessions.

Last edited by Kiera Chapman

Last updated on 25th November 2024




The Tron

Warm up those vocal pipes and pick out your song of choice over at The Tron. It hosts fun-filled karaoke events from Tuesday through to Thursday, offering you the ultimate group night out. Or if you just fancy testing your knowledge? Try out its Bad Boy Pub Quiz.

Joke Thieves - Edinburgh Fringe 2025

@ The Three Sisters on Various dates from Thursday 31st July 2025

During the 2025 Fringe Festival, be sure to catch Joke Thieves at The Three Sisters in the Old Town. This hilarious performance is hosted by Will Mars and Beatboxing World Champion Bass6, seeing four different comedians telling their own jokes - and then each other's. The hit show costs as little as £5 per person to attend, with a 'pay what you can' system.

Original Dating

Meet your match at one of Original Dating's singles events. Taking place at various venues in the city, it lets you get to know people of a similar age over delicious cocktails. Found someone you fancy? You'll be able to get back in touch the very next day.

SpeedDater

Looking to meet that special someone? That's where SpeedDater come in. They host fun events across the city, where you can get to know a fabulous foray of like-minded singletons on eight to 12 mini-dates. And, of course, there will be lots of breaks for drinks and chatting.

Edinburgh Gin Distillery at The Arches

Ready to dive deep into Edinburgh's gin culture? The Edinburgh Gin Distillery at The Arches offers you the chance to do just that. Situated within the iconic arches of Old Town, this is where the city's finest gins are made - and where you can experience them in all their glory.

Take a tour of the distillery, learn about the meticulous process behind each bottle, and then let your taste buds explore their expertly crafted spirits. For an extra treat, book into a gin-making experience and create your own gin. Whether you're looking for a relaxed drink with friends, a fun workshop, or a celebration with a gin twist, The Arches offers a spirited escape like no other. Cheers.

Cabaret Voltaire

Renowned among the cool kids as being one of the hottest clubs in town, Cabaret Voltaire is the place to go for late-night partying. Get on down to the underground den for all kinds of wicked events, from FLY Club and Pleasure to MIMIC.

Edinburgh Fun Puzzle Treasure Hunt! Singe route or double for racing!

@ Omni Centre on Various dates from Sunday 22nd December 2024

At the Edinburgh Fun Puzzle Treasure Hunt, you can have a brilliant day out exploring the city and its hidden secrets. As one of the most fun things to do with friends in Edinburgh, it'll challenge you with riddles and puzzles that you'll need to complete to get your prize (20% off at a local pub).

MURRAYFIELD BOTHY

When you're not admiring the stylish decor or making your way through the menu of Scottish classics, treat your ears to live music at Murrayfield Bothy. With events every Saturday, it showcases a fab roster of up-and-coming artists. Plus, there are pub quizzes on Tuesdays.

NQ64 Edinburgh

The neon graffiti-splattered NQ64 is one of the city's best arcade bars, showcasing 27 different retro and modern consoles and games. You can get competitive over the likes of PacMan, Dance Dance Revolution and the original Mario Kart, while munching on tasty slices from Pizza Geeks. Alongside these, you'll find quirky cocktails such as a Lemmingade or the Aku Aku fruit punch, alongside a choice of craft beer, making it one of the most fun things to do in Edinburgh for students.